Assisted Living Facility Located On A Working Farm

Assisted Living Facility Located On A Working Farm AG WORLD When John Dubsky’s grandfather Bob needed to move off his California ranch to an assisted living facility he challenged John a contractor to build a place for senior citizens in the country where they could have animals and open spaces Though too late for Bob to enjoy Dubsky took that wish to heart and opened Heartland Assisted Living Center in Roberts Mont in 2012 “It’s a working ranch ” Dubsky says “It’s a whole different twist on assisted living ” A few head of Angus cattle a couple of sows a few horses a flock of chickens and other assorted animals share space with human clients on the 13-acre farm Residents can gather eggs feed calves work in the garden and watch ranch chores as they choose Or they can fish on the property’s pond golf on the mini course swim in the lap pool or work in the workshop Some bring pets to live with them Heartland is a 10-bed 10 000 sq ft facility Many of the rooms have outside decks “The gratification is amazing ” Dubsky says noting that he finds satisfaction in being with residents in their last days knowing he’s helped to make the end of their lives better He would like to see similar facilities all over the country but emphasizes that it is costly to set up and it’s important to have a good team of attorneys Much paperwork for certifications and licenses is involved The facility is certified for Medicare insurance Medicaid and self-pay “We take folks that need 24-hr care and have Hospice services available ” Dubsky says The business requires a lot of work Dubsky has a few employees but does much of the maintenance caregiving and cooking himself in order to keep labor costs down and rates affordable He emphasizes preparing good meals including salmon baby back ribs and lobster plus meats eggs and vegetables grown on the farm Through recent media attention Dubsky has had offers to buy the business At 47 he may consider that in the future but for now fulfilling his grandfather’s desire is what he is meant to do Dubsky says For ideas about what rural assisted living is all about check out the website or Facebook page Heartland Assisted Living LLC Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Heartland Assisted Living Center 8874 U S Hwy 212 Roberts Mont 59070 ph 406 861-9500; www heartlandassistedliving com; heartlandassistedliving@yahoo com

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