WESTHILLS NEWS | Westhills Village

Westhills News

Best Nursing Home as featured in U.S. News & World Report

High vaccination rates among staff and patient safety standards were among the common characteristics of thousands of nursing homes recognized as the “best” in the nation, according to ratings released today by U.S. News & World Report.

The organization unveiled its 2021-2022 nursing home ratings and report Tuesday, which evaluates nursing homes on both long-term and short-term care. This year’s methodology emphasized meeting high standards for patient safety, a 75% COVID-19 vaccination rate, and limiting visits to the emergency department and overuse of antipsychotic drugs.

More than 1,060 nursing homes, out of the 13,175 assessed, were designated as high-performing in the long-term care rating. Out of 13,500 facilities, about 1,650 were ranked as high-performing in the short-term rating.

Best of the Black
Hills!

Thank you to our community who voted us Best of the Black Hills, again, in six categories. We are so proud of Westhills Village residents, staff, administrators, and community for truly exemplifying the best care, best facilities, best neighborhood, and best place to be in Rapid City!

Congratulations Amy!

Westhills Village is extremely proud of Amy Johnson! She is the recipient of the SDHCA Social Service Council Award. This award recognizes individuals who have contributed greatly to the South Dakota Health Care Association and the long term care profession. Way to go Amy, we are so glad to have you as part of our amazing team!!

Covid & Visitation Update 8/23/2021

Westhills Village is aware that a lot of information and news is circulating regarding vaccines and boosters. We are keeping a close watch on this emerging information. Our visitation policies at this time have not changed. We will update our website immediately with any changes that do occur. Thank you!

Staff Vaccination Rates above 75%

Westhills Village is so proud to receive recognition for having our staff vaccination rates above 75%. This indicates that our staff truly understands the importance of being vaccinated.

We are continuing to monitor updates to the CDC best practices and apply those to our operations.

Rolene Feather Earring recieves the Millie E. Olson Award

Congratulations Rolene Feather Earring, the May 2021 Millie E. Olson Award Recipient! (SIOUX FALLS, SD MAY 4, 2021)

Congratulations to Rolene Feather Earring of Westhills Village. Rolene is the May 2021 recipient of the Millie E. Olson award! Rolene holds the title of Charge Nurse, and she is a leader of the day shift. She is also a skin expert and manages a program which works closely with the aides, clinical care coordinators, the director of nursing, and the other licensed nurses. She assists in every area, with the residents being her first priority at all times. Whether the task is large or small, she gives everything she does her full attention and effort. She manages the flow on her shift, creating a calm environment with a “teamwork” attitude. Through these stressful and challenging times, it is often Rolene who is pulling a prank and lightening the mood with laughter.

Rolene exemplifies the mission at Westhills to be innovative and maintain the highest standards. She is so much more than a nurse. She is a teacher and mentor to her coworkers and a shoulder to lean on for residents. Families report she is a great staff member who is patient and kind. When Rolene smiles she lights up the room. Congratulations again Rolene, you are a very deserving recipient of the May 2021 Millie E. Olson Award!

The Millie E. Olson Award was created by the South Dakota Health Care Association (SDHCA) and named after its first recipient, Mildred E. Olson of Garretson, who was an exceptional caregiver. This award is open to staff of any SDHCA member center. Each month’s recipient of the Millie E. Olson Award becomes Eligible for the Millie E. Olson Award of the Year, which is announced each September at an awards ceremony during SDHCA’s Fall Convention.

Danica Bruce, Deserving Recipient of Health Care Recognition

(SIOUX FALLS, SD, FEBRUARY 1, 2021) Danica Bruce has the ability to really listen, and to give a speaker the distinct impression that what they have to say matters. With all that is happening in our lives, with our frantic rushing, and with the many distractions that surround us, it’s a skill that is all too easy to let slip away. But when Danica talks to a resident, they know they are her sole concern.

Danica is a medication aide and CNA at Clarkson Health Center in Rapid City. Her compassion and flexibility have made her an important part of the Clarkson team, and asset for the center.

She has an unusual talent for recognizing where the needs of the center are on a given day and responding appropriately. She is willing to lend a hand in any department, and will adjust her own schedule to ensure the needs of residents are met.

But most often you might see her cherishing some time to sit and talk with a resident, and often to pray with them. You can see by the way she acts that she is passionate about providing care. She carries herself freely, openly, and with joy.

