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When Amy Bellamy was looking for an assisted-living community to help with her mother’s dementia, Clark stood out among the rest. Bellamy and her mother, Marianne, toured several communities. For Bellamy and her mother, the number one priority was getting the highest quality dementia care, and Clark delivered.
Bellamy learned about Clark through their ongoing Dementia Education Series. Before COVID-19, the free program was open to the public as a resource for families to better understand dementia.
“It was so informative and Chris Simons, Director of Dementia and Life Enrichment Services, is an angel because she really understands the needs of the loved one and their families,” Bellamy said.
Going to the series was what made Clark their first choice. Bellamy credits Clark for its robust dementia care and Montessori program, which has been great for her mother.
“Everyone is affirming and great with questions or concerns,” Bellamy said of working with Clark before, during and after the move-in process. “Before Clark had to implement the no-visitor policy, I felt totally welcome to show up anytime I wanted and was always welcomed with such kindness.”
Bellamy appreciates how responsive and transparent Clark has been to the COVID-19 outbreak. Clark assembled a COVID-19 Task Force on March 13 and began meeting twice daily, seven days per week to develop and initiate plans to keep residents and staff safe. The task force consists of 15 members and represents every department in the organization.
“I have names and phone numbers for staff if I have a question or concern, They are so responsive and sincere,” Bellamy said. “The COVID-19 communication with families has been amazing from day one. I have received numerous email updates from Clark’s president, Brain Pangle. I feel like I’m never in the dark and am grateful for his open, honest communication.”
One of the recent emails Bellamy received included a video with photos of residents and staff, smiling and sharing positive messages.
Life enrichment is integral to the Clark community, staff immediately got creative with multiple ways to provide programming through new mediums and keep the community connected with their loved ones. From enhanced programming on Clark’s internal TV channel to virtual bingo to Skype calls with family, Clark continues to enrich residents’ lives while keeping them safe.
“I think the care she’s getting at Clark is phenomenal. During the Coronavirus they’re putting her safety first and foremost and I’m so grateful for all they’ve done.”
To learn more about memory care at Clark, please please call 616-278-6520 or email us at info@clarkretirement.org.