New Belgian Nursing Home Caters to Elderly Immigrants’ Cultural Needs

Saphir, this is the name of the brand new retirement home that has opened its doors in Laeken, and which is sensitive to culture, reports BX1. Its target? The elderly from immigrant backgrounds who are becoming increasingly numerous and who have particular needs: "By definition, culturally sensitive care takes into account the culture, religious beliefs and values of each resident. (...) We already serve halal cuisine for those who wish and have set up separate prayer spaces with hygiene facilities. Because we are committed to offering our residents tailor-made care," explains Sophia Peeters, COO of the Korian group.

Almost all religious holidays are celebrated at Saphir. "We will celebrate the Feast of Sacrifice there, but also Christmas and Easter," says Sümeyye Soydemir, Project Manager in culturally sensitive care. "That’s why the Saphir employees decorate the living environment with cultural elements: here a carpet, there a specific music. The residents recall aspects of their past, which improves their feelings and well-being," justifies the retirement home.

Saphir has 199 individual rooms and 14 service residences spread over 7 floors, including the third, which is specifically designed for the Muslim community of Brussels, it is further specified.