Congratulations Danica! You are a very deserving recipient of the February 2021 Millie E. Olson award!

The Millie E. Olson Award was created by the South Dakota Health Care Association (SDHCA) and named after its first recipient, Mildred E. Olson of Garretson, who was an exceptional caregiver. This award is open to staff of any SDHCA member center. Each month’s recipient of the Millie E. Olson Award becomes Eligible for the Millie E. Olson Award of the Year, which is announced each September at an awards ceremony during SDHCA’s Fall Convention

Director of Nursing

Leanne Gregerson

Clinical Coordinator, Leanne Gregerson, RN, has been promoted to the Director of Nursing position at Westhills Village Health Care Facility. Leanne joined the Westhills Village team over 7 years ago. Since she entered the health care industry in 1997, working in group homes with people with physical and mental disabilities in Iowa, Leanne’s heart and leadership has been apparent. Her attention to detail led her to become a certified medication aide in 1998 and in 2000 she became a CNA working in long-term care. Additional education led to an LPN license in 2009 and when she moved to Rapid City in 2013, she began working on the floor at Westhills Village Health Care as an LPN. Leanne was promoted shortly after to Clinical Coordinator. After her promotion to Clinical Coordinator, Leanne graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of South Dakota in 2019.

Leanne’s son Hunter is 17 and has worked at Westhills Village as a server in Dining Services for nearly a year. He also participates in the Rapid City Youth City Council. Her daughter Caitlynn, an 8th grader, is an avid athlete and musician. Leanne’s husband Greg also works at Westhills Village in transportation for the Home Health Department.

Westhills Village has been enriched by Leanne’s commitment to our continuum of care, our residents, and her teammates. We are honored to see her as Director of Nursing and grateful for her continued service in our community!

Best of the Black Hills

Thank you for voting Westhills as the best again!

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Welcome our New Director of Nursing

Joann Widrig is Clarkson's new Director of Nursing

Hi! I was born in Madelia, Minnesota and moved to Brandon SD when I was in the 1st grade. I graduated from Brandon Valley in 1990. (WOW!!) I went into the Air Force for Satellite communications immediately after graduation, which was not for me so I got out and moved home and started my first job as a CNA.

I started off as a CNA in 1995 – which I LOVED!!. I later went to school to obtain my Medical Assisting Degree and worked at Sanford Oncology Clinic for 6 years. The physicians there encouraged me to continue on and get my nursing degree so I went back to school and obtained my RN from USD in 2011. At that time Bethany Lutheran Home in Brandon SD was building a new nursing home facility so I worked as a nurse in their Assisted Living Facility until the nursing home was built (18 months). I then transferred to the nursing home as a Neighborhood Leader (Nurse Manager) and worked there for 5 years until I was offered the DON position for Bethany Lutheran Home Sioux Falls, which I took. I worked as DON for 5 years. During this 10 years is when I learned about my love for the nursing home environment. I knew this is what I wanted to do forever!

My husband, Bill and I have 3 children. Quentin (27), Emili (19) and James (18). 1 dog – Scooby and 2 cats – Harley and Whiskers.

Bill was a Union welder and traveled all around the United states and did so for many years. He recently retired from welding and would like to find a more relaxing, enjoyable job here in the Hills. We love to hunt, fish, camp, and ride motorcycles– basically anything outdoors. Quentin is an engineer for VRC here in Rapid City. Emili and James will be moving out here with us and are looking forward to their own opportunities.

We have always LOVED vacationing in the hills and when this opportunity came to move and work here we were ecstatic! We dreamed of one day moving, working, and eventually retiring in the beautiful Black Hills. We are truly blessed to have this opportunity and work for such an outstanding, loving, and team orientated company.

New Ionization System

Danica Bruce, Deserving Recipient of health care Recognition

Westhills Village Health Care Facility is very proud to announce that the Global Plasma Solution Ionization System has been installed and is now operational at Westhills Village Health Care Facility. This system is being used by many major hospitals as it kills such pathogens as Human Coronavirus, E-Coli, MRSA, Tuberculosis, Norovirus, C-Diff and Legionella – to name a few. This is a significant step made by Westhills Village to provide a safe environment for its residents/patients, staff members and others who come to Westhills Village Health Care.

We are extremely grateful and pleased that the Westhills Village Foundation has helped support us in this project and is going to match up to $20,000 in donations we receive towards this new innovative system in our Health Care Facility.

