We have met new people who have had diverse backgrounds and have found them to be new friends which we can share our experiences with.
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May 1, 2024
Local not-for-profit focused on supporting people in living their best lives
Question: Annie, can you tell us more about the Eden Alternative Program that Lonnie mentioned at Town Meeting? He said you had attended this program.
Answer: The Eden Alternative is a not-for-profit organization focused on providing resources, training and support to retirement communities. They strive to de-institutionalize the culture and environment of traditional long-term care communities, while living the core belief that aging should be a continued stage of development and growth. They are focused on eradicating what they identify are the three plagues: loneliness, helplessness and boredom.
My first experience with The Eden Alternative was 15 years ago. One of the trainers was LaVrene Norton, who you may recognize as the co-author of In Pursuit of the Sunbeam with Steve Shields. While on a break at the training, I overheard LaVrene sharing about the “Household Model” concept and invited myself into the conversation. I brought back the information I learned with great excitement and shared it with Steve. As he explains in his book, I cost the organization a million dollars with this idea.
The Eden Alternative was founded in 1991 by Dr. Bill Thomas, a Harvard educated physician and board certified geriatrician. They have trained over 17,000 Eden Associates (currently 7 of us at Meadowlark Hills are trained associates) and they have 300 registered homes. To become an Eden registered home we will demonstrate that we are continuing to work towards meaningful culture change.
I am certain there will be more information about the Eden Alternative and plenty of opportunities for your involvement.
Additionally they have a wonderful website. If you are interested please visit, www.edenalt.org.
We have met new people who have had diverse backgrounds and have found them to be new friends which we can share our experiences with.
2121 Meadowlark Road
Manhattan, KS 66502
Directions & Map
Call: 785.537.4610
Email: info@meadowlark.org
April 18, 2024
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May 3, 2024