PRPA Helps Residents Feel More At Home With Updates To Long Term Care Facility

PRPA Helps Residents Feel More At Home With Updates To Long Term Care Facility

May 17, 2023

The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) partnered with Northern Health to support its Neighbourhood & Wrap Door project, a part of the health authority’s greater DementiAbility project at Acropolis Manor. Through a $15,000 commitment from PRPA’s Community Investment Fund, residents of the long-term care facility had their doors and common spaces filled with art and colour to transform the clinical appearance of their surroundings to make the residence brighter, homier, and safer, particularly for residents with dementia.

The unique artwork installed through this project has made it easier for residents, staff, and visitors to identify specific rooms and find their way around Acropolis Manor. Residents were able to choose their own customized vinyl door wraps to mark the entrance to their respective rooms while staff at the Manor aided in selecting unique artwork to enhance common spaces, making the facility more inviting for everyone. Beyond improving the atmosphere and wayfinding, the project has helped residents with dementia and their families feel more secure by camouflaging doorways to avoid patient confusion when unintentionally exiting the facility.

The foyer and seating area at the building’s main entrance were also remodeled with new decals to mimic a vibrant outdoor café, creating a warm and welcoming place for family and friends to visit within the comfort and safety of the facility.

“The project has had very positive feedback from the residents and staff, who directly benefit from the improved functionality and new bursts of colour added to their home at Acropolis Manor,” said Marcie Garinger, Manager of Acropolis Manor. “We are incredibly grateful for the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s tremendous support and commitment through the Community Investment Fund, which made it possible for this essential project to go forward.”

“We are privileged to be able to support the DementiAbility project and aid in improving the daily lives of people living and working at Acropolis Manor, a key healthcare facility in our community,” said Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority. “It’s incredible to see how small changes to artwork can transform a clinical space to make it safer and more welcoming for those that call it home.”