If you are so inclined and as you look at your giving, we can “double your donation” through the Foundation! We are hopeful that the Foundation will receive $20,000 in donations in order to make the full match.

Click the button below to see the news story!

To celebrate National Senior Citizen’s Day AND National Lemonade Day, we had a Summer Squeeze parade. What a fun way to squeeze out the last drops of summer during this challenging time!

To see more about how we’re adapting and staying strong during the Covid-19 pandemic, take a look at our Covid-19 Updates page.

Send an email or photo to a loved one at Westhills Village, The Courtyard, or Clarkson through our online form.

Summer Squeeze Parade

Congratulations to Savannah Gary

August 2020 Millie E. Olson Award Recipient

(SIOUX FALLS, SD AUGUST 3, 2020) If you are looking for Savannah Gary, you should keep an eye out for the person who is crouched down at eye level with a resident, patiently asking “What is the matter?” or “How can I help you?” Savannah’s dedication to connecting with residents makes her an exceptional staff member at Westhills Village, and the August 2020 Millie E. Olson Award recipient!

Savannah began her employment with Westhills Village in May 2014 in dining services, and then became a Certified Nursing Assistant in June 2016. It was easy to see the potential in Savannah as she eagerly would step up and ask ‘what’s next?’

But Savannah is not only a dedicated team player. She is also a kindhearted person who thrives in the health care world. She truly cares about the residents and the families of each resident.

Savannah challenged herself again and became a Medication Aide in May 2017. Savannah was accepted to the Level 2 program at Westhills Village and she is now a trainer to new employees. She sets the example, and creates a calming environment on her shifts. But she isn’t done saying “What’s next?” yet. Savannah has begun her educational path to become a nurse.

Savannah is an important part of the team at Westhills Village, and her work ethic, compassion, and attitude have an enormous impact on her residents each day. Congratulations Savannah, you are a very deserving Millie E. Olson Award recipient!

The Millie E. Olson Award was created by the South Dakota Health Care Association (SDHCA) and named after its first recipient, Mildred E. Olson of Garretson, who was an exceptional caregiver. This award is open to staff of any SDHCA member center. Each month’s recipient of the Millie E. Olson Award becomes eligible for the Millie E. Olson Award of the Year, which is announced each September at an awards ceremony during SDHCA’s Fall Convention.

Tour The Westhills Village Kitchen!

This is Home - Westhills Village

Join Curt Cressy behind the scenes!

At the Courtyard!

Thank You Nurses!

Happy Nurses Appreciation Week!

The nurses that make up our team are some of the most qualified, compassionate, skilled, and driven women and men in Rapid City. We believe in creating a community – and our nurses solidify that foundation – helping provide a continuum of care for our residents, peace of mind for Westhills families, and a wellness-centered community for all.

Join Our Team!

Our robust community has many career opportunities in Independent Living, Assisted Living, Home Health and Health Care that include dining services, housekeeping, Licensed Nurses, CNAs and more!

Some Good News!

Happy Nurses Appreciation Week!

KNBN NBC TV interviewed Betty Richards at Westhills today and will feature how Westhills is staying positive and encouraging during COVID!
Betty was the point person to help with organizing a group of dynamic residents who rallied together and sewed almost 700 face masks!! WOW!
The interview will air tonight on KNBN NBC TV at 5:30pm.

We are all doing well at Westhills and we have been trying to focus on all the positives and uplifting things that are happening!
Westhills wants the greater Rapid City community to know that Westhills is focusing on the positives! We want to spread the word how we are all helping each other and encouraging each other!
For example, many of our residents are volunteering to help in so many ways – they are helping wipe down and sanitize all hand rails and high touch areas, they are delivering meals to residents isolating in their apartments, we even had one of our residents buy a pizza lunch for all the employees!!
Also, we had our Health Care residents and staff cut out Hearts and display them in our windows as this viral campaign of “Spread the Love, Not the Virus” is happening everywhere.

Also, we have a very generous group a residents that have taken to sewing in a whole new way – “they put the pedal – of the sewing machine – to the Medal!” They call themselves the “Rosies” (After Rosie the Riveter!) and have made up to 700 Face Masks  We got the pattern from Avera Monument Health so all of them are the same with a “filtering flannel” and hair bands for ear loops. They are very working hard to supply masks for all the staff and now residents too 

Join Our Team!

Our robust community has many career opportunities in Independent Living, Assisted Living, Home Health and Health Care that include dining services, housekeeping, Licensed Nurses, CNAs and more!

