With so many residential care options to choose from it’s hard to decide which one is the right fit. Joanna Thomson, manager of both Levin Home for War Veterans and Reevedon Home, says visiting the homes is vital step in the decision making process because each home has its own unique personality. “There are three main things to look for; the environment, the quality of care, and the model of care,” says Joanna.
“It’s all about the vibe you get at the home. Many people have told me that as soon as they walk into a home they can tell whether or not it’s a place where they feel they, or their mum or dad could live.” Another important aspect is to ask about the home’s model of care.
“A home’s model of care represents the type of living environment you can expect. For example, Enliven homes such as Levin Home and Reevedon Home use the Eden Alternative, a model of care that is focused on the resident.”
The Eden Alternative is a philosophy of person-cen- tred care that empowers and supports people to have
meaning, purpose, companionship and activity in their lives.
“Instead of focusing on what people can’t do, we support them to continue with the things they’ve always done.”
Joanna says the Eden model of care means residents are in control of their lives and help to make deci- sions about the running of the home. “Eden makes a difference because we’re creating an environment that is a place not just to survive, but to truly thrive. It’s about encouraging and motivat- ing people to enjoy a full and happy life. It’s about taking care of their entire wellbeing, not just the clinical part.”
To find out more about the Enliven’s Eden Alterna- tive or Levin Home for War Veterans or Reevedon Home in Horowhenua, call 06 366 0052 for Levin Home for War Veterans, 06 368 7900 for Reevedon, or visit www.enlivencentral.org.nz.