Sycamore Manor is experiencing exciting changes. Traditional nursing center "units" are being transformed into comfortable "Eden Neighborhoods" which will provide a new option to families seeking skilled nursing care or rehabilitation for loved ones.

"This is not just an aesthetic change, though surroundings are important." states Michele Brague, Executive Director, "We are seriously embracing the Eden Alternative™ which seeks to change the culture and environment of today's nursing homes and other long-term institutions. At Sycamore, it began with a commitment from our management team more than three years ago. It is truly a systematic, philosophical change that empowers us to look beyond the physical needs of residents."

The Eden Alternative was developed in 1991 by William H. Thomas, M.D., a physician with a special interest in aging and the elderly. It places the elders at the center of nursing home life and the residence is transformed into a "human habitat," an environment of diversity. Animals, plants, and gardens, children and people of all ages form an integral, daily part of resident life. This approach to the care of frail elders helps them regain a sense of worth as they care for the plants and animals and as they share daily activities with children and with each other. Facilities that effectively adopt the Eden Alternative bring decision-making in line with the needs of the elders, rather than bureaucratic priorities. In addition, The Eden Alternative is a model for strengthening human relationships, fostering human and animal bonds, and creating opportunities to give meaningful care to other living creatures.

The new construction will create five unique "Eden Neighborhoods", one neighborhood at a time, over the next several years. "Each neighborhood will have its own dining room, living room, care center and kitchen," explains Brague. "More importantly, the staff, residents and families of each neighborhood will decide how they want to proceed to "Edenize" their neighborhood. Because we already involve children and pets at Sycamore, I'm expecting many residents will want to expand those relationships. Children will come more often and animals will actually stay here. Others will want to explore gardening."

Another important point about the Eden Alternative is that it is not a program that simply brings plants and animals to a facility. "Used effectively," states Brague, "It becomes a culture changing process that evolves under the guidance of Eden Alternative staff who serve as coaches and mentors. Our vision is to help revolutionize the way care is provided in nursing homes. That means creating an atmosphere where residents are engaged in life and free to make choices based upon what's best for them.

We at Sycamore, with help from PHI and generous donors, are committing the resources needed to help the care partners and residents of each Eden Neighborhood create that kind of environment."

The care partners at Sycamore Manor have already received Eden Alternative training and are actively working toward their vision. The entire transformation, however, may take up to five years.

Why would anyone make this kind of commitment in an industry that is requiring more services for less reimbursement? "Because people matter more than profits," explains Brague. "Caring for people is our calling and that's what we're all about."

For more information about Sycamore Manor or to learn how you can be a part of this exciting transformation, contact Michele Brague, Executive Director, at 570.326.6709, extension 2031, or email her at mbrague@phi-preshomes.org