Eden Alternative

DutchCare has committed itself to developing as its care model the Eden Alternative which strives to create a human habitat rather than a clinical environment. The Eden Alternative is based on 10 principles and recognises that many elders die from the three plagues of loneliness, boredom and helplessness and not from medical conditions. By committing to the Eden Alternative philosophy we are committing to fight these plagues in our facilities and develop strategies that will eliminate these conditions. Pets, plants, children, families and the community are seen as integral to the support and assistance given by the care staff and we are in the early stages of developing our human habitat. Further we recognise that it is important the elder is consulted in the services provided to them and we encourage the elder and their family to be actively involved in care and lifestyle planning.

Elder Care Philosophy

• To provide and maintain a home for those people who would not be able to live a fulfilling life without the provision of special care and facilities.
• To create a happy, homely environment in pleasant surroundings promoting and incorporating the Dutch culture, whilst maintaining the Australian culture to enhance and maintain links with extended family, friends and the general community.
• To enable elders to live with dignity, privacy, peace and happiness.
• To allow and encourage each elder to achieve a maximum degree of independence and to exercise their freedom of choice with regard to individual capabilities.
• To maintain a safe environment for elders, visitors and staff.
• To encourage staff education and training, enabling DutchCare Facilities to provide the best quality care for our elders.

The 10 Eden Principles

Maturing With Soul

Petra's Story