The House of Seniors in Buenavista del Norte welcomed its first residents on 19 March 2004, aiming to meet the demand for residential spaces within the municipality and nearby areas. Since its inception, it has provided a warm home for numerous elderly individuals, offering them an environment where they can engage with their contemporaries, participate in various activities, and receive outstanding care.
Presently, the facility accommodates 45 residents, comprised of 20 permanent residents and 25 daytime guests, with most individuals nearing 90 years old and several surpassing the age of 95. “This indicates that both the assistance and care provided are of exceptional quality, which is why we strive to maintain their residence here, as the house boasts remarkable health,” shares the Councillor for Social Welfare, Héctor Jesús Velá.
The professional team is composed of nurses, cleaning staff, maintenance workers, drivers, psychologists, physiotherapists, and dynamic individuals. Additionally, it features its own kitchen service with suitable equipment that enables the preparation of textured and modified meals for residents who face difficulties with chewing or are at risk of dysphagia. Complementing this is the medical oversight carried out from the Northern Buenavista Health Centre.
Nonetheless, the standout characteristic of this centre is its active engagement with the community. It is a vibrant group that partakes throughout the year in various events organised by the City Council, such as intergenerational meetings and performances, as well as festivities for San Antonio Abad, the local fairs, carnivals, and the Diversa Buenavista festival held in June.
The elderly house operates as a low-requirement centre, meaning that users must not need advanced specialised care. This is a municipal resource, both in terms of its infrastructure and staffing, managed by the IASS.
The City Council remains committed to constructing a third floor, which will enable an increase in the number of residential places and the completion of a gym and basement for physiotherapy services. “The intention is for these areas to also be accessible to elderly individuals involved in the City Council’s outreach programmes, fostering their connection to the house, which is ultimately a space for the Buenavista community,” explains Velázquez.
“To achieve this, it is crucial to reinstate the funding that was lost in the previous term due to poor management during the bidding process, which hindered the ability to execute the work,” elaborates the councillor. If successful, the number of residential places would double, reaching a total of 40.
That represents the primary challenge facing the elderly house today, and although no specific timelines have been announced, Velázquez states that the town hall is “ready to progress” the project. In the meantime, the team continues to strive for the best possible quality of life for the elderly, ensuring that the home maintains its excellent standing.
