Aspen Siesta has been around since 1966, and the place has really settled into what it does, just taking care of folks who need a bit more help as they age, so when you walk in you'll notice it feels more like a big house than a hospital, you see there are 34 private rooms and some bigger suites if both members of a couple need a spot, and you get your own half bathroom plus little garden views if you like looking outside, the hallways are plain but folks can bring their own things to decorate their rooms, which helps it feel more like home. A lot of the real care comes from the way staff check on everyone all the time-there's always a registered nurse around, backed up by licensed practical nurses and restorative aides, and they have Certified Nursing Assistants who visit regularly, all of whom folks get used to seeing, and that makes it easier for families to relax too, knowing their loved one's in good hands.
Aspen Siesta's a skilled nursing facility, so they're set up to handle things like memory care for folks with dementia or Alzheimer's, they have a WanderGuard system to help keep residents safe, and they offer both long-term and respite stays, meaning people can stay for years or just a little while if their family needs a break from caregiving. People with lots of different needs end up here-some just need assistance with daily things like bathing and getting dressed, which staff help with, and others need special nursing care or help from physical or occupational therapists, who are contracted from outside so they bring a fresh set of eyes now and then. The care is individualized, so residents get plans that fit their needs, and if someone's health needs change, they don't have to move rooms, which takes a lot of pressure off both residents and families.
Meals are pretty flexible-there's a regular menu, but residents can pick from an "always available" menu or help plan meals if they want, and food can even be brought to their room or the garden tables outside. The main dining room is a pleasant place with high ceilings, big windows, and a grand piano, and there's a large living area with a stone fireplace where people like to sit and visit. Aspen Siesta has a private park too, landscaped with wheel-friendly paths, an Aspen grove in front, and little nooks for quiet visits or just sitting outside with a book or a friend. There's a daily activity program run by a dedicated activities professional, so folks have things to do, and the gardens are always kept up so people and their families can enjoy some time outdoors when they're able.
The staff at Aspen Siesta have training in dementia care and there's a high staff-to-resident ratio, so everyone gets attention and time, which matters whether you're stopping by for a short-term respite care stay or you plan to be here for the long haul. The facility's family owned, and that comes through in the way things have sort of stayed the same over the years, always focused on helping people feel safe and at home, without much fuss or fanfare. The place stayed clear of COVID-19 outbreaks, which has helped a lot of families worry a little less, and the focus is always on making sure the residents and their families feel included and informed about care. You can find more information about Aspen Siesta at http://www.aspensiesta.com if you're curious about their services, daily activities, or want to see what the rooms look like.