Happy 23rd Birthday Dr. Bareis!

Join us in celebrating our Leap Year Resident's Birthday

Name: Reuben Julian August Bareis
Where were you born?: A Hospital! 🙂 in Great Bend, KS
What countries of heritage do you have?: German, Swiss & French
What is your favorite color?: Blue
What was your favorite decade?: 50’s, He got married and also moved to Rapid City
Who is your favorite hobby?: Vocal Music
What is your favorite film?: Steamboat Round the Bend
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to?: England and Scotland
What’s your favorite breakfast food?: Raisin Bran Cereal
What’s your favorite spot in the Black Hills?: His room at Westhills Village. As he said, “It’s my world!”
Who was your favorite President?: Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR)
What’s your favorite animal?: He doesn’t have one because he is allergic to most animals
What invention that has happened in your lifetime do you most appreciate?: Television or Computer
What was your favorite car?: Chevrolet
Who is your favorite visual artist?: Impressionist French Painting
What is your favorite sport to watch?: Baseball – The St Louis Cardinals
What is your favorite type of music to listen to?: Jazz and Choir Music
What’s your favorite dinner meal?: Spaghetti
What’s your favorite season?: Fall
What’s the best thing about the year 2020?: Recovered from cataract surgery
What’s your favorite gift?: Little Red Wagon – He got it for Christmas when he was 6 years old
How many years have you lived at Westhills?: 14
What’s something you’d like to do this year?: Have fun with family and friends

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

A recipe from Dining Service Team Member - Jason

February is Dining Services Appreciation Month. As part of our celebration, we asked team members to share some favorite recipes.

This recipe is from Jason and he recommends a hearty steak in addition to his delicious potatoes.

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

3 pounds boiling potatoes, peeled
2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 1/2 cups milk
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

Cut potatoes in 1 inch cube and place in a pot. Cover and bring to boil until the potatoes fall apart easily when pierced with a fork.

Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan making sure it does not burn

When potatoes are tender, drain in a colander. Use a masher to mash potatoes. As soon as they are mashed, slowly whisk in the hot milk/butter. Add salt, pepper, and sour cream and whisk to smooth.

National Caregivers Day

February 21 is National Caregivers Day!

Happy National Caregivers Day to our team members who care well for our residents and guests. We see your efforts and kindnesses and we appreciate you!

Westhills Village earns the reputation of “Best in the Black Hills” and a 5 star rating from CMS largely due to the solid team of caregivers who are employed at our facilities and on our campus. Thank you for your efforts to creating the best continuing care for our residents and guests!

Dining Services Appreciation Month

Our Dining Services team member, Paige, sent us her favorite recipe!

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

6 tablespoons butter, divided
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups milk
6 cups thinly sliced peeled potatoes
1-1/2 cups chopped fully cooked ham
1 small onion, grated

Directions

In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour, parsley, salt, thyme and pepper until smooth. Gradually add milk; bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
Combine potatoes, ham and onion; place half in a greased 2-1/2-qt. baking dish. Top with half of the sauce; repeat layers.
Cover and bake at 375° for 65-75 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender. Dot with remaining butter. Bake, uncovered, 15-20 minutes longer or until potatoes are tender.

Clarkson Award Winners

Several Team Members at Clarkson received awards

Congratulations to our Clarkson employees who received an award today! Taylor Thornton received the Rising Star award for her dedication, positive attitude and contributions the the health care team. Loree Westbrook and Jason Crowson received the Mountain Mover award for their consistent quality of work and exceptional dependability. Eileen Muellenberg received the Service Excellence award for providing excellent service. Congratulations!!

Congratulations Paige!

Paige Frost was awarded the Mountain Mover Award

Help me congratulate Paige Frost. She was nominated by her peers and received the Mountain Mover Award. The Mountain Mover award recognizes an exceptional employee. The basis for selection is outstanding performance and demonstrates consistent quality of work; demonstrates a high degree of initiative; motivation and dedication; positive attitude, exceptional dependability; and maintains effective relationships with others and demonstrates leadership qualities. Congratulations Paige, well deserved!!!

Congratulations Dining Services!

Dining Services Team receives Team Spirit Award

Congratulations to our Dining Services team. They received the Team Spirit Award. The Team Spirit Award recognizes a department that exemplify collaboration and cooperation; and that demonstrate a significant contribution with results on behalf of their Department and the organization.

Congratulations Rising Star!

