If South Africa had a Blue Zone it would be Mount Edgecombe

South Africa's ageing population is growing. Currently, approximately 4.209 million South Africans are aged 60 and older, a figure projected to increase to 10.06 million by 2050. This growing population highlights the importance of age-friendly environments that support quality of life, good health and social wellbeing.

Dan Buettner identified several regions around the world, known as the Blue Zones, where people enjoy exceptionally long lives, often reaching 100 years and beyond. These include Ikaria in Greece, Sardinia in Italy and Okinawa in Japan.

Research into these communities identified nine common lifestyle principles associated with longevity: moving naturally, having a sense of purpose, managing stress, eating until 80% full, following a predominantly plant-based diet, moderate wine consumption, belonging to a community, putting family first and maintaining social connections.

TOTALCARE Founder and Director, Cornel Nieuwenhuizen, explains:

"Our philosophy is linked to the 'Blue Zones' approach that identifies factors for healthy ageing, and one key factor is social interaction with your community. When we begin conceptualising a care centre, we marry practicality, regional context, the emotional impact of space and ways to foster greater community interaction."

With a deliberate move away from the traditional concept of old-age homes, Mount Edgecombe Village places social interaction and community living at the heart of its design. Communal spaces, comfortable lounges and inviting rest areas are thoughtfully positioned to encourage residents to connect, interact and enjoy time together.

The physical environment is equally important. Mount Edgecombe Village takes a proactive approach to resident safety, with spaces designed to minimise the risk of falls and accidents. Steps are reduced wherever possible, loose carpets and rugs are avoided, and soft-edged furniture and finishes help create a safer environment.

Furniture is specifically selected for the comfort and mobility requirements of older people. Sturdy chairs provide adequate support, while appropriate seating heights and depths make sitting down and standing up easier for residents with compromised mobility. Coffee tables are replaced with softer ottomans where appropriate to minimise potential hazards.

Natural light is incorporated throughout the communal lounges and rest areas through large windows and glass doors. Covered patios provide additional opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors, while landscaped surroundings offer welcoming spaces to relax and socialise.

These thoughtful design elements demonstrate how the physical environment can contribute to the emotional and physical wellbeing of older people. By encouraging movement, independence and social engagement, Mount Edgecombe Village aims to create a place where residents feel comfortable, safe and connected.

TOTALCARE combines the comfort and sophistication of a hotel with the care and attention of private, specialised nursing. Our preventative approach focuses on maintaining residents' health through professional care, good nutrition, physical activity and meaningful social interaction.

Mount Edgecombe Village adopts a holistic approach to older-person care, addressing both the practical and emotional aspects of healthy ageing. Being part of a safe residential community, with opportunities for social, physical and mental activities, helps foster a sense of belonging.

The connection between the care centre and the surrounding village is an important part of this philosophy. It encourages multi-generational living, social interaction and interdependence, creating a community where residents can support and enrich one another's lives.

As our Facility Manager acknowledges:

"We dedicate our success in excellent service delivery to our passionate staff, without whom none of what we do would be possible. Our Nursing Services Manager's knowledge and understanding of geriatrics is invaluable, as is our kind-hearted Care Liaison, Amy Topper's compassionate demeanour."

As Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner explains:

"To make it to age 100, you have to have won the genetic lottery. But most of us have the capacity to make it well into our early 90's and largely without chronic disease. The average person's life expectancy could increase by 10-12 years by adopting a Blue Zones lifestyle."

TOTALCARE would love to show you around. Feel free to be in touch to arrange a viewing.