Bickford of Gurnee

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Bickford of Gurnee Imagine your loved one enjoying delicious, scratch-made meals, having a caregiver always nearby, and a calendar chock-full of social activities.

Our caregivers will do whatever it takes to make sure your loved one is living their best life possible. If you think there’s not much going on in a senior living community, you’ve never been to Bickford. Imagine your loved one enjoying delicious, scratch-made meals, having a friendly caregiver always nearby, and a calendar chock-full of social activities. Our family of caregivers will do whatever it takes to make sure your loved one is living their best life possible. That includes our nationally recognized HigherPath senior health model. Think of it as your loved one's safety net — a proactive care team that's all about helping them live happier, healthier — longer. Oh and did we mention our resident happiness ratings are double the industry average? Get your loved one on the HigherPath!

10/16/2026

Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update
Hello Bickford Families,
Welcome to Mid- October! As we settle into the beautiful fall season, our community has been enjoying cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and many opportunities to create meaningful memories together. From special outings and celebrations to everyday moments of connection, there is always something happening at Bickford of Gurnee.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of our Bickford family and look forward to sharing another wonderful month together.
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Upcoming Community Events
New Therapy Dog Visit
Monday , October 19, 2026 @ 10:30am.
The new dog’s name is COCO.
At 3:30 pm There is a new game called SINGO.
Please join us in the activity room to check this out.
Fall Visit with Gurnee Police Department
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 @ 11:00 am.
The Police will be coming to discuss Senior Safety and do an activity on fingerprinting.
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Garage Sale Fundraiser was a Success!
We raised $195.00 for the Alzheimer’s Association.
A special than k you to Mallory and all the residents that participated and made this possible
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Halloween Trick-or-Treat Event
Join us for a spooktacular afternoon of fun!
Thursday, October 29, 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The event will take place immediately following our Halloween Happy Hour.
We would love to welcome children from our families and community to visit in their costumes and trick-or-treat with our residents. Candy will be provided, and all children are invited to attend.
More details will be shared soon!
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Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser!
We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee!
Her next salon day will be:
Thursday, October 22, 2026
If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory.
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Community Outing Reminder
Residents residing in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings.
For safety and support, a family member or designated es**rt must accompany Memory Care residents during outings.
If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so appropriate arrangements can be made.
________________________________________
Thank You
We are honored to care for your loved ones and appreciate the confidence you place in our team each day.
If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to creating many more meaningful experiences and cherished memories together throughout the fall season.
Please note that Christine will be out of office from 10/23/2026-10/26/2026.
Please reach out to Alonda or Savannah for any issues.
Warm Regards,
Christine Lawrence
Executive Director
Bickford of Gurnee

Mim Finds Calm & ConfidenceWhen Mim first came to Bickford, anxiety overshadowed her days. She frequently sought reassur...
10/16/2026

Mim Finds Calm & Confidence

When Mim first came to Bickford, anxiety overshadowed her days. She frequently sought reassurance, which limited her independence and placed added strain on caregivers. Her family longed to see her more at ease and engaged in daily life.

Bickford’s HigherPath approach brought the team together to help Mim rediscover her sense of calm.
✅ Our clinical team made thoughtful medication adjustments to support her emotional well-being.
✅ Montessori-inspired activities encouraged choice, independence, and meaningful engagement.
✅ A personalized Q&A binder was introduced, empowering Mim to find answers on her own and reducing the need for constant reassurance.

Today, Mim’s anxiety has decreased significantly. She confidently uses her binder, enjoys greater independence, and participates in activities with a renewed sense of purpose. Her family shares heartfelt feedback about her calm demeanor and improved engagement—a transformation that speaks to the power of personalized care.

This story is from Bickford of Worthington.

🍎 A sweet activity with an even sweeter purpose!Residents put their taste buds to the test by sampling four delicious sa...
10/14/2026

🍎 A sweet activity with an even sweeter purpose!

