Why BeeHive Homes Makes Assisted Living Easy

When the time comes to find the right care for a loved one, the decision can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you choose a place that feels like home? At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living in New Mexico should be simple, compassionate, and comforting—for both residents and their families. Here’s why BeeHive Homes is the next best place to home, making everything else easy.

A Homelike Community, Not Just a Facility

Unlike large, impersonal assisted living facilities, BeeHive Homes offers small, family-style residences across New Mexico—from Alamogordo to Santa Fe. Each location, like BeeHive Homes of Four Hills or BeeHive Homes of Roswell, is designed to feel warm and familiar. With personalized care tailored to each resident, it’s no wonder families call us “the next best place to home.” Whether your loved one needs assisted living, memory care, or respite care, our homelike settings provide comfort and connection every day.

Clear Pricing, No Surprises

One of the biggest worries families face when exploring senior living in New Mexico is cost. At BeeHive Homes, we take that stress away with clear, transparent pricing. No hidden fees, no unexpected add-ons—just straightforward information so you can plan with confidence. Whether you’re looking at assisted living care in Clovis or memory care near me in Hobbs, we’re here to make the financial side as easy as the emotional one.

A Seamless Transition to Care

We know moving to an assisted living facility can feel like a big step. That’s why our seamless admission process is designed to lift the burden off your shoulders. From the moment you reach out to BeeHive Homes of Rio Rancho or BeeHive Homes of Farmington, our team handles the details with care and kindness. We’ll guide you every step of the way, ensuring your loved one’s transition is smooth and welcoming—so they feel at home from day one.

Compassionate Care Around the Clock

At the heart of BeeHive Homes is our commitment to compassionate, 24/7 care. Whether it’s memory care in Albuquerque or respite care in White Rock, our caregivers are more than staff—they’re family. They’re there to assist with daily needs, share a smile, and offer peace of mind for families. Aging gracefully becomes easier when you know your loved one is surrounded by people who genuinely care.

Tailored Options Across New Mexico

With locations throughout the state, BeeHive Homes makes it easy to find senior care near you. Need memory care in Deming? Short-term respite care in Gallup? Assisted living in Enchanted Hills? We’ve got you covered. Each BeeHive Homes location offers a unique blend of services to meet your family’s needs, all delivered with the same warmth and dedication.

Peace of Mind for Every Family

Choosing BeeHive Homes means choosing peace of mind. Our small communities foster lasting relationships—between residents, caregivers, and families. It’s a place where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and everyone feels like they belong. For families across New Mexico searching for elderly care or a senior care community, we’re here to make the journey simpler and more meaningful.

Ready to See the BeeHive Difference?

At BeeHive Homes, we’re proud to offer assisted living, made simple. From our homelike environments to our clear pricing and heartfelt caregiving, we’re here to support you and your loved ones every step of the way. Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a tour at a BeeHive Homes location near you—like BeeHive Homes of Portales or BeeHive Homes of Bernalillo. Let us show you why we’re the easy choice for assisted living in New Mexico.

Safe Living for Aging Loved Ones

Assisted Living That Feels Secure and Comfortable

As our loved ones grow older, their home should be a sanctuary of comfort, not a source of worry. Ensuring their space is safe, accessible, and filled with warmth is one of the most meaningful ways to support their independence. Small changes can make a big difference in their daily life, whether they remain at home or transition to a community like BeeHive Homes.

Preventing Falls and Injuries

One of the greatest concerns as people age is the risk of falling. A misplaced rug, a dimly lit hallway, or a cluttered walkway can lead to an accident. Making adjustments like removing loose rugs, securing electrical cords, and improving lighting can instantly make a home safer. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and placing non-slip mats in the shower provides additional stability. Even the choice of footwear matters—sturdy, non-slip shoes help prevent unnecessary slips and falls.