Toni Diamond receives this year's 2020 Rising Star Award!

Every year we award a team member our “Rising Star Award” – recognizing someone who is going above and beyond to be a major part of the team at work.

CNA Toni Diamond is this year’s recognized award winner. She’s pictured here with last year’s winner.

These ladies work together to create the environment of excellence you appreciate at Westhills Village – we’re lucky to have them as part of our team.

Employee Academic Assistance

We raised over $25,900 to support the Employee Academic Assistance Program!

In 2019, as we celebrated our 35th Anniversary, we offered additional fundraising opportunities for residents, Foundation Members, and community members to donate to our Employee Academic Assistance Fund.

The goal of our fund is to assist Westhills Village Employees in receiving additional training and education such as advanced nursing degrees, CNA certifications, or continuing education opportunities. We believe an educated workforce is an involved and excellent workforce – and we love the ways you helped invest in our employees last year. From our efforts over $25,000 was raised to benefit our employees.

Though we are now into our 36th year – we are still actively contributing to the Employee Academic Assistance Fund. You can give online, mail a check, or talk to someone in Reception or Marketing for more ways to be involved. Thank you for your support of Westhills Employee Academic Assistance Fund and our Employees!

Welcome Brandon Petrotto!

Brandon has joined The Courtyard full time!

We are excited for Brandon Petrotto to join us full time as the Life Enrichment Coordinator at The Courtyard.

Brandon started at Westhills in October 2017 as an Intern.

He recently graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science.

He will continue to bring you quality programming, such as Cookin’ with Mr. Good Lookin’ and is excited to use his passion for wellness and exercise to enhance our Residents’ quality of life.

Tour the Courtyard!

A video walkthrough of the common areas at The Courtard

You won’t believe The Courtyard until you see it! We’re so proud of our state of the art Assisted Living facility and we think you will be too. Check out this video of the main areas that greet residents and guests as they enter The Courtyard, right on the campus of Westhills Village.

A Very Merry Christmas, to you!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Westhills Village

Christmas is a sacred time of year – for celebrating with loved ones, remembering Holidays gone by, and reconnecting with the joy of a heart of worship, gratitude, and sacrifice. May the love of Jesus surround you and yours as you celebrate this Holiday Season. We look forward to a coming New Year and reflect on the magic of a Baby in a manger and the hope of Peace on Earth.

Thank You, Volunteers!

It's International Volunteers Day!

December 5th is set aside as International Volunteers Day. Did you know there are many ways to volunteer within the Westhills Village Community?

In 2019, we had 324 people volunteer for a total of 3,246 hours of volunteer service. That’s a lot of giving their time, energy, and talents to help create this robust community.

If you are interested in volunteering throughout our campus, contact Nedra or Debbie at (605) 342-0255 or visit our volunteer page on this website!

Happy Thanksgiving

With gratitude, we look back on a wonderful year.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends and look back on a year of success, of growth, of struggles, and of memories. The management and staff of Westhills Village wishes you and your family and loved ones a meaningful season of Gratitude. May a full table, warm hearts, and celebration of love be yours.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Debbie Westfall and Brenda Salway!

Westhills Village is proud of the culture of community we’ve worked to develop on our campuses and throughout our services, and especially of our employees who often work above and beyond. Yesterday, our Life Enrichment Coordinator, Debbie Westfall, was honored by the South Dakota Health Care Association with the Qualified Activity Coordinator Award and our Director of Assisted Living, Brenda Salway, was awarded the South Dakota Assisted Living Association Administrator of the Year.

Debbie Westfall is a bright spot in the lives of our residents, their families and volunteers at Westhills Village Health Care. She brings a tremendous amount of energy and excitement to her job, creativity, and attention to detail for every resident. For almost 20 years, Debbie has brought her keen sense of how we can best address residents’ care and needs to our community and continues to step into a variety of roles to see ultimate service provided. Debbie is one of the rare individuals that pours her heart and soul into long term care and our industry and community is better because of her commitment and involvement.

Brenda Salway has been employed at Westhills Village for eight and a half years. In 2013, when the Director of Assisted Living position opened, we encouraged her to apply due to her incredible leadership skills in the areas of resident care, resident rights, family communication and professionalism. As Director, Brenda has consistently maintained the highest employee retention rate and her employees enjoy and appreciate her guidance. She has piloted and led programs to bring assisted living residents to a local school for tutoring and mentoring and has implemented standards that continue to be found superior in state surveys. A leader by example, Brenda is often the first to volunteer to participate in initiatives, lead and encourage others, and support her employees and residents to create a culture of community, honor, and success.

