| Size |
120+ beds, with 20-40 bed units |
13 Elders |
| Philosophy |
Focus on medical service for frail patients. |
Focus on home and living to the fullest. It is a home for people who just happen to require medical services. |
| Organization |
Steep bureaucracy where nurse controls all unit activity. |
Direct Care Teams are empowered with nurses visiting the home to provide skilled services. |
| Decision Making |
Made by the organization. |
Placed as close to the Elders as possible. Elders plan menus, activities and routines. |
| Access |
Space belongs to the institution. Residents are often granted limited access. |
Space belongs to the Elders and they have access to all areas of the Cottage. |
| Outdoor Space |
Often challenging to access, especially without assistance. |
Easy to access, shaded and in full view of the hearth and kitchen, providing staff observation. |
| Living Areas |
Most commonly double bedrooms and shared baths. Lounges and dining rooms often at the end of corridors. |
Private suites with private baths and one Grand Suite. A central hearth is adjacent to the open kitchen and dining area with short distances to walk. |
| Kitchen |
Off limits to residents and visitors. |
Elders and visitors have access and many participate in cooking. |
| Nurses Stations |
In the center of most units. |
None. Medication and suppy cabinets are in each room for nurses visits. |
| Dining |
Large dining rooms with many residents. |
One dining area with home-style meals. |
| Staffing |
Departmental. Tasks are divided among serveral people. Average 75% turnover rate. |
Cottage assistants take care of all tasks needed, such as direct care, laundry, housekeeping and cooking. Decrease turnover rate. |
| Visitors |
Limited ability to participate. |
May take part in meals and activities. Elders often host family celebrations.
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