Author: vsturtevant

Duxbury House Awarded Memory Care Seal of Excellence by NCCDP

Older woman looking at photographs with her adult grandson

Duxbury House Memory Care Residence at The Village at Duxbury is proud to announce that we have been officially awarded the Memory Care Seal of Excellence by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), marking our entry into the prestigious Memory Care Excellence Network (MCEN). This recognition affirms our ongoing commitment to delivering the highest standards of care for residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

At Duxbury House, every aspect of care is guided by two foundational principles: personalized support and meaningful connection. With a small, intimate community of just 24 residents, we are uniquely positioned to get to know each individual and to tailor support accordingly.

“This designation reaffirms what we believe in every day: that compassionate memory care must be rooted in individual dignity, ongoing training, and a deep sense of belonging for our residents,” said Merry Dalahmeh, BS, RN, LNHA, Executive Director at Duxbury House.

Our team of associates receives continuous education through NCCDP, ensuring we uphold evidence-based best practices that promote safety, comfort, and quality of life. These practices shape everything we do, from clinical care plans to the small moments that bring joy, whether it’s laughter during an activity, a caring gesture, or celebrating the holidays together.

“As part of MCEN, we join other organizations across the country committed to raising the standard in memory care, not just through accreditation but through real impact: research, innovation, training, and above all, relationships,” added Laurie Guthrie, MSW, CDP, Regional Memory Care Coordinator and Senior Clinical Social Worker with Welch Senior Living.

For families considering memory care options, we hope this recognition offers reassurance: your loved ones are in the hands of a devoted, highly trained team that is continually striving to do more than meet expectations, to nurture dignity, belonging, and joy every day.

To read the full announcement, please visit the original article: Duxbury House Joins the Memory Care Excellence Network on the NCCDP website. Read more »

Duxbury House Wins 2025 BOSS Award for Best Senior Living Community

Duxbury, MA – June 30, 2025 – Duxbury House Memory Care Residence is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Best of the South Shore (BOSS) Award winner in the category of Best Senior Living Community. The annual awards, determined by public vote, celebrate trusted local organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of South Shore residents.

As a dedicated memory care community and part of the Welch Senior Living family, Duxbury House provides specialized care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory-related challenges. With a secure, thoughtfully designed environment and a highly trained team of Associates, Duxbury House offers compassionate, individualized support in a setting that feels like home.

“This recognition is a reflection of the purpose and passion our team brings to every moment of care,” said Merry Dalahmeh, Executive Director of Duxbury House. “We’re honored to be part of a family of communities that families know and trust, and we’re incredibly proud of the work we do here every day.”

Duxbury House shares this honor with its sister Welch Senior Living communities, which were also named 2025 BOSS Award winners:

This award affirms Duxbury House’s commitment to thoughtful memory care and the deep trust families place in its supportive and skilled team.

About Duxbury House Memory Care Residence
Duxbury House is a memory care community located on the campus of The Village at Duxbury. Designed specifically for individuals living with memory loss, Duxbury House provides a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment where residents receive personalized care and engage in meaningful, purpose-driven activities each day. Learn more at duxburyhouse.com.

Navigating Grief and Loss During the Holidays

A care givers hands holding a senior resident's hands, showcasing memory care at Ducbury House in MA.

The holiday season, often associated with joy and togetherness, can be especially challenging for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Celebrations and long-held traditions may deepen the sense of absence, serving as painful reminders of what has been lost. Supporting someone during this time is essential, yet it can be difficult to know what to say or do. The fear of missteps may even lead to avoiding the topic altogether.

 Understanding Grief During the Holidays

Grief is a deeply personal journey with no set timeline. Avoid assuming that someone should have “moved on” after a certain period. The holidays often intensify feelings of sadness, loneliness, or longing, as they bring up shared memories and societal expectations of joy. Grief can arise unexpectedly, and those mourning may experience a complex mix of emotions—moments of joy mixed with deep sorrow.

How to Support Someone Grieving

1. Acknowledge Their Loss

   Openly recognize their loved one by saying something like, “I’m thinking of you and [their loved one’s name] this season.” Encourage them to cherish the memories of their loved one while also creating new, meaningful holiday traditions.

2. Listen Without Judgment

   Let them express their feelings without trying to “fix” their grief. Your presence and a listening ear can be enough. Acknowledge that you may not have the perfect solution or the “right words,” but reassure them that you’re there for them.

3. Offer Practical Help

   Grief can be overwhelming, especially during the holidays. Instead of making general offers to help, suggest specific ways you can assist, such as running errands, helping with holiday preparations, or cooking meals. This approach reduces the pressure on them to identify their needs and makes it easier for them to accept support.

4. Respect Their Choices

   Grieving individuals might prefer to skip certain traditions or gatherings. Respect their boundaries and avoid pressuring them. Discuss their preferences for holiday celebrations in advance and remain flexible with the plans.

5. Create Space for Remembrance

   Encourage them to honor their loved one in a meaningful way, whether by lighting a candle, sharing a cherished memory, or creating a small tribute. Respect their preferences and avoid pressuring them to uphold traditions that might deepen their grief.

6. Be Patient

   Grief is not a linear process. Be patient and understanding if their mood shifts or they withdraw unexpectedly.

7. Make Kind Gestures

   Send a card, leave a heartfelt note, share a hug, or offer a thoughtful gift.

8. Encourage Self-Compassion

   If you’re supporting someone grieving, remind them to be gentle with themselves. Encourage self-care, whether it’s taking quiet moments to rest, journaling, or engaging in activities that bring them comfort.

A Final Thought

The holidays can be a bittersweet time for those experiencing loss, but with compassion and support, you can help make their journey a little easier. Small acts of kindness and genuine care can go a long way in showing them they are not alone.

If you have any further questions about Memory Care and whether it may be an appropriate fit for your loved one, please get in touch with me at [email protected] or 781-878-6700 x270. You can also click here or call us to learn more about Memory Care Assisted Living services at Duxbury House Memory Care Residence.

Article authored by:

Laurie Guthrie, MSW, LCSW, CDP
Welch Senior Living
Regional Memory Care Coordinator
Senior Clinical Social Worker
781-878-6700 x270