Testimonials
The Covid-19 pandemic has been an extremely stressful time for families, especially those with loved ones in Nursing Homes. My family was unable to see my father for 3 months due to the much needed but strict regulations surrounding visitation. Although NWAC did a great job keeping us updated on my father’s care by phone, care plan meetings and face timing, we were so happy when outdoor visitation started in June.
Once a week, 2 family members have been able to visit with my father. We are pre-screened for any Covid-19 symptoms and have our temperature checked before we see him. During these visits NWAC has been able to provide a safe, comfortable and shaded environment for our visits. We are kept 6 feet apart with masks on but it is so nice to actually see my father and talk to him in person.
I want to thank NWAC for their outreach to families and commend them for helping us visit our father in a welcoming, comfortable and safe environment.
About a year ago, our mother was diagnosed with dementia and we found she would no longer be able to live alone at home. We considered doing in home care but realized that was going to be an option. When we started looking at nursing facilities it was immediately apparent that we should be looking for places that offered dementia care. Most places had dementia units or floors but none specialized in dementia care like Newton Wellesley.
We knew immediately after meeting the caring staff that we had found the right place for our mother. This is what Newton specialized in and was exactly what we needed. We felt so comfortable with Kara in Admissions and Mary Ann and Georgianna of the nursing staff. They were so caring and professional right from the start. They kept in close touch with us and would talk to us as much or as little as we wanted. We never once felt like we were burdening anyone by our questions. They communicated to us every step of the way and helped us realize we were not alone. We made several friends not only with the patients but with their visiting families as well. I would highly recommend Newton Wellesley to anyone in our situation. The best place to go for dementia care.
I am a registered nurse and had the privilege of working as a nurse manager at Newton Wellesley Center for Alzheimer’s Care (previously known as Newton Wellesley Alzheimer’s Center) for 24 yrs., until I recently retired. I will always remember and respect the devotion of the staff to provide sincere quality of care. Being part of the ‘front line’ I witnessed it all. From the extra time spent with a resident -just holding their hand to the dignified manner when providing daily care in a way we would want our own mother or father to be treated. I will miss laughing with a resident, hugging a family member, and seeing every department from the leadership down – contributing to making this facility a ” Home” for those who live there.
My mother spent the last three years and four months of her life at the Newton-Wellesley Alzheimer’s Center. She was suffering from vascular dementia. In her case, it primarily meant that she was delusional because of the location of a stroke. It was also not safe for her to be alone. Up until the last week of her life, I could usually take her out for coffee. She really enjoyed talking to many of the employees.
She was very fond of Susan, the activities director, and Nikki, who does such a wonderful job at the reception desk by answering questions and helping with confusing paperwork. Everyone from the Director of Nurses, Maryanne, to the cleaning staff were always cordial and concerned. Susan always strives to keep everyone as involved as possible – no easy task with the dementia population. There are occasional field trips and when the weather is warm, picnics in the fenced-in yard.
One winter when there was a noro-virus outbreak that appeared in a number of nursing homes and hospitals, the staff was simply excellent at keeping the situation under control. For me, that was the real test of skill and dedication. It’s one thing to keep a nursing home running well and when there are no emergencies, its’ another when patients are getting sick left and right and need careful handling.
The family of one of my mother’s roommates reported how pleased they were that their mother wasn’t constantly getting pneumonia which had been a problem at another facility. Toward the end of her life, my mother developed swallowing difficulties. This can result in aspirating food into the lungs and that can lead to pneumonia. The staff was always on top of it. Because of the relationships I developed with the staff and residents, I am staying on as a volunteer.
I want to express my thanks to you and the staff for the courteous and professional manner extended to me during the admission process for my family member. The entire experience of admitting my family member seemed effortless. I was impressed with the honesty, integrity, and straightforward approach from all the staff. Many thanks to you and the wonderful staff for the kind, courteous and friendly treatment I receive each time I come in to visit. It is comforting to know that when I leave I know that my family is in good hands and receiving care from staff that know her, respect her and genuinely care about her.
The wonderful and consistent care by your dedicated staff has reassured me that this is the right place. I always appreciated the prompt, professional response to all my questions and concerns. I always receive updates on any changes in her condition. I would highly recommend Newton Wellesley Center for Alzheimer’s Care.