In a heartfelt interview, we had the opportunity to speak with Sarah, a dedicated wife sharing her experiences and insights into her husband Ron's journey under the care of Ivy Nursing Home since May of 2022. Their story is a touching exploration of the challenges faced by families dealing with dementia and Parkinson's and the positive impact of finding solace in a supportive nursing home environment.
Sarah began by recounting the harrowing incident that prompted Ron's placement in the nursing home. Recalling the day Ron suffered from a fall at homeSarah said, "I think it was the 10th or 11th. He was at home and fell down the basement steps and was taken to the emergency room." In May of 2022, Ron, already diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's in 2020, suffered a fall down the basement stairs at home. The process of finding suitable care proved to be an arduous task, with multiple rejections due to Ron's agitated state and the perceived level of care required. “I had no other choices. Nobody would take him. They said he was too agitated. Nobody wouldn't take him. And I checked with the [another nursing] home after he had been here a couple of months. And they said it was too much work for their memory care unit. The Director of Nursing said he was too much work.”
Despite the initial challenges, Ron found sanctuaryat the Ivy at Davenport, managed by Ivy Healthcare Group. Amidst the challenges, Ron's journey found a new rhythm under the care of Ivy Nursing Home, turning moments of decline into a symphony of joy and engagement asSarah expressed immense gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the dedicated staff. Sarah noted that other facilities had turned them away, citing the perceived difficulty of managing Ron's condition. Ivyat Davenport, however, stepped up to the challenge, offering a supportive environment when no one else would. Sarah reflected on the care given by the Ivy Healthcare at The Ivy at Davenport. “My experience has been really good. At the beginning, he was able to walk, and verbalized some. But a year later due to his Dementia and Parkinsons, this past May they put him under for hospice care. He can no longer walk he does a little bit shakes now. But as far as I'm concerned, the staff have been wonderful to him throughout his entire stay here. And to me, that's amazing. Moreover,Sarah expressed her Gratitude for Ivyat Davenport Skilled Nursing Facility, “Despite the initial challenges, Ron has been receiving amazing care at the Ivy at Davenport since that fateful day." "I know there's problems. We all have problems. But youare takingwonderful care of them one on one." In the corridors of Ivy at Davenport, where compassion knows no bounds, Ron found not just caregivers but companions on a journey marked by warmth and understanding.
One of the standout features of Ivyat Davenport, according to Sarah, is the sense of community and the caring attitude of the staff. She specifically mentioned individuals like Jeanette, the Activities Director, who went above and beyond to ensure Ron's well-being and active participation in activities. Sarah also appreciated the efforts of aides, nurses, and even the cleaning crew, all contributing to the positive atmosphere that defined Ron's experience. "Jeanette is a godsend. She is so wonderful. She always makes sure what anything is going on that Ron is a part of it." Sarah appreciated the caregiver and staff, "Everybody is so nice.I have not had any problems with anybody."
As Ron's journey unfolded under the hospice care provided by Ivy at Davenport, Sarah highlighted the positive aspects of his experience. "This past May we put him under for hospice care. He’s now in a wheelchair and can no longer walk, but, as far as I'm concerned, that has been wonderful to him. They get him out of bed and ready to see me. I come often to visit Ron and the staff are there and friendly. Nurses and staff are very personable here. If I have a problem, they will resolve it." Despite the inevitable decline in Ron's physical abilities, the nursing home maintained a semblance of normalcy. Activities such as bingo and music became integral parts of Ron's routine, providing moments of joy and engagement.
Sarah spoke highly of the administration, pointing out Michelle, the administrator, for her effectiveness and dedication. The seamless resolution of issues and the proactive approach to challenges played a significant role in building trust and confidence in the care provided. "The show has been wonderful. I mean, she is a great administrator."
When discussing challenges, Sarah emphasized that any concerns or issues raised were promptly addressed by the staff and administration. The open communication and transparent resolution of problems played a crucial role in building trust and confidence in the care provided. "I really don't have any complaints." Said Sarah. “I appreciate you sharing your journey with us at the Ivy at Davenport as it sounds like you've had an amazing experience here with everyone”, expressed the President at Ivy Healthcare Group, Ryan Coane. “I have had an amazing experience. I'm here during the day, four days a week. And I like I said everybody is so friendly and caring. It just warms my heart. Because I miss him. I miss him so much" toldSarah.
Sarah poignantly describes Ron's journey as the 'long goodbye,' a narrative of love that transcends the limitations of time, echoing through the halls of Ivy at Davenport Nursing Home. In a world where nursing homes often wear the shroud of skepticism, Sarah's story illuminates Ivyat Davenport as a beacon, where care isn't just a duty but a calling.
In a landscape often shadowed by negative perceptions of nursing homes, Sarah's story offers a refreshing perspective. The Ivyat Davenport Skilled Nursing Facility emerges as a beacon of compassionate care, where dedicated staff members create a supportive community for both residents and their families. Sarah's journey with Ron through the ups and downs of dementia and Parkinson's is a testament to the impact of quality caregiving and a nurturing environment on the well-being of those in need. Their story stands as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the importance of finding solace in a caring community when facing the challenges of progressive diseases