Westhills Village is the best continuing care campus in the area because of the people who make up our staff, lead our teams, and live in our community. We are grateful for leaders like Debbie and Brenda who continue to lead Westhills Village into cutting-edge care while continuing the tradition of excellence for which we are known. Congratulations Brenda Salway and Debbie Westfall on these much deserved awards. Thank you for being a part of our team!

Best of the Black Hills

Thank you for making us the Best of the Black Hills again in 2019.

For the past 35 years, Westhills Village has delivered exceptional senior living for the Black Hills area. Through our beautifully landscaped grounds, continuously upgraded buildings, home care, therapy services, assisted living and skilled nursing, we have provided a vibrant lifestyle for our residents

Your vote of confidence, naming Westhills Village #1 in the Black Hills acknowledges our high standards, outstanding staff, and our forward-thinking leadership – which come together to achieve this quality of service.

As we look to the future, we are committed to providing growth, innovation, and excellence of care to our residents and to the Black Hills Community. Thank you for being a part of our success!

5 Star Rating

Proud to be recognized for five star care in the Black Hills

Westhills Village and Clarkson Health Care Facility are pleased to be rated 5 stars by Medicare. Our team works tirelessly to provide excellent continuum of care for short-term and long-term residents and community members. You can learn more about the ratings and local facilities here: medicare ratings

Happy Mother's Day!

Sunday, May 12, 2019

We hope today is a day of celebration! For Mothers who are still here, nurturing and loving, leading and caring and achieving, and for the mothers we have lost – may their memories and legacy carry us onward.

Westhills Village is home to many mothers, proud to provide employment for many moms, and grateful for the full and beautiful community we’ve created because of the many moms in our lives!

Congratulations on 35 Years!

Our CEO Daryl is celebrating 35 years this March!

In the past 35 years a lot has changed about workplace culture, expectations, communications, and leadership. It takes a truly special person, someone who is willing to work on themselves, to bring others alongside him, and to consider the health of an entire Community, to last and lead for 35 years.

We are grateful for the community and culture that Daryl has created here at Westhills Village and excited for what the next year’s bring. Congratulations!

Westhills Women

March is International Women's Month!

For International Women’s Month, we’re celebrating the community of women who live and work at Westhills Village. From the 219 women who are employed by Westhills Village, as administrative staff, office staff, human resources, dining hall, kitchen, laundry, maintenance, CNAs, Registered Nurses, med aides, and more – to the 160+ female apartment residents, and more women living in our Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Villas – these women are the vital heartbeat that helps Westhills Village be a home.

Throughout this month, as you spend time on the Westhills Village & Clarkson campuses – take a moment to thank a female employee for their contribution to making Westhills Village a vibrant community.

Remember that Westhills Village is committed to caring for our residents and our employees. We support our female employees through maternity leave, continuing education opportunities, and advancement opportunities. We know that women are essential – and we’re so glad to have all of you as part of our community!

Heart Healthy Tips

February is Heart Health Month!

February is Heart Health Month and there’s no better time to have a heart-to-heart about ways you can improve your heart’s health as you age. Just because your doctor hasn’t mentioned that you have a heart condition, doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from these simple, small changes that improve Heart Health!

Eat Colorful Fruits & Veggies – Low in calories, high in vitamins, minerals and fiber — adults should get at least five servings per day of these nutrition powerhouses.

Sleep Well – Not getting enough sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression. Together, these four health conditions prove a powerful case that sleep isn’t just beneficial, it’s vital. Don’t watch TV or use other electronic devices before bed – or if you do, go to a different room so your bedroom is just for sleeping.

Practice Gratitude – Making a list and conjuring the feeling of gratitude about what you can appreciate about your life every day appears to have a real effect on the smoothness and rhythm of the heartbeat.

Exercise Regularly – Regularly exercising thirty minutes a day can improve your heart’s (and overall body’s) health! Whether you take a brisk walk, play the Wii, sign up for a weekly class, or enjoy working out in the comfort of your living room – the important thing is that you do something every day. Consider adopting a dog to get out there and move!

Can’t adopt ? Volunteer to walk dogs at a
local shelter!

Construction Award

Congratulations to Scull Construction!

