Samaritan Long Term Care Communities Earn National Recognition for Excellence in Dementia Care
Published on: December 16, 2025
WATERTOWN, NY — Samaritan Medical Center is proud to announce that its long term care communities, Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village, have achieved Bronze-Level Credentialing in the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® program, a distinction granted by the Center for Applied Research in Dementia.
This credentialing recognizes organizations that demonstrate a commitment to person-centered dementia care based on the principles of the Montessori method, an approach proven to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
The Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® is a research-based model of care that empowers residents by focusing on their strengths and abilities, encouraging independence, and fostering meaningful engagement in daily life. The Bronze-Level Credentialing process involves extensive training, environmental enhancements and implementation of Montessori-based programming throughout the community.
“We are honored to receive this recognition and proud of the work our staff have done to bring this model to life,” said Jolene Smouse, BSN, RN, Director of Long Term Care Education. “Incorporating Montessori principles ensures our residents receive the best quality dementia care possible while maintaining their dignity, purpose and connection to others.”
A 2016 study of assisted living residences and skilled nursing facilities that received Montessori training found a significant decrease in medications needed by residents and instances of resident wandering and agitation within one year. It also noted improvements in residents’ sleep quality and their ability to complete activities of daily living (ADLs) such as showering, dressing and eating.
With this achievement, Samaritan joins a select group of care providers nationwide who have been formally credentialed by the Center for Applied Research in Dementia.
Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village will continue working toward higher-level credentialing, with the goal of reaching Silver- and Gold-Level Credentialing in 2026.
To learn more about Samaritan’s long term care services, visit samaritanhealth.com/ltc.
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