vsturtevant, Author at Duxbury House

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

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

Paul T. Casale Sr. Honored with the Mass-ALA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award

On Wednesday, July 31, Assisted Living providers from across the state gathered at the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA)’s annual awards dinner to help honor colleagues for their accomplishments relating to the Assisted Living industry.

Staying Cool During a Heat Wave: A Guide for Seniors

Heat waves can be particularly challenging for seniors, whose bodies may not adjust as well to sudden temperature changes. It’s crucial to take proactive measures to stay cool and safe. Here are some steps to help maintain well-being during a heat wave.

Employee of the Quarter: Deb Gleason

Each quarter, Duxbury House staff are nominated by their peers for the “Shining Star” award – an award that helps shine a light on our employees who are recognized as consistently going above and beyond the call of duty for our residents and fellow staff.

Study Finds That Older Adults are Less Vulnerable in Senior Housing

According to a recent study conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, older adults are less vulnerable after moving into senior housing.

Duxbury House Participates in 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

The Welch Senior Living communities joined forces on Saturday, October 14 at Nelson Memorial Park in Plymouth for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Employee of the Quarter: Margareth Belony

Once a quarter, Duxbury House staff are nominated by their peers for the “Shining Star” award – an award that helps shine a light on our employees who are recognized as consistently going above and beyond the call of duty for our residents and fellow staff.

Spring and its Effects on People With Dementia

The recent switch to Daylight Savings time can be a difficult adjustment for those living with dementia. Hear from Regional Memory Care Coordinator Laurie Welch Guthrie about maintaining the well-being of a person living with dementia throughout upcoming changes in schedules and weather.

A Fresh Take on The South Shore’s Leading Memory Care Program

An unmatched foundation. A fresh perspective. Learn more about Welch Senior Living’s Memory Care Program leaders, Shannon Fenerjian, RN, CDP, and Laurie Welch Guthrie, LCSW, MSW, CDP, and the experiences they bring to their roles in support of residents and families.