Life is a little brighter for dementia patients at Nanaimo Travellers Lodge thanks to the efforts of staff.
Employees on the Bonar and Nelson wings recently completed a volunteer project to further enhance the quality of life for those living at the lodge.
The staff were empowered to carry out a project of their choice that they felt would enhance the residents lives. Each group was given a budget of $300 to use as they wished.
Bonar staff donated more than 300 hours over the last three months toward brightening the physical space.
With the participation and input of the residents, the improvements included painting the halls, doors and rooms bright colours, putting up new mirrors, fixing light fixtures, painting flower boxes and fixing the garden area.
The staff also worked to get a variety of items donated from businesses in the community including a DVD player, painting supplies, light fixtures and flowers. Employees, residents, families and members of the community celebrated the project with a barbecue at the end of August.
Nelson wing staff developed new projects and activities to create more moments of joy for the residents who have more advanced dementia.
Activities involving memory, sorting, organizing and sensory stimulation encourage the residents to interact with their environment. Staff saw an increase in participation and positive expressions of emotion.
The project is part of the Eden Quality Initiative, which helps improve the lives of the residents with dementia who live at the lodge, and the staff who work with them everyday.
The Eden Philosophy of care believes an older person is someone who is still growing and learning; and their physical surroundings should encourage the pursuit of happiness, joy and pleasure.
Eden care gives the residents of Travellers choice and the opportunity to participate in activities that create spontaneity and variety.
To support Travellers Lodge, please visit www.nanaimotravellerslodge.com.