As we age, the concept of “‘home'” often takes on a deeper significance and for many seniors, staying in their own homes as they grow older becomes a cherished goal. This desire is more than sentimental; it’s rooted in practical and emotional considerations that significantly impact their quality of life. Is it any wonder then that among the hardest things for a senior citizen to do is making that hard, painful decision to leave their home? Whether moving to someone else’s home or to an assisted living facility, for an aging senior, leaving home” is more than a change of address. It often signifies a reluctant acceptance of that final loss of independence and identity.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

There are senior living models that provide a foundation of comfort, prioritizing dignity and independence for their residents. In 1991, Dr. Bill Thomas, seeking to combat what he called “the three plagues of aging”: loneliness, helplessness, and boredom, developed what is known as The Eden Alternative.

The Eden Alternative is a pioneering approach in the field of long-term care, transforming traditional nursing homes and assisted living facilities into vibrant communities where elders thrive.

If you’re investigating long-term care senior living options for a loved one here are 5 things you can look for to help determine if a senior care facility is utilizing these core evidenced-based components of care.

1. Homelike Environment: The physical environment is designed to be homelike rather than institutional. This includes comfortable, inviting living spaces, and opportunities for residents to personalize their own rooms. One of the key principles of the Eden Alternative is the integration of plants and animals into elder care settings. So, look for gardens and aquariums and bird sanctuaries.
2. Person-Centered Care: Each resident has an individual care plan that reflects their specific preferences, history, and needs. Furthermore, the Eden Alternative emphasizes the importance of empowering elders to make choices and maintain control over their lives.
3. Empowered Staff: Staff members are encouraged to form meaningful relationships with residents. There is also a pronounced focus on teamwork and shared decision-making among all levels of staff.
4. Community Involvement: The facility strategically involves residents, staff, families, and the broader community in its operations and activities. Residents are encouraged to go on field trips. Often young people – such as scouts and church youth groups – visit with the residents. Interactions with youth bring joy and purpose, bridging generational divides and nurturing a sense of interconnectedness.
5. Engagement and Purpose: The facility provides diverse events and opportunities for residents to engage in meaningful activities and pursue their interests. There is a focus on creating a sense of purpose and fulfillment for each resident.

Beyond transforming physical environments, the Eden Alternative brings about an entire shift in attitude. Rather than viewing old age as a period of decline, it celebrates the wisdom and experience that elders bring to communities.

Facilities employing these core components offer an enriching model that prioritizes mental well-being, a hub of community, sense of belonging, quality of life, autonomy, and dignity. For it provides that most precious commodity of all – home.

For more information on the Eden Alternative, visit their website at edenalt.org.

Do you have a question regarding Senior Care? Feel free to email Denise at info@birminghamgreen.org and she will gladly help answer your concerns!