Cedarhurst Of Naperville Provides Unique Care To Each Resident

This Patch article is sponsored by Cedarhurst of Naperville.

Cedarhurst of Naperville is a senior living community offering Assisted Living and Memory Care services in a beautiful, welcoming and supportive environment.

The Naperville community was created to provide truly person-directed care. Its compassionate staff takes the time to know and work with each resident as an individual, providing them with care that’s as unique as they are.

Patch caught up with Executive Director Jaime Pugh at Cedarhurst of Naperville, to learn more about the community and why it's a secure and enriching place to live.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?

Pugh: Our community opened over two years ago in the Naperville community.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Pugh: I was studying public health at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. I am a certified nursing assistant and was looking for a part-time job while going to school. I volunteered for a health fair that Cedarhurst was hosting. I fell in love with the community and the management team I was volunteering for and began working for them as a CNA shortly after. I instantly loved working with seniors living with dementia. My personality is empathetic, and being able to use that and care for people in vulnerable situations became a passion. I also loved the education and time that Cedarhurst invested in its employees in learning to care for seniors. I decided quickly that I wanted to have a career in senior living, specifically with Cedarhurst.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Pugh: Genuine, Family, Empathetic, Leaders, Passion

Patch: What is the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Pugh: I think the most difficult moment has been adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a leader, it is quite the challenge to lead a community during these times. Residents and families have had to go weeks without contact, employees are having to trust that you are making the right decisions to keep them safe, and everyone is concerned with all the unknown. It has been a challenge but also a blessing, in a way. Our team has grown closer than ever. We have had to learn to trust each other and focus on the things that are most important — health and safety. It has also created a sense of trust with our families and residents, too. We appreciate the little things so much more. As a leader, I have learned the power of positivity and strength.

Patch: What is the most satisfying part of your job?

Pugh: Moving yourself or a loved one into senior living is a huge step. Every senior or their family has their own set of reasons and hesitations for moving. I love seeing the transformation from when you first meet a potential resident to their moving in and transitioning. It is very satisfying to see adult children enjoying their parents again and regaining their independence. We also love to see seniors gaining independence and create a new group of friends and family. No one knows the perfect way to care for their aging parent. I love being their guide and giving them time to enjoy their relationships again.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from others?

Pugh: Cedarhurst is one big family. I have always cherished that the leaders of our company, all the way to the president, are present in our communities and have strong relationships with so many of us. The president of our company, Joshua Stevens, has a name that employees recognize, and I love that. I know that if I need anything in my professional or personal life, I have someone in this company I can turn to. I think that is very important to have in a senior living company.

Patch: What the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Pugh: Something that has come up throughout my life is the importance of how you make others feel. In my role, building relationships is one of the key components to success. How I make others feel about coming to work, living in our community or moving into our community is vital. As the leader, if I do not have trust and connection with employees, residents and families, it is simply a building with people in it, not a home with love. I learned quickly that when you focus on people, their stories and their feelings, success will follow.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Pugh: I mentioned that COVID-19 has been the biggest challenge that I have faced. With all of the safety restrictions, we have had to close our dining room and proceed with room service. In our community, our dining room is the hub of socialization and community life. As our state and county move toward easing our dining restrictions, we are working on a project to “reopen” our dining room. We are having to be creative to socially distance and enhance their dining experience. I am excited to see the smiles on their faces when we can open the doors again. I anticipate our residents will feel closer to our normal lives and be able to gain back even more independence. It will be a happy time for us all!

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Pugh: To learn more about Cedarhurst of Naperville or to schedule a tour, call 630-793-0483 or visit our website. We’re here to help.