We just found out that Scull Construction was awarded two Construction Industry Craftsmanship Awards for their work on The Courtyard!!

If you watch our CEO, Daryl Reinicke’s testimonial, you’ll understand a little bit of why we are so grateful

We love our beautiful space and expansion and we are excited to see them awarded for their excellent work! Great news!!

Our On-Site Clinic

Did you know we have a clinic on-site?

Westhills Village is pleased to announce the availability of Rapid City Regional CNP staff Ashley Brunmaier and Gretchen Landers in our on-site clinic here at Westhills on the 3rd floor of Building C. Ashley and Gretchen specialize in geriatric care, and they are in the clinic every Tuesday from 9a-10a to see scheduled and walk in patients. They will also be available in the on-site clinic for scheduled appointments at your convenience on weekdays, with a 48 hour appointment request.

Their scheduler can be reached at 755-0220 to schedule appointments or answer any questions.

Gift Ideas for your Westhills Family Member

'Tis the Season for Giving - Here's some ideas!

Westhills Village Community offers several gift certificate options for your loved one during the Holidays! Stop by (or call) the Reception Desk to purchase a gift certificate for:

Meal Tickets
Home Health Services Gift Certificates
Transportation Gift Certificates
Salon Gift Certificates (call the Salon at 605-721-3601)
Housekeeping Services Gift Certificates
Pantry Gift Certificates

SD Health Care Association's Activities Director of the Year!

Teresa Wardle from Clarkson Health Care receives award!

Teresa Wardle announced as South Dakota Health Care Association’s Activities Director of the Year!

Teresa began her employment at Clarkson Health Care 25 years ago as a certified nurse assistant, eventually moving to the roll of Health Unit Clerk. When the Activities Director position became available, Teresa was a natural selection and she stepped up to the plate with enthusiasm!

Teresa has tremendous respect from the residents, their families, and her coworkers as well. She is a ray of sunshine to everyone at Clarkson Health Care – constantly creating a fun atmosphere! Teresa provides plenty of activities for the residents to enjoy and always makes new attendees feel welcome.

Our programs continue to be creative and diverse because of Teresa’s new ideas. She is a strong proponent of the Music & Memory Program, which she helped certify Clarkson Health Care for.

We are so proud to have Teresa as a member of our team! Congratulations, Teresa!

Values, Beliefs & Balance Matter

Spiritual Wellness is an important part of being a healthy human!

Spiritual Wellness is a personal matter involving values and beliefs that provide a purpose in our lives. While different individuals may have different views of what spiritualism is, it is generally considered to be the search for meaning and purpose in human existence, leading one to strive for a state of harmony with oneself and others while working to balance inner needs with the rest of the world.

Having compassion, the capacity for love and forgiveness, altruism, joy, and fulfillment help you enjoy your spiritual health. Your religious faith, values, beliefs, principles, and morals define your spirituality. Your spiritual wellness may look different than others.

If you are a person engaged in the process of spiritual wellness, you are willing and able to transcend yourself in order to question the meaning and purpose in your life and the lives of others. In addition, you seek to find harmony between that which lies within and the social and physical forces that come from outside. We are always able to continue growing in our spiritual wellness!

Active Aging Month

Here's how we Inspire Wellness!

September is Active Aging Month. To celebrate this month, and to continue our goal of inspiring wellness throughout our community, the Community Life team at Westhills Village has a calendar full of special events!

Throughout the month of September, we’ve challenged our community members, residents and employees alike, to participate in our “virtual marathon.” Using a pedometer or activity tracker (pedometers are available for purchase from the Community Life Department) keep track of your miles as you walk, use a treadmill or eliptical, or hike this month. The goal is to complete a half marathon (13.1 miles) or a full marathon (26.2 miles) or even an ultra marathon (anything over 26.2 miles!) We know you can do it!

