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A New Neighborhood Model
Loretto's New Neighborhood
Loretto underwent major renovations in December of 2010 as a part of a journey to transform elder care in Central New York. Previously used as office space, the 13th floor of the Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center’s Cunningham Skilled Nursing building now constitutes three, 10-person households composing one “Neighborhood.” A new, “person-centered” care model featured in the nationally recognized Eden Alternative philosophy of elder care is the foundation of Loretto's journey to transform elder care.
The Eden Alternative was founded in 1991 by Dr. William Thomas and is dedicated to, "transforming environments into habitats for human beings that promote quality of life for all involved." To learn more about the Eden Alternative, visit www.edenalt.org.
With person-centered care, recipients have a voice and a choice in their surroundings, activities and daily schedules. Individuals are not only the recipients of care, but also the shapers of that care. The model is relationship-based, empowering staff to maintain strong interpersonal relationships that nurture the health and well-being of elders.
Physical Renovations
This new model environment is very different from an institutional nursing home setting. Loretto's Neighborhood is composed of households, each featuring a more homelike atmosphere including private bedrooms and bathrooms, more open space, a country-style kitchen and more activity space.
Person-Centered Care Model
Beyond the home-like atmosphere, the new approach to elder care focuses on individual needs, preferences, and expectations. Decision-making is moved directly to elders with the assistance of an Anam Cara, or “soul friend.”
The Anam Cara are members of a self-directed work team who partner with the neighborhood elders to conduct daily activities, including personal care, light cooking, laundry, housekeeping, exercise and more.
The emphasis is on choices and relationships. The new approach is the latest step in Loretto’s efforts to deinstitutionalize elder care in Central New York.
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