• North American culture embraces youth.
• Our society responds to situations only when
they are problems - when someone is in need.
• Older people in North America are often
segregated.
• Our perception on aging shapes the way we
treat elders.
What is the Eden Alternative?
• Founded in 1994 by Dr. William Thomas
• International not-for-profit organization
• Believe that aging is a continued stage of
growth and development
Mission
To improve the well being of
Elders and those who care
for them by transforming
the communities in which
they live and work.
Vision
To eliminate loneliness,
helplessness and boredom.
Values
The 10 principes
Principle One
Loneliness
Boredom
Helplessness
These 3 plagues account for the bulk of suffering among our elders.
Principle Two
An elder-centered community where life
revolves around close and continuing contact
with…
Principle Three, Four and Five
Loneliness
Companionship
Helplessness
Give care
Boredom
Spontaneity
Principle Six
Meaningless activity corrodes the human spirit.
The opportunity to do
things we find meaningful
is essential to human
Health.
Principle Seven
Medical treatment should be the servant of
genuine human caring, never its master!
It is alright to use medication to help elders:
– think more clearly
– do more for themselves (energy)
– relieve pain
It is NEVER okay to use medication to address
the 3 plagues.
Principle 8- An elder-centered community
honors its elders.
Principle 9-Human growth should never be
separated from human life.
Principle 10- Wise leadership is the lifeblood for
any struggle against the 3 plagues.
www.edenalt.org