The Academy at Bella Vista

Finding a safe and small, yet elegant, memory-care home in Boulder was practically impossible until January, when The Academy at Bella Vista opened its doors. Nestled in the midst of a half-acre of walnut, peach, apple, pear and apricot trees, the remodeled 1950s ranch home is located in central Boulder, allowing residents quiet, secluded living with activity nearby. Owned jointly by the four couples that launched The Academy, Bella Vista offers specialized, secure care for those who suffer from Alzheimer's or other dementia.

The house itself underwent a $2 million renovation in an effort to provide a lovely setting for the Academy's exceptional, focused care. The indoor common areas include a family room for games and crafts, a living room with ample, comfortable seating, a study with a grand piano (which gets used quite a bit for sing-a- longs), a gourmet kitchen, a large dining room, a projector for movies and slides, two gas fireplaces, a spa/salon, a walk-in therapeutic tub and indoor/outdoor speakers throughout the entire home. The outside of the house, which is monitored by security cameras, has an abundance of walking paths, streams, ponds, waterfalls and outdoor patios. With the advent of spring, the residents and caregivers are planting a multitude of flowers and herbs.

Each of Bella Vista's 10 suites ranges from 280 to 390 square feet, with high 9-foot ceilings, liberal closet space, individual thermostats, cable television and Internet access, private bathrooms (with heated floors) and French doors that open to the resident's private patio.

Residents of Bella Vista receive the full benefits of the attentive, educated staff. During the day, at least three staff members are available to aid the 10 residents in a variety of ways, including taking them out in The Academy's London Taxi or the 13-person van to concerts and special events. Exercise classes and other organized activities sponsored by The Academy are available to all the residents at Bella Vista.

Gourmet chef, John Butera, strives to create extraordinary meals. With two islands located in the kitchen, residents are free to watch or even join in the culinary fun. Enjoying the warmth and intimacy of their new home, residents are encouraged to participate in household chores if they so desire. Watering plants, doing a little gardening, helping Chef Butera — it's the little tasks that can make for quiet fun.

With a history of focused, attentive care, it's no wonder The Academy has won five Boulder County Gold people's choice awards and received two runner-up slots in the past seven years. After adding the highly specialized Bella Vista to the ranks, the combined knowledge and amenities spell quality care.

Possibly Bella Vista's greatest asset is dignity. In fashioning an environment that caters to not just the needs but also the desires of its residents, Bella Vista has created somewhere to call home.

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