“You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes an existing model obsolete”
R. Buckminster Fuller
Just imagine if politicians understood what quality of life looks like for persons living in long-term care homes! Well, now you can see this for yourself.
Click on the video below and view between the 3:04 and 5:30 minute mark.
Below are the innovative models highlighted on our blog. While each model possesses unique features, the fundamental elements integral to all of them are the development of relationships between staff and residents and their families and the caring that embraces kindness and compassion. For more details on any of the models below, please scroll down our blog site.
- Hogeway Dementia Village, from Holland (this model has been implemented in Ontario, Alberta, and in progress in British Columbia)
- Eden Alternative: Over 300 homes in the USA and globally, 7 in Eastern/Central Canada and 1 in Saskatchewan (Sherbrooke Village in Saskatoon).
- Green House: 242 homes in 32 states in the USA with 150 more in various stages of development.
- Schlegel Villages in Ontario, 19 villages in Ontario
- Butterfly Care Home: Over 100 Butterfly Homes in the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and Canada – 7 in Alberta & 1 in Ontario with more promised.
All of us, whether we are family members, health care workers, or just interested citizens, can advocate for change in a system that needs to be changed. With the Ontario municipal elections behind us, we have an opportunity to influence the 2019 priorities that will be set in the coming weeks in communities across the province. You can start by contacting your local councillor and/or Mayor. Please share your advocacy ideas under the comments section of this blog.
Has there been any evidence that Christine Elliot is aware of the need for fundamental change in the culture in LTC in Ontario?
Thank you so much for your great question. Although we are not sure how much Christine Elliot is aware of the issues regarding long-term care, we will be contacting Christine Elliot and would encourage you to send her a letter as well. There is a need for some urgency here and many need to engage the politicians.