Accommodation

‘Small homes’ are central to our philosophy of care. We have four small individual homes at Aberleigh: Rata and Matai for people who have dementia, and Ngaio, Kowhai for people requiring rest home care.

Small homes have many advantages. Residents come to know the people who care for them better, and forge stronger bonds with one another. Small homes are more homely, with less of an institutional atmosphere. They are less stressful, warmer and friendlier, more inviting, and more relaxed.

Our small homes are designed along the lines of a family home, with an open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining area. Residents have access to their own kitchen, with all the facilities they would enjoy at home: hot water to make a cup of tea, and a sink for the normal homely activities of washing up and drying the dishes. There is an oven, and plenty of bench space for cooking activities. It is wonderful to smell home baking in your own living area, and inviting for visitors and family members as well as residents.

The new lounge in the rest home is now complete, providing another special area for residents to relax together. The room is bright and airy, flowing through to a delightful sheltered patio area surrounded by gardens on every side, where residents will be able to sit and enjoy the fresh air in summer. It is situated alongside the entranceway, enabling residents to feel part of the comings and goings of visitors, family and friends.