Elderly Care:

The French Perspective

Designed to expose professionals to innovative approaches, the program commenced with an introductory seminar where top industry leaders shared insights into the French care system.

The delegation's journey began with a visit to Villa Pia Nursing Home, a medicalized retirement facility managed by the COS Alexandre Glasberg Foundation. Known for its social commitment to health and elderly care, Villa Pia offers a secure and pleasant living environment, complete with communal areas, gardens, and rooms tailored for individuals with reduced mobility. A standout feature is the onsite day nursery for 24 children, which fosters daily intergenerational interactions and activities.

On the second day, the group visited the Village Landais Alzheimer Henri Emmanuelli in Dax. Guided by Mathilde Charon-Burnel, the delegation explored non-medicinal, person-centered approaches to dementia care. The Village Landais focuses on enhancing the quality of life for both patients and caregivers, promoting activities that maintain residents’ cognitive and practical abilities. This approach aligns with broader national and European goals to revolutionize dementia care.

The tour continued with visits to several nursing homes and senior residences. At Association Village Terre-Negre, delegates were warmly welcomed by Florence Coulamy, the Deputy Director and the care team. They received an overview of the village's operations and were introduced to AIDOMI, the largest home help association. Established in 1827 and operating as an EHPAD since 1958, Terre-Nègre Village accommodates up to 400 residents and provides comprehensive services, including medical care, social activities, and specialized units for those with neurodegenerative diseases.

Another key stop was Senior Résidence Les Jardins d'Arcadie, designed to support independent living for seniors while offering a range of services and security features. Accompanied by Sidney Flanda and his team, the delegates toured the residence, visited apartments, and engaged with residents, discussing their experiences.

The tour also included a visit to DOMITYS "Le Millesime", a senior residence that offers a range of accommodations and services designed to support independent living. Loriane Vaurie, Deputy Director, and Cécile Esquerre provided an overview of the Domitys concept, followed by a tour of the facilities and discussions with residents.

Additionally, the group visited Alliagecare "Le Clos des Acacias" Nursing Home. Specializing in the management of medico-social establishments, Alliagecare focuses on the well-being, safety, and comfort of dependent elderly individuals. The delegation met with President Pascale Espaillard and Director Elodie Duisabou, who presented the nursing home’s services and led a tour of the facilities, including interactions with residents.

To conclude the study tour, the delegation visited the Senior residence Les Hespérides Longchamps and Fondation Partage et Vie’s L’Arousiney Nursing Home. At Les Hespérides, the focus was on the range of services provided, including catering, housekeeping, and 24-hour assistance, alongside a tour of the communal areas and resident apartments.
At L’Arousiney, opened in 2012, the group explored its Alzheimer’s unit and engaged with residents and staff, including a special session with geriatrician Mr. Dussaut and municipality representatives. Mrs. Abbadie-Douce, a resident and author, also shared her experiences living at the facility.

This comprehensive program offered an invaluable platform for sharing knowledge and exploring international experiences. It facilitated the creation of lasting professional connections across borders, enriched dialogue among industry experts, and provided new perspectives to enhance the future of aged care in Australia.