We held our annual Pumpkin Decorating Award today and congrats to Marilyn for taking the prize for first place! We had so many pumpkins to judge this year and the BFMS really stepped up and made sure whoever wanted to paint a pumpkin was able! Our St. Ed’s Discipleship class kids were also a great help to our residents! Wasn’t Grace the perfect contest hostess?

Fun was had by all today! Happy Halloween! We played games, cheated at races, enjoyed spooky brownies, and posed for the camera this afternoon and were tricked and treated tonight!

Care Tracker Integration Update We’re excited to announce the rollout of a new phone system that integrates directly with our care tracking technology and health records. As part of this upgrade, BFMs are now equipped with mobile devices that display their task lists and allow them to chart care activities in real time. So if you see a BFM using their phone, rest assured—they’re actively documenting the care they’re providing to ensure accuracy, accountability, and continuity. Why this matters: This integration is a major step forward in how we deliver care. By streamlining documentation and communication, we’re reducing delays, minimizing errors, and making sure that every care action is recorded promptly and accurately. It empowers our team to stay connected, informed, and responsive—ultimately leading to better outcomes for those we serve. Thank you for your patience and support as we navigate this transition. While change can come with a few bumps, we’re confident this enhancement will lead to smoother communication, greater efficiency, and improved care for everyone involved.

Happy Birthday Rich! Hope you’ve had a great day!

The residents have been working hard on their pumpkins for the contest on Friday! They look outstanding!

Did You Know? Bickford is Pet Friendly At Bickford, we know pets are more than companions — they’re family. That’s why we’re proud to be a pet-friendly community where residents and their furry (or even scaly) friends can truly feel at home. There are real benefits to having pets around: They lift our spirits. Spending time with pets can lower stress and increase feelings of happiness and comfort. Research shows that being around animals can even help reduce anxiety and depression. (Source: American Heart Association, 2019) They keep us active. From daily walks to simple playtime, pets encourage movement and routine, both of which are great for physical and emotional health. (Source: CDC, 2020) They help us connect. Pets naturally bring people together and help build friendships and a sense of community. (Source: National Institutes of Health, 2022) Don’t let having a fuzzy or scaly friend stop you from exploring assisted living. Bickford is happy to welcome them too. To learn more or schedule a tour, contact our Family Advocate, Mercedes, at 515-605-7649 today #Caringmatter #BickfordofFortDodge #petfriendly

Alex and Dakotah were getting in the spooky spirit by decorating some of the resident’s doors yesterday!

Remember if your loved one would like to pass out candy this Friday for Beggars Night, it starts at 5:30-7:00. We have candy bowls for residents to use but residents will need to provide their own candy to pass! Thank you!

Hi! We’re so excited for the holiday season! If your choir, band, group or performers would be interested in sharing holiday music with our seniors, we would love to host you! Performances can be flexible in length (typically anround 30 minutes or so) and can take place any day of the week- we can make it work! If you or someone you know likes to sing, play music, dance, and spread holiday cheer, give Jess a call at 515-573-3300! Please share with your friends and family and help us make this the most wonderful time of the year!

We’ve been busy painting pumpkins!!!