The Eden alternative

What is the Eden alternative?
The Eden Alternative is a philosophy that identifies and accepts the fact that people living in long term care facilities are suffering from three plagues more than any disease process. The plagues are loneliness, helplessness and boredom.

What can we do about the 3 plagues?
These three plagues are treatable and the treatment is care. Caring by providing an environment that is full of companionship, variety and spontaneity, and where the ability to give care as well as receive care, is the common thread.

What do you mean by Care?
Caring is not treating. When we care, we are promoting growth, whether it is for others or ourselves. When we treat, we are attempting to fix something. We cannot always fix the disease process but we can create a community where there is caring.

How does the MSJ vision support Eden?
The Vision, Mission, Values and Resident Rights of MSJ were created to support the Eden Alternative. Our vision is
“A welcoming Christian community giving life meaning”. It is suggesting that the life we want to provide for those that live at MSJ is one where each day is meaningful for them.

Why is community import?
Community is necessary for the growth of Eden. In order to create a home environment in long term care, it takes all members of the community to be creative, flexible, and practice teamwork. The whole community needs to have a common vision that everyone can work toward together.

How can I be part of the community?
Take part in the Eden team where your loved one resides. Team meetings are held twice a month in each neighborhood. If you do not have a loved one in the home but want to be a part of the Eden Philosophy then just let us know and we will connect you with one of our teams. In the main hallway of the home is a wall dedicated to the Eden Alternative. Each of the “Eden Teams” display information about their gatherings and upcoming events.

This is where they share how they practice Eden at MSJ. We welcome you to be a part of what we do. With the support of others we can be “Eden better”.

What kinds of things can I do to help?
We appreciate that each person is gifted and we would love for you to share your gifts with us. Perhaps you like to sing, garden, or come and visit with your pet! You may want to help at a wiener roast or take a resident for a walk. Whatever you choose to do with the elders it will help to alleviate loneliness, helplessness or boredom. That will be your gift to others. You’ll see it is a give & receive situation. The rewards are endless.

Call Mont St. Joseph Home @ 953 –4500 to be put you in touch with someone that will help you. We would like to thank you from the bottom of our elders’ hearts.