Why Long-Term Care Matters

Why Long-Term Care Matters
by SalvationArmy.ca
Categories: Articles, Feature, Mobile, Newswire
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Alice Mayor, 102, suffers with Dementia. Elliot Armstrong, 78, has physical limitations. Yet, despite their challenges, they are living enjoyable and fulfilling lives at The Salvation Army’s Golden West Centennial Lodge in Winnipeg.

“Our goal is to provide health, personal and social supports to individuals through the last months and years of life,” says Joyce Kristjansson, Executive Director. “We also help families deal with the physical and emotional aspects of their loved-ones illness.”

The long-term care facility was established in 1970 to meet the needs of an aging population. Committed to providing residents high quality and effective care, in a safe and secure environment, services include 24-hour nursing care, spiritual care, counselling, general and therapeutic recreation programs, foot care and hair care.

“I love living here,” says Elliot. “I have some physical limitations so I can’t get around like I used to. The Salvation Army gives me lots of attention. And my room is bright and big. I have a beautiful life.”

Golden West’s motto is “A Sense of Home” and that is found throughout the building. From the smell of homemade soup coming from the kitchen to the rays of sun shining through the sunroom to private rooms with personal items, the lives of residents’ are enhanced.

“I have nothing to complain about,” says Alice. “When you are as old as I am, you need help doing everything. The staff treats me well. I have a roof over my head, a bed and I like the food. They have activities here and when I’m invited to go, I go. I’m happy here.”

Last year The Salvation Army provided 1,136 long-term care beds across Canada and views both the resident and family as partners in care and services.

“We have a deep respect for residents’ self-determination and dignity whereby care is based on the residents’ choices and customs,” says Kristjansson. “Services are not based on social status or income, but on the rights of all to receive information and assistance. Total well-being is our first consideration in providing care to our residents.”