823 State Highway 371 Nw, Backus, MN 56435
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Facing dementia in a beloved parent is a weighty and often overwhelming journey. For me, the decision to place my mom, Carol Lien, in care was one of the hardest moments I've faced. I carried the worry of whether she would be safe, whether she would be treated with the dignity she deserved, and whether she would still feel loved even when her memory blurred the edges of her world. The path I chose led to a place I am grateful for far beyond what I could have imagined: Shepherd of Grace. In ways far above my expectations, the care there was thoughtful, attentive, and genuinely compassionate, and it began to lift the burden I had carried for so long.
From the moment my mom settled in, it was clear that the standard of care would be different here. The staff demonstrated a level of attentiveness and sincerity that translated into everyday moments of comfort and reassurance for her. It wasn't just about meeting basic needs; it was about honoring her as an individual with a lifetime of memories, quirks, and personality traits that mattered to those who loved her. The care team's approach felt personal and attentive in a way that made a meaningful difference, turning a difficult transition into a more peaceful one for her - and for our whole family.
One of the most touching aspects of the experience was how quickly my mom formed connections. She made so many friends within the community at Shepherd of Grace, and the caregivers welcomed her with warmth and kindness. It was heartening to see her interact with people who treated her with respect and genuine affection, as if she were their own family member. The sense of belonging she found there brought a light into her days that we hadn't expected to see again as her dementia progressed. The friendships she built with both residents and staff helped to create a community where she felt seen, valued, and cared for every day.
The caregivers at Shepherd of Grace did more than provide routine care; they created a culture of love and belonging. It was clear that they loved her as if she were their own relative, and that sentiment radiated through the small, everyday moments - the conversations, the gentle guidance, the quiet presence when she needed it most. Their devotion wasn't just professional; it was personal. That level of care and emotional connection made a profound difference not only in my mom's daily life but in the peace of mind I found as her advocate and daughter. It was a privilege to witness such heartfelt devotion from people whose primary goal was to ensure she felt safe, cherished, and supported.
The impact extended beyond the living days to the farewell moments that many families fear to face. The care community at Shepherd of Grace welcomed and honored my mom with kindness that was truly special. Countless caregivers came by to say their goodbyes, each sharing memories and experiences with my mom in a way that underscored the depth of their connection to her. These moments spoke volumes about the culture of care at the facility: a place where staff members are not just doing a job but nurturing relationships and celebrating the person at the heart of it all. The tenderness of those farewells reflected a broader truth - their commitment to her life, her dignity, and the relationships she had built during her time with them.
In the end, what stands out most is how loved and surrounded my mom was by an entire, loving family. I never had to worry that she was alone, because she was always enveloped by this community that cared for her as though she were their own. The shepherding presence of the staff, the warmth of the friendships she formed, and the way so many people extended themselves to ensure she felt valued all contributed to a sense of peace for our whole family. It is rare to encounter such a cohesive, compassionate environment where every person seems to understand that care goes beyond physical needs and reaches into the heart of what it means to be cared for.
If you are facing the difficult decision of selecting a place for a loved one with dementia, what I can share from our experience is this: Shepherd of Grace offers something profoundly meaningful. It is a place where a group of extraordinary people come together to create a second family for someone you love, ensuring they are cherished, remembered, and never truly alone. My mom's life was touched by many, and through that touch, she - and we as a family - found a measure of comfort and grace that will be remembered long after her days with them have passed. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Dignity And Grace is an assisted living community located in Backus, MN. Our goal is to ensure that our residents live with dignity and grace by providing them with a comfortable and welcoming environment where all their needs are met.
Our community offers a range of amenities to enhance the living experience of our residents. Each apartment is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a kitchenette for those who prefer to prepare their own meals. Our dining room is also available for residents who enjoy sharing meals with friends.
To ensure the well-being of our residents, we provide 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Our staff also coordinates with healthcare providers to ensure that each resident receives the necessary medical care. We offer medication management services and provide special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets.
At Dignity And Grace, we believe in promoting mental wellness through our dedicated mental wellness program. This includes resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities to keep our residents engaged and stimulated. Additionally, we provide transportation arrangements for medical appointments to ensure that our residents have easy access to healthcare services.
Our community is conveniently located near two restaurants, making it easy for residents and their families to enjoy a variety of dining options. We also have transportation services available nearby for any additional needs. For those seeking spiritual fulfillment, there are two places of worship within close proximity.
Dignity And Grace is committed to providing the highest level of care and support to our residents while preserving their dignity and promoting a sense of grace in their lives.
Dignity And Grace is located at 823 State Highway 371 Nw, Backus, MN 56435 in Hubbard County, Minnesota
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