Residents put their taste buds to the test by sampling four delicious sauces before creating their own apple sundaes. Along the way, the flavors sparked memories of cooking, picking fresh apples, and special moments from years past.

That’s the beauty of a Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle. 🍏 Choice, independence, sensory exploration, and personal expression create meaningful opportunities to connect with each resident’s abilities, preferences, and life story.

Because at Bickford, it’s about more than an apple sundae. It’s about making connections, honoring memories, and enjoying life together. ❤️

This story is from Bickford of Chesapeake.

One of the things we treasure most at Bickford of Gurnee Assisted Living and Montessori Memory Care is the connection be...
10/13/2026

One of the things we treasure most at Bickford of Gurnee Assisted Living and Montessori Memory Care is the connection between our residents and the people they love.
This sweet couple reminds us of that every day. While she calls Bickford home, her husband comes to visit each day, continuing the routines, companionship, and love they’ve built together.
We want families to feel comfortable being present and involved. Our residents’ families aren’t just visitors to us. Whether it’s sharing a meal, spending time together, joining an activity, or simply sitting beside the person you love, those moments matter.
Because home isn’t only about where you live. It’s about being surrounded by the people who matter most.

💙 Care That Honors Dignity, Choice, and Independence 💙At Bickford, we believe great care is personal. From assistance wi...
10/12/2026

💙 Care That Honors Dignity, Choice, and Independence 💙

At Bickford, we believe great care is personal. From assistance with daily living to maintenance-free living, we do whatever it takes to help your loved one feel respected, supported, and truly at home.

✨ What sets us apart:
• Individualized care plans reviewed by a nurse every 90 days
• Five levels of care—so your loved one can age gracefully without moving
• Certified, compassionate caregivers who are made to love
• Personal care assistance, from bathing and dressing to mobility and more
• Maintenance-free living—we handle the chores (yes, even the TV remote!)

Because your loved one deserves more than care—they deserve a place where they can thrive. 💛

10/09/2026

Bickford of Gurnee Weekly Update
Hello Bickford Families,
Welcome to October! As we settle into the beautiful fall season, our community has been enjoying cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and many opportunities to create meaningful memories together. From special outings and celebrations to everyday moments of connection, there is always something happening at Bickford of Gurnee.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We are grateful to have you as part of our Bickford family and look forward to sharing another wonderful month together.
Upcoming Community Events
Shopping Trip to Dollar Tree
Friday, October 16, 2026
Departure: 10:00 AM
Residents planning to attend should meet in the lobby by 9:45 AM so we can depart on time. We are looking forward to a fun morning of shopping and exploring!
Garage Sale Fundraiser - Next Week!
Start gathering those treasures because our community garage sale is almost here!
Thursday, October 15, 2026
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Happy Hour Immediately Following
Residents and families are encouraged to reserve a table and sell items in exchange for donations.
All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association.
Donation Information
Please begin bringing donated items to the community starting October 13th. Collection boxes will be available in the Activity Room.
If you would like to:
• Reserve a table
• Participate as a seller
• Donate items
Please contact Mallory.
Be sure to review the attached flyer for complete event details.

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Event
Join us for a spooktacular afternoon of fun!
Thursday, October 29, 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The event will take place immediately following our Halloween Happy Hour.
We would love to welcome children from our families and community to visit in their costumes and trick-or-treat with our residents. Candy will be provided, and all children are invited to attend.
Please Welcome Our New Hairdresser!
We are excited to welcome Sara, our new hairdresser, to Bickford of Gurnee!
Her next salon day will be:
Thursday, October 22, 2026
If you would like to schedule an appointment for your loved one, please contact Mallory.
Please join us in giving Sara a warm Bickford welcome!
Fall Vaccination Information
As we prepare for flu season and other respiratory illnesses, we want to ensure residents have access to important vaccinations.
COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic
October 15, 2026
9:00 AM
COVID vaccine consent forms have been placed in resident mailboxes.
Residents interested in receiving the vaccine should complete the appropriate consent form and contact Alonda with any questions.
Flu Vaccinations
Residents interested in receiving a flu vaccination should complete the consent forms provided.
For questions regarding flu vaccinations, please contact Alonda.
Community Outing Reminder
Residents residing in Memory Care are always welcome and encouraged to participate in community outings.
For safety and support, a family member or designated es**rt must accompany Memory Care residents during outings.
If you would like your loved one to attend an upcoming outing, please speak with Mallory or Christine before signing up so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Thank You
We are honored to care for your loved ones and appreciate the confidence you place in our team each day.
If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to creating many more meaningful experiences and cherished memories together throughout the fall season.
Warm Regards,
Christine Lawrence
Executive Director
Bickford of Gurnee

