Statistics from the Social and Family Affairs Administration under the Ministry of Health and Welfare reveal that a total of 1,084 nursing homes and retirement communities in the country collectively look after 51,000 elderly residents.
Katherine W. Han checks out clothing for sale in a shop on SLEC premises. (Staff photo/Chin Hung-hao)
According to SFAA Deputy Director Chuang Chin-chu, the quality of geriatric care such facilities deliver has been continuously improving. The government has ramped up standards when evaluating facilities, she said, adding that the focus has shifted from ensuring homes adequately met residents’ basic needs to emphasizing overall well-being.
Assessments currently include 74 areas ranging from worker training and diet personalization to the handling of complaints. MOHW carries out inspections every four years for public institutions and large private facilities, whereas smaller ones with under 50 beds are reviewed by local governments every three to four years.
One of top performers graded by the MOHW is Suang-Lien Elderly Center in New Taipei City. Founded by Suang-Lien Presbyterian Church in 2000, SLEC currently provides a home for 432 seniors, of which nearly half maintain a high level of physical independence.
A physician visits the home regularly to monitor the health of residents. (Courtesy of SLEC)
According to 86-year-old Katherine W. Han, the center provides a rich social life that would be difficult to maintain outside of a care facility.
“I can choose from a wide range of activities specially designed for elderly people like knitting and dance and singing classes,” she said. “I’m leading quite a colorful life here without having to worry about my day-to-day needs.”
SLEC also cares for 154 physically dependent seniors as well as 66 residents with dementia but who have a high degree of physical mobility. Doctors from Mackay Memorial Hospital in neighboring Tamsui District make regular visits to ensure the center stays up-to-date with the health condition of each and every resident, and two ambulances are always on standby in case of emergency.
Seeking ways to further improve the health and happiness of residents, SLEC is also enhancing food offerings for those with difficulty swallowing, among other initiatives.
Classes taking physically dependent seniors through simple health-boosting exercises take place daily at SLEC. (Courtesy of SLEC)
“This reflects the continued effort by Taiwan’s eldercare facilities to ensure a better life for their residents,” SFAA’s Chuang said. “No matter where Taiwan’s senior citizens spend their retirements, they can rest assured they’re in good hands.” (E) (By Oscar Chung)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw
(This article is adapted from “Second Home” in the November/December 2020 issue of Taiwan Review. The Taiwan Review archives dating to 1951 are available online.)