The Columbia Presbyterian Community

One of the blessings of journaling for the past 33 years has been the opportunity to look back and remember what was going on in my life at a particular time. As I was remembering what was going on this time last year, I found myself feeling extremely grateful for the many ways in which The Columbia Presbyterian Community helped my wife, Ruth Ann, and me to make preparations for the move to our new home. Last year at this time, Alisha Knight was helpful in assisting us navigate some very challenging obstacles. So many others have helped us and we are grateful to CPC. We are glad to be home!

My father was in Jasmine Place Memory Care Unit for about four years. The staff was amazing and treated my dad as if he were their father/granddad. I got to know several of the residents and their families. Visits and input from families were encouraged. Some of the residents, including my dad, sometimes had some difficult behaviors due to their dementia, but the staff never lost their tempers and were pros at redirecting the residents when they were upset. When problems arose, the staff listened and worked with our family to find solutions. My dad died recently, and the staff filled his last days with love and reverence. They are my heroes!

In April 2021, our family made the difficult decision to move our mother to assisted living at PCSC. Given the early onset of dementia, we believed this was the best choice for her well-being—and, in time, it proved to be exactly that. She quickly bonded with a neighbor, a fellow resident ten years her senior, who became like another sister to her. For several years, Mom’s condition remained stable. However, in 2024, we began noticing a gradual decline in her mental state. By July, the staff requested a family meeting. It was during this emotional and heart-wrenching conversation where it was suggested that Mom needed to transition to the memory care unit. No one wanted to admit how far the disease had progressed. It was painful for all of us. But the PCSC team was focused on preserving Mom’s dignity and ensuring her safety. She had begun to wander, become disoriented, and had experienced multiple falls. Once again, we were faced with a tough decision. Mom has now been living in Jasmine Place for a year. As her eldest daughter and primary caregiver, I can say without hesitation that moving her to memory care was not only the best decision—it was the only one as her condition has continued to decline. The care and compassion she receives from her support team in Jasmine place is extraordinary. While I continue to be an active part of her life, I have deep gratitude for the professionals who assist with her medications, daily routines, activities, and above all, who provide her with genuine love and kindness every single day. If you find yourself in a similar situation with a loved one, I encourage you not to let your heart alone guide the decision. Trust the experience, wisdom, and compassion of professionals who walk this journey every day. Their support can make all the difference—not just for your loved one, but for your entire family.