The construction of a new respite service with so-called smart flats on the grounds of the St.Joseph Home in Žirč near Dvůr Králové nad Labem is in its final stages. It remains to equip the rooms and complete the exterior finishing touches. The construction has so far cost CZK 86 million out of a total of CZK 96 million. The spokesman of the facility, said Jan Staněk. Clients will have access to modern technology designed to help people with reduced mobility to control their surroundings, for example by voice, eyes or head movement. The subsidy amounts to CZK 87 million. A further four million has been contributed by donors and the same amount has so far been raised through a public fundraising campaign www.problbounemoc.cz. The prices include VAT. Construction started in early 2023.
The three-storey building will house the first “smart flats” in the Czech Republic for people seriously ill with multiple sclerosis. There will be nine rooms with a lounge, rooms for professional counselling and specialised therapies. Three of the nine flats will be “smart”. “The goal is to inspire clients and help them live at home for as long as possible,” Stanek said.
People with multiple sclerosis will get short-term temporary housing and professional help in the building, where specialists will train with them and give them practical tips on how to make their lives easier thanks to smart technology and turn their own home into a so-called smart home.
“Rough construction is already underway. What remains to be completed are the outdoor barrier-free adaptations, such as the relaxation zone and the connecting footbridge to the building next door, as well as equipping the individual rooms with technology and rehabilitation aids. We are planning the opening ceremony for 26 April,” said Staněk.
According to him, the price of the construction work has slightly increased to the current CZK 88 million. Around CZK 8 million of the total budget should be spent on equipment and barrier-free modifications of the surroundings.
The public collection started in July 2023. “The construction is almost finished, but over CZK 1 million is still missing for the equipment. That is why the collection is still open. Currently, CZK 4.2 million has been collected,” Staněk said. From the donations, the home will purchase smart technology, wiring, adjustable beds, rehabilitation equipment, furniture and wheelchair accessibility.
The project will help 200 disabled people a year to become more self-sufficient and will also make it easier for people who care for the sick.
According to representatives of the home, those interested will also have the opportunity to contribute to the fundraiser during the MaRS national exercise marathon, which it has joined. The event, which is designed to highlight how important rehabilitation is for multiple sclerosis patients, will be on March 22.
The St Joseph’s Home in Žirč is run by the Červený Kostelec Regional Charity and is the only facility in the Czech Republic dedicated to providing care for people with advanced multiple sclerosis. The home in Žirč combines residential services with rehabilitation with assistance to patients in their homes.
