Columbus, Ohio, families feel fortunate to have this one-of-a-kind hospice care facility, which offers premier patient care along with outdoor therapeutic benefits. The 32-bed medical center sits on 10 acres of serene wooded grounds with walking paths and a tranquil courtyard. Expert landscape design for medical facilities is key for evoking a sense of calm in a space that can otherwise feel too bright and sterile. The property has some of the most moving reviews from patients’ loved ones touched by the level of care provided by wonderful staff members. Nature is part of the healing process for the grief that comes with end-of-life transitions, as carefully designed outdoor areas offer quiet seclusion amid Mother Nature’s comforting sights, sounds, and scents.
Challenges
A rarely encountered roadblock to servicing this property was access to a key area. The courtyard had one way in and one way out, through the interior of the care facility. This issue could lead to inefficient service and loading issues. And there were concerns about our employees tracking dirt and mud through the building.
With patients living on-site, there were noise restrictions to overcome as well. This affected our scheduling and impacted which equipment could be used at certain times of the day. Of course, Ohio’s quickly changing weather patterns further exacerbated the challenge.
Wildlife damage was a problem that had to be overcome after service began. It escalated quickly, too. Finally, there was a unique pruning issue we had never really dealt with before. It involved the property’s signature plantings. Proven pruning techniques were at odds with the client’s desired look for their hydrangeas.
Results
To say our dedicated team is proud to serve this vital senior care facility is an understatement. Our results show the team’s tireless work ethic and company strategies that help overcome the property’s unique challenges.
- Utmost care and mindfulness are needed, so a select group of employees was chosen to service this property.
- These Yellowstone employees had years of experience and had worked together for years.
- The cohesive team developed efficient ways to avoid wasted steps—even with limited access to the courtyard.
- Slip-on boot covers were used to prevent dirt from being tracked indoors.
- Our scheduling specialist worked with the client to build a maintenance schedule around quiet times.
- They also planned landscape tasks around special events and the busiest visitation times.
- When weather delays happened, the crew often used hand tools instead of power tools to finish up quietly.
- Deer netting was installed and was particularly effective in protecting the property’s new pollinator garden.
- For small wildlife damage, Yellowstone Landscape’s branch manager advised the client on subcontractors for humane wildlife management.
- We tailored our hydrangea pruning to the client’s preference since it would not diminish the plants’ health.
- All plant and flower selections are informed by visual appeal, water savings, and sensory benefits for staff and visitors facing stressful days.
- Our branch managers across the country share insights specifically for senior care centers that require unique maintenance solutions.
Property Appreciation Shown
"We're grateful that Mom's last days were spent at such a wonderful place"
“It's beautiful and warm, the landscaping is amazing, it's peaceful”
“The most kind-hearted and caring people”
A Peaceful Place
Nobody likes to think of their loved ones passing away, but this reality can’t be escaped. Thankfully, there are tenderhearted professionals filled with kindness who make these difficult days manageable. The leaders and staff at this end-of-life care facility are amazing examples of this professionalism.
We are pleased to highlight how natural surroundings can add peace to environments like this. It has been repeatedly proven that greenery and natural elements can reduce stress and anxiety. And when a loved one enters the final stages of their life, every measure should be taken to ease the emotional toll.
As for the Yellowstone Landscape team maintaining this serene property, we could not be prouder. These individuals on the service team have been with our company for many years. The care they’ve shown for the valuable outdoor spaces is matched by the respect they show for the people who are benefiting from the peaceful spaces.
If your commercial property has uncommon challenges similar to those in this case study, please contact Yellowstone Landscape for a consultation. We’ll work with you to create a tailored maintenance plan that shows top-tier care for the property and the people you serve.
