COTTAGE ENVIRONMENT: An aerial view of the grounds at the Meadows of Lawrence.

By Jean Stratton

Helping to care compassionately for an older person. Cooking something that she or he would like to eat. Helping them to put on a shirt or sweater that won’t irritate thinning skin. Trying to think of something that might make them laugh. Sharing a story.

All ways to treat someone with dignity and respect, and all important values at The Meadows at Lawrence, emphasizes Daisy Newson, director of community relations.

“The well-being of our residents is our NO. 1 priority,” she explains. “We are based on the Greenhouse Model. This includes individual cottages, a low population, and a higher staff-resident ratio. We provide people with all levels of care here; a nurse is on-site 24/7, with a nurse station in each cottage, and a doctor comes every day. And all the food is cooked right here. Everything is baked fresh, and all dietary needs are accommodated.”

The Meadows at Lawrence, which is affiliated with the Lawrence Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, opened in 2015 at One Bishops Drive in Lawrenceville. It is set apart from most long-term health care facilities because of its cottage environment, offering a more home-like atmosphere. Its six cottages are each home to 10 residents, and all are fully staffed with aides to help each individual as needed.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: “At The Meadows at Lawrence, our residents have social engagement, people to be with, and spend time together. This is so important. The residents really seem to be happy here, especially in our home-like cottage environment. And we have an outstanding staff. We are all part of a team.” Daisy Newson (second from left), director of community relations at The Meadows at Lawrence, is shown with members of the “team.”

All Their Needs

As a long-term care center, The Meadows helps residents with all their needs, including daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medicine scheduling. All levels of assistance, including specialized nursing care, are provided.

As its mission statement states: “The Meadows at Lawrence strives to provide a superior experience and exceptional outcomes for residents and families through progressive, innovative care; advanced technology; and investment in service excellence. Highly motivated staff members work to inspire our residents to live life to the fullest, offering an active and warm environment.”

Both independence and comfort are priorities, and each resident is provided with individual care and support, determined by their specific needs and requirements. Specialized care plans are created for each person.

As its report points out, “A home that engages the mind, body, and spirit is what we aim to provide at The Meadows at Lawrence, which is why we have reinvented residential longer care with modern cottage living.”

Innovative Approach

“We take an innovative approach to long-term living that places our residents at the forefront of all that we do,” the report continues. “We take care to maximize the independence of each and every one of our seniors to the highest possible degree. We provide them with the power and autonomy needed to live a fulfilling life along with the level of care and support necessary to upholding their optimal health and wellness.”

And again, according to its mission statement: “The Meadows at Lawrence is licensed to offer skilled nursing, which means that unlike a traditional assisted living facility, we are equipped to provide comprehensive care, including total care for those who require it and special memory care options.

“The Meadows at Lawrence is a truly unique, concierge-like modern nursing home experience that unlike a traditional nursing home embraces a more personalized approach to care, fosters independence with support, provides an elegant home environment, a high quality of life for residents, and wonderful experience for families.”

As part of the home-like setting, each light-filled cottage offers an array of comfort-focused amenities. Every cottage includes an open layout, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, dining area, library, fireplace, patio, and spa area. Each resident has a private bedroom with a TV, spacious bathroom, and a locked cabinet for medications.

This cottage-style home allows individuals to continue to engage in activities and routines in an atmosphere that fosters a sense of well-being and comfort.

The variety of activities offers everything from arts and crafts to card games to music, movies, and exercise options, reports Newson. “Residents, who are able, can go outside for walks, and also participate in chair yoga and mild stretching. These can be done under the guidance of an exercise specialist who comes to help them.”

Optional Activities

The extent to which residents engage in these optional activities varies according to interest and ability, but most are involved in some social interaction, says Newson.

“One of our residents is very interested in history, and gives talks for the other residents. Everyone has different levels of interest, and of course, each has their own story and history.”

The Meadows’ lifestyle is purposely flexible, points out Newson, who has long experience in the senior care field, and who joined The Meadows at Lawrence last January. “When residents first come, we have a questionnaire in order to determine their likes and dislikes regarding food, activities, and habits. For example, some people like to get up early, others prefer to sleep in. So they can have breakfast whenever they want, with choices of cereal, eggs, pancakes, etc.”

Lunch and dinner times are specific, but again, people’s individual diets and choices are accommodated. Also, snacks, including fresh fruit, juices, ice cream, and more are available at all times, she adds.

Special events are also planned, such as outdoor cookouts on the patio, holiday parties, and family-focused activities.

“Family members visit, and we have family parties and events,” says Newson. “In addition, in the summer, we have a three-day camp with visiting children.”

Therapy Dog

A very popular program focuses on their visiting golden retriever therapy dog, who spends time in each cottage. Residents very much enjoy these visits, and studies have shown that dogs can have a very positive effect on many people who are constrained by physical or mental difficulties.

Campus security, transportation, and religious services are all available, and additional amenities include weekly laundry service, spa area salon and hair service, and a Jacuzzi bathtub.

Residents vary in age from 52 to 104 years old, with the majority in their 80s, reports Newson.

For individuals coping with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive difficulties, The Meadows offers the “Journeys” memory care program.

“Memory care programs are secured environments designed to support maintaining a safe, home-like environment for persons living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia,” explains the organization’s literature. “The programming is person-centered to maximize independence, and support a routine in keeping with a lifestyle, leisure pursuits, and preferences.

“Our trained team of memory care specialists have the expertise to provide your loved ones with a better quality of life. They can benefit from specially-designed memory care programs — support with activities of daily living in a safe, peaceful, and home-like atmosphere.”

Fully Licensed

The attractive landscaped outdoor surroundings of The Meadows at Lawrence are often the focus of conversation among visitors. Its serene setting can also offer a pleasant experience for the residents who are able to enjoy time spent outside.

The Meadows at Lawrence is fully licensed by the State of New Jersey’s Department of Health for Skilled Nursing. Payment is on a monthly rental basis, and is competitively priced, says Newson.

Newson knows that she has made the right career choice. Even before working professionally, she volunteered to help older people. She remains dedicated to creating meaningful change and elevating the standard for senior care.

“I always enjoyed being with them and hearing their stories. Now, I feel I am able to make a real difference for people. I like to spend time with the residents and hear their stories. It is continuity and a sharing for them, and an opportunity for me. This is very rewarding work.”

For further information, call (609) 240-5217. Visit the website at meandowsatlawrence.com.