My mother had worsening dementia that made it no longer safe to live alone. Her transition into Heartwood was difficult only because she didn't want to leave her home, and the dementia symptoms made it more difficult to reason with her. However, upon moving into Heartwood, she was immediately greeted by other residents and staff to comfort her and make her feel welcome. Although she often would still complain to me and my siblings with her "pre-programmed statements" about having to live there , many times she told me how nice everyone was there and how she was going to stay there the rest of her life. Often, when I went to visit, she was out in the hall or the dining area with other residents and/or staff having lively conversations and laughing. There were celebrations and parties in which she always participated and enjoyed.
This family-owned business was the perfect fit for my mom. The caregivers, managers, and owners went above and beyond for her. There were times I would visit and if nothing else demanded their attention, a caregiver would visit with both of us, , getting to know things about my mom which she didn't always remember. They made her feel special, and really got to know her. They made her feel useful, by letting her help when she insisted on wiping off tables or cleaning up after meals. Anyone who knew my mom, knew she enjoyed doing those things. She would leave her door open so residents and caregivers could wave or stop and talk as they went by, and they always did. She loved that.
On the days leading up to and on the day of my mom's passing, I was shocked at how many staff members came in to offer my mom and my family comforting words, even if it was their day off. My heart was overwhelmed with the emotions and stories shared by all of the staff and other residents, just knowing that despite the difficulties caused by the disease, there were so many people there that truly cared for my mom. Even on her worst days, they showed her comfort, compassion, and love, making her time at Heartwood the very best possible despite such an unforgiving disease. Thank you to everyone there, I couldn't have asked for better for my mom!