True Tales from Bridges
One
of our 99 year old residents, who still did needlecraft work wanted to
make her family and friends some special holiday gifts. We took a trip
to the craft store, purchased her supplies and helped her with the “finishing” of
her lovely samplers. Last christmas, she suprised many people with her
lovely work. She even blessed us with a beautiful gift that still hangs
at Bridges.
One
of our residents who had recently moved into Bridges, was missing her
family farm. Her son, who now owns and operates the farm was a very busy
man and unable to visit often. We made sure that she made a regular visit
to see her son and sit in her pasture. We even packed a basket lunch for
them to share while visiting. She stayed with us until her death. When she
became bedbound and very ill we brought her dog to stay with her until she
passed away.
A
lovely lady who chose to stay in her home with Bridges Homecare was
unable to drive to her monthly ladies group. Our caregivers made certain
that she got her hair and nails done, made a dish to share (which included
a bottle of her favorite wine) and transported her, every month to her
group. She never missed a month.
One
of our elderly clients who lived at home and could no longer drive, was
driven everyday by her Bridges’ caregiver to see her husband who
lived at Bridges of Mendon. She would visit with her husband and then join
us all for lunch.
One
of our Bridges residents was missing her herb garden. We took a ride to
a local greenhouse and picked out her favorite herbs. We turned a small
flower garden into her special herb garden. The caregivers assisted her
in the planting of her special friends. She is now sharing her recipes
from 50 years ago (using her herbs,of course) with our staff and even assisting
in the kitchen. Her daughter and Son-in-law joined us for one of her dinners.
It was a special evening.
We
made arrangements for a 92-year-old Bridges resident to spend an afternoon
at his favorite “fishing hole” two counties away.
One
of our 87 year old clients was particularly fond of Beefeaters gin,
we discoved that he was missing his evening cocktail. With permission
from his doctor, he had his cocktail (complete with 3 olives) at 5pm
sharp, everyday.
A
lovely couple who still live in their home, decided that they had enough
energy for daily activities but were not interested in cooking any longer.
They had been eating frozen meals for several years. Our caregivers now
visit them for 4 hours per day and cook 2 meals per day for them in their
home. They even bake their favorite cookies.
At Bridges, we truly listen to our residents to learn what might make them happy and do our best to accomplish it. We could tell you more stories, but we think by now you’ll see the nature of the relationships – the friendships – that develop between Bridges residents and staff members. We look forward to the possibility of developing a friendship with you and adding your stories to the Bridges family scrapbook.
Video Testimonials
Hear what actual family members and staff are saying...
Videos require the free Flash Player to view. A high-speed internet connection is recommended.
Elle Dykema |
Margaret Munchmeyer |
Aili DeClerck |