Other fun activities that are planned include:

Canyon Lake Walk About – Wednesday, September 5th at 2pm
Table Tennis Tournament – Thursday, September 6th at 7:30pm
Strider Bike Obstacle Course – Friday, September 7th at 11am
Hike in the Hills at Black Elk Peak – Saturday, September 8th at 9am
Water Volleyball Tournament – Tuesday, September 11th at 4pm
Croquet Tournament – Thursday, September 13th at 10am
Outdoor Excursion to the Wax Museum – Saturday, September 15th at 10am
Resident/Staff Bowling at Robbinsdale – Sunday, September 16th at 2pm
Cooking with Mr. Good Looking – Tuesday, September 18th, at 2:30pm
Dart Tournament – Thursday, September 20th at 10:15am
Wear Purple to End Alzheimer’s Day – Friday, September 21
Walk to End Alzheimer’s (Memorial Park) – Saturday, September 22nd at 9am
1 Mile Fun Run/Walk – Tuesday, September 25th at 8:45am
Cribbage Tournament – Wednesday, September 26th at 1:30pm
Swim Meet – Friday, September 28th, at 9am

Part of living life fully and well is staying active while we can, in the ways that we can, as part of a community that lifts us up. Active Aging Month is an excellent time to renew our focus on activity, community, and growth. We look forward to all that this month has to offer the staff and residents of our vibrant community!

Enjoy Fall in the Black Hills!

Accessible Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors!

Perhaps it’s been a while since you ventured into the great outdoors. Did you know that there are numerous walking and hiking trails and observation areas that are just off the beaten path and are paved, walker, wheelchair, and senior friendly? Here’s a few of our favorites!

Veteran's Point Trail

Veteran’s Point Trail is a half- mile trail at the north end of the dam at Pactola Resevoir on Hwy 385. Designed to be accessible for everyone – it has an asphalt surface, handrails, restroom facilities, and fishing access.

D.C. Booth Fish Hatchery

This Spearfish treasure welcomes visitors to the hatchery and museum for an educational closeup view of the fish production process! Enjoy walking trails, museum exhibits, and fish feeding opportunities!

Mickelson Trail

The George S. Mickelson Trail runs through the heart of the Black Hills, connecting Deadwood with Edgemont. The crushed-stone pathway incorporates nearly 100 converted railroad bridges and 4 tunnels, and much of it traverses national forest. Bike a short distance, walk a mile or so, and enjoy the picnic areas and benches along the trail. With some planning, you could even schedule day-trips to allow you to visit all fifteen trailheads and cover many of the 109 miles of this former railway.

Best of the Black Hills!

Proudly chosen "Best Skilled Nursing" in the Black Hills!

Thank you to the 5,200 people who cast 55,389 votes in 143 categories and chose Westhills Village as the best “Skilled Nursing” in the Black Hills!

Each year, local newspaper The Rapid City Journal holds a competition for local businesses. This year, Westhills Village was overwhelmingly chosen as the best local skilled nursing facility.

We do not take lightly your confidence in our facility, staff and vision. Your votes are a meaningful way of letting us know we’re on track – providing the type of continuing care that we believe is important for the Black Hills community, our residents, and their families.

Thank you again for your vote! We look forward to a year of continued excellence!

Let's Get Physical!

April 13, 2018

Physical activity has many health benefits. Regular physical activity, especially in aging adults, has been shown to:

increase muscle strength, flexibility, balance and coordination
reduce the risk of premature death
reduce the risk of falls
assist in prevention and management of health conditions like stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, certain cancers, obesity and depression
enhance sleep, wellbeing and quality of life
increase social interaction

Safety First

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Wear hats and sunscreen outdoors in the summer.
Use safety equipment such as bike helmets.
Choose safe environments such as well-lit streets, open parks and indoor facilities.
Make sensible choices about when and where to be active and who to be active with.

Heart Healthy Tips

February 16, 2018

February is Heart Health Month and there’s no better time to have a heart-to-heart about ways you can improve your heart’s health as you age. Just because your doctor hasn’t mentioned that you have a heart condition, doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from these simple, small changes that improve Heart Health!

Eat Colorful Fruits and Veggies

Low in calories, high in vitamins, minerals and fiber — adults should get at least five servings per day of these nutrition powerhouses.

Sleep Well for Heart Health

Not getting enough sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression. Together, these four health conditions prove a powerful case that sleep isn’t just beneficial, it’s vital. Don’t watch TV or use other electronic devices before bed – or if you do, go to a different room so your bedroom is just for sleeping.

Practice Gratitude

Making a list and conjuring the feeling of gratitude about what you can appreciate about your life every day appears to have a real effect on the smoothness and rhythm of the heartbeat.

Exercise Regularly

Regularly exercising thirty minutes a day can improve your heart’s (and overall body’s) health! Whether you take a brisk walk, play the Wii, sign up for a weekly class, or enjoy working out in the comfort of your living room – the important thing is that you do something every day. Consider adopting a dog to get out there and move! Can’t adopt ? Volunteer to walk dogs at a local shelter!