Harrell Assisted Living Homes, 1051 Pontiac Road, Suite 837, Drexel Hills, PA (2025)

12/23/2025

Nothing says community like sharing sweets! Today is Cookie Exchange Day, a wonderful opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities to practice social skills and generosity. Whether it's gifting a tin to a neighbor or sharing with friends, we love seeing the smiles that a simple cookie can bring.

Caregivers can make today even more special by encouraging choice and independence:

Make it an Activity: Ask your client what their favorite cookie is. If they love to be hands-on, turn it into a fun baking activity using safe kitchen tools to whip up a homemade batch!

A Trip to the Store: If they prefer a specific brand or bakery treat, make a trip to the local Philadelphia shops to buy their favorite. This is a great way to practice community navigation and decision-making.

By letting your loved one lead the way, you’re turning a simple treat into a meaningful moment of empowerment!

12/22/2025

🐾 The best kind of companionship comes with a wagging tail! Harrell Homes Assisted Living is proud to be a pet-friendly facility, fostering enriching connections between residents, our dedicated caregivers, and their beloved furry friends. Our community focuses on providing fulfilling, supported living for individuals with intellectual disabilities, ensuring this season is filled with joy, love, and comfort.

https://www.harrellassistedlivinghomes.com

🎄

12/21/2025

Today marks the First Day of Winter! As the seasons shift and we welcome longer nights and crisp air, we embrace the unique beauty and opportunities this time of year brings.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we ensure that the individuals with intellectual disabilities we support in the Philadelphia area remain comfortable, engaged, and safe throughout the winter months.

Winter Fun & Safety Tips:
Cozy Activities: Think indoor games, warm beverages (like hot cocoa!), festive crafts, and movie nights.

Warmth & Comfort: Ensuring proper layering, cozy blankets, and warm meals to combat the cold.

Outdoor Enjoyment (Safely!): For those who love the outdoors, we plan bundled-up walks, observing winter scenery, and engaging in appropriate activities while prioritizing safety from cold and slips.

We look forward to a season filled with warmth, wonder, and continued growth!

12/21/2025

Did you know that solving puzzles is more than just a hobby? It's a fantastic way to boost brain health, improve vocabulary, and practice focus. At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we love activities that challenge the mind and provide a sense of accomplishment for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Philadelphia area.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, today is the perfect day to dive into a crossword!

🧩 Ready for a Challenge?
Head over to our website to test your skills! You can complete today’s brand-new Mega Puzzle #75 and catch up on all our previously published mini puzzles.

👉 Play Mega Puzzle #75 here: https://www.harrellassistedlivinghomes.com/post/mega-puzzle-75

Happy puzzling!

12/21/2025

Happy Game Day! Whether it's a cozy indoor afternoon or a lively gathering, games are fantastic for fostering connection, developing skills, and bringing smiles. At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we love incorporating games into our daily routines, especially for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Philadelphia area.

Games are excellent for enhancing Life Skills Development, social interaction, and cognitive function! Here are 4 best games that caregivers can introduce:

Memory Match:

How it works: Simple cards with matching pairs are flipped over. Players take turns trying to find pairs.

Benefits: Boosts short-term memory, concentration, and visual recognition. Can be adapted with fewer cards or familiar images.

Uno:

How it works: A classic card game where players match colors or numbers, trying to be the first to empty their hand.

Benefits: Teaches color and number recognition, strategic thinking, turn-taking, and following rules. The visual cues are very helpful.

Picture Bingo:

How it works: Instead of numbers, Bingo cards have pictures (animals, objects, holidays). A caller draws pictures, and players mark them on their cards.

Benefits: Improves visual recognition, listening skills, and promotes group participation in a low-pressure way.

"What's Missing?" Game:

How it works: Place a few familiar objects on a tray. Have the client look, then cover the tray and remove one item. Uncover and ask "What's missing?"

Benefits: Enhances observational skills, memory, and verbal communication. Can be easily adjusted with more or fewer items.

Let the games begin!

12/20/2025

Happy Saturday, everyone! As the weekend officially kicks off, we want to share a glimpse into how Harrell Assisted Living Homes strives to make every day feel like a holiday for your loved ones in the Philadelphia area.

While the actual holidays bring extra cheer, our philosophy is to create an environment where joy, engagement, and a sense of celebration are woven into the fabric of daily life.

How We Bring the "Holiday" to Everyday:
Joyful Routines: From favorite meals to engaging activities, we infuse joy into routines, making daily life vibrant and purposeful.

Personalized Attention: Like a special gift, each client receives individualized care, ensuring their unique needs and preferences are met with warmth and understanding.

Community & Connection: We foster a strong sense of family, encouraging social interaction, friendships, and a supportive community where everyone feels valued.

Opportunities for Growth: Every day offers new chances to learn, explore, and achieve personal milestones, transforming routine tasks into exciting opportunities.

Celebration of Milestones: Big or small, every accomplishment is celebrated, creating moments of pride and happiness that brighten the day.

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we believe that consistent care, genuine compassion, and a focus on individual happiness can truly make every day a gift.

12/20/2025

The holidays are a feast for the senses, and at Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we love to create engaging experiences that cater to everyone, especially individuals with intellectual disabilities. Our "Sensory Solutions" approach ensures that holiday cheer is accessible and enjoyable for all in the Philadelphia area!

Here’s how we make the season bright through different sensory experiences:

Hearing (Sounds of the Season):

Activity: Enjoying favorite holiday music or carols (think gentle instrumental versions or familiar sing-alongs).

Benefit: Provides auditory stimulation, promotes emotional connection, and encourages participation.

Avoid: Overly loud, jarring, or unfamiliar music that might cause distress.

