Story Cottage memory care is committed to clear, compassionate communication with families. From the first call to ongoing support, the team ensures every family feels heard, understood, and confident in their care decisions.
How does Story Cottage support family communication?
Diane Kohan: Can you tell us what kind of formal communication is in place to help bridge clients and their loved ones?
Kristin Cherry: Absolutely. When I receive a call, it’s very important to me that I answer right away—no matter the time of day or even on weekends. Families are reaching out for help, and that’s not an easy call to make. It takes a lot of courage to pick up the phone and ask for support.
What is the process for matching families with care?
Kristin Cherry: Once that conversation begins, I spend a lot of time in discovery—really understanding their situation and their needs. From there, I work to match those needs with the right cottage. I’m involved in everything from meetings and tours to individual calls with sons or daughters, even if they’re out of state.
Why is clear communication important in memory care?
Kristin Cherry: My goal is to make communication as clear, supportive, and successful as possible so families feel confident and comfortable moving forward.
Diane Kohan: Excellent. Thank you.
“My goal is to make communication as clear, supportive, and successful as possible so families feel confident and comfortable moving forward.”
— Kristin Cherry, Family Advisor
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Story Cottage memory care communicate with families?
Story Cottage prioritizes prompt, compassionate communication, answering calls at any time and guiding families through every step.
What is the process for matching families with the right cottage?
The Family Advisor spends time understanding each family's needs, then recommends the best fit and supports them through meetings, tours, and calls.
Why is clear communication important in memory care?
Clear, supportive communication helps families feel confident and comfortable as they make important care decisions.
Diane Kohan
About the Author
I’m originally from Newburgh, IN, and have been an RN for 25 years. I hold a B.S. in Health Information Administration and an A.S. in Nursing from Indiana University. I achieved board certification in 2020 as a Gerontological Nurse through ANCC and a Qualified Memory Care Professional (QMCP) through the Institute for Excellence in Memory Care.
My healthcare journey began in high school as a candy striper pushing the candy/gift cart around all the units, later becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant while in college. After starting my career in medical coding, I quickly realized my passion was hands-on nursing. I spent a decade in acute care at Methodist Hospital and St. Vincent Heart Center before returning to my love for long-term care, assisted living, and memory care.
Over the years, I have served as an MDS Coordinator, Director of Nursing, and MDS Consultant. As a regional nurse, I wrote policies, trained staff, and implemented dementia education across multiple states. My passion lies in providing exceptional care and supporting those living with memory loss. Follow her on LinkedIn.
