The Breckinridge is a memory care and assisted living facility thoughtfully designed for 24 residents. Its environment is warm, intimate, and deeply focused on creating a sense of home, with private bedrooms, inviting chairs by the fire, a large secure backyard, and familiar comforts that cater to the unique needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory impairments. For over two decades, The Breckinridge has centered its approach on seeing residents as individuals first, upholding a care philosophy that celebrates personal strengths, kindness, and unrelenting efforts to communicate, no matter the challenges. The facility is tucked within a quiet neighborhood, away from bustling main roads, offering peace, privacy, and increased safety for its residents.
Each day at The Breckinridge is structured to provide both routine and flexibility, shaped by the rhythms and preferences of its residents. Mornings begin with the gentle guidance of caregivers, such as preparing clothes for residents to select their outfits, and offering assistance as needed with dressing or personal care. Coffee and newspapers in the dining room foster a sense of community, followed by breakfast, which is served on a come-and-go basis between 8:00 and 9:00 am, accommodating varying routines and ensuring that each resident’s needs are met in a patient, unhurried manner.
The large, accessible backyard is a signature feature of The Breckinridge, where residents can garden, wander the walking paths, or simply bask in the outdoors. Weather permitting, doors to this secure area remain unlocked throughout the day, granting residents the freedom to come and go as they please, always under the attentive oversight of staff who provide hydration, sunscreen, or just a listening ear. Meals—whether brunch, lunch, or dinner—are home-cooked and served with flexibility, including finger foods for those who prefer to stay active or eat on the go.
To accommodate the unique challenges associated with memory loss conditions such as sundowning, The Breckinridge incorporates structured quiet times, soft music, and low lighting in the afternoons to encourage rest and relaxation. Activities are designed to be both meaningful and accessible: group exercise sessions like ball toss or balloon volleyball, social gatherings centered around music, dancing, board games, and reminiscing, as well as art days and gardening. Residents such as Dr. Charles Dowdy and Dwayne are engaged with activities tailored to their interests, from leading singing sessions to assisting with household “fixes” alongside the maintenance director, Jimmy.
Staff at The Breckinridge are chosen not only for their professional qualifications but also for their genuine respect for the dignity and individuality of each person. Ongoing training ensures that the entire team is well-versed in dementia care and prepared to adapt to evolving needs. The presence of a caseworker, Marie, and leadership from the director, Robin, ensure continuous support for both residents and their families. Everyone from cooks to the handyman takes patient care as their top priority, contributing to a holistic, team-based approach where even routine tasks become opportunities for connection and engagement.
The communal spaces are designed for interaction and comfort, with a spacious kitchen where residents can watch and talk with staff as meals are prepared—a nod to how much life and laughter happens around shared food. Tea time is a cherished daily ritual, featuring homemade treats like brownies and lemon bars. Evening routines include social gatherings, snacks, and generationally appropriate movies, aiding in relaxation and sleep. Staff is dedicated to providing support whenever needed, even assisting residents during times of insomnia with snacks, beverages, or gentle conversation.
Through individualized medication management, oversight by nurses, and coordinated care with physicians, The Breckinridge creates a safe, nurturing environment where physical, emotional, and medical needs are consistently addressed. The facility’s response to public health challenges, such as those presented by COVID-19, demonstrates a commitment to not only resident safety but also continued engagement, using creative solutions so that life remains fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. Across all aspects of daily living, The Breckinridge strives to bring out the best in every person, creating not just a residence but a true home.