Frequently Asked Questions2018-01-17T13:23:07-06:00
Why are you asking for my contact information?2021-03-17T15:57:25-05:00

As a precaution, we are ensuring contact information for family members and Resident Representatives are up-to-date should we need to contact you or if contact tracing becomes necessary.

Why are there various requirements for long-term care visitation while other establishments (gyms, restaurants, salons, etc.) do not have to abide by many of the same rules?2021-03-17T15:58:08-05:00

During the COVID-19 pandemic, long-term care facilities, including skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, have strictly limited visitation to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among residents whose ages and health conditions make them especially vulnerable to the illness. The mitigation efforts and the limited visitation guidance are in place to keep our vulnerable populations safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Who Qualifies For Supportive Living?2017-12-11T10:55:44-06:00

Illinois Supportive Living program is open to any resident who:

  • Undergoes pre-admission screening.
  • Is without diagnosis of development disability or serious and persistent mental illness
  • Has had a negative TB test
  • Does not participate in another federal home or community-based waiver program
Who pays the real estates taxes on the Villas?2017-08-27T19:23:05-05:00

Your real estate taxes are prorated the first year, and they become the responsibility of the individual owner thereafter.

What tools are offered to interact with loved ones, and still keep them safe?2020-06-15T08:14:27-05:00

We understand that due to these restrictions communication has been limited, but we have introduced other ways that you can interact with your loved ones, and still keep them safe.

These communication tools include:

  • Zoom
  • Skype
  • Houseparty
  • FaceTime
  • Writing Letters
  • Facebook Messenger
  • Facebook Video Chat
  • Facebook Video Messages

We’re here to help with any of these tools to keep you in touch with your loved ones. If you’re not already, follow us on Facebook for updates on the activities we’re doing daily to keep our residents active and busy during this “Shelter in Place” initiative

Device Instructions
What privileges are offered with the purchase of a Villa?2017-08-27T19:24:05-05:00

You are welcome to join any activities at our other facilities, use the scheduled transportation, or designated common areas on the campus.

What makes Betty’s Garden at Courtyard Estates different from other care options?2023-04-12T15:54:23-05:00
  • As a leader in residential living for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia-related illnesses, Betty’s Garden offers several unique features that make us different from assisted living and skilled nursing facilities:
  • We are truly the residential alternative to institutional care for those with dementia. Our specially designed units are inside a specialized section of our industry-leading Assisted Living facility.
    At Betty’s Garden we provide all services at a fixed, affordable rate. Our services are equally provided to all tenants, with no financial increases based on levels of care.
  • Our staff is specially trained to provide personal care assistance with the activities of daily living. In addition to structured group activities, we encourage tenant participation in meal preparation, laundry, housekeeping, and putting away the groceries, all of which are effective dementia care activities.
  • Betty’s Garden Coming Home program stresses a daily schedule of activities that becomes a familiar and comforting routine for those with dementia, unlike the complex and confusing monthly program calendars found in most large facilities.
  • Our medication management is specifically designed for our environment, with particular attention paid to safety. Our Wellness Director and pharmacy coordinate with the physician to ensure the proper medications are prescribed and administered.
  • A fundamental belief of Betty’s Garden is to gain tenant independence from inappropriate medications. Because of our staffing levels and the intimacy of our homes, we have an increased ability to observe each individual tenant. Our goal is to manage tenant behavior without the reliance on psychotropic drug therapies. Our message is clear — we are not able to cure Alzheimer’s disease; however with proper medication management we do frequently see improvements in the quality of life of our tenants.
  • Our menu has been designed by a licensed dietitian, prepared daily with fresh products. The meals are prepared in our full service kitchen three times a day.
What is the difference between Independent Living, Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities?2017-08-27T19:24:58-05:00

Independent Living does not include services designed to support activities of daily living such as dressing and grooming. Under this living arrangement, the tenant leads an independent lifestyle that requires no extra assistance. Assisted Living provides a special combination of housing, personalized supportive services and healthcare designed to meet the needs of those who require help with activities of daily living. A Nursing Home, also known as a Skilled Nursing Facility, has Registered Nurses who provide 24-hour care to residents who can no longer care for themselves due to physical, emotional or mental conditions.

