Earlier this year, Minnesota Veterans Homes - Hastings Domiciliary (DOMS) hosted a heartfelt memorial service honoring the unique life journeys of Residents who had passed away. Residents, caregivers and other team members of this tightknit community gathered in the chapel, not only to mourn those losses, but to celebrate the lives of their comrades.

The service began with a moment of silence; a single candle was lit in front of a framed portrait of each of the eight Veterans who died during the past year. Caregivers then shared their own stories and experiences with each Resident. Many Veterans also recalled interactions they had with their “Dom-mates.” Service anthems for all of the United States military branches were played. The ceremony concluded with a prayer, cementing the peace and reflection felt by all.

Administrator Leah Killian-Smith noted that this memorial service demonstrated the deep respect and affection held for the former Residents. It also underscored the importance of providing holistic care and maintaining a strong community that recognizes the lives of those who have passed.

What is Domiciliary Care?

The Hastings Domiciliary is licensed as a boarding care facility operated and managed by the Minnesota Veterans Homes. This supportive environment helps to independently foster Residents looking to build and maintain a stable, healthy and meaningful life.

It uses a Three Paths Program that addresses the diverse needs of Residents. The program shines the light on three key areas of development: personal growth, mental and emotional support, and long-term community support. Known as Fire, Water and Earth, each path aims to enhance the quality of life for all Residents by providing a holistic approach to care that aligns with individual preferences and needs.

• Fire Path: Focuses on income, housing, financial planning, employment, community health and relationships as well as encouraging Residents to achieve independence and self-sufficiency.
• Water Path: Concentrates on supportive services, medication management, coordination of care and crisis management. Residents choose programs that are relevant to their unique situation and specific goals including coordination of mental health services. Individuals discover what is important to help them thrive every day.
• Earth Path: Designed for long-term residence in the Domiciliary program emphasizing holistic health, community social activities and supportive programming with volunteer work and financial wellness to help Residents age in place effectively.

Administrator Killian-Smith says that this comprehensive program has had a profound impact on the lives of its Residents, positively contributing to their overall wellbeing and quality of life. Through personal growth opportunities, social interactions and emotional support, DOMS’ Residents are able to have their needs and preferences addressed so they can thrive in a supportive environment.

To learn more, visit /mdva/homes/index.jspMinnesotaVeteran.org/Homes.