How many times can an organization be rewarded for its
excellence in care? One assisted living community is still finding out. We are going for the record when it comes to being recognized for
its outstanding person-centered care, staff training, and programming in
serving the memory-impaired.
For the third consecutive interval, the Alzheimer’s
Foundation of America has awarded us its “Excellence in
Care, Dementia Care Program of Distinction”. This status is considered the
highest hallmark of recognition for long-term care communities offering
services for the memory impaired. We received it in
2009-2010; 2011-2013; and 2014-2016.
The team of reviewers from the AFA look to award the status
to a company that goes above and beyond every day expectations. Reviewers observe how the staff interacts
with the residents, eye contact, voice and tone used. At minimum, 75% of the
staff must be trained in the dementia care curriculum. There is also an
evaluation scorecard that rates pain management, education for family and
friends, quarterly in-service, observance of safety and security, and an
activity program that meets need of residents.
“Receiving the designation reflects the dedication of
Juniper’s staff to stay current with the skills they need to provide the best
quality care to the residents. It’s also an affirmation that the programs we
offer do nurture the spirit of the residents and keep them engaged in living,”
expressed Jennifer Harris, our Executive Director.
We provide a continuum of care to 52 residents with dementia. We are part of Juniper Communities, which owns and operates long-term care communities in Colorado, Florida, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and offers a signature program called Alive in All Seasons that focuses on residents’ wellness in mind, body and spirit.
We are the first facility in the Southwest and the 13th in the nation to earn this distinction after meeting AFA’s set of comprehensive standards in 2009.
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