Cornerstone at Milford held a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate receiving the Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ accreditation.
Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ is a collaboration between the Institute for Senior Living Education (ISLE) and the Connecticut Assisted Living Association (CALA) but has since expanded outside of CT. The program’s standards evaluate an organization’s capacity to provide collaborative care in a safe, functional and respectful environment, ensuring high quality care and overall quality of life for residents. As part of the evaluation process, Cornerstone at Milford had to demonstrate adherence to 60 best practice standards and training outlined by Purple Flag for services provided to individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Cornerstone is the 10th provider in the MA to achieve this accreditation.
The flag-raising event provided an opportunity for the community’s associates, residents, family members and local senior care professionals to celebrate the milestone achievement. Notable guests included Milford Select Board Chair Paul Mazzuchelli and Select Board Member Michael Walsh.
In his remarks, Mazzuchelli shared his heartfelt congratulations to Cornerstone, where his mother was formerly a resident. “For those caring for a loved one, it can be very confusing, very stressful, and very challenging. And to know that there is a care facility that would go above and beyond their mandated responsibilities is very encouraging, and it’s very comforting to those families that have to deal with caring for a loved one.” Mazzuchelli also presented an official citation on behalf of State Representative Brian Murray.
Cornerstone’s Executive Director, Nicole Leone, spoke of her pride and appreciation for her team’s accomplishment: “Flying the Purple Flag at our community is a sign that you are going the extra mile to serve our residents and make Cornerstone a true “home” for them. You are the ones who made this accreditation possible, and I am so proud of what we have achieved together.”
Attendees also heard from K.C. Potts, a Building and Grounds Associate at Cornerstone, who first became connected with the community when his mother-in-law moved in following a dementia diagnosis. “From my unique perspective, I saw the best in Cornerstone, especially during the most difficult time. This flag is testimony to the ongoing commitment of our managers and associates to the residents of our community. It reminds us of the high standards we aspire to meet each day. Most of all, it offers hope to those families who experience that moment when they know they can’t do it by themselves anymore by promising that we can and will help. It’s what we do.”
“We’re honored to induct Cornerstone at Milford as the latest Purple Flag-accredited community,” said Christopher Carter, President of Purple Flag for Dementia Care™. “Current and future residents, families and anyone interested in both the quality of care and quality of life provided here at Cornerstone at Milford may be assured knowing that this Senior Living Residences community has achieved this very important milestone.”