That's the Higher Path—proactive care that helps keep seniors where they belong: at home living happier, healthier, and longer.

PUPPY PARTY!!! So some sweet ladies from Petland enriched us with three adorable puppies yesterday, and it truly was an amazing visit. Just the simple action of holding a soft and warm living creature brought an abundance of joy and emotion to our residents at Bickford of Crown Point. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and two Miniature Poodles, named Scout, Katniss, and Primrose, melted the hearts of everyone who had the opportunity to handle them. Allowing the residents to hold something conforms to the Montessori principles while fulfilling the human thirst for companionship. Will they be back? We hope so, as their visit left a lasting positive impact!

Bickford of Crown Point residents were fortunate to enjoy a visit from the Joy Ensemble recently, and it was a whopping success. Jim and his companions entertained the residents with amusing jokes and stories, led them in songs, and even met with each of them one on one. This group was different from any other entertainment we’ve experienced before, and our community loved it! Not only were they personable and compassionate, they were equally respectful and treated each resident with dignity. Although they didn’t know it, they were applying the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle in their own way, which emphasizes these principles. This is a group of people dedicated to spreading good will and kindness to whoever is willing to listen. They certainly knew how to hold the attention of their audience, and even asked to return during the holidays, to which the residents all responded with a resounding “YES!”

Our Promise Garden is open. For $10, you can dedicate a flower in honor of someone touched by Alzheimer's. Blue for those living with it. Purple for those we've lost to it. Yellow for caregivers. Orange for everyone fighting for a cure. We're accepting donations through the month of July. Your loved one's name will go on a flower and stay in our garden at Bickford of Crown Point until September 27th, the day of the Lake County Walk to End Alzheimer's. You're welcome to come collect it there, or leave it with us as a lasting tribute. This touches almost every family one way or another. If it's touched yours, here's how to give: ???? Donate online: act.alz.org/site/TR?team_id=1041397&pg=team&fr_id=19618 ???? Donate in person or by phone: contact Joshua Warren at 219-388-6160 or joshua.warren@bickfordseniorliving.com Questions, just reach out to me directly. Let's fill this garden and help in the fight to end Alzheimer's.

Persuading a couple of residents at Bickford of Crown Point to help with a last minute Father’s Day treat proved to be a victory. With a short amount of time, and a brief synopsis of the desired outcome, a little urgency sometimes aids in productivity. Focusing on the residents’ abilities rather than their deficits, highlights the Montessori principles and strengthens success. In this case, that’s means ice cream sandwiches dipped in a hard chocolate shell coating and dunked in sprinkles. Sound good Dads?

Staying Cool the Montessori Way: Hydration on The Higher Path at Bickford of Crown Point As summer sunshine fills our courtyards and brighter days invite us outdoors, we are reminded how important it is to care for both the joy and safety of those we serve. At Bickford of Crown Point, keeping our residents on The Higher Path means honoring their dignity, promoting independence, and ensuring their well-being—even when the temperatures rise. One of the simplest and most powerful ways we do this is through thoughtful, engaging hydration. ~More Than Just Water~ Hydration is essential, but at Bickford, we go beyond simply offering a glass of water. We create moments of choice, purpose, and enjoyment around hydration—aligning with Montessori principles that support autonomy and meaningful engagement. You’ll often find: +Accessible hydration stations that encourage residents to independently make healthy choices +Fresh, cold water infused with fruit for added flavor and visual appeal +Staff gently cueing and offering throughout the day, ensuring dignity while promoting wellness Each small interaction is rooted in love—because safety is love on The Higher Path. ~Popsicles with Purpose~ Nothing says summer quite like a popsicle. At Bickford of Crown Point, this refreshing treat is more than just a fun activity—it’s a creative hydration strategy. Residents enjoy: +Fruit-based popsicles that provide hydration in a familiar, enjoyable way +Opportunities to cool down while socializing and building connection +Sensory engagement, especially in memory care, where bright colors and flavors spark joy and recognition These simple pleasures create meaningful moments while supporting health in a dignified way. ~Fresh Fruit for Refreshment and Independence~ Seasonal fruits like watermelon are a resident favorite—and for good reason. Packed with hydration and easy to enjoy, fruit becomes another way we empower choice. Through Montessori-based approaches, we often: +Invite residents to participate in simple fruit preparation when appropriate +Offer easy-to-hold, bite-sized pieces to support independence +Use fruit as a visual and sensory cue to encourage hydration naturally It’s not just about eating—it’s about purpose, engagement, and honoring each resident’s abilities. ~The Higher Path in Action~ At Bickford of Crown Point, everything we do ties back to The Higher Path—where safety, dignity, and purpose guide our care. Hydration isn’t just a clinical need; it’s an opportunity to: +Foster independence +Create moments of joy +Strengthen connection between residents and caregivers As summer continues, we remain committed to ensuring every resident stays cool, comfortable, and cared for in ways that feel natural, respectful, and uplifting. Because on The Higher Path, even the smallest moments—like a slice of watermelon or a shared popsicle—make a big impact.

The ladies in Mary B’s were assigned a creative project for their ongoing courtyard committee. Silk flower hanging basket kits were ordered, required assembly, and allowed these residents an opportunity to use their design skills. Applying the Montessori method by providing an example for them to model made this easy work. Check out the dazzling finished products on display for everyone to enjoy!

When a loved one resides in a senior living facility, the family want to ensure they are receiving the best care and amenities available. At Bickford of Crown Point, we always strive to provide outstanding services, but admittedly, sometimes we need help. That’s when families step in to pick up the slack! An abundance of rain and sunshine produced enormous growth in the Mary B’s courtyard, to the point where volunteers became essential. With overgrown shrubs, weeds, and dead leaves dominating the space, this cleaning crew had their work cut out for them. Having a “get ‘er done” attitude and even working through pouring rain, they achieved amazing results by the time the sun emerged. Now the space is clear, uncluttered, and inviting for all our Mary B. residents! Thanks to Joanie Z’s family for all your hard work and perseverance!

Historically, doilies main purpose was protecting wood furniture and upholstery, and providing a decorative padding on a table for food and drinks. These days, although lovely, they are heirlooms of the past. Yet, to celebrate their delicate intricacies, we decided to experiment with them as stencils, The ladies in Mary B’s enjoyed this task, as it took extra effort to penetrate every tiny perforation. Additionally, there was some respectful instruction offered to each other on how to best achieve optimal results. Upon finishing, one resident suggested creating a patchwork design similar to a quilt, to which the others readily agreed. This approach highlights the Montessori Inspired lifestyle which encourages flexibility and choice. The outcome was so appealing, we decided to display the art so others could enjoy!

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the incredible community leaders who joined us at Fluid Coffee Roasters for our monthly Coffee & Connections yesterday! These mornings aren't just for the coffee, they’re an opportunity to come together with passionate, credible organizations who are dedicated to serving and supporting our senior community. Your time, insight, and collaboration truly make a difference, and we are so grateful to be part of such a compassionate and committed network. As we continue to grow, our goal is to build a strong, connected ecosystem of professionals who can collectively meet the evolving needs of the seniors and families we serve right here in Crown Point and the surrounding communities. If you represent an organization that supports seniors and would like to be part of these meaningful conversations, we’d love to have you join us at an upcoming Coffee & Connections! #BickfordOfCrownPoint #CoffeeAndConnections #StrongerTogether #SeniorCareCommunity