Birchwood Cottages opens second memory care facility

NORTH MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - Birchwood Cottages opened a second memory care facility on the corner of Lee Boulevard and Lor Ray Drive on Tuesday to provide expanded access to housing for individuals living with conditions like dementia.

Birchwood Cottages already served 32 residents before the new facility at its first North Mankato location with assistance for bathing, feeding and other personalized needs based on each resident’s condition.

This new facility will add an additional 32 studio apartments with six different models for potential residents to choose from with different square footage and amenities.

As part of opening day, an open house was held from 3 to 6 p.m. for families to tour the facility and decide if it was the right choice for their loved ones.

Marketing Manager for Birchwood Kim Hanson says having open houses is an important part of making sure families are ready to make a difficult transition.

“A lot of people wait until there is an emergency and when it gets to that point you don’t really have time to pick where you want to go and this way if you start early, be prepared get educated,” Hanson said. “It’s a great way to get to know how different buildings work [and] do some tours. So if there ever is a need for dementia care, you are prepared.”

Birchwood has already accepted applications to fill 55% of the new facility.

Hanson says those interested in taking a more personalized tour can call 507-519-0088 or visit Birchwood’s website to set up an appointment.

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