Making Everyday Tasks Easier

Creating an accessible home is just as important as making it safe. Seniors should be able to move around easily and complete daily tasks without frustration. Frequently used items should be within reach, eliminating the need for excessive bending or stretching. If stairs become a challenge, moving essential living spaces to the main floor can make life easier. In the bathroom, a raised toilet seat and a shower chair provide extra comfort and security, making daily routines less stressful.

Preparing for Emergencies

A home should feel safe but also be prepared for the unexpected. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be regularly checked, and emergency contact numbers should be visible and easily accessible. For those who live alone, a medical alert system or wearable device provides quick access to help when needed. An emergency kit with essentials like water, medication lists, and first-aid supplies can also bring peace of mind.

Using Technology for Safety

Technology has made senior safety more intuitive than ever. Motion-sensor lights can brighten dark hallways, while video doorbells allow loved ones to monitor visitors. Automated medication reminders help seniors stay on top of their prescriptions. Voice-activated assistants, like Alexa or Google Home, provide hands-free calls, reminders, and entertainment, helping seniors stay connected and engaged.

Creating a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

A safe space should also feel like home. Familiar furniture, cherished photographs, and sentimental decorations bring comfort. Soft lighting and warm colors create a welcoming atmosphere. Hobbies and personal interests should be encouraged, whether it’s a cozy reading corner or a well-lit crafting space. Most importantly, seniors should be involved in decisions about their space to ensure they feel empowered and respected.

When Home Isn’t Enough: The Benefits of Assisted Living

Despite efforts to make a home as safe as possible, there comes a time when additional care is necessary. Assisted living communities like BeeHive Homes offer the perfect balance between independence and support. With compassionate caregivers available around the clock, secure environments, and a homelike atmosphere, residents receive the care they need while maintaining a sense of familiarity and belonging. When home is no longer the safest option, assisted living provides a nurturing space where seniors can continue to thrive.

Finding the Best Solution for Your Loved One

Aging should never mean sacrificing safety or comfort. Whether through home modifications or transitioning to a trusted assisted living community like BeeHive Homes, creating a secure and welcoming environment is one of the most profound gifts you can give a loved one. If you’re considering the next step for your family member, BeeHive Homes is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can provide a safe and loving home for your loved one.

What is Dementia?

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s: A Guide for Families

Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s can feel overwhelming, especially as you navigate the changes that come with memory loss. Whether you're just beginning to notice signs or you're deep in the caregiving journey, understanding the condition and knowing your options can help you provide the best care possible.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline that affects memory, reasoning, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. While memory loss is often the first noticeable symptom, dementia also impacts judgment, behavior, and even physical abilities over time.

Early Signs to Watch For

If you’re wondering whether your loved one may be experiencing dementia, here are some early warning signs:

How Dementia Progresses

Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms worsen over time. In the early stages, a person may still function independently but need reminders. As it advances, daily activities like dressing, eating, and recognizing loved ones become more difficult. Eventually, round-the-clock care is often required.

Providing the Right Care

Caring for someone with memory related issues requires patience, understanding, and a supportive environment. Here are some ways you can help:

When to Consider Memory Care

There may come a time when home care is no longer enough. If your loved one is wandering, becoming agitated, or struggling with basic tasks, a memory care community can provide the specialized support they need. BeeHive Homes offers a safe, structured, and compassionate environment where residents receive personalized care tailored to their needs.

You’re Not Alone

Caring for a loved one with dementia is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be time to explore memory care options. Contact BeeHive Homes today to learn more about how we can help your loved one live with dignity and comfort.

