"Ball of Fire" keeps everything cool for seniors at assisted living home in Tucker,
That's how one of Golden Living, Bentley Square's residents refers to its Executive Director, Ramelle McClelland according to her daughter. While transitioning her mom to assisted living 'had its challenges' three years ago, both mother and daughter are pleased with what is now called home. "Everything is clean. orderly, peaceful and hospitable here," says the daughter who visits her mom several times a week.
"Ramelle is very hands-on," she added to explain why things run smoothly here. While its "ball of fire," is responsible for client intake, hiring, training, property management and all of the duties an executive director under the umbrella of Golden Living does, it's perhaps McLelland's small touches that truly set this community apart and accounts for it's most often filled-to-capacity status since McLelland arrived in 2006.
Upon entering Bentley Square, you're likely to be greeted and escorted in by Shiloh Bentley, McLelland's beloved Shipoo (pron. shy-poo). Coming to work with McLelland every day, Shiloh actually belongs to every resident at Bentley Square. What a healthy addition, too as well-documented research shows many benefits of pet ownership, especially among senior citizens. Studies have shown that seniors who own pets tend to have better physical and mental well-being than those who do not own a pet. Just a few of McClelland's other special touches include potted plants around the front of the property, a vegetable garden, a morning exercise and stretching class and other seasonal events throughout the year.
Not one to sit back, McLelland, who's been a registered LPN for two decades is currently attending school to become an RN. She also sits on the advisory board of Bauder College School of Nursing. "I want more knowledge and education so I can be a better advocate for our patients," said McClelland.
Chatting with McLelland over a beautifully prepared and presented spaghetti lunch by Sheila, their resident chef for 11 years, I realized I was in the company of a dynamic leader within the senior care industry. Not only does McClelland tend to a full house of 25 patients, their families and staff each day, but she's dedicated her life to understanding the aging process and to helping people cope with it. While this "ball of fire" takes charge at Bentley Square, she admits there is one thing she does not want to control entirely. "We need to let people age with dignity and feel they are somewhat in charge of the process," added McClelland.
For information on respite stays at Bentley Square, please contact Ramelle McClelland at ramelle.mcclelland@goldenliving.com or call 770-938-7260
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