South Bay Memory Care and the Family Connect Care group have been a blessing to our family. In March of 2020, our family made the very difficult decision to move my father, who had dementia, from a larger facility. From day one, he and our family were welcomed into the South Bay Memory Care home with open arms. Dementia and Elder Care Specialist, Lauren Mahakian and Director of Care Mary Lou were sensitive to our concerns and especially making sure that my Mom was comfortable with the decision to move my Dad. We loved that he was going to a home setting and would be with five other male residents. We appreciated all the resources, podcasts and articles that Lauren offered to broaden our understanding of dementia.
His first night, we were texted pictures of my Dad at dinner. He was so happy, smiling and enjoying himself. He had not looked that good in such a long time. We knew right then, that we had made the best decision for my Dad’s care. Unbeknownst to us, we moved my Dad days before COVID-19 entered our world. He moved in on a Wednesday and four days later, all outside visitors were restricted. South Bay Memory Care was in constant contact with us; always keeping us aware of the safety protocols being implemented.
A new normal began and South Bay Memory Care was ready. Texting, pictures, FaceTime, and later Skype, became our link to my Dad’s day-to-day life. My Dad’s 95 th birthday was in April and we were able to be part of his special day, virtually. They hosted a wonderful celebration of his life and we were able to be a part of it via FaceTime. It was also captured on video and in pictures.
His days were filled with activities that gave him purpose and kept him engaged; exercise, cooking, art, music. When we would FaceTime, he often shared what he was doing at work, proud of his accomplishments. They excelled at creativity and celebrating it; Cinco de Mayo, Christmas in July or my personal favorite, activity challenges with the other two residences in
the Family Connect group. Some of the best pictures came from those challenges.
The care team was always on top of things with my Dad. They were patient and compassionate and really looked after his mental and physical well-being. As his health began to change and decline, we were always notified if changes were needed or medicines adjusted. Dad passed away in August with dignity and love from the care team. We never, ever worried about his care during his short time at South Bay Memory Care. Words cannot express our appreciation and love for Lauren, Mary Lou and the care associates. The care that South Bay Memory Care offers is what should be the model for all care facilities.
Dawn Robinson
