Date: August 1, 2007
Contact: Barbara Schoof Conant
barbara.conant@aging.ks.gov
Director of Public Affairs
(785) 296-6154
Secretary of the Kansas Department on Aging Kathy Greenlee will visit Brewster Health Center, 1001 SW 29th St., Topeka, on Wednesday, August 8, to recognize it as one of nine PEAK award-winning adult care facilities. PEAK stands for Promoting Excellent Alternatives in Kansas nursing homes.
The Secretary will tour the facility at 3 p.m., followed by a presentation at 3:30 p.m.
“Resident-directed care is changing the dynamics of the nursing home environment, not only for residents but also for staff,” Greenlee said. “Kansas has become recognized nationally as a leader in this movement, thanks to the foresight and leadership of the administrators and staffs of the nine PEAK winners. These homes are excellent examples of the new direction in adult care.”
Here are some of the characteristics that make the home a winner:
Brewster Health Center, Linda Farrar, administrator: Brewster has implemented a process to determine the goals of each elder and then works toward attainment of those goals, which may be shopping with family or boating. One man wanted to see and pet a horse, so one was brought to the home. Staff members are consistently assigned, resulting in a relationship of trust between staff and residents. Nurses’ stations have been removed and the areas are now used as common areas for elders. Residents are encouraged to continue participation in community groups. Intergenerational activities include high school students as well as pre-schoolers.
Other PEAK winners are:Greeley County Health Services, Tribune; Medicalodge of Kinsley; Schowalter Villa, Hesston; Bethel Health Center, North Newton; Pleasant View Home, Inman; Salina Presbyterian Manor, Salina; Village Manor, Abilene; and Village Shalom, Overland Park.
KDOA began recognizing adult care homes through the PEAK Awards in 2002. Facilities must submit an application for consideration for the honor. Finalists are visited by a panel of professionals before awards are determined.