Estate Living Magazine Retirement & Healthcare - Issue 31 | Page 39

Livewell Bryanston
What we are trying to do is create a new home for someone who has a specific condition ."
The suites are provided fully furnished , but many residents prefer familiar furniture and other household items .
As part of the admissions process , an interior consultation will be undertaken with the family to establish how to decorate the suite prior to the new resident moving in .
‘ What we are trying to do is create a familiar space for our newcomers , easing the transition into their new home ,' explains Ivan Oosthuizen , Livewell ’ s CEO . playing music , and doing arts and crafts . For some families , a dedicated facility such as Livewell Villages can be invaluable , especially as the condition progresses and their loved one needs increasing care , for example with dressing warmly or switching off the electric blanket in winter , or with eating and personal hygiene on a day-to-day basis . Every room has a call button for emergencies and can accommodate assisted showering .
The facility accepts people who are diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer ’ s . Its in-house occupational therapist creates a personalised programme for each resident that includes structured activities and managed outings . It provides 24 / 7 nursing care and medical emergency services , personal grooming , pet care , and one-on-one care as needed , in addition to practicalities such as meals , laundry and security . Its staff is trained to understand many of the presentations of dementia and how to handle them .
Although they are healthcare facilities , Livewell residences look and feel like boutique hotels . The rooms are beautifully designed and luxurious , the grounds are gorgeous and extensive , and throughout the property there are groups of people enjoying a game on the bowling green , or practicing yoga , or drumming , or baking or doing woodwork , or strolling with their dogs . There are even one or two people getting their nails done .
Oosthuizen says : ‘ We take over the complete care of our residents , including management of their medication , taking them to doctor ’ s appointments , making sure they eat well , helping them to dress , walking their dog , and all the daily things that would normally happen in a familial setting .' By taking on this role , the Livewell professional team is able to ensure a better quality of life for the individual and provide relief to the family .
Families who are considering full-time care for their loved one with dementia can visit the facilities and consult with Livewell ’ s family advisors before making a decision .
Each of the facility ’ s nursing care teams is dedicated to a small group of residents , depending on the specific needs of individuals in the group . Each team includes a Quality of Life
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