Signs Your Loved One May Need More Care

When Is It Time for Assisted Living? Signs Your Loved One May Need More Care

Deciding if it’s time for assisted living isn’t easy. You want the best for your loved one, but how do you know when they need more help than you can give? If you’ve noticed changes in their health, safety, or daily life, it might be time to consider assisted living—a place where they can stay safe, happy, and engaged while receiving the care they need. Here are some signs to watch for:

  1. Struggling with Daily Activities: Are simple tasks becoming overwhelming for your loved one? If they have trouble getting dressed, preparing meals, or remembering to take medications, assisted living can provide the support they need while helping them maintain independence.
  2. Falls and Safety Concerns: Have they had a recent fall or close call? If walking around the house is risky, or they struggle to get up after sitting down, assisted living offers a safer environment with round-the-clock assistance.
  3. Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition: Skipping meals, forgetting to eat, or relying on unhealthy convenience foods can lead to serious health issues. Assisted living communities provide nutritious, home-cooked meals, ensuring seniors get the nourishment they need.
  4. Memory Lapses and Confusion: Is your loved one forgetting appointments, getting lost, or struggling with routine tasks? These could be early signs of dementia. Assisted living, especially with memory care support, offers structure and supervision to keep them safe and engaged.
  5. Loneliness and Isolation: Aging alone can be lonely. If your loved one has lost interest in hobbies, rarely sees friends, or spends too much time alone, assisted living offers social activities and a built-in community to keep them connected.
  6. Medication Mix-Ups: Missing doses or taking too much medication can be dangerous. In assisted living, trained caregivers ensure medications are taken correctly and on time.
  7. Caregiver Burnout: Caring for a loved one is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or guilty, assisted living can provide the professional care your loved one needs while giving you peace of mind.

Making the Move Easier

Transitioning to assisted living doesn’t have to be stressful. At BeeHive Homes, we provide a warm, homelike environment where residents feel comfortable, cared for, and part of a loving community.

If these signs sound familiar, it may be time to start exploring assisted living options. Call BeeHive Homes today to schedule a tour and see how we can help your loved one thrive.

Compassion and Comfort Come Together

At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living is more than just care—it’s about connection, community, and comfort. Every day, we witness the magic that happens when compassionate caregivers and vibrant residents come together in a homelike environment. From the joy of sharing stories around the dinner table to the reassurance of knowing someone is always there to help, BeeHive Homes is a place where life continues to be full of purpose and warmth.

A Place Where You Belong

Making the move to assisted living can feel overwhelming, but at BeeHive Homes, we make the transition easy. Our small, intimate communities ensure that every resident receives the personalized attention and care they deserve. Whether it’s a gentle reminder to take medication, a helping hand with daily activities, or just a friendly conversation over morning coffee, our team is here to make every day feel safe, comfortable, and fulfilling.

The Power of Compassionate Care

Our caregivers aren’t just staff—they’re family. They go beyond providing assistance; they build relationships, share laughter, and create meaningful moments with residents every single day. We know that kindness and empathy make all the difference in senior care, and it’s these qualities that have helped many of our BeeHive Homes locations earn awards for excellence in care.

A Life Well-Lived, Every Day

A fulfilling life doesn’t stop with age—it evolves. Our residents continue to find joy in friendships, take part in fun activities, and enjoy the simple comforts of home-cooked meals. From bingo nights and community gatherings to relaxing afternoons in cozy common spaces, we make sure that life at BeeHive Homes is always engaging, enriching, and full of heart.

See the Difference for Yourself

If you or a loved one is considering assisted living, memory care, or respite care, we invite you to experience the warmth of BeeHive Homes firsthand. Schedule a tour today and see why so many families trust us as the next best place to home.

Because at BeeHive Homes, care isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.

Preparing Your Home for An Elderly Relative

 

Are you considering having an elderly family member move in with you?  This is often a transition step that people take to save money on nursing home or other expenses or in order to assist them emotionally in a transition such as the death of a spouse.  But, how difficult is this change, and is it even advisable?  Hopefully you'll find some help below.

The first thing that you need to consider is whether your relationship can withstand long periods of time together while being enjoyable for both of you.  Be honest when you answer this question.  If you've always struggled with resentment against a parent or relative or if they've struggled with the same thing from you, make sure that you do not enter into this arrangement without a GREAT deal of forethought.  Financial or other kinds of stress can sometimes make us do things that we would normally not consider to be good choices.  If your choice to have someone join you in your home is due to feeling so compulsion or obligation, resentment will only grow into bitterness & worse in the years to come.  Neither of you will be healthy & your relationship could go from rocky to horrible very quickly.

