Iowa Makes Changes in Nursing Home Care

October 30, 2006

West Des Moines, Iowa - Most of us have become accustomed to nursing home care, where the daily lives of residents are directed by the routines of the nursing home. Residents are told when to get up in the morning, what they will have for breakfast and when they will take their showers.

“Nursing homes in Iowa and nationwide are adopting a new philosophy, moving from a one-size-fits-all approach to one that puts people’s needs, wants and desires first,” said Kim Downs, of the Iowa Foundation for Medical Care. “We are very encouraged by the changes we are seeing in long term-care.”

IFMC is working with nursing homes across Iowa to individualize the care provided to residents, which includes more person-centered choices about care and routines of daily living.

Person-centered care empowers residents to direct their own care and encourages caregivers to build more personal relationships with those they care for. It puts the decisions about everyday activities in the hands of the residents and the staff who care for them.

Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls began its journey towards person directed care when the facility started consistent staff assignment. This practice ensures residents are regularly cared for by the same caregiver. Next they moved to the dining room where meal service was changed to menu style and the residents can select their entrée and a salad bar was added. “We are working to make our facility more like home and giving our residents more control over their schedule and activities. We are changing our facility and the way we do things to satisfy our residents,” said Chris Wolf, administrator.

Nursing homes across the state are implementing new programs that pair each resident with a staff member. They spend time together doing special activities and getting to know one another. Deb West of Parkview Home in Wayland implemented a Friendship Club which pairs residents with a staff member who engage in one-on-one activities like going out for ice cream, reading stories and writing letters. “We are so pleased with the positive response we have received from staff and residents. It is so important that we continue to look for new ways to improve the quality of life for our residents.”

Media Contact:
Deb Innis, 515-440-8224