Scent/Smell (Aromas of Comfort):

Activity: Baking cookies, simmering cinnamon sticks and cloves, or enjoying scented (safe) decorations.

Benefit: Evokes positive memories, provides calming or stimulating olfactory input.

Avoid: Strong artificial fragrances or overwhelming combinations that could be irritating.

Sight (Visual Delights):

Activity: Gentle, twinkling Christmas lights, colorful decorations, or watching a favorite holiday movie.

Benefit: Offers visual engagement, creates a festive atmosphere, and aids in recognition and focus.

Avoid: Flashing lights, overly bright or chaotic displays that could be overstimulating or anxiety-inducing.

Touch (Tactile Textures):

Activity: Engaging with soft blankets, festive plush toys, decorating with different textured ornaments, or feeling the smooth dough while baking cookies.

Benefit: Provides calming tactile input, enhances fine motor skills, and promotes sensory exploration.

Avoid: Scratchy fabrics, sharp edges, or materials with unexpected or unpleasant textures.

We believe that by thoughtfully incorporating sensory elements, we can create truly magical and inclusive holiday experiences for every client!

12/19/2025

At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, the foundation of every service we provide is a commitment to the Safety and Health of the individuals we serve. We believe that a secure and healthy environment is essential for individuals with intellectual disabilities to reach their full potential.

In the Philadelphia area, we go above and beyond to ensure our homes are sanctuaries of wellness and security through:

Comprehensive Health & Safety Measures:
24/7 Professional Oversight: Our dedicated staff provides round-the-clock supervision, ensuring that assistance is always available whenever it's needed.

Expert Medical Coordination: We bridge the gap between clients and healthcare providers. From managing complex medication schedules to coordinating visits with specialists and nurses, we ensure no detail of a client's health is overlooked.

Proactive Safety Training: We empower our clients with the tools they need to stay safe. This includes life skills training focused on kitchen safety, emergency preparedness, and navigating the community securely.

Strict Health Protocols: We maintain rigorous standards for cleanliness and infection control to protect the collective health of our residents and staff.

We don't just provide a place to live; we provide a system of care designed to foster a Life of Wholeness. When health and safety are managed with expertise, our clients are free to focus on what matters most: their independence and happiness.

12/19/2025

Today, December 18th, is Bake Cookies Day! There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked cookies to bring the holiday spirit into our homes. At Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we love making baking an inclusive activity for our clients in the Philadelphia area, focusing on both the fun and the safety.

Baking is a wonderful way to practice Life Skills Development, from following a sequence to measuring and sensory play. To keep the kitchen safe and stress-free for individuals with intellectual disabilities, consider these safe alternative devices:

Safety-First Baking Tools:
Silicone Baking Mats: These are non-slip and keep cookie sheets stable, making it easier for individuals to place dough without the pan sliding.

Safety Cookie Cutters: Look for cutters with rounded tops or cushioned grips. They protect hands while allowing for all the creative holiday shapes!

Electric Cookie Presses: These can be easier for those with limited hand strength or dexterity challenges, allowing them to "pipe" cookies with the push of a button.

Cool-Touch Induction Burners: If you're melting chocolate or butter, portable induction burners stay cool to the touch, significantly reducing the risk of accidental burns.

Talking Kitchen Scales: For clients with visual impairments or those learning numbers, these scales provide verbal feedback to help them measure ingredients accurately and independently.

Let’s get baking and fill the day with sweetness and safety!

12/18/2025

🎄 Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and supported holiday season! At Harrell Homes Assisted Living, we understand the diverse needs of the individuals we serve. Whether you need specialized assistance for intellectual disabilities, temporary respite, or the comfort of a dedicated team, we are here to provide the highest level of care. May your day be merry and bright!

https://www.harrellassistedlivinghomes.com

12/18/2025

Looking for a meaningful way to spread joy this week? From December 18–24, The Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia Area has high-need roles that are perfect for individuals with intellectual disabilities, especially in a "Unified" or supported capacity!

Participating in community service is a wonderful way for our clients to practice social skills, gain a sense of purpose, and connect with their neighbors in the Philadelphia area.

How You Can Help:
Red Kettle Bell Ringing: Spread holiday cheer at local retail locations! This is a highly social role focused on greeting the community and sharing a smile.

Holiday Meal Support: Assist with the preparation or organization of Christmas food baskets and hot meals for families in need.

Toy Distribution: Help organize and "shop" for toys donated via the Angel Tree program to ensure every child has a gift under the tree.

Location: Multiple sites across Philadelphia (including the 701 North Broad Street headquarters).

Get Involved Today!
📞 Phone: 215-787-2800 (Main Regional Office)

🌐 Website: Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia

12/17/2025

As the holiday season continues with its delicious temptations, maintaining healthy eating habits can be a challenge for anyone! That's why at Harrell Assisted Living Homes, we emphasize the importance of Nutritional and Dietary Counseling year-round, with special attention during festive periods.

We believe it's crucial to pay attention to your nutrition, and we can help your loved ones with intellectual disabilities with just that.

How We Support Healthy Eating:
Personalized Meal Planning: Our team works to create balanced, appealing meal plans tailored to individual dietary needs, preferences, and health goals.

Education & Skill-Building: We integrate healthy eating into life skills training, teaching about food groups, portion control, and making nutritious choices.

Holiday Balance: During the holidays, we focus on mindful eating, encouraging enjoyment of festive foods in moderation while ensuring core nutritional needs are met.

Allergy & Restriction Management: We meticulously manage any allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions to ensure safety and well-being.

Our goal is to promote a Life of Wholeness, where good nutrition supports overall health, energy, and cognitive function for our clients in the Philadelphia area.

Harrell Assisted Living Homes

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