In a significant achievement, Simpson’s memory care programs at Jenner’s Pond and Simpson Meadows have become the first in Pennsylvania to receive the esteemed Comfort Matters® accreditation. This recognition places them among only 43 accredited facilities worldwide, underscoring their dedication to person-directed dementia care that prioritizes the comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being of residents living with dementia.
Founded in 1998 at the Beatitudes Campus Senior Living Community in Phoenix, Arizona, the Comfort Matters® initiative provides a framework for enhancing care for individuals with dementia. The philosophy focuses on understanding residents as whole persons, ensuring their needs are met through a compassionate approach. Over a demanding two-year education and accreditation process, both Jenner’s Pond and Simpson Meadows excelled in five core competencies, including anticipating residents’ needs and empowering both staff and residents.
Dr. Carol McKinley, president and CEO of Simpson, expressed pride in this accomplishment. “This achievement reflects our dedication to providing individualized, compassionate, person-directed care for each of our residents and their families. Accreditation at this level is no small accomplishment,” she stated. Dr. McKinley highlighted the importance of honoring residents’ personal routines, preferences, and life experiences in their care.
The Comfort Matters® training program encompasses all levels of staff, from housekeeping to medical personnel, 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 maintain the ability to experience comfort and discomfort, often communicating their needs through actions rather than words. Alonzo commended the 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.”
Accreditors noted that both communities exceeded the required standards by delivering highly individualized care. They emphasized the peaceful environment, abundant natural light, and the engaging interactions between staff and residents, which often include singing together during events. A family member of a resident at Jenner’s Pond remarked, “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.”
Founded in 1865, Simpson has been serving the evolving needs of seniors in the Philadelphia area. The organization operates as a not-for-profit family of services, encompassing three Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): Simpson House, Simpson Meadows, and Jenner’s Pond. It also includes three affordable senior living communities and offers services such as Simpson HomeCare and Simpson Rehabilitation. Simpson is dedicated to providing the highest level of lifestyle and care in dignified and supportive settings.
For more information about Simpson and its offerings, visit https://www.simpsonsenior.org/. Information about the Comfort Matters® program can be found at https://beatitudescampus.org/.
