Entering the golden years can be challenging for seniors who strive to remain independent. Without proper care, the numerous changes that can compromise their security, health and well-being might make it difficult for many to remain in the comfort of their own homes. The Delmar Gardens Family recognizes that and has more than 50 years of experience providing quality health care and services to the aging population, both at its communities and at home through Delmar Gardens Home Care and Delmar Gardens Private Services. Its overall philosophy of love, care and understanding drives its mission of providing clients the dignity, respect and quality of life they deserve.

“Thousands of families have trusted Delmar Gardens to care for their loved ones in our skilled nursing, rehab and assisted living facilities,” says Bryan Backowski, director of Delmar Gardens Home Care. “That same excellence of care is available in the home.” Home Care provides on-site, skilled care from registered nurses; physical, speech and occupational therapists; and social workers. “We help seniors understand their medical conditions and also monitor their physical well-being,” Backowski explains.

While the Home Care agency deals with in-home medical concerns, Delmar Gardens Private Services, a private duty company, provides assistance maintaining day-to-day routines. “Private Services offers support for daily activities like grooming, feeding, meal preparation, light housework, transportation and more,” says its director Kathy McClure. “We try to fill each day with meaning and promote independence in the home, individualizing our care to the needs, interests and preferences of each client.” The two agencies work together, allowing for comprehensive care for clients within their own homes. “If a client is recovering at home from a fall, the Home Care team might observe a decline in housekeeping and personal care and contact Private Services to help,” McClure says. “Both work together to identify the client’s needs. Using the Delmar Gardens network can address any issues that arise and keep the client at home.”

Both Backowski and McClure say it’s important to consider care options before a serious medical need arises. “Be proactive as soon as you start seeing changes in your ability,” Bacowski says. “It could prevent hospitalization.” McClure adds, “The Delmar Gardens Family can collaborate seamlessly to work with our clients’ changing needs.”

Finding proper in-home care is a growing concern as more seniors choose to remain in their homes longer. “It is not uncommon for children of the aging population to be part of the workforce, so they aren’t available to provide the necessary care,” McClure says. “We keep everyone engaged cognitively and physically, taking the worry off of family members.” Delmar Gardens understands that it can be difficult to entrust your loved one to someone else. “You are inviting a stranger into your family’s home,” Backowski says. “With Delmar Gardens’ more than 50 years of experience, family members can feel certain that their loved ones will receive care that goes above and beyond.”

Delmar Gardens has been serving seniors in St. Louis since 1965. Its continuum of care and services ranges from retirement living to palliative and hospice care and also includes in-home skilled and non-skilled assistance. Pictured on the cover: Director of Delmar Gardens Private Services Kathy McClure and Director of Delmar Gardens Home Care Brian Backowski. For more information, call Home Services at 636.733.7330 or Private Services at 636.733.7100 or visit delmargardens.com.

Cover design | Allie Bronsky

Cover photo | Bill Barrett