Attractive environment for elderly

Press, 14 September 1987, Page 11

Attractive environment for elderly

A home for the elderly was established in Methven this week, and the stated aim of the owners, Kerry and Anne Harris, was to make it a home away from home. Kerry, a plasterer by trade, and his wife, a former nurse aide with the Nurse Maude organisation in Christchurch, did not step into the field of care lightly. They researched the proposal about 12 months ago and were assured there was a need for the service in Methven even though the town already had a home for the aged. Mr Harris says they moved to Methven about 18 months ago and bought a property at 5 McMillan Street, which is only a block off State highway 77. They named their new home “Rose Cottage.” Experts in the field of

the care for the elderly agree it is desirable to have a blend of age groups in an old people’s home.; Mr and Mrs Harris are impressed by the relaxed lifestyle in Methven, and they i both enjoy the friendly nature of local people.

Methven is well situated geographically, for residents with links in either Christchurch or Timaru. They are only an hour’s drive from friends and family. Kerry says that he expects the elderly from city areas will be drawn to Methven by the quieter lifestyle and freedom from (the worries about crime\in urban areas. Methven has a lot to offer beyond lifestyle, however. It has all the amenities of a larger town. It 'thrives in winter,

and is moving to step up tourism in summer. The house has been virtually rebuilt inside, adding another 250 sq m and sparing nothing to ensure the residents maintain their privacy and safety. The two double, and six single rooms provide an air of spaciousness, and they feature night-store heating and non-skid flooring. In total the home spreads over 800 sq m, but from the street frontage it looks like most other houses in the area.

The give-away might be the sun room at the front of the home which provides seating in bay windows. From there residents can watch Methven pass by. A lawned area is being established on the favoured north-western side of the property, and it

extends virtually the length of it. It holds the sun for most of the day and is well protected. While an ordinary Methven home from the outside, a look inside soon convinces anyone it is very different. Kerry and Anne have spared nothing in providing for the comfort of their residents.

The Rose Cottage brochure says the cottage is a retirement home aimed at the older person who requires a little extra care and attention. The owners believe an active mind and body are important in making residents contented, and these are given a high priority.

Housie, bowls, musical afternoons, exercise classes, art, craft and video afternoons are planned in addition to the pursuits the residents

themselves are free to engage in. Outings will be planned during the warmer months, and there are many attractions in and around Methven. “For home comfort, the residents could hardly expect more. Their rooms have full length wardrobes, comfortable beds, bedside cabinets and reading lamps,” Kerry says. “They are decorated in light colours, and have a bell system to call for attention day or night.”

At the meal table residents can expect to have three courses available at the main mid-day meal. Breakfast is served in bed.

“We will also provide day care with a mid-day meal, as well as short stay accommodation for family relief,” Anne says.