Heritage Place and The Eden Alternative philosophy recognize that the Elderly face many challenges, and believe that the three plaques of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom account for the bulk of suffering among our Elders. The Eden Alternative principles create a community in which there are antidotes for these plagues.

Loving companionship is available through human and animal contact as an antidote for loneliness. Daily life is excited with variety and spontaneity as an antidote to boredom. This is done by creating an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interactions and happenings can take place. Introducing children, plants and animals to our Elders daily lives allows them the opportunity to give as well as receive, which combats the feelings of helplessness.

Heritage Place is in the ever continuing process of improving our Residents quality of life. We have recently expanded and remodeled our garden and patio area. The garden area offers many opportunities for our Resident’s and Families to enjoy the outdoors. Staff recently built flower and plant boxes that are wheelchair height so Residents can take part in the gardening. Staff and Community members have generously donated their time to help residents plant many new flowers and plants.

Families are encouraged to bring in their own pets to visit with our residents. We have three new rabbits, brought in by a family member, that are located in the back patio. When walking through the facility you’ll notice Cabo, our facility dog lying lazily in the hallway. We have a fish tank, and one soon to come for Sitka Rose, our new street built to serve Residents with special needs like Alzheimer’s and other dementias. One of our Residents even has two birds residing in the room with them, and housekeeping has offered to maintain them.

Many Family members and staff bring in their children to visit with our Residents. Our Activities department has many books, toys and other activities that are fun for our Residents and children to enjoy together. Many local Day Care Centers bring children in to sing songs and visit with our Residents. Halloween will be fast approaching and our Resident’s love to give out goodies to Trick or Treaters.

It is our desire to be a community that encourages close and continuing interaction with Children, Plants and Animals. Heritage Place and The Eden Philosophy believe that it is these relationships that provide the young and old alike with a pathway to a life worth living.