What is the continuum of care offered when you purchase a Villa?2017-08-27T19:23:03-05:00

Upon the purchase of a Villa, this means that when the time comes when you may have to downsize further to an apartment or go to our Assisted Living facility or our Nursing Home, you are a priority admission. You or your family does not have to look further for placement or worry about a wait list for entry.

What is the advantage of selling my home and purchasing a Villa?2017-08-27T19:25:02-05:00

There are many advantages. One of the main advantages is eliminating exterior maintenance. For other advantages, please contact us. You are now going to enjoy the retirement you have dreamed about.

What Is Supportive Living?2017-12-11T10:55:18-06:00
  • A sensible solution to the growing need for affordable housing with services
  • Available to seniors aged 65 and older
  • Combines apartment-style housing with personal care, support services and opportunities for socialization
  • Administered through the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (IDHFS)
What is included with the month-to-month rent?2017-08-27T19:24:19-05:00

The monthly rental fee includes: 3 meals per day, daily housekeeping, scheduled transportation to and from shopping and other activities, beauty /barber shop, all utilities (except telephone & cable) including complete building and grounds maintenance, and peace of mind for your family knowing someone is at our desk 24 hours per day.

What is included with the month-to-month rent of an Independent Suite?2017-08-27T19:24:06-05:00

The monthly rental fee includes: 2 meals per day, weekly housekeeping, scheduled transportation to and from shopping and other activities, beauty /barber shop, all utilities (except telephone) including cable TV, complete building and grounds maintenance, and peace of mind for your family knowing someone is at our desk 24 hours per day.

What does Medicare pay for and what does Medicaid cover?2017-08-27T19:21:08-05:00

Medicare is federal health insurance for every American 65 years of age or older. It covers acute episodes, such as hospitalization and rehabilitation after leaving a hospital. Like all insurance policies, it does not cover all the expenditures. That’s why many will purchase supplemental or “Medigap” insurance to cover co payments and deductibles. In addition, this supplemental insurance can be used to pay for non-covered expenditures such as prescriptions. In general, Medicare does NOT pay for long-term care — either in nursing homes or in an assisted living community. For more information on Medicare, please visit the Medicare website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/medicare. Additional information on Medicare and Medigap is also available from SHIIP.

Medicaid is a state-managed healthcare and long-term care program for the financially needy. Typically, those with low income and very few assets are eligible for Medicaid. In most states, Medicaid will pay for nursing home care and some have the option of remaining in their homes and receiving in-home services. For more information, please visit the Medicaid website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/medicaid

What activities are offered?2017-08-27T19:25:05-05:00

We are proud to offer a wide variety of physical, social and intellectual activities for all our residents.

To Become A Resident of Courtyard Estates2017-12-11T10:56:48-06:00
  • Discuss individual needs with the Courtyard Estates team of professionals
  • Complete the following required forms
    • Reservation Agreement
    • Personal Health History
    • Report of Physical Examination
Supportive Living vs. Nursing Home2017-12-11T10:56:57-06:00
  • Supportive Living residents do not require 24-hour skilled nursing care
  • Supportive Living residences are apartments, not private or semi-private rooms
  • Supportive Living typically provides a more residential and independent lifestyle than a nursing home
Supportive Living vs. Assisted Living:2017-12-11T10:57:10-06:00
  • They both offer similar services
  • Assisted living tends to be more costly
  • Assisted living does not accept payment from Medicaid
  • Assisted living residents generally must leave if they cannot pay
  • Supportive Living residents who qualify have access to Medicaid benefits
  • Supportive Living residents who qualify can stay in Supportive Living without worry about payment
Reasons We are Restricting Individuals from Entering our Grounds2023-04-12T15:52:26-05:00

The current COVID-19 outbreak situation means that it is critical that we take every precaution possible. We must prevent this virus from entering our community. Protecting our residents’ health and safety is our top priority.

