The NPR program “Talk of the Nation” this afternoon, April 2, focused on  the Green House Program with Dr. Bill Thomas.  Dr. Thomas discussed the many benefits of  the ‘Green House’ communities, one of which is that people remain “in contact with nature and the smell of the outdoors.”  The Green House web site indicates a goal to help “elders and others enjoy excellent quality of life and quality of care; where they, their families, and the staff engage in meaningful relationships built on equality, empowerment, and mutual respect.” The link to the NPR program Talk of the nation and the interview with Dr. Thomas is at:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?verified=true&storyId=102656673#commentBlock

I have visited the Green House in Lincoln, Nebraska and it is a very special place.   The design of the house is to foster independence and help eliminate lonliness and boredom.  The link to the Tabitha Green House Program is at:

http://www.tabitha.org/services/campus_services/greenhouse_project.html

One of the many important aspects of the Green House residences is the easy access to the outdoor environment.  Elders can easily walk out the back door onto the patio and spend time talking with other residents or gardening.   They can sit on the front porch and watch all that happens in the neighborhood.   There is a great need to focus attention on creating appropriate outdoor environments for older adults and all of the activities that they will enjoy.  Outdoor areas, such as patios, decks, vegetable gardens, butterfly gardens, etc. are as important as any of the interior rooms of a residence.  There should be a seamless transition, visually and physically, between the interior and exterior areas of a home.

Patio area of the 'Green House' in Lincoln, NE