It's only been open for a few weeks, but the new 12-bed unit for Level 3 dementia patients at Enliven's Kandahar Home in Masterton is nearly full. Eleven of the 12 beds are now occupied, with five of the new residents coming from outside the Wairarapa region, Presbyterian Support Central chiefexecutive Chris Graham said. "We recognised that there was a lack of dementia facilities in the region, and we worked closely with the Wairarapa District Health Board to address this. "We're pleased that we've been able to meet expectations by opening the new unit. "We're pleased for the community that a number of people have been able to bring loved ones back to Wairarapa." Asked whether there was any shortage of staff at Kandahar, Mr Graham said: "I'm not aware of there being any staffing issues at all." He said the staff at Kandahar, particularly clinical manager Trish Kerr, had done "sterling work" in getting the new unit up and running. Meanwhile, Kandahar has achieved Eden certification in three areas after an assessment last month. The Eden Alternative - a philosophy being implemented in all Enliven homes throughout the region - recognises that people need to maintain control over their lives, regardless of age. It encourages residents to maintain their interests and passions, as well as connections with family, friends and the community. Kandahar achieved Principle Two (regular contact with
animals, children and the community), Principle Five (an environment with variety and spontaneity) and Principle 10 (wise leadership). Enliven Northern regional manager Sharon Reilly said she is thrilled with the achievement. "It is a testimony to the commitment of the team, who have worked hard to make their homes a better place by creating homes for the older people who live there," she said. "I am so proud of the Kandahar team and was awed by their efforts." Kandahar is one of five Enliven homes to achieve at least two Eden principles at the July assessment.