A Queen Turns 100 with a Visit from The King! Our very own Queen Adeline celebrated an incredible milestone: her 100th b...
10/09/2026

A Queen Turns 100 with a Visit from The King!
Our very own Queen Adeline celebrated an incredible milestone: her 100th birthday here at Bickford of Gurnee!
And what better way to celebrate a queen than with a visit from The King himself, Elvis! Elvis brought the entertainment, the smiles, and plenty of rock ’n’ roll spirit to this very special day.
After the performance, the celebration continued with a birthday party happy hour honoring Adeline and 100 amazing years of life, memories, and moments worth celebrating.
Happy 100th Birthday, Adeline! We were honored to celebrate our queen in true royal fashion, with The King by her side!

Jane's Journey Back to IndependenceWhen Jane arrived at Bickford, she faced significant challenges in her daily life. On...
10/09/2026

Jane's Journey Back to Independence

When Jane arrived at Bickford, she faced significant challenges in her daily life. Once independent, she now required assistance for even the simplest tasks and could no longer walk without support. Her situation was deeply frustrating, as she longed to regain the freedom and confidence she once had.

Bickford’s HigherPath approach brought the team together to help Jane reclaim her independence.
✅ Our on-site nurse practitioner collaborated with the provider network to ensure her care plan was comprehensive and personalized.
✅ Fox Therapy’s in-house team initiated physical, occupational, and speech therapy to address her mobility and functional needs.
✅ The HigherPath council monitored her progress closely, adjusting interventions to maximize her recovery.

Today, Jane has made remarkable progress—she now ambulates independently without any assistive device and performs most of her activities of daily living with minimal assistance. Her transformation is a testament to the power of teamwork, technology, and compassionate care.

This story is from Bickford of Upper Arlington.

Opportunities like this don't come around often.This beautiful one-bedroom apartment is one of the most sought-after flo...
10/07/2026

Opportunities like this don't come around often.
This beautiful one-bedroom apartment is one of the most sought-after floor plans in our community. What makes it special? It's currently the only available one-bedroom featuring two windows, filling the apartment with an abundance of natural sunlight throughout the day.
Located at the end of the main hallway, residents enjoy extra peace and privacy while still being just a short walk from everything that makes life convenient and engaging. The apartment is only four doors down from the nursing station, living room, dining room, bistro, and many of the daily activities our residents love.
With a spacious living area, bright bedroom, and attractive finishes, this apartment offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and independence.
Extra sunlight, Quiet end-of-hallway location, Close to dining, activities, and nursing support, Available immediately!
This apartment won't stay available for long. Contact Savannah at 224-219-1741 to schedule a tour before it's gone!

Purpose in the Little ThingsTerry and Ann spent the day lending a helping hand in ways that made a real difference. Terr...
10/07/2026

Purpose in the Little Things

Terry and Ann spent the day lending a helping hand in ways that made a real difference. Terry took on the important task of shredding papers to help keep materials organized, while Ann carefully sharpened every colored pencil so they’d be ready for friends to enjoy.

These everyday contributions may seem simple, but they provide purpose, independence, and a sense of accomplishment. Through our Montessori approach, residents are encouraged to use their strengths, contribute to their community, and participate in meaningful work that brings value to others. ❤️

Because everyone deserves opportunities to feel needed, capable, and connected.

