Non‑Discrimination Policy
Reflections of Independence
Posted January 05, 2016
Melissa Miyamura is well known among care partners, fellow residents, and visitors because of her warm smile and friendly greetings of "aloha." Melissa, like many of our residents, depends on the use of a wheelchair and is unable to see her full reflection in a mirror placed above the sink in her bathroom. Having a mirror at wheelchair level is incredibly helpful to Melissa when getting herself ready in the morning. Pictured above, Melissa can now see her smiling reflection thanks to a mirror donated from Da Warehouse-Maui and installed at a lower height.
The importance of appearance does not diminish with age. Residents at Hale Makua take pride in how they look and are encouraged to select their clothes daily, and and make other choices related to their dress and appearance. Those in our care feel a greater sense of purpose when they are given opportunities that help them care for their own needs and involve them in making decisions about their care. Mirrors placed at wheelchair height help create an environment that fosters independence.
Melissa is just one of several residents to have a mirror installed in her room, and says that she uses the mirror everyday to get ready. She is so happy to be able to see herself anytime she wants, and appreciates the donation of mirrors from Da Warehouse-Maui to assist residents like her to be able to check their appearance before leaving their room.