The Margaret T. Morris Center Celebrates 20 Years of Serving Individuals and Families Living With Alzheimer’s
By Megan Yakovich
The Margaret T. Morris Center is northern Arizona’s only assisted living community dedicated solely to caring for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, including Parkinson’s and stroke.
Passionate about providing early stage through end-of-life care, the team at this private, non-profit organization prides itself on promoting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of each resident
—and on being one of only two remaining “13 Arizona Models of Dementia Care” in the state formed in the 1990s. The program is truly unique, focused, and structured, and does not provide independent or general assisted living care, according to Yvonne Napolitano, Executive Director of Adult Care Services (the parent company for the Margaret T. Morris Center).
“Our mission is ‘Quality Care, Quality Service, and Quality of Life,’” said Yvonne, who was there when the doors opened in 1999 and who continues to “love every moment” of her work. That’s why, she said, “Each resident truly becomes a part of our family.”
Specialty medical and personal care are provided by an on-site master’s level registered nurse, a medical director, and approximately 40 carefully chosen caregivers known as Care Partners (all certified by the Arizona Board of Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Managers in conjunction with the Arizona Department of Health Services). Each receives ongoing training and share in the Center’s commitment to provide support, assurance, and peace of mind to those on this personal and unique journey.
“We strive to ensure each person here enjoys every single day,” Yvonne said.
To that end, the Center features a unique neighborhood-style building design—bedrooms open up to comfortable, cozy living and dining room areas where residents can socialize with fellow residents and the loving Care Partners assigned to their neighborhood. This ensures they are never isolated, which commonly causes depression.
The full life-enrichment program includes music and horticultural therapy, community outings, exercise and activity choices, and an open visitation policy. In these ways, the Center “offers residents the opportunity to remain active in decision making and live as independently as possible,” Yvonne said.
Located on a quiet street in Prescott, the community also features the award-winning one-acre therapeutic Kieckhefer Strolling Garden. Heirloom apple and plum trees, plants that attract birds and butterflies, a koi pond, art, and a wheelchair-accessible swing complete the gardens, providing residents and families an ultimate sensory experience in a picturesque and peaceful setting.
“I love being here,” Yvonne said. “There hasn’t been a single day in twenty years that I haven’t looked forward to coming to work. I feel blessed and honored to be surrounded by a wonderful board, staff, volunteers, and dedicated donors who are as committed as I am to the people we serve.”
To celebrate and honor the first 20 residents of The Margaret T. Morris Center, enjoy a $2000 discounted move-in special between March and July of this year. For more information, including flat-rate pricing and details about the 20th anniversary party, visit www.adultcareservices.org or call 928.445.6633.