Seven years ago, Dr. Bill Thomas began converting a nursing facility in upstate New York into an "Eden" for the elderly. He imported thousands of plants and hundreds of animals in an effort to create a more livable, stimulating environment. Birds, cats, dogs, and even rabbits now provide companionship to residents no longer capable of living independently. In addition, Thomas invites children to visit regularly. Thomas's alternative is aimed at caring for the human spirit as well as the human body. Genuine human caring, claims Thomas, can help substitute for drugs. The new environment also seems to bring out the best in staff by reducing their level of on-the-job stress. Nurses as well as residents have formed close bonds with the animals.