‘My Backyard’ Project at St. Francis Commons Nears Completion

August 31, 2017 Submitted article

OSWEGO – St. Francis Commons Assisted Living Residence in Oswego is nearing completion of construction on a project that has added physical improvements to the residence and uses new technologies to enhance the Memory Care at St. Francis program. The memory care program serves residents with early to mid-stages of a dementia-related illness like Alzheimer’s disease.

Executive Director Karen Murray and St. Francis Commons Director Julie Chetney monitor the progress of the “My Backyard” project. The project includes the installation of new and enhanced courtyard areas with fencing and landscaping, which will provide residents with safe access to the outdoors via enhanced walking paths and features such as planters and other elements to engage the community. The project will be complete in the next couple of weeks.
Executive Director Karen Murray and St. Francis Commons Director Julie Chetney monitor the progress of the “My Backyard” project. The project includes the installation of new and enhanced courtyard areas with fencing and landscaping, which will provide residents with safe access to the outdoors via enhanced walking paths and features such as planters and other elements to engage the community. The project will be complete in the next couple of weeks.

Called “My Backyard,” the project is funded through a $298,000 grant from the New York State Department of Health – Special Needs Assisted Living Capital Improvements program.

The first part of the project involved the use of Personal Activity Monitors (brand name) worn voluntarily by residents to record activity levels as well as sleep and mood state data to be captured.

Using the data, staff will develop the most effective and engaging activities on a resident-by-resident basis, leading to improved wellness and better management of chronic health conditions.

“We know from experience how important it is to create new opportunities for residents to exercise and engage in physical activity that can be integrated into individual routines,” said Julie Chetney, Director of St. Francis Commons. “The unique outdoor space created through this project will increase opportunities for fitness while providing purposeful and engaging activities for our residents affected by dementia.”

Renovations to the outdoor area around the residence is nearing completion. New walking paths incorporate plants, planters, a garden, and other opportunities for engagement. Monitoring technology will provide an added safety feature.

When finished in the next few weeks, the new “Backyard” areas will be available to residents and visitors on a year-round basis as weather permits, and will be easily accessible from the Memory Care neighborhood and other neighborhoods at St. Francis Commons.

Those interested in arranging a tour or more information can contact St. Francis Commons by phone at (315) 326-0870, or by email [email protected].

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