In the discussion about the development of nursing homes, there is often talk of shortages, delays and cost increases. Less often asked at the heart of the matter: Who should build a home for people in the last period of their lives?
Nursing homes are not traditional real estate projects They are people's homes, care workers' workplaces, and part of the basic infrastructure of the health care system Yet there is a risk that the debate will primarily be about square foot prices and margins, as if it were office space.
Non-profit-driven thinking changes decisions
The difference between a non-profit entity and a person operating on profitability assumptions lies in the motivation As profitability within a certain time frame dictates the course, there is pressure to lower start-up costs As operations for at least 40 -60 years are a guiding principle, there is an incentive to invest in quality, safety and working facilities from day one This has been taught to us by the Fishermen's Day Council's almost nine decades of experience.
The Seamen's Day Council, which runs Hrafnista's home, is owned by fishermen's unions and operates for no profit. It has both built Hrafnista's nursing home for equity and been trusted with projects where costs are borne by the state and local authorities.
Building on experience
The essence of our approach is simple but challenging: Building quality, affordable and human homes where operations and daily life go up long-term The key is to systematically look to those who know the business best; nurses, caregivers, janitors, craftsmen and the residents themselves In such conversations, issues are revealed that are rarely seen on the drawing board alone: Plug placement, flooring that reduces the risk of falling, ventilation that reduces infections, acoustics and workflow Designs that take into account real needs are delivered every day, not only on the day of inauguration.
Investments in innovation increase efficiency
Hrafnista's new nursing home at Nesvelli in Reykjanesbær is a good example of a home where innovation in care has been enjoyed, systems that improve the lives of the residents and staff. The building includes air lift systems in all private spaces, a new approach to bath and toilet solutions, a developed access control system, a more powerful medical call system and a safer arrangement of medication design. At first glance, this could look like an accessory, but such investments save significant funds and human resources in the long term.
In day-to-day operations, the innovation results in fewer cases of accidents and falls, increased safety in dispensing medicines and managing medical history, and less physical stress on staff.
Also not counting is the operational optimization that comes with continuous operation, better workflow and fewer disruptions. That optimization creates more time to provide Hrafnista's clients with the services that are really needed.
Trust is based on delivery, not statements
In public works, one thing outweighs most things: Delivering work on time and within agreed limits Experience shows that the Seamen's Day Council has done more for less, both in the short and long term.
Construction of nursing home construction does not work out on its own and requires disciplined project management and a deep understanding of how the houses work in everyday life Trust in public works is not based on who promises the most, but who has shown that he delivers.
More than buildings
Nursing homes are a place of life for people in the last phase of their lives. When successful, it results not only in better conditions for residents, but in less stress on the health system, more job satisfaction and stable services.
In the large development of nursing homes that is currently ahead in Iceland, it is important to look at the parties that have shown in action that it is possible to combine professionalism, efficiency and a human approach.
The question is not only how fast you can build, but how well it will be built for the people who will live and work there for a long time to come.
The author of the article is:
Ariel Pétursson, chairman of the Seamen's Council
