Read more: Local, Community, Seniors, Nursing Homes, Good Samaritan
It's no secret seniors and baby boomers these days have different tastes and past times. But one Tri-State nursing home is evolving with the times to meet ever changing demands.
It's no secret that today's seniors and soon-to-be-seniors in the baby boomer population are more progressive than ever. And that means their nursing homes have to be up to the task. That's exactly what's been happening at Good Samaritan Home in Quincy.
What is Good Samaritan Home doing to prepare?
Director of Development and Public Relations Lanse Tomlinson said, "Actually it's an ongoing process. The baby boomers are actually experiencing different needs and wants so a lot of it is technology related, internet, cable television, Wii and all the games that go along with it."
With techno-savvy residents in mind, Good Sam is installing cable tv and internet jacks in all resident rooms. It's also added this computer lab for residents who don't have computers. Wi-Fi connectivity is coming soon. Technology is also integrated into activities like this bible study.
Officials at Good Samaritan Home say seniors expect a lot more these days. That expectation extends to activities they normally would get at home, now offered at Good Sam. Daily excursions are planned to shopping centers and parks. Residents also get a chance to enjoy restaurants and concerts - via the home's bus.
But perhaps the most innovative change is right here. Residents are no longer restricted to assigned seats, and tray dinners. Residents at Good Samaritan Home enjoy a buffet during a two hour window. Staff cater to those who can't make it through the line...or those who have special requests.
Tomlinson said, "Less structured, less stress, more opportunities to eat with whoever they want to eat with not just the ones they live next door to."
Do you like the selection?
Resident Roberta Rittenhouse said, "I like it very much. I like the chance to choose what I like."
Resident Oletha Briggs said, "I like a salad, a vegetable and sometimes I eat too much."
It's all being done to evolve with the needs and desires of a technologically evolving and aging population, which expects more and is getting more from care providers.
Lanse Tomlinson with Good Samaritan Home says the baby boomer generation is also much more environmentally conscious and demands private rooms. With that in mind a recycling program will be put in place by the end of the year. An increased number of private rooms will be available after the home completes its newest Alzheimer's unit expansion.