Next, if you both feel that your relationship can withstand this arrangement, set up some ground rules.  Talk about how you will handle any conflict that comes up.  Consider having a protocol in place where either individual can feel free to say, “I feel like we need to talk, will it work for us to talk tonight after dinner,” or something similar.  If there is a standard in place, neither of you will feel it necessary to yell to be heard & both will feel that they can talk in a healthy way.

Another ground rule to have in place is that you'll both have responsibilities.  It's important that everyone in a household feel useful, from the smallest member to the oldest.  Perhaps your older relative is not physically able to do much, but they can help in other ways.  If there are youngsters (grandchildren/great-grandchildren) that come to visit, it could be their responsibility to sit with them for a time after dinner & read stories or teach them a card game.  They could put photographs into books or boxes that need to be sorted.  They could crochet or mend, look for grocery sales/coupons, or perform some small effort that would genuinely be valuable to the household, yet not be physically demanding.  If they're unable to read because of poor eyesight, or write anymore, ask them to record a verbal family history so that you & the rest of the family will have it for the future.  Your responsibilities should also be clearly in place.  Talk about who will cook, clear, & wash dishes.  Mundane things can often make or break relationship.

Discuss finances before any moving takes place.  It will be on the minds of the both of you, so you might as well “air the laundry” in advance.  Discuss who is responsible for what.  If you are fine with them living in a guest home that you have free of charge, are you also fine with covering utilities.  If you'll be eating every meal together, who will pay for the groceries?  Discuss these things in detail & don't forget things like insurance costs and other things that are uncomfortable.  Might as well get all the discomfort out of the way from the first so that you can all be comfortable afterward!

Schedules.  Talk about this too!  Schedules are nearly as important as finances when it comes to daily tasks. If you work full or part-time & they tend to have many appointments for medical needs, discuss an arrangement that might work for driving to & from, or find a local shuttle service that might be able to transport.

Consider their comfort.  Our bodies change dramatically as we age, so if they'll be sharing the same quarters as the rest of the family, consider things that might help them to feel more at home in a foreign place.  Room darkening curtains so that they can get the rest they need when they need it (this might include a nap...even if it makes you jealous!)  Finding a way to make their area of the home the right temperature for them can be a big help to both of you.  If you like it very warm or very cool in your home, make accommodations for them if they are opposite.  Ask BEFORE they move in what they usually keep their thermostat at in the house so that you can prepare.  Also, be sure that you have a heating pad & blankets close to their favorite chair.  Find out what type of chair & bed they use for comfort.  If their current ones are too difficult for them to maneuver on their own, consider getting a different one that will work better to keep them as self-sufficient as possible.  Install a shower chair, shower head with a hose, gripping bars, etc. in the bathroom for ease of use.  Consider the entrance to your home, stairways & other potentially hazardous spots.  How will you make those things safe for the newest member of your family to stay with you?

Finally, talk with them about their will & if they have any living will, as well.  If they'll be spending their waning years with you, you will need to know what types of life support they are okay with, should their medical needs come to that.  After their death, you'll need to know whether they have funeral arrangements made somewhere & which parts are already taken care of.  None of us likes to think about these things in advance, but having it squared away in advance gives us the time we need to go through the grieving process without additional anxiety about arrangements.  It's also very comforting to know what your loved one wants when they are unable to speak for themselves.

This is obviously not a comprehensive list, as every situation will be different.  Communication is key when it comes to every area of life, and this is no different.  Make these years spent together be a gift for both parties to hold in their memories.

Long Term Planning For Family Members

Whether you're thinking about parents, grandparents or another aging family member, it can be difficult to think about their health & life journey very far into the future.  We're much more comfortable thinking about them as younger, carefree & vibrant than imagining that their lives could look much different in even a 5 year span of time.  The reality is, however, that they will continue to age just as we will.  In some families, this is an easy & comfortable conversation.  In many Eastern & Near Eastern families, there is no question about where aging elders will go, they stay with family.  In Western culture, things are not so cut & dried.  Whether you've thought about this or not, it is important to communicate with those you love about this particular subject in order to find out their thoughts & hopefully to have a plan in place if/when it becomes necessary.

