Discover “The Laurel Way” at the The Laurels of Chagrin Falls

By Mark Calabrase, LNHA Administrator, The Laurels of Chagrin Falls

Since my family has owned and operated skilled nursing and assisted living facilities dating back to the mid-1960s, I’ve literally grown up in this industry, or, as I thought of it, the family business. As a kid I was a dishwasher and then transitioned to carpentry and construction improvements as I got older.

Back then nursing home administrators didn’t even have to be licensed to operate.

The atmosphere at senior care facilities has changed dramatically over the decades. They have gone from purely medical facilities to resident facilities that provide medical care.

Back then, patients were in three- and four-bed wards, which would be unheard of today.

The level of care has changed as well. At The Laurels of Chagrin Falls, our care is person-centered, wholistic and integrative. Everything we do is individualized to the person.

No one is called a “patient,” but rather our “guests,” and they are treated as such.

When someone first comes here, they are welcomed like family. We call it “The Laurel Way” and it signifies compassion, caring and customer service.

The best advice I can give families considering a skilled nursing facility for their parents or themselves, is to take a personal tour of the facility—and look beyond the esthetics. Notice if the staff stops and greets you warmly or not. Does their mood seem caring and positive? This is important, because it’s the people who are responsible for a great care experience, not new furniture or flooring.

The Laurels of Chagrin Falls is located at 150 Cleveland Street in Chagrin Falls. The 82-bed facility offers rehabilitative care, short-term and long-term skilled nursing, respite care, outpatient therapy and hospice services. For more information, call 440-247-4200 or visit LaurelsofChagrinFalls.com.