Refresher for Our 1st Certified Eden Associates

On June 19th, 22 members of our first group of Certified Eden Associates from 2007 attended a four hour refresher workshop held by our very own Eden Educator, Connie Miller. Attendees shared stories about Eden in action, held learning circles, and were overall reinvigorated by the Eden Alternative philosophy and the 10 Principles.

Blessing Provides Care for Our Community

 

Last month resident Francis Kamakawiwoole Jr. took the time to bless the buildings and surrounding grounds at Hale Makua Kahului. He shared that several residents have also approached him to bless their rooms when a roommate has passed. He was more than happy to provide his services and share his talents with Hale Makua. 

This is great example of Eden Alternative Principle 4 in action. This principle states that an Elder-centered community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care. This is the antidote to helplessness.

Elder Decision-Making in Action

Eden Alternative Principle 8 states that an Elder-centered community seeks to place the maximum decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or those closest to them. 

With this principle in mind, Elders participated in the interview process for an Activities Director and a Dietitian at Hale Makua Wailuku. Care Partner Connie Miller said that having a resident present in the interview was helpful, as she was able to watch their interaction, and the residents had some interesting and meaningful questions to ask the applicants. It’s a good way to determine if the new employee will be a good fit with the residents.

Alan Camara, Faye Massey and Peter Kaina, pictured above, are just three of several residents who have been participating in interviewing job applicants.

Meaning Found in Simple Tasks

Lanai Neighborhood resident Dolores Villarimo, who prefers to be called Auntie Dolly, likes to keep busy and active and will often tell you “I like to work!” She recently approached CNA Rene Komoda and told her she was very bored.  Rene asked her what she would like to do, and she answered “I like to clean.”  Rene was just starting to wash tables and carts, so Auntie Dolly joined in and they accomplished the task together. When Nursing Supervisor Chris Casio walked by, she recognized Eden Alternative Principle 6 in action and took a photo. Principle 6 states that “meaningless activity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essential to human health.” Thanks to Rene for recognizing this need and helping Auntie Dolly add meaning to her day.

Guest post by Connie Miller, Administrator & Eden Educator

Finding Meaning in Music

On May 11th Phil Smith of local jazz band, Phil Smith & the Gentlemen of Jazz, performed for the residents of Hale Makua Wailuku. Phil agreed to donate his time and talents because of the inspiring experience he previously had playing for individuals with Alzheimer's. Care partner Connie Miller shared that she witnessed one resident who has lived at Hale Makua for four years and rarely ever speaks, singing to the music and praising God. Truly amazing to witness the power of music!

The effect that music can have on people is profound, and has the potential to bring back the spark into the peoples lives. This is also an example of Eden Alternative Principle 5: An Elder-centered community imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity by creating an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interactions and happenings can take place. This is the antidote to boredom, and Principle 6: Meaningless activity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essential to human health.

We're looking forward to Phil's next performance on Friday, June 8th at 1:30pm.