Living History & Heartfelt Care

Nestled among the gentle slopes of Douglas County with panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies, Parker, CO is more than a scenic town — it’s a place where heritage meets heart. Known for its small-town charm and rich Western roots, Parker’s story mirrors the values that define BeeHive Homes of Parker: personal attention, strong community, and compassionate care.

From its days as a stagecoach stop to its current status as a family-focused town near the Rueter-Hess Reservoir, Parker is an ideal setting for those seeking meaningful connection and high-quality assisted living in Parker, CO.

A Look Back: The Founding of Parker

The foundation of Parker began in the 1860s when gold rush travelers followed the Cherokee Trail across Colorado. In 1864, Alfred Butters built a simple cabin and general store to serve them, known as the Pine Grove Way Station. This early hub gave rise to the town we now call Parker.

With the extension of the Denver and New Orleans Railroad in 1882, Parker flourished into a growing agricultural and commercial community. The town was renamed after James S. Parker, who helped bring the railroad to the area and became its postmaster.

Today, the town’s historic downtown district and landmarks like the 17 Mile House Farm Park stand as tributes to its pioneer spirit—a spirit that continues at places like BeeHive Homes, where each resident’s story is honored with dignity and care.

Parker’s Natural Beauty & Community Spirit

Surrounded by open space, trails, and scenic views, Parker boasts a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Local favorites like Rueter-Hess Reservoir offer outdoor recreation while maintaining a peaceful environment perfect for senior living.

This balance makes Parker an ideal place for seniors seeking a calm, yet connected lifestyle. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the mountains or enjoying a walk with visiting family, life at BeeHive Homes of Parker reflects the town’s deep sense of place.

BeeHive Homes: Where Elderly Care Feels Like Home

Our beautiful BeeHive Home in Parker Colorado at sunset

Located at 11765 Newlin Gulch Blvd, BeeHive Homes of Parker isn’t just another senior living option, it’s a warm, family-style residence built on the values that define Parker itself: community, trust, and care.

With only 16 private rooms, BeeHive offers a cozy environment where residents receive personalized support for activities of daily living (ADLs): including bathing, dressing, medication reminders, and mobility assistance.

Each room is thoughtfully designed for comfort and accessibility, and residents are encouraged to bring their own furniture, photos, and mementos to make it feel truly like home.

️ Dining, Activities & Daily Life That Feels Meaningful

Mealtimes at BeeHive are more than just nourishment... they’re gathering times, filled with conversation, warmth, and fresh, home-cooked meals. Whether it’s breakfast with mountain views or celebrating a birthday with loved ones, we create moments that matter.

Residents enjoy a wide range of senior living activities from games and crafts to music and fitness. This not only supports physical well-being but fosters social connection and emotional health, vital for aging with joy and purpose.

Serving More Than Just Parker

While located in Parker, BeeHive Homes proudly serves surrounding neighborhoods such as Auburn Hills, Stonegate, Meridian Village, Antelope Heights, and nearby communities like Castle Rock and Centennial. Whether you're looking for respite care Parker families trust or full-time elderly care Parker CO, our doors are open.

And thanks to our proximity to Children’s Lighthouse daycare and Lutheran High School, families of all ages feel right at home when visiting their loved ones.

️ Peace of Mind for Every Stage of Life

Our care model is flexible; residents can often remain with us through end-of-life, avoiding stressful transitions and giving families peace of mind. Our high staff-to-resident ratio ensures that each individual receives the attention, care, and respect they deserve.

We also offer respite care for family caregivers needing temporary support, including furnished rooms, full access to services, and short-term flexibility.

Discover the BeeHive Difference in Parker

BeeHive Homes of Parker stands as a modern extension of the town’s values: neighborliness, independence, and heartfelt care. We invite you to come and experience our community firsthand, where history lives on and every resident is treated like family.

Schedule a tour today at 11765 Newlin Gulch Blvd, Parker, CO
Call us at (303) 752-8700
Visit our website to learn more

Honoring Heroes: A Memorial Day Reflection

Memorial Day holds a sacred place in the hearts of our BeeHive Homes families across New Mexico. It's a time to pause in reflection and honor the brave souls who gave everything for the freedoms we cherish.

