In a significant achievement, Simpson has announced that its memory care programs at Jenner’s Pond and Simpson Meadows are the first in Pennsylvania to receive the esteemed Comfort Matters® accreditation. This recognition places them among only 43 accredited programs worldwide, underscoring their commitment to person-directed dementia care that prioritizes comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being.
Founded in 1998 at the Beatitudes Campus Senior Living Community in Phoenix, Arizona, the Comfort Matters® framework aims to enhance care for individuals living with dementia by emphasizing comfort. The philosophy focuses on understanding each resident as an individual, fostering an environment tailored to their unique needs.
During a rigorous two-year education and accreditation process, both Jenner’s Pond and Simpson Meadows demonstrated excellence across five core competencies. These include making comfort a primary objective, anticipating residents’ needs, and empowering both residents and staff. This holistic approach ensures the well-being of individuals living with dementia while recognizing the expertise of community staff members.
“This achievement reflects our dedication to providing individualized, compassionate, person-directed care for each of our residents and their families,” said Dr. Carol McKinley, president and CEO of Simpson. “Accreditation at this level is no small accomplishment, and we are proud of our team members who honor our residents’ personal routines, preferences, and life experiences.”
The Comfort Matters® training program is comprehensive, incorporating all disciplines from housekeeping to physicians and administrators. According to Tena Alonzo, Director of Education and Research at Comfort Matters, the evidence-based program is supported by research indicating that individuals with dementia retain the ability to recognize comfort and discomfort, often communicating these feelings through their actions.
Alonzo remarked on the high standards at Simpson communities, stating, “They inspire me to want to do my job better, and the example they set goes far beyond what is expected of them.” The accreditors praised both communities for their highly individualized care, noting their peaceful environments, abundant natural light, and the engaging interactions between staff and residents, often involving singing during activities.
A family member of a resident at Jenner’s Pond shared their experience, saying, “My mother is comfortable, and I will forever be grateful for choosing Jenner’s Pond. The staff and leadership care deeply about my mom, and they care about me, too.”
Since its establishment in 1865, Simpson has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of seniors in the Philadelphia area. The organization operates three Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): Simpson House, Simpson Meadows, and Jenner’s Pond, along with three affordable senior living communities and services including Simpson HomeCare and Simpson Rehabilitation. Their mission is to provide the highest level of lifestyle and care in dignified settings.
For more information about Simpson and its services, visit https://www.simpsonsenior.org/. To learn more about the Comfort Matters® program, visit https://beatitudescampus.org/.
