Glen Haven CEO speaks at AGM

NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — NEW GLASGOW – Lisa M. Smith, Glen Haven Manor’s CEO, was one of the featured speakers at the recent Nursing Homes of Nova Scotia Association AGM held at Northwood’s Ivany Place in Bedford.  
Smith’s talk – The Power of Hygge – Insights from A Healthy Ageing Tour to Denmark gave highlights of the outcomes which resulted from three representatives of Glen Haven Manor being part of a Canadian delegation to Copenhagen for the best practices mission last fall. 
Smith spoke on the benefits of Hygge, which Glen Haven has endorsed as an integral part of its approach to resident care. Another tangible result of what was learned on the tour was the acquisition of new therapeutic equipment such as the Nordic Wellness Chair. 
Three chairs have been installed for the use of residents and one for Glen Haven staff. Comfort is found from rocking motions and music, which generates calming, relaxation and soothing effects. This is a dignified way to support residents with cognitive challenges and a way to also enable staff to recharge and rejuvenate. 
Hygge, the Danish way to live well, is fundamental to how they deliver continuing care. It is an uplifting way of being that comes from warmth, comfort and taking time to “stop and smell the roses.” For Glen Haven, Hygge also means offering ways to support and appreciate team members that are required to provide exceptional quality care around the clock.
Also attending the meeting were Glen Haven’s Janice Jorden, employee relations specialist and Kimberly Dickson, director of communications. Glen Haven was featured in the NHNSA report for its innovative and progressive staff recruitment approach as well as its introduction of therapeutic mechanical pets to provide comfort to memory care residents. 
“Glen Haven is proud to be a member of the Nursing Homes of Nova Scotia Association which is the collective voice for advancing nursing homes in Nova Scotia,” Smith said. “We also take pride in being one of the founders of the provincial organization previously known as CGO and to be part of this evolution and growth. We work together to find solutions to ensure the highest standards and best practices are being offered.”