‘Enhance function and enrich life by engaging people in a world with meaning and purpose in a prepared environment.’
That’s the philosophy behind updates recently completed at Acropolis Manor, Northern Health’s long-term care facility in Prince Rupert.
And that philosophy comes from DementiAbility, a program aimed at helping health care professionals and caregivers focus on the abilities (not disabilities), and the potential, of individuals living with dementia.
Over the last two years, Northern Health has been implementing the evidence-based DementiAbility program in several of its long-term care facilities. In addition to staff completing DementiAbility training, many improvements have been made to the actual physical spaces.
Friendly decor with purpose
Recent upgrades at Acropolis Manor include an uplift to one of the dining areas, making it more fun and visually stimulating. A unique café space was also added to the facility’s front foyer. The café allows residents to gather with their loved ones and each other in a welcoming environment that feels just like a real coffee shop.
Other upgrades are connected to wayfinding. For example, all residents now have customized door wraps. Residents picked their own colours and design.
“In contrast to previously sterile and anonymous hallways, when the door decals are in place residents tend to recognize their front doors, find their way more easily, and consequently feel more at home,” said Acropolis Manor’s Manager Marcie Garinger. “It’s also a simple tool to strike up a conversation.”
The front entrance door in the facility was also wrapped. Similar to bedroom door wraps, this makes the environment friendlier while also serving an important purpose.
“Covering exit doors with a wrap is an effective intervention strategy to assist residents who, out of confusion, frustration, or anger, seek to exit the facility, which can result in their becoming lost or injured,” said Marcie.
Thanks to donors who made this possible
The upgrades at Acropolis Manor would not have been possible without the generous contributions of several local donors.
In 2022, Northern Health received an Investment Fund Grant of $15,000 from the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA). The grant required Northern Health to match the amount, and three more donors stepped up to do so: DP World, the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association, and the estate of a former Acropolis Manor resident.
“Staff and residents are so pleased and so thankful. The upgrades have had a real impact,” said Marcie. “Residents are always commenting on how much brighter and beautiful the new space and colours are.”
In May 2023, Northern Health hosted a lunch to say thank you to all the donors who contributed to this very important project.
“We had cookies decorated to represent each donor, gave a tour of the facility to showcase the wraps, and showed video testimonials of residents thanking the donors for their new doors,” Marcie said. “We also gave another pitch of what our future door and wall wrap plans are.”
DementiAbility across the Northwest
Northern Health is applying the DementiAbility program in long-term care facilities across the region. In addition to Acropolis Manor in Prince Rupert, door decals have been installed in long-term care facilities in Terrace, Kitimat, Smithers and Hazelton. Terrace’s long-term care facility, Terraceview Lodge, also has a café space.
DementiAbility supports NH’s long term care philosophy of care:
“We work together to provide person- and family-centered care with a focus on individual abilities that nurture a sense of purpose, belonging, and companionship. Each person’s unique qualities are embraced and valued; choices are recognized and respected.”
To see some of the upgrades at Acropolis Manor, check out a Prince Rupert Port Authority video about the project.
For more information about the DementiAbility program, go to: https://dementiability.com/
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