With the closing of the Rideau Regional Centre (RRC) institution in Smiths Falls, the demand for residential care within the Perth area had increased significantly. Plans were made to create a total care facility that was specifically designed for the requirements of six residents. The result was a balance between the practical needs of total care and a cozy home environment. For example, in each individually decorated bedroom, a mechanical lift is used to ensure the safety of the residents and staff. The home also features specialized bathing equipment and an elevator to take the residents to the activity rooms on the lower level.
In September 2008, after much work and anticipation, six ladies moved from RRC to Cameron House, Tayside’s fifth community home. The hard work and organization on the part of the RRC and TCO staff paid off, as the transition was relatively seamless. All six ladies appeared to settle right in and make Cameron House their home.
Cameron House had its official opening ceremony on January 11, 2009 and was named in memory of Nancy Cameron. As a long time board member and volunteer, Nancy worked diligently on the fundraising committee that supported specialized programming at TCO.
The New Year brought the ladies a new housemate from the Supported Independent Living (SIL) program. The seventh resident of Cameron House was thrilled to learn that she would be moving into the town of Perth so she would have easier access to family, friends and community resources. Equipped with her own apartment, she could live independently yet receive that little bit of extra support she needs.
The ladies at Cameron are still waiting for their wheelchair van, but once it arrives you may want to call ahead before coming (just to make sure they’re home!) Most of the ladies enjoy getting out in the community and can’t wait until the snow melts so they can go for walks at Conlon Farm or wheel downtown to do some errands.
Cameron House’s next project is the completion of a multisensory stimulation room. It will be specially designed to stimulate the various senses by using lighting effects, color, sounds, textures, music and scents. This space will provide the type of tranquil get-a-way that has proven to reduce stress, stimulate brain function and improve the quality of life of those with physical and developmental challenges.
-The Ladies at Cameron House February 2009