The CDC has done a careful review of the death rate in the elderly, especially those with dementia or chronic diseases. Experts are recommending we take action to limit individuals from entering our building and to ensure sick employees stay home.

There is a risk that people who appear healthy will enter our communities and infect residents. Studies of past viral epidemics where recommending prevention was delayed were not effective. These studies show that the sooner we limit interactions with each other and wash your hands frequently virus spreads more slowly.

These facts have led many to recommend severe limitations on visitors. This describes why we have taken this action now.

We hope this explains to you why we are asking people to limit their visits. This may prevent you from physically seeing your family member or friend. Our residents’ health and safety are our top concern. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect them.

Please feel free to contact your Courtyard Community with any questions. Please make sure we have your latest contact information. Thank you for supporting these efforts.

Early data shows that

  • The mortality rate for people over 80 in the general population is 15% in China.
  • The World Health Organization report estimates the mortality rate at 21.9% for those over the age of 80.
  • At the nursing home in Washington state, there have been 50 residents who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. As of March 9, 2020, 19 of those have died. This is a high death rate.
Mom’s a little confused but she does not have Alzheimer’s. Will you still take her?2023-04-12T15:53:59-05:00

While our environment has been carefully designed to care for the dementia needs of our tenants, we will carefully consider the admission of a non-dementia tenant who otherwise needs assistance with any of the activities of daily living (eating, bathing, toileting, transferring, and dressing). We recognize and support the needs of anyone who requires such assistance, and will work very closely with the family members to ensure there is a clear understanding of our environment and its suitability for their loved one.

Is there an endowment fee?2017-08-27T19:22:47-05:00

No, it is a monthly rental rate, no endowment fee is required, however a non-refundable processing fee is required and is transferrable to our other campus facilities.

Is there a maintenance fee for the Villas and what does it cover?2017-08-27T19:23:07-05:00

We have an Included Services Contract that is signed at closing which states we will handle lawn care, snow removal and rubbish removal for your Villa. There is a monthly fee for these services.

Is the home secure? Can she wander away?2017-08-27T19:07:22-05:00

Each of our newly designed memory care units are equipped with a non-threatening but state of the art, security system. Each yard is protected by a secured fence. Every door of each unit is protected by an audible alarm that alerts staff when there is an unaccompanied tenant who attempts to wander outside the home.

Is financial support available?2017-08-27T19:25:08-05:00

Yes, depending on facility location you may be eligible for financial support.

How should mail be addressed and where is the facility located?2017-08-27T19:22:46-05:00

Please be sure to include the resident’s first and last name when sending mail to our facility. All personal mail is delivered unopened to each resident. Upon resident or family request, helpful staff or volunteers can assist with opening and reading mail

How quickly may I rent an Independent Suite apartment?2017-08-27T19:24:08-05:00

Apartments are rented upon availability. If there is not an apartment available at that particular moment, you may pay your deposit and be placed on our waiting list. As an apartment becomes available, you will be called at which time you may accept or decline.

How is Petersen Health Care helping to protect residents, visitors & associates?2020-04-06T14:33:22-05:00

Due to the evolving situation with Covid-19 and under the guidance of the CDC, we are taking every effort to keep our community safe and healthy. The Coronavirus is being increasingly reported across the nation and the latest information received confirms that more cases in downstate IL have been reported.

  • All essential healthcare employees will continue to be allowed following CDC guidelines for entry.
  • Anyone entering will be required to check in to be screened and answer the questionnaire.
  • We will continue to use social distancing guidelines for all activities and meals.
  • Those who are ill or require special healthcare needs will dine in their apartments.
  • The use of our entire community including the dining room and all of our common areas are limited to residents only- for meals, meetings, card games, social clubs, coffee & doughnuts etc.
  • We have increased sanitizing efforts within the facility.
  • All community sponsored outings have been postponed.
  • In urgent situations where a visitor is required, we are asking that all visitors check in with our nursing staff upon entry.
  • A screening tool has been provided to our Directors to use as a questionnaire if any person is showing any signs of illness.
  • It is recommended that any routine doctor’s visits be postponed.
  • No one under the age of 18 should be permitted into the facility.
  • Please check with your local event sponsors before heading out — because many (most) public events and gatherings have been cancelled- i.e. sporting events,  Catholic Masses, schools, fundraisers, etc.