In some families, an elderly person will no longer feel comfortable living on their own once a spouse or significant other has passed on.  If you suspect that this would be the case, it's important to open that discussion.  Though it is difficult to think about, the reality is that many people will live out their elder years without the spouse of their youth. If the person who passed away is the more gregarious and independent of the two, this can cause some issues. Some people have depended upon another person for so many years that they may not be able to adequately function independent from another.  An example of this is someone who has never gotten their driver's license or someone who has never had to take care of any of the bills that come with day to day life.  If they have always had someone to take care of these things, they may not feel up to the task of learning them at an extremely late phase of life.  You'll most likely have to open discussion about whether they would want to learn those skills & remain independent or whether they'd prefer to move into a place where those things are taken care of.  There are certain group elderly care facilities or assisted living homes that have transportation options available for those who'd like to utilize them.  Alternatively, if they are rather independent, but just need help with bills, you might be able to offer your services to help them learn the ropes, or offer to do bill paying once a month.  The world has changed greatly in the past 50 years & things that are simple & straight forward to us are sometimes very foreign to the elderly in our midst.

If the elderly person you're arranging for is very active & energetic, look into group living situations.  In some states it is becoming popular for elderly friends to cohabitate together for mutual benefit.  They may choose a home or a few homes located in close proximity that they'll buy together & divide responsibilities while also having someone around for company & to keep watch on one another.  This would only work if the people involved knew one another quite well & if the legal ramifications were well documented.

  One of the main things that needs to be decided in the lives of aging seniors is whether or not they will spend a transitional time living with one of their children or grandchildren.  How will that play out?  Is that even an option?  Whether it is or is not, the possibility needs to be discussed so that both parties are aware of expectations that may be there.  Perhaps the aging individual would never want that because they'd rather not feel like a burden.  Perhaps the child or grandchild would never want their aging family member to have to go into a home.  As long as the plan is acknowledged & agreed upon by both parties, it will make the transition much smoother when the time comes.  Changing a way of life can be incredibly stressful, but if some of the ramifications are discussed in advance, the stress level drops tremendously.

When care in an assisted living facility or by a family member becomes unrealistic, options beyond these will also need to be addressed.  Is a full time nurse an option or is a nursing home more realistic?  Where are the finances going to come from for each of these things?  These items are not necessarily things that need to be decided at the onset, but preferences should be known in advance so that hard feelings do not develop.

Planning for the golden years & beyond is a difficult task.  It is akin in stress levels to a child transitioning from high schoolcollege to going off into the world.  Sometimes the preferences are not clear cut, & sometimes they are unrealistic.  Through compassionate discussion & empathy, however, we can find solutions that will be good for all the parties involved so that our loved ones can live out the remainder of their lives in comfort & peace, knowing that they are loved & safe.

 

 

 

 

New Year's Resolutions

 

  All of us who have lived past age 25 have probably made resolutions at this time of year, at least once or twice.  Some people just resolve not to make resolutions, but that too is a kind of resolution!  And while everyone jokes about the fact that those resolutions do not usually stick past the second week in January, they're still important.  They force us to think about what things in our life NEED to change, & what we are going to do about that.  They force us to evaluate the direction we're headed & fine tune where we'd like to be going & how.  They force us to admit that we are not perfect & can use a little work ourselves!  Because of this, we've come up with a list that will, hopefully, make it a little easier to take a snapshot of each area of your life & rate where you're at and what you might like to improve in the next year!

