Teresa'S House

Having been involved with long term care, during my career as a Nurse Administrator, I had an idea for how my mom’s last years with Alzheimer’s Disease should look. I visited several facilities coming away from each with a sense of sadness, they were so dark, so depressing. Teresa’s House was different. The administration presented me with their vision, which was everything I wanted for my mom. Teresa’s House has Memory Care figured out. It starts with their open concept living, which allows the resident to step out into the living area from their bedroom. No long confusing hallways, just the comfort of home. Residents are met with friendly faces offering to assist. The house is bright and cheerful, lots of windows and a huge welcoming front porch which is a favorite gathering place. The kitchen is open to the living area, the food is beautifully presented and tastes as good as it looks. Mom’s housemates have varying levels of cognition, each person is allowed the dignity of living right where they are in their journey with dementia. Theresa’s House uses the Positive Approach to Care model which was developed by Teepa Snow. There generally is a sense of calm in the house. It may take 3x longer to complete a task but the staff allows the extra time in order to lessen frustration. Initially, I installed a camera in mom’s room to keep tabs on her daily routine and as a result, I have been blessed as I witness so many acts of kindness. Cheryl, brings sunshine to the room as she assists mom in her morning routine making it impossible for mom to have a bad day! Jose, has the kindest way about him, he took the time to identify music that helps keep mom calm and happy during her daily activities of living, they often listen to Patsy Cline together. Bedtime is a pleasant experience for mom. Kenzie sings to her and Victoria is always ready with a hug. There are licensed nurses on duty 24/7 which gives me peace of mind. The administration is accessible and willing to hear concerns and help solve issues that arise. Families are encouraged to participate as much as they wish. I have gotten to know several other family members and appreciate knowing I’m not alone in this journey. The administration hosts monthly support group meetings for families to educate, as well as, give us a chance to share experiences, ask questions or voice concerns. One of mom’s favorite things about Teresa’s House is the Activity Center which sits in the center of the village. Activities hold greater meaning since they are held outside everyday living in each house. The Activity Center has a 50s style kitchen for baking and an old classic car for tinkering. They regularly have live music which a favorite of everyone. Irina, the Activity Director, is amazing! She keeps the residents engaged and involved, always going the extra mile! Sometimes literally, as she coordinates field trips and takes small groups on the Village bus to lots of fun outings. Living with dementia is hard! Teresa’s House understands the challenges the disease presents. They help make the best out of an otherwise difficult situation for the resident and for their family. Regardless of what you choose for your loved one, the best thing you can do is be present, be an advocate, communicate with the staff, no one knows your loved one better than you do!

Friendly staff and impressive facility very clean and well put together. Arrived in the early morning and the kitchen staff was making bacon and cutting out fresh fruit. Good to see the fresh and healthy food options.

Heaven was amazing to work with I met her in the parking lot and asked her a few questions she was able to help guide and assist me very well thank you Heaven🤎