This is a letter of recommendation gladly written for Chloie’s Cottage located in San Dimas, CA.
My Mom resided for a time at both houses during the 8 years she spent with Chloie’s Cottage, and I was amazed at the level of care provided to her by all of the caregivers. Many board and care homes of this type consider their residents as “clients” and treat them as such, but at Chloie’s Cottage the owner, Linda, her assistant, Maria, and all of the caregivers who provided care to my Mom treated her like their own Mom. They showered my Mom with so much love and genuine care that she felt like she was living in her own home. The homes were always neat and tidy, the home-cooked meals they served at breakfast, lunch, and dinner were tasty and nutritious, and the residents’ hygiene was routinely maintained.
Although my Mom was lost to the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, they never treated her like she was undeserving of the best care available. On multiple occasions she offered to fold laundry and set the table and even cook dinner, that is how comfortable she felt in the homes. They kindly allowed her to do what was safe for her to do and did everything for her that was in her best interest, not what was easiest for them. As the disease got progressively worse, they continued to include her in the arts and crafts programs, and adjusted the physical activities according to what she was able to manage.
The facilities offer fields trips on a monthly basis, and each resident, regardless of the level of their needs, was invited and included. At the many events I attended, I witnessed how much work it was for the caregivers assisting each resident up ramps and into restrooms and onto trams so they could participate. Wheelchairs and walkers abounded on these trips, but never did I ever hear the caregivers complain about what was required of them for the residents to be a part of the field trip. It was an exhibition of selfless love on display each time.
The highest recommendation I can give to these homes is that if I am ever in need of board and care, I would not hesitate to seek a place at Chloie’s Cottage. Linda maintains a high level of expectation from the caregivers, and they achieve that level daily. I cannot thank Linda, Maria, and all of the caregivers for the joy and love they bestowed on my Mom during her last 8 years of life.
Should you wish to contact me in this regard, please feel free to email at mhhaddad77@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Mary Haddad
Letter of Recommendation for Chloie’s Cottage
Owner: Linda Renard
The last few years of our mom’s life were greatly enriched because she was fortunate enough to live in: Chloie’s Cottage. This beautiful single-family home with caring, patient, dedicated staff was absolutely the perfect environment for her. Mom was kept clean, dressed in freshly washed clothes and accessorized with costume jewelry. Staff even applied her makeup when we picked her up to attend those special family occasions! Arrangements were made for a hairdresser and a manicurist to provide their services in the home on a regular basis.
Mom’s medications were scrupulously monitored and administered. When refills were needed, staff ordered them.
The six women living in the home felt like an extended family. They ate their nutritious meals together in the dining room. Mom was never late for a meal! She really enjoyed the food. Linda Renard, the owner of the home, would even prepare special dishes herself and bring them by for the residents.
Mom had the option of participating in daily chair exercise, playing games and watching television with other residents, or spending quiet time alone in her lovely room. Mom loved her privacy and so appreciated having a room to herself. The furnishings throughout the home were tasteful and very high quality. Every holiday was celebrated with decorations for the home as well. Field trips were organized throughout the year to create variety in the ladies’ lives. They enjoyed meals in local restaurants, live entertainment, a visit to botanical gardens, and family members were always welcome to participate in the events
Every resident’s birthday was celebrated with cake and a gift. When Mom turned 100 years old, Linda contacted the mayor who came to the home and presented Mom with a certificate. Linda also arranged for an article about Mom to he published in the local newspaper. Most special of all, Linda surprised Mom with a custom made quilt, the center square featuring a photo of Mom and Linda’s dog. This gift was so beautiful and thoughtful.
At the end of Mom’s life when she needed hospice care, Linda coordinated with Hospice to see that Mom was well cared for and in the best possible hands. Chloie’s Cottage was a real home for Mom, not an institution. We are so happy and thankful
that we found this wonderful place.
Sincerely,
Karen Foshay (daughter) and Lee Panagos (son)
