Elderly patients in St. Joseph's Geriatric Hospital in Ennis can look forward to relaxing in an old-style day room thanks to the official opening of "seomra cuairte" last week. Based on the tradition of going "ar cuaird" or visiting, the room was developed into a fifties example of a farmhouse kitchen to stimulate memories of bygone days for residents. This comfort zone for patients is one of the facilities provided by "A Time to Seek". This is an arts project, which has been developed by the Clare elderly care section of the Mid-Western Health Board and the County Arts Officer, Siobhan Mulcahy.
Since the arrival of artist in residence, Eleanor Feely, a number of projects have been set up encompassing the theme "A Time to Seek". This included the establishment of an in-house radio programme of requests, local news, hospital news, book extracts and music. Although the development of the garden is still in its infancy, it continues to be the source of pride and joy for staff and patients alike. Roses, herbs and apple trees have been sown, the bird table and trough was decorated and there are future plans to develop the flowerbeds, tubs and a garden path.
Last November, sculptor, Sandra Hurley completed a piece of sculpture depicting Madonna and child, which provides a very important feature for residents. Seven patients from Unit Three, who participated in pottery classes created very credible pieces, one of which is on display on the mantlepiece. The most heartening aspect of the project was the involvement of community groups including the Ennis Active Retirement Association, the teenage members of the Ex Libris Library Arts Group on the Gort Road.
Mid-Western Health Board Chairman, Councillor Sean Hillery, who performed the official opening, described the event as just the beginning of this project. The Shannon based councillor told the attendance that further development plans for the room included the introduction of storytelling, matchmaking and music sessions as well as videos. These videos will depict old times and customs in partnership with the residents and the local community.
This room has been of immense benefit to the patients by providing a 'home from home' setting away from the institutional/hospital environment and gives them an opportunity to reflect and share the memories of past times. This has been a delight to observe. "The culmination of the work is a testimony to the creativity of many people but in particular to the excellent craftsmanship of the technical services staff headed by Liam Keehan", he said. Acknowledging the donation of a number of artefacts, which are reminiscent of old times, he pointed out the original idea on paper had translated into a great success.