Creating a More Homely Environment at Leopardstown Park Hospital
At Leopardstown Park Hospital, we are continually striving to enhance the lived experience of our residents by creating an environment that feels not just safe and supportive, but truly like home.
Over recent months, a number of initiatives have been introduced across the campus to strengthen this homely atmosphere and ensure that each resident feels a strong sense of comfort, familiarity, and personal connection within their surroundings.
One such initiative is the introduction of personal memorabilia boxes. These allow residents to keep meaningful items close to them, whether photographs, keepsakes, or small personal belongings, helping to maintain identity, connection, and a sense of self within their living space.
In addition, we have developed feature walls within each unit, incorporating framed photographs chosen by residents. These may include personal photos, family members, or images that hold special significance. This initiative not only personalises the environment but also creates opportunities for conversation, reminiscence, and connection among residents, staff, and visitors.
Enhancements have also been made to the physical environment, including the introduction of new settees and sofas in dining and communal areas, alongside the installation of new curtains across several units. These changes are designed to create a softer, more welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
Staff members, including Senior Speech and Language Therapist Mary Byrne, enjoying one of the newly introduced seating areas designed to enhance comfort and promote a relaxed, homely environment.
Newly installed seating and curtains creating a brighter, softer and more welcoming communal space for residents and visitors.
The impact of these improvements is already being felt. Feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how these changes have transformed their day-to-day experience.
Helen, a resident, shared:
“I feel I am at home.”
Residents in RM-3 also expressed how delighted they were with the new curtains, noting how the environment now feels warmer and more familiar.
These initiatives form part of our broader commitment to person-centred care, where the environment plays a key role in supporting dignity, wellbeing, and quality of life.
We will continue to listen to residents and staff, and to build on these improvements, ensuring Leopardstown Park Hospital remains a place where people feel comfortable, valued, and truly at home.