Embracing the Eden Alternative in long-term care environments.

As we move toward the new millennium, 76 million Baby Boomers are on the brink of retirement. For some seniors, long-term care will be a necessity. Older adults value independence, physical activity, intellectual curiosity, caring, and spirituality. The long-term care culture is being revolutionized by The Eden Alternative, which strives to decrease loneliness, helplessness, and boredom by developing healthy habitats in a home-like environment. Three key components are children, plants, and companion animals that provide variety and spontaneity in life.