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Open House September 16th
Submitted by Rachael Wilkens, Administrator, Golden Dawn Senior Citizen Home
After two years of research, discussions, planning and fundraising, Golden Dawn Senior Citizen Home’s hallway re-decorating project is nearly complete! Let me explain.
The covid years were tough in long-term care. Our seniors suffered loneliness and isolation from their families, we experienced various outbreaks, staffing shortages led to burnout, and of course we all lived through ever-changing government mandates. But thanks to the Home’s strong leadership by Barb Sterling and Gerry Myles, the help of our hard-working and dedicated staff, and with the support of the Board of Directors, Golden Dawn fared better than many other homes in the sector.
It was during this time that the Home started exploring the quality indicators of long-term care. This involved reviewing the statistics to identify the Home’s strengths and weaknesses, which in turn began a discussion on focus areas for improvement. So, what started out as a simple research project, transformed into a plan for how Golden Dawn could improve the well-being of not only our seniors, but their families, and our staff. Specifically focusing, with a holistic approach, on promoting a life filled with purpose and connection, regardless of age or changing abilities.
With this in mind, we have been working really hard to reinvigorate our Home. There is a strong focus on staff appreciation, through building a positive work culture, and providing recognition and encouragement. The last year has also seen active staff recruitment, and it’s wonderful to see the home is currently a melting pot of cultures who now call Lion’s Head home!
With collaboration from staff and discussions with both Resident and Family Councils, the hallway project was envisioned. Taking inspiration from both the Butterfly Model of Care, and the Eden Care Alternative, we have come up with something unique to Golden Dawn and our residents.
We have decorated the hallways of the home with sensory and interactive murals and displays. It is our hope that these display walls will result in numerous benefits for those who call Golden Dawn their home. Our walls were designed to be bright and multisensory and will increase opportunities for engagement, stimulate the brain, promote open discussions, and improve personal well-being. Additionally, our interactive walls provide an opportunity for residents to reminisce and connect with memories, which is important for individuals experiencing cognitive decline.
Everyone has been working hard to complete this project and we are really excited about the Open House on September 16th, 1-3pm. Refreshments will be provided, and I heard there may be an Elvis sighting! This is an RSVP event as space is limited. Please call the home at 519-793-3433 or email admin@goldendawn.ca to reserve your space.
Many thanks for the support from the Municipality, the Rotary Club, the Larry Jensen concert and to all the generous donors in the community who have made this project possible.