This story is from Bickford of Worthington.

Happy Anniversary!Katelyn Woodward, Director of Sales Leadership & Development Melissa Stratman-Schriner, Executive Dire...
09/24/2026

Happy Anniversary!

Katelyn Woodward, Director of Sales Leadership & Development
Melissa Stratman-Schriner, Executive Director at Bickford of Grand Island
Michael Rogers, Executive Director at Bickford of Peoria

Rediscovering Joy Through ReadingWhen Karen arrived at Bickford, her family hoped to find a place where she could feel s...
09/23/2026

Rediscovering Joy Through Reading

When Karen arrived at Bickford, her family hoped to find a place where she could feel safe, loved, and understood. A devoted mother and grandmother with a warm spirit and a mischievous streak, Karen had spent her life surrounded by the things she loved most—dogs, the outdoors, sweet treats, and music. But as Alzheimer’s and dementia progressed, restlessness and behavioral challenges began to overshadow her vibrant personality.

Bickford’s Montessori approach brought the team together to help Karen reconnect with what matters most.
✅ Our caregivers explored her life story to uncover meaningful activities.
✅ We discovered her lifelong love of reading—a passion that could bring comfort and purpose.
✅ With gentle encouragement, Karen began reading to other residents in Mary B’s neighborhood, creating moments of connection and joy.

Today, Karen’s restlessness has faded, replaced by calm focus and enthusiasm. She is more relaxed, cooperative, and visibly brighter throughout the day. Through the simple act of sharing stories, Karen has rediscovered belonging—and reminded us all that purposeful roles can transform lives.

This story is from Bickford of Lancaster.

Marilyn has been settling into our Mary B's neighborhood beautifully, and from the very beginning, she's shown that she ...
09/22/2026

Marilyn has been settling into our Mary B's neighborhood beautifully, and from the very beginning, she's shown that she doesn't just want to be a part of the community — she wants to contribute to it!

She loves wiping tables and sweeping after meals, setting the tables for the next meal, and folding laundry. She's also discovered a love for our numbered jigsaw puzzles, often taking them to her room to work on. She even helped Charlie complete a numbered 100pc puzzle!

And then there's the plants. 🪴 Marilyn has happily taken on the role of our plant caretaker, making sure our live plants get watered. Sometimes, she even brings them into her room for a few hours of sunshine!

At Bingo, Marilyn is still building confidence to call the numbers herself, but she's found her own important way to participate. She sits next to our team member as the numbers are called, and places each card on our Bingo chart. And during karaoke, Marilyn grabbed a team member's hand to dance as another resident sang one of her favorite songs! She's engaged, helpful, and content.

This is truly Montessori in action — offering meaningful choice, purposeful work, independence, and opportunities to contribute. Instead of simply doing things for Marilyn, we're creating opportunities for her to do things with us and for her community.

Every puzzle piece, every folded piece of clothing, every watered plant, every Bingo card, and every dance is more than an activity. It's a reminder that Marilyn has a purpose, she has something to give, and she belongs. 💛

This story is from Bickford of Bexley.

Happy Anniversary!Stella Rau, Divisional Director of Health & Wellness IA/NEMiranda Wagner, Family Advocate at Bickford ...
09/22/2026

Happy Anniversary!

Stella Rau, Divisional Director of Health & Wellness IA/NE
Miranda Wagner, Family Advocate at Bickford of Cedar Falls
Susan Vittori, Executive Director Bickford of Chesapeake

Happy Anniversary!Nora Lennox, Executive Director at Bickford of West LansingNiibari Menegbo, Health & Wellness Director...
09/21/2026

Happy Anniversary!

Nora Lennox, Executive Director at Bickford of West Lansing
Niibari Menegbo, Health & Wellness Director at Bickford of Urbandale
Terri Salsbury, Accounts Payable at Branch Support
Kim Schaffer, Executive Director at Bickford of Clinton

🐾 Pet Lovers, Rejoice! 🐾At Bickford, we believe life is better with furry (or feathered!) friends by our side. That’s wh...
09/21/2026

🐾 Pet Lovers, Rejoice! 🐾
At Bickford, we believe life is better with furry (or feathered!) friends by our side. That’s why our community is proudly pet friendly—because pets are family, plain and simple.

