The code word for this refreshing nationwide movement is "culture change," which is an effort to make long-term care for the elderly less "institutional" and more resident directed.

Construction is well under way on the major renovation project at Parkside Homes Inc. The two "Park Homes" that Parkside is building are intended to create a home-like environment where residents live together more as family.

Last week, the Hillsboro Community Medical Center Long Term Care Unit was one of 10 facilities in the state to receive a PEAK Award from the Kansas Department of Aging for the strides it is making in the same culture-change movement.

This reformation in long-term-care strategies for the elderly is overdue. We affirm the work begun at Parkside Homes and HCMC LTCU and are proud that you are leading the way in this important movement. -DR