Page 14 - Nourish.pdf

Attributes of a Great Good Place - Ray Oldenburg
1. Neutral ground - where no one is burdened by the role of host or guest; where everyone is approachable; where give-and- take is expected
One of the truly wonderful aspects of the kitchen/dining room is that the elders who reside in that household feel a sense of ownership for that space and yet no one is “burdened by the role of host or guest.” The Homemaker relieves the elder of
the burdensome role of being the host and yet allows them the joy of practicing hospitality, should they wish to do so when family or friends come to visit. Their shared identity as members of the household means that they are not guests either... just people living life in their own home.
2. No class structure - an opportunity to interact apart from social class, rank and roles that divide rather than connect people Although the household provides each elder an environment where they live as equals and is a place where they can celebrate who they are now, it also allows them to bring
with them a lifetime of experiences that are shared and valued by the group. The practice of “breaking bread together” and the conversation that occurs as a part of this daily event is central to the development of this new social unit.
One of the challenges in the household is to not allow the cognitive or functional ability of the different individuals to create either a hierarchy or division among the elders. Being successful in avoiding this type of strati cation requires the team members in the household to be cognizant of the dangers of this dynamic and willing to intervene and facilitate healing if they witness its emergence.
3. Conversation is the main activity, valued in its own right
Life in the kitchen is all about relationship and conversation. Whether it is over a cup of coffee while waiting for breakfast or a group of elders who are just sitting and visiting during the day, there
is something about the kitchen environment that stimulates conversation. Although people come
to the kitchen with a purpose (be it
to drink or eat, or simply to see what all the noise is about) they are quick to nd an easy conversation that is waiting to happen. This is true in family homes around the country and true in households where skilled care is provided as well.
4. An accessible and accommodating place
Having the kitchen be completely accessible to the elders is key to creating a sense of connection and ownership. Providing visibility allows the elders to see what is happening in that area and has the effect of drawing people in “like moths to a ame.” An open kitchen allows the smells and sounds of kitchen life to permeate the rest of the household. Having access to the kitchen enables “refrigerator rights” to become a reality.
5. A setting composed of “regulars” who set the tone of conviviality
and provide an infectious style of interaction
The kitchen is the place where everyone belongs. Every elder has a reason to go there at least three times a day. It is a place they are
©2008 Action Pact, Inc. 14 www.culturechangenow.com