A Legacy That Lives On

Originally known as "Decoration Day," Memorial Day began after the Civil War as a time to honor Union soldiers by decorating their graves. Over time, its scope expanded to commemorate all American military personnel who died in service. The name "Memorial Day" became more common after World War II and was declared the official name by federal law in 1967 .

Sharing Stories from the Heart

Throughout Memorial Day week, our residents and staff come together to share powerful memories. A daughter remembers her father's quiet strength. A husband speaks of the brother he lost. These stories don’t just echo history—they bring it home. Around the table and in quiet corners, voices fill our homes with remembrance and pride.

Honoring Through Tradition

We celebrate Memorial Day through meaningful activities that bring residents and staff together. Patriotic crafts brighten our spaces. Special meals echo picnic-style favorites from years past. Residents help decorate with American flags, placing each one with intention and care. These simple traditions carry profound meaning.

A Moment of Unity

At 3 PM on Memorial Day, all BeeHive Homes observe the National Moment of Remembrance. We stand together in silence—honoring every life lost, every family forever changed. It's a moment of stillness, but also one of deep connection across generations and communities.

Gratitude in Every Detail

At BeeHive Homes, “home” means more than comfort. It’s where we preserve legacies, cherish stories, and hold gratitude at our core. On Memorial Day—and every day—we remember not just with words, but with the way we live, care, and love.

As we reflect this Memorial Day, may we carry forward not just the memory of our heroes, but the responsibility to live with gratitude, to care deeply, and to honor legacies in all we do.

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.

Recognizing Excellence - Chris Thomas of BeeHive Homes!

Today we recognize and highlight one of our many top team members, Chris Thomas, who is an administrator for our BeeHive Home in Santa Fe, the BeeHive Home in White Rock and the BeeHive Home in Raton.  At BeeHive Homes we always try to attract the best caregivers and talent in the world.  Chris is a great example to all who provide care for others.  He joined the BeeHive team almost three years ago, leading his team to not just engage our residents but showing how best to build relationships through service, activities and genuine concern and love for all.

Recently we received the following letter from the daughter of one of our residents.

Letter Dated Jan 8, 2021

Dear BeeHive Assisted Living - 

As the daughter of a resident at the [name of home removed] Beehive, I wish to commend Chris Thomas, Administrator for the exemplary work he is doing.

I spent many years in healthcare working as a nurse for both non and for - profit organizations.  Chris is an administrator working hands on to ensure the safety and care of my mother in a way that is not only impressive but a rare quality seldom seen in administrators.  He goes the extra mile and deserves recognition from his supervisor and/or owner of this franchise.

I did not find an email address for the BeeHive Corporate Office or the owner of Santa Fe's BeeHive Home in searching online so I am sending this the old fashioned way, USPS.

Sincerely,

Elise R.  LPN, B.F.A.

 

Thank you Chris for your efforts to brighten the day of everyone who crosses your path!  We value and appreciate your leadership and example to others in the assisted living industry!  Thank you for offering the best in senior care through your meaningful relationships and service to those cherished residents thriving in our homes!

Your Computer Is Only as Good as What You Can Make It Do: Choosing and Using Your Computer or Cell Phone

 

We Have the Power of a Mainframe

Computer at Our Fingertips

Today’s computers and even your cell phone are very fast and very powerful.  What you can now hold in your hand, has the same computer power as computers that used to fill several rooms.  Suffice it to say, that today’s computers and cell phones can perform any task you need.

 

What computer should I choose?

 

How and where are you going to use your computer?

Is portability important?

Do you need a large screen or is a hand held device what you need?

 

 

Computers Have Gotten Easier to Use

If you are patient enough, you can set up your computer to do most things by following your voice commands.  It will even type what you say.  If you can type with two fingers, you can master your computer.

Computer Basics Are Quick and Easy to Learn

Did you know you can learn all the basic skills you need to be the master of your computer system in one hour?  You will quickly begin to feel comfortable with your computer.  In less than 15 minutes, you will send your first email.

 

Imagine being able to initiate a video call with your favorite grandchild.

 

You Are NOT Going to Break Your Computer

 

 

 

So, with a bit of patience, you can learn to playfully try new things on your computer.  If you don’t get the result you want the first time, simply try again.  You will soon have a friendly assistant.Short of spilling your coffee or smashing your computer in frustration, you cannot break your computer.  No matter how lost you become, starting over is as easy as powering your system off and on.

