HIGHGATE SENIOR LIVING

My mother has been at the Cottage at Highgate for almost three months, but I first made contact about six months prior to her moving in. I had toured and spoken to the well-known care homes in town and had just about given up hope that we would be able to find a local place that I would feel confident and good about and where I could see my mom thriving. I know no place is perfect when one is looking for round-the-clock care, our own home where my mom had lived included, but the Cottage comes pretty close. My mother had always sworn she would never live in a care facility; we tried our best, but her needs exceeded what could be safely provided at home. Because she was so resistant, moving Mom to Highgate was a process…a six-month process which the staff, particularly Kelsey, was so incredibly supportive of. By the time Mom moved to her apartment, the anxiety and worry we both felt had been allayed. She was warmly welcomed by the staff, many of whom have a longevity that is hard to find in the industry. Mom cannot remember names, but her sense of being cared for and her acknowledgement of the kindness of the staff is consistent. I have been so impressed by everyone who works at Highgate, from the facilities management staff, to the care partners, to the activities coordinators, to the director and everyone in between. They show an incredible sense of respect and love toward each resident. I wish we didn’t need to be there, but because dementia has given us no choice, I am so grateful for everything about our Highgate community. My mom returned from an outing yesterday, and when she saw the Cottage door she said, "Home, sweet home." I'm not sure there is a better testimony than that!

My mom was at Highgate for almost 3 years before her passing in May 2025. Although she was hesitant in the beginning to move into assisted living, once she was able to have a tour she warmed up to the idea and couldn't wait to move in. Highgate's size, easy floor plan, prepared meals etc gave her back some of the confidence she had lost while trying to maintain her home and all the tasks of daily living after the passing of my step-dad. It gave my sisters and I great peace of mind to have her there too. We all live and work in Bellingham and most days one of us was stopping by for a visit so we were able to get to know the staff very well over the last few years. They really became an extension of the family as they cared for her in her final years and for that we are eternally grateful.

I am blown away by the outstanding staff at Highgate. They made my Dad feel so welcomed and cared for from the day we went for an interview. The facility is lovely but the staff are even better! So kind and supportive. The food is wonderful and there are activities galore. It’s a real family home environment. Everyone knows each other by name. Attention to detail is awesome. After just a few days Dad feels at home.

Our mother has been at Highgate for over two years. We chose Highgate for the assisted living facility’s location and size, its staff, and the activities and services provided to residents. We are very pleased with mom’s overall care, her hygiene, nutrition, and a care plan tailored to mom’s specific needs that change over time. The care partner coordinator is the key to updating and executing mom’s care plan effectively. Mom’s lead care giver, Shah, is excellent and makes sure all staff interacting with mom know her personal needs. The medical staff do an excellent job of managing mom’s medications and Lisa coordinates very well with family on mom’s medical appointments and her health. Some important recurring services, such as podiatrist visits, are arranged by the medical team to facilitate care. There are many activities to participate in, and staff include mom if she is interested and able. The receptionist team is super! Located at the physical entrance to the facility near the elevator and the dining/reception area, the lead receptionist, Angie, is literally the “nerve center” of the facility and its flow of residents, staff, and visitors. She and her colleagues are always helpful. Over the course of mom’s time, Highgate has had some real challenges to address – which they have successfully done. With exceptional staff like Shah, Angie, and Lisa, we (mom’s kids) would highly recommend Highgate to others. Tim, Susan and Dave Hostetler

Highgate Senior Living facility has been great first, for my dad and now my step-mother. The facility is welcoming, clean and bright with many activities to foster a sense of community. The nursing, caregiving, management, housekeeping, and front desk staffs are patient, kind and accommodating. The team at Highgate are always willing to help with any problem that arises. They have given our family great peace of mind knowing our step-mother is safe and well cared for. I highly recommend Highgate.