Since its founding in 1877, McGregor and its predecessors have provided a home for seniors in Northeast Ohio. More than a century ago, Cleveland blueblood Tootie Barber McGregor established a facility to honor her late husband, Ambrose, an associate of John D. Rockefeller.
McGregor’s “legacy of culture, philanthropy and caring,” continues with compassion and responsibility on its 45-acre campus. Its services include assisted living, including 90 private apartments (a new building will open this fall); independent living; rehabilitation; long-term care; PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly; and hospice. In every category, residents, their families and staff are treated with respect.
Residents always come first, a directive emphasized by McGregor President and CEO Rob Hilton.
“Residents and the STNAs really get to know each other,” says Elayne Newcomb, Gardens of McGregor and administrator at McGregor Overlook. “The STNAs get to know what patients like, don’t like, when they like to get up, and if they are having a bad day. Our patients with dementia may not necessarily be able to communicate their feelings.”
A number of her staff members have been employed for almost 10 years. The national average for those working in elderly care facilities is less than a year.
Residents often “live vicariously through their caregivers,” says Newcomb. Hands-on staff members enjoy sharing tidbits of their personal lives, including marriages, pet stories and vacation tales, with residents. Because the staff turnover is low, families also become friends with the caregivers. They know they can trust the care of their loved ones to individuals who see them every day, says Newcomb.
“McGregor also demonstrates an enduring legacy of helping employees achieve their fullest potential,” says Sandra Mauldin, human resources director.
“Programs providing team-building activities, financial literacy, home-buying advice, retirement services, legal aid and identity theft protection adapt a philosophy called ELEVATE, which enhances the employees’ personal and professional lives,” adds Kim Minton, manager of employee success.
Lee Ann O’Brien, chief marketing officer, points to numerous collaborative events and activities between the McGregor staff and residents. That interaction brings the two groups closer together, while everyone has an enjoyable time and often learns something. Those experiences include: National Nursing Home Week; Sports and Super-Hero Day; Western Day; ’80s Day; Animal Show; Senior Prom; and Volunteer Appreciation and Employee Appreciation.
“McGregor continues to improve the experience of aging in Northeast Ohio by enabling seniors to age successfully. With over 10,000 people turning 65 every day, we need to fully address the needs of our ever-growing older adult population,” says O’Brien.
Residents, families, employees. Together at McGregor the three groups unite to create an unparalleled environment of care. It’s a solid foundation for the next century of service by McGregor.
14900 Private Dr., Cleveland,
216-851-8200, mcgregoramasa.org