 

 

 

 

 

Solitaire for Health and Well-Being

 

Benefits of Playing Regular Solitaire

Mental Health

How would you define good mental health in old age? 

 

 

The list could go on forever.  But let’s talk about old age mental health in more scientific and medical terms.

 

Focus

We can all agree, that having a good ability to focus our attention and thought on one thing at a time, is a healthy sign in old age.  To play solitaire well, one needs to be able to focus on one task or assessment at a time.

 

 

Concentration

Concentration is an important aspect of focus. Solitaire requires one to be able to concentrate on multiple forcing at one time. Many simultaneous decisions must be made to get good at solitaire.

 

 

 

Problem Solving

The game of solitaire requires one to hone one's problem solving skills.  These multiple problems must be looked at individually,and also in the context of the whole game.  Solitaire provides a fun way to get daily mental exercise, thus helping to keep our minds functioning and sound as we age.

 

We can recommend trying your favorite game of solitaire against your computer.

 

Double solitaire, doubles the Benefits

The innovations of the World Wide Web and the computing power of our handheld devices have enabled us to play any card game with any number of other folks.  If you have never tried this, please accept this invitation to google, interactive card games.

You will be benefiting your own health and well being and that of your friends, old and new.

Home Away From Home

Assisted Living Facilities may become an alternative as we age.  It isn’t easy to find a place suitable for the needs of your family or loved one when they become unable to totally care for themselves. These facilities offer many advantages for a person who feels depressed or needs help with daily activities.  Several different types of homes exist, but you would want to check out the needs of the patient and the advantages of each facility before signing a contract for your loved ones.  Not all are alike, so let’s examine how to find the right one.  It depends on how healthy or active the person is.  Are they active and over 55?  It’s important to consider if you have dementia/Alzheimer’s or any other condition that might require special attention. Or, you may just be looking for an amazing place to live?

There are several different facilities, according to the needs of the resident, which offer activities to suit their needs.  Activities consist of daily exercises, shopping trips, music performance, cooking demos, manicures, bowling, volley ball and golf.  Activities and special events are normally planned on a week to week basis.   There are movie nights and trips to the store.  Their vehicles are equipped for wheel chair patients and supervised by attendants who assist with physically challenged residents.

If you are able to cook and do things for yourself, you may want an Active 55 or independent living facility.   Some places offer 1 and 2 bedroom suites.   These come with many amenities, and are often fully equipped with washer and dryer, granite countertops, central air, walk-in closets, and covered parking.   Residents can enjoy an amenity package that includes a barbeque area, beautiful courtyard and fountain, fire place, resident lounge. Some have a café, full service hair and nail salon, library and genealogy center, game room, fitness center and more.

There are other community resources and people who volunteer to consult  residents about elderly challenges and issues such as Medicare, Social Security, Wills and Insurance.  Some volunteer organizations ask permission for their members to visit with residents and read to them or write letters for them.  .

 

MEMORY UNITS – These units have Caregivers to be with the residents and watch over them.  These facilities offer many advantages for a person who needs help with daily activities.  Special meals are prepared and brought into the Unit.   Aids (CNAs) are with the residents at all times and assist with bathing, comforting, and checking on them often to see that their daily needs are met.  They even play games and help with small tasks for the mentally impaired.  The nurses check vital signs and administer medication, and there is usually a doctor who comes in when needed.

Everyone Has a Story, What’s Yours?

Moving into an assisted living or a nursing home is a big change for everybody. Sometimes it can be hard to deal with that change. A lot of elderly struggle with feeling like they no longer have a purpose in life. Boredom, anxiety, and stress can all contribute to health issues. There is a lot of down time that can accompany moving into an assisted living home. And it is during down time that we often reflect on if our life had any meaning. We look back on good times, and on our regrets.

 

This is why it is imperative for the elderly to share their stories. Research shows that those who actually write down their stories are able to process their lives better. Writing down their stories can give them a feeling of control over their lives and help raise their self-esteem. It can also help those struggling with depression, improve their cognition and improve their behavioral functioning. Having seniors write down their stories is also a great way for these stories to be preserved for the next generation! It can help families come together and sort out issues between family members, by helping them see things from the other person’s perspective.