We are prepared to implement additional restrictions as recommended by the CDC and Illinois Dept of Public Health. We are confident this will be only temporary, but the safety of everyone is our goal. As the situation changes, we will continue to keep families updated.

Thank you all for your continued support and patience during this unprecedented time.

How can I stay connected with a resident if I am unable to schedule a visit?2021-03-17T16:00:05-05:00

We are still accommodating virtual visits and can assist you in connecting with your loved one via phone, Facebook Live, Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, and other virtual or social media platforms.

How can I be involved with mom’s care? How can I be involved with her life?2023-04-12T15:53:31-05:00

This is your Mom’s and your new home. You can and should be involved in every way in which you feel comfortable. Just ask yourself this question: “How can I best care for and support my loved one? What is best for her and our relationship?” Be assured that we will support you every step of the way.

Does Betty’s Garden have specific visiting hours?2023-04-12T15:53:57-05:00

This is our tenant’s home and will be your home, too, so visitors are welcome at any time. All we ask is that visitors respect the privacy and needs of the other tenants.

Do you have doctors and nurses?2017-08-27T19:07:24-05:00

Tenants are required to have a primary physician of their choice. Betty’s Garden does not contract with nor have any financial relationship with any physician or physician group. We allow the primary physician access to our facility in order to minimize tenant inconvenience with travel.

Our facilities are staffed by a Licensed Practical Nurse Manager or Registered Nurse Manager, specially trained in dementia care.

Do the homes have private bedrooms?2017-08-27T19:06:17-05:00

Yes, each of our Betty’s Garden apartments are designed and built with private, individual bedrooms. We encourage each of our tenants (and their families) to furnish his or her own room with familiar articles or furnishings from home. However, if preferred, we will furnish each of these bedrooms with a bed and linens, wardrobe, night stand and lamp, dresser, and side chair.

Can I still schedule an outdoor visit?2021-03-17T15:59:42-05:00

Yes, you may. Whenever possible, we will try to facilitate outdoor visits. These visits will depend on the weather, health of the resident, and the facility’s and local community’s outbreak status. We will provide a space for these visits, such as a patio, tent, or courtyard whenever possible.

Are the Villas age restrictive?2017-08-27T19:24:03-05:00

Yes, they are. One person of a couple must be 55 to reside in a Villa.

Testimonials

My first year here at Courtyard Estates, I have received wonderful care and kindness from the staff. This Holiday Season I look forward to sharing my new home with my family and friends.

Tenant

Our first year living here at Courtyard Estates has surpassed all of our expectations. The staff is friendly, efficient and helpful. We look forward to living her throughout the upcoming years.

Tenant, Courtyard Estates

You want to know the process of moving mom into Courtyard and why we chose Courtyard. This may be a little hard for you to hear, but you were one of the main reasons — your personal attention to mom’s needs and our family. You listened to our concerns and took action.

The move was so easy and the transition was so smooth that the process seemed seamless. Mom lived in her house one day, with all the worries and headaches of homeownership, and the next day she woke up in a new, wonderful facility. The headaches and worries of day to day living were lifted off her shoulders. And her 4 children all believe this will add quality and quaintly of days to her life.

Family Member of a Tenant, Courtyard Estates

I have been a resident of Courtyard Estates since December of 2016. My apartment is very comfortable and the staff keeps it very clean. Everyone here is efficient and cheerful. My family is very pleased with my move here.

Tenant

Moving into Courtyard Estates has been like coming home as I had grown up in this area. The staff here plus my family and friends have made it feel like home.

Tenant, Courtyard Estates

Contact us for info or to schedule a tour today!

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