We have recently renewed our membership on The Eden Alternative^® Registry, reaffirming our commitment to improving the quality of care and quality of life for the people who live and work here. Our 50 Certified Eden Associates continue to educate those connected with their home about person-directed care, based on the Ten Principles of The Eden Alternative. As we deepen our understanding of these concepts, the residents and those closest to them are being honored, respected and are growing as individuals, thus transforming how care is provided for the over 300 people who live at Hale Makua.

As a member of the Registry, we joinThe Eden Alternative as a leader in the “culture change” movement in long-term care. “Culture change” is the common name for a global initiative focused on transforming care, as we know it, for residents and individuals living with disabilities. It advocates for a shift from institutional models of care to person-directed values and practices that put the person first. Weconsistently demonstrates the core person-directed values of choice, dignity, respect, self-determination and purposeful living.

“Here at Hale Makua Health Services, we have reaffirmed our status as an Eden Registered Home, and our team remains committed to creating a warm, loving home using the principles and practices of The Eden Alternative,” said Connie Miller, Hale Makua Wailuku Administrator. Since becoming an Eden Registered Home in 2009, Hale Makua Health Services has made many changes to create a life worth living for our residents free from the three plagues of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom. “We are all benefitting from our partnership with The Eden Alternative as we transform Hale Makua Health Services into a resident-centered community, where the residents and the staff, who work with them as care partners, grow and thrive together. The well-being of the residents and their care partners continues to improve, as we move forward and put the Eden Philosophy to work.”

Research shows that improving working conditions and the quality of work-life in long-term care environments is vital. When direct care providers are nurtured, cared for, and respected, they provide better quality of care for residents. Improving the way we, as a society, provide long-term care will have a significant impact on many millions of Americans as the population ages and begins to rely more on the support of others to meet basic daily needs.