Chef Tony Mack welcomes visitors to the 20th anniversary celebration of Arden Courts in Potomac.
Arden Courts in Potomac, the first community built by Manor Care dedicated to those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s, celebrated its 20th anniversary on Nov. 5. More than 200 healthcare professionals, government officials, resident families and local businesses in the community came out in support.
A representative for U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen presented Arden Courts of Potomac with a congressional citation, a representative for U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski presented a certificate of congratulations and a representative for U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin attended in honor of the anniversary. Board Members from the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce, David Kyllo from the National Center for Assisted Living and County Councilmember Roger Berliner were among the guests celebrating the evening with a champagne toast, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Arden Courts of Potomac was built in 1994 to house 48 residents who live in four smaller “houses,” each with its own living room, dining room, kitchen, bath and laundry areas. Walking paths, visual cues and home-like amenities provide a sense of freedom and independence in a safe, secure environment. They offer specific programming throughout the day — art, music, exercise, social interactions and more make up a typical day at the Arden Courts. The residents are encouraged to continue doing what they know, to stay involved with activities and to live a healthy and safe lifestyle.
Manor Care now has 54 Arden Courts communities.
“I love taking care of people and seeing them happy,” said Director Nancy Reburn who has been with Manor Care for 13 years. “We provide 10 hours of programming each day to the residents. Some of our activities that are really fun and interesting are to talk about the past, their jobs or trips they have taken. We do everything from cooking, exercise, word games, current events, jewelry making, intergenerational activities, social activities and themes for the week. For example, our theme might be, ‘Let’s go to Paris.’ We decorate the studio, talk about everything they will see, share stories and reminisce. We are truly a community and our residents enjoy spending time with us and with one another.”
Andrea Marchesotti, manager, market development said, “‘Memory Care is All We Do’ is the tag-line for Arden Courts. That’s what makes us so special. We were designed by a team of neurologists who carefully researched and created a loving and nurturing environment for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s. It is very calm here and the residents can move around freely in a loving and nurturing environment. We also offer support groups for the family and educational programs for the community. As our nation ages, there will be a greater need for understanding and education concerning dementia and Alzheimer’s and we are providing that through our programs on ‘How to choose an assisted living facility,’ ‘When is the right time to consider a facility?’ and others.”
Reburn added, “The celebration was fun and everyone had a grand time. It will be fun to celebrate the Silver Anniversary in just five years.”
Arden Courts of Potomac is located at 10718 Potomac Tennis Lane. For more information, call 301-983-3620 or visit www.ardencourts/potomac.