Woonzorgcentrum - Vlaamse Ouderenraad

SUMMARy
This publication is a continuation of the project appeal, ‘Thuis in het
rusthuis’, which supported 59 initiatives intended to provide a more
homely and cosy atmosphere in homes for the elderly.
nowadays, we tend to live longer and thus the number of seniors and the
very old is on the increase. old people in need of care can call upon a
wide variety of services that make it possible to remain living longer at
home. for some people there comes a time when moving to a care home
is the best solution for them. Proper preparation is of crucial importance
to ensure the move to new surroundings goes as smoothly as possible.
42 % of the over-85s live in care homes, and the average age is now on
the increase.
Accommodation for old people in need of care falls partly under the
competencies of the regions and here there is disparity. The recent care
home decree in flanders lays a lot of emphasis on continuity of care for
the user and agreement between those offering care. In the Brussels’
Metropolitan Region there are more commercial privately-run rest homes
than public rest homes and non-commercial rest homes. In Wallonia
there are, besides the traditional homes, the Cantou homes: small
communities where the mentally confused live and participate in everyday
activities.
A study conducted among the four groups of actors – residents, personnel,
management and external experts – resulted in a variety of opinions that
have been classified under 12 headings:
1. integrated approach towards older people in need of care;
2. being old and deciding themselves about what is required –
freedom of choice
3. individual identity is the reference point;
4. respect for the wisdom and maturity of the person;
5. an aesthetic environment that is reminiscent of normal
housing;
6. an open environment among society;
7. a multi-generational environment;
8. a human model with personalized medical care;
9. a dignified end to one’s life;
10. organisation of tasks;
11. make old people take responsibility
12. create a positive image of the care home.
Koning Boudewijnstichting Het Woonzorgcentrum in de 21 11
Ste eeuW: een gezeLLige Woonomgeving, zorg incL.