Blue Bell Place Elevates Memory Care

Blue Bell Place, a Watermark Retirement Community, has transformed its Memory Care community to better support the exceptional care and innovative services offered to residents. Beyond new flooring and furniture that add warmth, renovations include thoughtful upgrades such as tactile art and small group meeting spaces to foster an increased sense of security and comfort. Other additions include a fresh herb garden for residents’ use.

Blue Bell Place will officially unveil its new Memory Care community on Thursday, April 27 with tours following an 11 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony. Individuals interested in learning more or scheduling a personal tour should call 610-277-6443.

“We are proud to showcase our Memory Care community, which we consider a gem given its tremendous value,” said Executive Director Kimberly Horan. “The renovations make this truly feel like a home and reflect our efforts to give residents comfort so they can take advantage of our offerings and innovations that help them thrive.”

Watermark Retirement Communities recently received official recognition* by the Alzheimer’s Association® for incorporating the evidenced-based Dementia Care Practice Recommendations in the following topic areas: Alzheimer’s and dementia, person-centered care, assessment and care planning, activities of daily living and behaviors and communication.

Associates who undergo special training and certification to work in Watermark Memory Care communities are called Nayas, a word originating from the ancient language of Sanskrit that means “guide” or “person of wisdom.” They provide personalized care and one-on-one support, forming deep connections and genuine bonds with residents.

In addition to the passionate associates who provide care, Blue Bell Place incorporates signature Watermark amenities and services into its Memory Care community. An example is Gourmet Bites Cuisine, which ensures individuals living with cognitive, neuromuscular or physical challenges maintain their dignity and independence at the dining table. Watermark chefs prepare high-quality, delicious menu items in one- or two-bite portions that residents can eat without utensils.

Another example is EngageVR®, Watermark’s virtual reality program that uses computer technology to create interactive virtual experiences that transport residents to another place and time. They can go back to a place filled with memories, including a childhood home, or experience something completely new.

“We are redefining memory care with these features, and we now have a transformed space to bring everything together in the most effective way to aid residents in their own transformations,” added Horan.

Donna Evangelist, of Eagleville, said her mother, Carmella, is doing better overall since moving to Blue Bell Place. “I think it’s the socialization,” she said. “She came from a big family, and the routine combined with the socialization are having such a positive impact.”

Evangelist said her mother moved in “at the perfect time” a month before the renovations were complete. “Now, we go for walks around the community, and my mother comments how nice it is here and how much she loves it. It really is such a beautiful and inviting place.”

Evangelist also noted the level of care her mother receives at Blue Bell Place; she has even been on the receiving end of the associates’ compassion herself. “When I was going through a hard time with both of my parents experiencing health issues simultaneously, the caregivers went above and beyond, even offering to do my mother’s laundry, which I normally take home to do. They went out on their own to purchase soap.” She also said during a particularly tough time, three of the aides gathered to give her the biggest embrace, one of them even pulled her aside and asked if she could pray for comfort for the family.

“It is hard to relinquish control to someone else to care for a parent, but I am comforted knowing that my mother is being cared for by so many wonderful people who are dedicated to her and take their time to always do the right thing.”



About Blue Bell Place
Located at 777 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell Place retirement community of Blue Bell, PA, serves up to 83 residents, with levels of care including Personal Care and Memory Care in addition to short-term stays. For more information, visitwww.watermarkcommunities.com/BlueBellPlace or call 610-624-1198.

About Watermark Retirement Communities®
Watermark creates extraordinary and innovative communities where people thrive. We believe aging is about renewal rather than retirement. Watermark communities are known for highly trained and caring associates, a lifestyle built on choice, fine amenities, integrative wellness and innovative programs including the award-winning Watermark University featuring a wide variety of engaging classes for residents and area seniors. Watermark has been named in the top 25 Best Workplaces for Aging Services in a national program conducted by the Great Place to Work Institute and published on Fortune.com. A privately held company with a reputation for over 30 years for service, innovation, integrity and financial stability, Watermark manages more than 70 retirement communities in 22 states coast to coast. Based in Tucson AZ, Watermark is ranked as the nation’s 10th-leading senior housing operator by the American Seniors Housing Association. Visit watermarkcommunities.com for more information.

*The Alzheimer’s Association statement of recognition is not an endorsement of the professional training or evaluation of the care provided by the organization. The statement is valid for two years from the date of issue.