 

Storytelling is even a great way to help people who have dementia and Alzheimer’s. If your family member has this, don’t just disregard them if they are constantly rambling about something. A lot of times, the things that are talking about have to do with something in their past. And you might find that they still have lots of memories from a long ago.

 

Reminiscing is therapeutic. And there are ways that we can help the elderly go through the journey of writing down their lives. Here are some ways that you can help your aging family member:

 

  1. Create a list of questions before meeting with them that will ask them about different areas in their life.
  2. Use a recorder/tape to record the conversation. Nowadays this is even easier because most people have some sort of recording app right on their phones!
  3. Let them know why you want to know the stories of their lives, who will get to see it, and how it will be used. A great way to use their stories is by making them some sort of scrapbook about their lives with the stories placed in it!
  4. Be gentle and make sure to have your listening ears on.
  5. If there is a subject that they don’t feel comfortable sharing, don’t push it. You want this experience to be enjoyable for both of you!
  6. Make sure you are in an area that is quiet and free from distractions.
  7. If something isn’t clear, ask questions that will bring clarity.
  8. Nowadays, there are amazing resources that help seniors write down their stories! Resources on the internet are great! There are free websites that can help people go through the process!

Not only will taking your elderly family through the stories of their lives be beneficial for them and you, it will also be beneficial for their caregivers at their new home. For CNA’s and other healthcare workers, knowing about their client’s stories can help them connect and know how to best take care of your family members. Finding out the elderly’s stories just takes time, patience, and a decision let things slowdown in life. Even if it’s just for a few hours! And that is beneficial for everyone!

 

 

 

7 Simple Ways to Help Your Aging Loved One with Diabetes

Let’s talk diabetes. For many, that is a big scary word that most people never want to hear from their doctor. Usually when a diagnosis like this comes, it means that there has to be some dramatic changes in our lives. Most people do not like change, especially people who have gone through many seasons of life. If you have an aging loved one who was recently diagnosed with diabetes, you might be feeling overwhelmed about how to best care for them. Especially if they are living alone or in an assisted living home. How can you help them when you aren’t constantly there to check up on them? Here are 7 ways that you can:

 

 

  1. Open up communication with the staff of the assisted living home and your loved one’s doctor. When you keep communication lines open, it will make you feel reassured that your loved one is getting well looked after, even when you aren’t there.
  2. Go along to their appointments and take notes about anything that the doctor says. Research the disease beforehand, that way you know which questions to ask. If you can’t make it to an appointment find someone that they can trust to take them instead.
  3. Make sure to talk to the nurses at the assisted living home about your loved one’s medication regimen, any diet changes that are needed, and about the level of exercise that the doctor says your loved one should be getting.
  4. Encourage your aging family member in any changes that need to be made to help improve their overall health. This could be as simple as learning how to use a daily glucose test and showing them how to do it. Or helping them understand which medications they need to take and when.
  5. Ask their doctor about which exercise regimen is good for them and either drive them to their exercise classes or PARTICIPATE in it with them. Exercise will help lower stress levels and in turn bring down blood sugar levels.
  6. Another way to help is to get creative with them in the kitchen. With diabetes, doctors usually recommend that they have a good diet full of a variety of vegetables and proteins. Sugary foods and lots of carbohydrates can really hurt a diabetic. This can be a hard one to change, especially if your loved one has spent most of their lives eating processed food. Share the journey of getting healthier with them so they don’t feel like they are all alone in it. Make new recipes together or help them modify some of their old favorites to make them healthier. Another way to help with food is to help stock their kitchen with good healthy snack choices for them to eat throughout the day.
  7. For diabetics having wounds or blisters can really be a cause for concern, especially on the feet. Because their nerve endings are damaged it could be hard for them notice if there is any damage to their feet. If it goes on for a while without treatment, this could lead to serious problems like infection, gangrene or amputations. So please teach your loved one how to regularly check their feet. Also encourage them to wear shoes or slippers that will prevent them from stubbing their toes or falling.

Overall, just try to be there for your loved one. They might not show you that they appreciate it, in fact they might show you the opposite. But try to keep encouraging them that you are only trying to help them keep their independence longer so that they can live the rest of their lives to the fullest.