The conversations of life

UK nursing home opens its doors – but only to vegetarians

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The state-of-the-art 46-bed Sai Ram Villa had its grand opening in the suburb of Harrow in northwest London two weeks ago, but unlike other aged care homes, there’s no meat on the menu here.

Owner Sandip Ruparelia operates 16 nursing homes and has been running care aged homes in the local area for almost 30 years.

Why has he opened a vegetarian-only home then?

Vegetarian only

sai-ram“I have had a dream of opening a home in Harrow that serves vegetarian food only. Harrow is a very multicultural community and this home is open to everyone,” he said.

The home does focus mainly on the local Asian community. Many people in the area follow the ancient Indian Jain religion, including the local mayor, which is based around respect for all living things.

But it’s not just for people who are vegetarian for religious reasons – “We have already accepted a Jewish client who wants to become a vegetarian,” Mr Ruparelia says. “It’s more like a hotel than a care home. It’s something for the whole community.”

The new facility, which offers dementia and nursing care, began accepting residents in August, with nine residents already moving in.

It just goes to show there’s a home to suit everyone.

A practising aged care physiotherapist for the past 13 years, Jill has worked in more than 50 metropolitan and regional aged care homes. She has also toured care facilities across the US and Africa. She is a passionate advocate for both the residents in aged care and the staff that serve them.


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