McKnight Place Extended Care understands that getting older doesn’t have to mean giving up your independence, even as changes in health, mobility and more arise. The locally owned senior living community is dedicated to allowing residents to live life on their own terms while still receiving exceptional, personalized care. “We believe that independence doesn’t end with the need for skilled nursing—it just looks a little different,” administrator Glenda Knittel explains. “Our role is to offer the right support at the right time so each individual can continue to make choices and engage in meaningful ways every day.”
Every resident at McKnight Place is recognized as an individual and their care is personalized to their routines, preferences and goals. Knittel notes that this creates a partnership between the resident and their caregivers, allowing for a more active and engaging experience. “Person-centered care means that we see each resident as a whole person, not just a diagnosis,” Knittel says. “In a skilled nursing setting, where medical needs are higher, it becomes even more important to empower individuals to do what they can do. Even small moments of autonomy—like choosing what to wear or when to bathe—can have a big emotional impact.”
Residents are encouraged to set their own morning routines, pick their daily activities, choose what they eat and work with their caregivers to develop goals. While some of these decisions may seem small, they offer a sense of independence that is critical for maintaining quality of life. “We’ve had residents feel discouraged about their future mobility following health events like strokes,” Knittel says. “Through consistent physical and occupational therapy and a supportive team that encouraged daily progress, they went from needing full assistance to using a walker independently. That kind of transformation is why we do what we do.”
McKnight Place also offers rehabilitation services. Rachel Staab, director of rehabilitation for The Gatesworth communities, notes that residents receive a care plan developed collaboratively with their therapists to ensure it is tailored to their individual needs with personalized tools and strategies. “Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all—we eliminate filler exercises and unskilled tasks to deliver intensive, outcome-driven sessions focused solely on the goals that matter most to you,” she explains. “Whether it’s enhancing mobility, improving daily living skills or maintaining dignity through small victories, our goal is always to empower residents in ways that are meaningful to their own journey.”
The effectiveness of McKnight Place’s approach to care is evident in the satisfaction of its residents. Prior to moving, Sally Landy faced challenges in other communities, struggling to feel engaged and like she could maintain her own independence. Thanks to her therapist at McKnight Place she was able to achieve major mobility milestones while also enjoying activities and camaraderie in the community. “There is nothing that compares to the experience I’ve had at McKnight Place,” she notes. “I’ve been able to connect with other residents and find strength in community support. Living here is like being part of a family.”
McKnight Place Extended Care offers comprehensive, compassionate residential services as well as rehabilitation. Pictured on the cover: Director of rehabilitation Rachel C. Staab and resident Jean Clark. For more information, call 314.993.2221 or visit mcknightplace.com.
Cover design courtesy of McKnight Place Extended Care
Cover photo by Gregg Goldman Photography
Pictured at the top: Annette Harris with resident Helen Jackson
Photo: Gregg Goldman Photography
