Vanderhoof’s Stuart Nechako Manor is celebrating its 11th year of providing complex care and comfort for the community’s older generation.
Manor doors were open to the public on Oct. 12 as residents gathered for live music, refreshments, and celebrations of recent birthdays.
As part of an increasing focus on having a homelier environment, the facility’s common areas are repainted with new colours this season, as well as updated with new paintings and furniture.
“We’re making it into a place that the residents want to see,” said Marnie Bell, the manor’s recreation therapist. “Our goal is to make it as much a home environment as possible.
“Also giving people choice in letting them decide what to do, instead of a routine.”
Adult community programs are currently hosted at the facility three days a week, including activities such as baking, exercising, bingo, excursions, as well as the intergeneration project, where elementary classes visit, converse, and work on classes with residents.
Since the manor’s opening 11 years ago, a Prince George band also provides live music entertainment once a month — with only two cancellations due to weather or life events.
“They also volunteered at many complex care homes in Prince George,” Bell said. “It’s impressive, their dedication and commitment.”
For Joe Whittet, who moved from southern Okanagan region to the manor last December, the manor offers reprieve from day-to-day chores.
“You don’t have to wash dishes, cook, or clean the house,” Whittet said.