✨ Here’s how we celebrate the joy animals bring:
• Pets Welcome: Big, small, fluffy, or scaly—we love them all.
• Pet Assistance: From feeding to litter boxes to outdoor time, we help ensure your loved one and their pet thrive together.
• Branch Buddies: Our full-time furry family members who spread love daily. (They may be the most popular team members!)
• Pet Therapy: We partner with organizations to bring in both traditional and unique therapy animals, helping reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness.

🐶🐱🐰
Whether they walk, hop, purr, or wag—pets make life richer. And we’re here for every tail wag and cuddle. 💛

Listening Makes Us BetterAt Bickford, we know families understand our residents in a unique way. That’s why every month ...
09/18/2026

Listening Makes Us Better

At Bickford, we know families understand our residents in a unique way. That’s why every month we ask one meaningful question—simple, honest, and focused on what truly matters.

Their answers guide us.
They shape our care.
They keep our relationships personal and real.

Because here, care isn’t a checklist—it’s a connection.
💬 Here’s what families shared this month.

✨ Happy National Assisted Living Week! ✨Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National ...
09/17/2026

✨ Happy National Assisted Living Week! ✨

Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National Assisted Living Week® is a time to celebrate the residents we serve and recognize the vital role assisted living plays in caring for America's seniors and individuals with disabilities. This year's theme, "Shining Through the Years," is a perfect reminder that every resident's light — their story, their wisdom, their spirit — continues to shine bright, and it's an honor to help it shine each and every day.

To our incredible caregivers: thank you. Thank you for the patience, compassion, and heart you bring to work every single day. Thank you for the small moments — a hand held, a favorite song hummed, a familiar face remembered — that mean everything to the residents and families you serve. Your dedication doesn't just support our residents; it helps them continue shining through the years.

This week, we celebrate you both: our residents, whose light inspires us, and our caregivers, who help that light shine on. 💛

Ruby's RevivalRuby, a 90-year-old retired schoolteacher, faced a turning point after she experienced a fall that resulte...
09/16/2026

Ruby's Revival

Ruby, a 90-year-old retired schoolteacher, faced a turning point after she experienced a fall that resulted in a broken hip. Ruby faced profound challenges—unable to walk and reliant on others for even the smallest tasks.

Bickford’s HigherPath approach brought the team together to help Ruby regain her mobility and rebuild her confidence.

Fox Therapy’s in-house team used physical therapy to strengthen her leg muscles.
Our nurse practitioner and Fox Therapy provided on-site medical care directly in her apartment, allowing her to remain comfortable and safe while receiving the support she needed.
Regular HigherPath Council meetings kept everyone focused and aligned on her personalized care plan and goals.
Now, Ruby is able to ambulate around the community independently, routinely participates in activities, and enjoys meals with her friends.

Ruby shares, “I love living here. I love the people, my apartment, and the crafts.”

This story is from Bickford of Greenwood.

🍪 Happy Extra Dessert Day! 🍪What better way to celebrate than with a fresh batch of homemade cookies? Our residents team...
09/15/2026

🍪 Happy Extra Dessert Day! 🍪

What better way to celebrate than with a fresh batch of homemade cookies? Our residents teamed up to mix, scoop, and bake a delicious treat together — and had a blast doing it!

Baking together is about more than just something sweet. It's hands-on, purposeful, and social — key Montessori principles we love bringing into daily life here. Residents moved at their own pace, made their own choices, leaned on familiar skills, and took pride in creating something to share.

And of course, the best part? Gathering together to enjoy the cookies and celebrate a job well done! 🎉

This story is from Bickford of Sioux City.

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301 S Hunt Club Road
Gurnee, IL
60031

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