Highgate Senior Living, offering assisted living and memory care, celebrated the grand opening of its newest community May 17th: Highgate at Temecula. Attendees who visited the Grand Opening couldn’t have asked for better weather. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the unique features and amenities of the community, but also were able to learn more about the unique programs offered as they traveled to various “stations” throughout the community.
Learning About Highgate’s Unique Assisted Living and Memory Care Programs
Fred and Marlene, two Resident Ambassadors for Highgate at Temecula, were ready at the entrance to meet visitors attending the Grand Opening. After meeting some of Highgate’s finest residents, attendees were introduced to their personal guides (representing various Highgate locations) for their journey through the community.
“Stations” were placed throughout the community, allowing guests to learn about the unique features and programs Highgate offers. The guests’ first stop was with Executive Director, Kathleen Williams, who explained Highgate’s “Philosophy of Care”, particularly for those who suffer from memory loss or cognitive impairment (like dementia or Alzheimer’s). “Instead of medication, we use redirection, validation, physical activity, snacks, socialization or whatever is most comforting. We advocate medication for medical conditions, not for predictable behavior related to frustration or the inability to communicate,” says Williams. “To be honest, “aggressive behavior” is usually the resident’s attempt to communicate a need, preference or concern to us. If we can find solutions without having to use medications, it benefits both the resident and us.”
The tour continued with a conversation describing Highgate’s “Full Care for All” concept. “We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Care is personalized to meet each individual’s needs, desires and routines. Couples, singles, together or alone – we accommodate any lifestyle,” says LaTresh Walker, Director of Resident Services for Highgate at Temecula. “We offer the highest level of care outside of a nursing home, including complex medical issues and severe cognitive impairment. Some of our residents are fairly independent, and others need more support. Regardless, it allows us to provide as much or as little support as they need and want.”
Guests next made a stop at the “Holistic Approach” station where they were able to sample Highgate’s specialty teas and signature health bars.
“We get to know each person as a whole –mentally, physically and emotionally. We use alternatives to medicine like aromatherapy, spa baths, signature scents and relaxing foot massages. Sometimes these compliment the medications a resident needs, and sometimes it prevents the need for medication. Our approach includes making sure the medications residents take are right and necessary. We advocate with families and physicians to provide a personalized program of care,” says Walker.
Personal guides led guests to the Spa, Fitness Room, Man Cave, and Theater. The Theater showcased Highgate’s Eversound system that allows hearing impaired residents to hear guest speakers or movies clearly while using specialty headsets.
The next stop was a room that featured Highgate’s “Couples Care” program. Lined with wedding photos, next to current photos of couples from many of the Highgate communities, visitors learned stories of their lives together after moving to a Highgate community.
Scattered throughout the community were featured “Purposeful Living” stations (another Highgate signature program) where visitors learned of Highgate’s passion to help those who’ve lost their sense of purpose, find it again. The Purposeful Living stations had examples from other Highgate communities such as blanket and knitted caps residents had made for new-born babies, 3-D puzzles, paintings from Paint N Pour classes, Highgate Writing Class Memoir Books, Senior Prom photos, and a Valentine’s Day Wedding Photo project.
Mouth-watering finger foods and vitamin water samples were showcased in the Cottage (Highgate Senior living’s memory care community) showcasing the “Nutritious, Delicious food” program. “We use fresh, healthy foods at Highgate. Instead of fructose-based juices, we offer residents milk, iced teas, and vitamin waters. Our menu is full of whole grains, legumes, lentils, and other healthy carbohydrate options. Equally important, every meal is made scratch,” says Justin Mabunay, Dining Services Director.
As visitors entered The Cottage, a portion of the community specifically designed for those with memory loss, they were able to learn about the specialized programming Highgate offers in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Highgate utilizes a “Positive Approach to Care” program with proven techniques to positively engage residents for the best outcome. The “Best Friends Approach” allows Care Partners to get to know each residents as an individual.
Other features and amenities highlighted on the tour included spa bathing with adjustable lighting, heated bath towels and soft music for a soothing experience, family-style dining that conjures a feeling of warmth, security and home, and foot and hand massages with essential oils for relaxation. Attendees also learned how Highgate utilizes aromatherapy to stimulate appetite, promote calming and help with sleep.
Visitors finished their guided tour with a visit to the courtyard, where a bocce ball court, gazebo, and raised gardening beds live.
While enjoying a variety of appetizers, visitors were able to experience entertainment just like a Highgate resident would. Joe Cardillo provided musical entertainment from the second story balcony, a view every resident whose apartment lines the inner portion of the community is able to experience from their private patio or balcony.
As visitors finished their visit at Highgate at Temecula, they also had the chance to sit down with the Roving Typist for a take-away piece to mark the event in their memories as he asked if they preferred a poem or a prediction.
