TATAMAGOUCHE - A newly constructed expansion at the Willow Lodge Home For Special Care is ready to open aiming to offer elders a more home-like environment.
Facility administrator Doug Cunningham said the design of the new 10-bed wing adopted the Eden Alternative principles changing the culture of a typical long-term care institution.
"The difference is it's like a house with 10 bedrooms," said Cunningham.
"It is a change from a traditional nursing home to a more home-like space where residents make decisions about their environment."
The $3.2-million project was announced nearly three years ago as part of the province's commitment to increase the number of long-term care beds in Nova Scotia.
Along with creating new beds, the expansion allowed for the creation of a physical and occupational therapy treatment room, a family meeting room and a pair of adjoining rooms for couples in need of care.
The administration office has also been relocated to the new wing, which created space on the lower level to enhance and expand the laundry services department.
Cunningham said six staff recently received a week of specialized training at an Eden Alternative-accredited home in Saskatoon to experience the modern care concept first-hand.
"They came back really energized and willing to change the way things have traditionally been done in nursing care homes," he said.
From the moment visitors arrive at the Lynwood House wing, named after a historic property in Tatamagouche, they'll begin noticing the changes, including being asked to ring the doorbell before entering the private home.
The bedrooms are arranged so every resident has a clear view of the open lounge area with fireplace, dining room and kitchen. Every resident has the option to cook their own meals with the assistance of staff and can be involved in other daily activities of their choice.
The spacious rooms conform to new Department of Health standards and offer more storage space, an en suite and desk with Internet connection.
Cunningham said the new design allows residents to live as a family with a choice of when they want to eat, sleep, drink or participate in activities.
He said plants, animals and children have always been welcome at the home, however a part-time position has been created to increase the role of them in the lives of residents in the new wing and plans are underway to build a swing-set near the back deck for visiting children.
"There is no pill to cure (loneliness)," said Cunningham. "Studies have shown that the health of certain elders in this type of setting improves."
The 10 continuing care assistants and other staff assigned to the wing will provide support and care as needed but will not be intrusive.
The first new residents are set to begin arriving in the next few days and Cunningham anticipates the rooms will all be filled by early December.
Two other community wings, the Barrachois and the Balmoral, have been established within the existing 51-bed home with a goal to conform the entire facility to the Eden Alternative principles.
"Once we get this wing up and running, more of the Eden Alternative concept will seep out into the existing building.
"While the original building wasn't designed for it, we're doing the best we can to implement parts of the Eden Alternative program wherever possible."
