Change Institutions To Homes

What is this change:

The implementation of changing institutions to homes is the revolutionary change needed in LTC.  Small home-like environments provide eight to sixteen residents with the ‘stuff of life’.  A life of meaningful activities surrounded by staff who interact with them and care for them with empathy and kindness.

What does this change look like:

  • A warm, caring environment that feels like home.
  • Staff truly know their residents, their families, and understand their lived experiences.
  • Schedules and routines match residents’ preferences and needs.
  • Meaningful activities that engage residents according to their abilities and what brings them joy.
  • Relationships thrive between and amongst staff, volunteers, residents, and their families.

What does this change mean:

  • Using a relationship-based approach to care where residents, staff and families feel part of a community and are treated with dignity and respect.
  • Setting up small home-like environments of 8-16 residents/unit with shared living spaces such as a living room or kitchen.
  • Leadership committed to a relationship-based approach to care.
  • Employing full time, well-paid staff, who are trained in empathy and who understand the culture change required in these homes.
  • Hiring staff based on emotional intelligence.
  • Recognizing families and caregivers as integral members of the team.
  • Engaging volunteers who are trained in empathy and culture change.

 

Implementation and Changes Needed »