Hamister-Affiliated Assisted Living Bath Experience Rivals Luxury Spas

A relaxing and therapeutic bath experience is not exclusive to trendy spas and exotic resorts: bath therapy is a part of daily life at Brompton, Heather, and Orchard Heights assisted living communities in Western New York.  The bath experience at these Hamister-affiliated residences has three main elements: the spa experience, private in-room bathing, and individualization.

Many residents are ardent fans of the spa experience.  "We take a holistic approach to bathing," commented Sherry Black, Assistant Director of Personal Care at Orchard Heights.  "We play soothing music and specially trained bath assistants give shoulder and back massages.  More and more residents are asking for a Spa bath all the time.  They say that it makes them feel very relaxed.  Everyone looks forward to it, without any worries about bath time falls.  Our Spa tub has a sealed door for easy transfer, which means that residents do not have to lift a leg to get in.  And our assistants are always at hand for whatever they might need."

The residents of Brompton Heights are equally enthusiastic about its two whirlpool rooms.  Brompton's personal care team recently began to use the whirlpools for therapeutic reasons.  "One of our residents had a wound for over ten years," said Kay Dekker, Regional Director of the three communities.   "We introduced him to the whirlpool to improve his circulation.  Not only did he love it, but his wound has now healed 100%."

Michele Kennison, Personal Care Director of Heather Heights of Pittsford, believes in tailoring the bathing experience to the individual needs and preferences of each resident.  "For residents with dementia," Kennison explains, "we eliminate distractions, such as bathroom fans.  Fresh color creates a warm feeling in our bathrooms.  People with dementia have a hard time seeing white, so color can make the bathroom inviting and comfortable.  We also take personal bathing history into consideration.  If a resident had a bad bathroom fall before coming to live with us, we make special efforts to reassure him of his present safety.  Little things like this create positive energy."

By emphasizing the social, restorative, and relaxing aspects of the bath experience, the staff of Hamister-affiliated assisted living residences has transformed a simple activity into a moment of pleasure and pampering.

If you have any questions, please ask to speak with Michele Kennison during your tour of our Rochester NY residence. You can arrange a tour by calling us at 585.264.1600.