Misty Hoyt
May 2026
Though I was confident on every level that moving my dad to a memory care facility was the right decision, it was the worst day of my life. However, I was eventually comforted by knowing we selected the right home-away-from-home Dad deserved. It started with the education. Whether we chose Hope Springs (Bader at the time) or elsewhere, the staff was a wealth of knowledge. From why carpeted floors are imperative to knowing what the staff-to-resident ratio should be to official programming empowered us to ask the right questions and ultimately choose the best care for our family's superhero. Seeing the good in bad: — Our Big John always thrived on interacting with people. Bam! New friends, who we now consider family. New faces for John to ask "How are you doing?" (really wanting to know), give a wink to, tell "I love you" "You're pretty," and even pull a prank on. — Our family was able to share our husband/dad/grandpa with more people. The heart and soul of John's personality was obvious to the caregivers, staff, residents and other families at HS. — Our family was treated with kindness, respect and patience, as we navigated unfamiliar territory (which was always changing). — A team of people who understood him and what he was going through. — A group of professionals who not only catered to his needs, but also loved him (I am 100% certain) like their own father. I mean, he is easy to love. — He was treated with the grace and dignity he deserved. — Through programming and intimate conversations, we were educated and guided through this process with knowledge, compassion, hand-holding, hugs and prayers. Though Dad didn't really participate, our family and the other residents enjoyed stellar programming and activities. There's just one thing I would change: I would love to see a culture where the caregivers receive the same kindness, support, and compassion they extend to the residents.






