Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/126200
Oasıs ealing By Gail Johnson on of the aging bathing suites at the Dr. Al Hogg eatly enhance the quality of life for residents. "I wanted to make the bathing areas nicer for people there," says Marie, whose generous gift helped kick-start the project. "I think the money will be used wisely. Who knows? I might be coming to live there." Necessary renovation The 234-bed Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion was built in 1996, and given their continuous use over the past 17 years it's no surprise that the facility's six bathing suites were in need of significant updating. However, there's much more to take into account than colour schemes and storage space. Personal care, including washing and bathing, can be a source of anxiety for some seniors. Residents may be afraid of deep bath water or feel self-conscious about being undressed in front of others. Further, those with cognitive difficulties may not understand what's happening. "We want all of our residents to live in an environment that feels as much like home as possible, because this is their home," says Elizabeth Findlay, clinical director of Fraser Health's residential care and assisted living program. "We believe that the bathing experience is one of the most important parts of the residents' activities, and so it's really important that we make it as good as we can. We want it to be a pleasurable experience. We want residents to feel relaxed." Findlay says that Fraser Health's objective is to make the bathing experience for residents spa-like, employing an approach that's supportive, person-centred, and that maintains each resident's dignity. To do this, health-care professionals create individualized bathing plans for each resident that take into account their emotional and physical comfort, while also giving them as much privacy, control and choice in the process as possible. Exciting updates Among the updates to be incorporated into the bathing suite renovation are warm colours drawn from nature, gentle lighting that still offers good visibility, step-free showers, mobile lifts, non-slip flooring and sound-absorbent materials. The renoPhotographs: (Clockwise from left) iStock; Delta Hospital; Getty Images p10-11 Bath Suite Reno.indd 11 The renovated bathing suites will feature soothing colours and updated amenities like those pictured here. vation also calls for stylish new cabinetry where supplies and towels can be stored out of sight in an organized fashion. "We don't want there to be any clutter," says Jennifer DeForrest, manager of residential services at the Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion. "There won't be overflowing hampers, and things will be neatly tucked away, which adds to a pleasing environment." The design will also reduce noise and glare, allow for the efficient use of space, prioritize residents' and workers' health and safety, and create a sense of calm. Details for the renovation are still being finalized, but Findlay says that front line care-providers have been actively involved in the planning: "They know what will work and what won't." The renovations are expected to be completed by next spring at a cost of approximately $50,000 per suite. Findlay credits Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation for being supportive of residents' needs: "This is about respect and dignity, and optimizing the abilities of the residents while providing emotional comfort. "The Foundation really understands what we're trying to do," adds Findlay. "This work is really about supporting the community, because at the end of the day, who knows who could end up living here? This is about providing what we would want for our loved ones." Marie Topp couldn't agree more. ■ For more information on how you can support the Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion bathing suite renovation project, contact Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation at 604-535-4520. s pring /summer 2013 health + care 11 13-04-12 2:09 PM