  1. Physical Self: How are your eating habits?  Your exercise patterns?  Are there physical therapies that you should be doing daily that you know about, but have not been doing?  How about your vitamins/minerals?  There are a lot of different areas of our physical selves that can easily be put on the back burner & forgotten, but which ones will you move to the front burner & improve this year?
  2. Spiritual Self: Are you as giving as you'd like to be?  Or forgiving? Anger and resentment can have a huge impact on our emotional & physical well-being.  If there are steps you need to take to let something go, then let January 1st, 2018 be the day to do it & not look back again!  Do you have people or organizations that you've been meaning to support with volunteer work or financially?  Start now & don't put it off any longer.  Actions speak much louder than words.
  3. Mental Self: Are you challenging yourself mentally?  Are you learning new things and improving your skills in the areas you're interested in?  Are you ensuring that you do not become stagnant mentally?  Are you getting enough rest?
  4. Relational Self: How are your relationships? Are they blossoming under your care or withering?  Are you reaching out to those you care about?  It can be easy to glide along & hope everything is okay, but generally relationships need cultivation in order to be successful.  Resolve to be more present in your conversations & in your actions towards those you love.

  1. Financial Self: How are your finances?  Are there things you'd like to change?  Is there debt that you need to overcome? Resolve to sit down and make an action plan for giving attention to those things that can easily be neglected throughout the rest of the year.
  2. Creative Self: Are you nurturing your creativity?  Are you finding new outlets to create beauty & usefulness in the world you live in? If you're a painter, paint.  If you're a writer, write.  If you work with wood, carve.  If you are a baker, bake.  However you create, create.  It feeds our souls & helps us to be better able to help others, too!

If you've always balked at the thought of New Year's Resolutions, we all understand.  We've all been in that place where we don't want to resolve to do anything that doesn't seem as if it will be profitable for us. But all of the things listed above will have great impact on you, your life & on those around you, so...  Resolve to make a resolution today!  You will be happy you did!

Making a Plan (The Twilight Years)

We all come to the end of life.  That is difficult for some of us to deal with emotionally, & in some cases it causes people to neglect preparing for it.  But neglecting to think about it does not make the issue go away.  In fact, the longer the task is put off, the more stress it causes just because you have to think about it again & again. So how do you avoid neglecting the important decisions that need to be made for your twilight of years without becoming overwhelmed by everything that should be done?

  1. Baby steps. Goal setting is daunting for many people.  For most of us, it only takes a little progress in the right direction to encourage us to go attain more. If you can convince yourself to take one step of progress, however small, toward your goal each day, you will be surprised how quickly you reach your goal.  If you have a goal of writing a will, for instance, take the step of researching wills online for 10-15 minutes on the first day.  Small increments of time are often thought of as useless, but in reality, much of what we accomplish is in smaller time periods.
  2. Choose how you're going to prioritize the thing you have to accomplish.  Some people start by doing the thing that is the most mentally taxing on them.  Others start with the most urgent order of business.  Others begin by doing the item that will cause the most harm if it is not completed.  Determine how you will prioritize what you have to accomplish & put things into a logical order.
  3. Be thorough. Once you have determined which item is your priority & you've begun taking baby steps, stay consistent & finish that item thoroughly so that you do not have to re-visit it.  If you start making a will, finish it & sign it & distribute it properly so that you know the item is complete.  If you are making a DNR order for yourself, finish it up, have it signed by a doctor & post it on your refrigerator.
  4. Tie up loose ends. As you move through your list in a consistent manner, you may find that other questions come up, and that more items are added to your list. Be sure to write these things down so that you do not forget them.  Re-visit them after you've completed your priority list.

We all have things that we neglect dealing with in our lives.  To-do lists pile up with things that “should” get done “someday”.  The above list could be used for completing any project or task in any stage of life.  The only reason I've discussed it in this article is because it is a very common problem as we approach the end of life because the subjects that are to be dealt with are uncomfortable to even think about, let alone talk with others about.  Do not let your discomfort dissuade you from peace of mind.  You will feel better & your family will certainly thank you for having less stress to deal with after you've passed.  Begin with making a plan of action, it's the first in a long series of baby steps toward peace.