When a person or family identifies a need for a loved one to move to a home providing assisted living, there are usually many questions. This is a big lifestyle change and the adjustment can be intimidating. Licensed Community Care Homes (known in many provinces and states as “Assisted Living Facilities”) are government inspected.
Q. How do I know if my personal care needs can be met in a Licensed Community Care instead of a Manor/Nursing Home?
A. Completion of the Government (Dept. of Health) Senior’s Assessment Screening Tool (SAST) can determine the appropriate place for you or your loved one. SASTs are documents that describe physical and mental health challenges. They are typically completed in the hospital or by Government Home Care Staff.
Persons living at home who are looking for placement call contact your local Home Care and Support office to inquire about moving to a Community Care Centre and having a SAST completed.
Q. What is the major care difference between Nursing Care and Community Care?
A. At Whisperwood Villa, the Nursing Care neighbourhoods are staffed with Geriatric Assistants, Resident Care Workers, Licensed Practical Nurses, and Registered Nurses 24 hours per day. It is designed and equipped to provide medical care.
The Community Care neighbourhoods provide personal and supervisory care 24 hours per day. Another advantage of a dual facility is the RN from Nursing Care can provide medical attention in special circumstances.
Q. What happens if I move into Community Care, then become ill and require a higher level of care?
A. At Whisperwood Villa, you would transfer to the Nursing Care neighbourhood when a bed becomes available.
Q. What happens if I move in to try the place out and then decide I do not like the Home and wish to move out?
A. We operate on a month-to-month rent basis. If you wish to leave, we ask that you provide us with one (1) month’s notice.
We welcome you or your loved one to come and try the place out. Short term or respite care is available when vacancy allows.
Q. What amenities can I expect to be in my room at Whisperwood Villa?
When you move into your new home at Whisperwood Villa, you can bring your own furniture or we can provide a bed, bedside table & lamp, dresser, chair & loveseat, and a small dining table. We also provide bed linens, towels & facecloths. A signalling device on the wall and pendant that calls the staff is also provided.
Q. What about pets?
A. Due to resident and staff allergies, we are not able to allow pets. We do, however, have birds, fish and rabbits in the summer for your enjoyment.
Q. Can a resident take their car?
A. Yes! You will be provided with parking space.
Q. Do I have to pay for my medication?
A. Medication is not included in the rate you pay for care services. However, those who qualify for financial assistance will receive most of their drugs under the Provincial Drug Plan.
Q. Can I look after my own medication?
A. No. For accurate administration and safety reasons, your medication will be ordered, stored and administered by the Home staff in both the Community Care and Nursing Care neighbourhoods.
Q. Once I accept a place in a LCCF and move in, will I be able to periodically leave the facility?
A. YES! Provided your health permits, you may come and go as you please. Residents may leave to go out for a meals, for overnight or for an extended stay.
Q. What if I am on a special diet?
A. We can cater to most special diets and have the Provincial Dietician as a resource to ensure adherence to specific diets.
Q. When is visiting hours?
A. There are no visiting hours. Family and friends are welcome at any time of the day or night, within reason, just like in your own home.
Q. How many staff are on duty?
A. The Provincial Government regulates the number of staff on duty. At all LCCFs, there are sufficient staff to provide the required assistance and personal care 24 hours per day.
In Nursing Care, there are 8 Caregivers (RCW & GA), a LPN, and 2 RNs on days; 7 caregivers, a LPN and 2 RNs on evenings; 3 caregivers and a RN on Nights.
In Community Care, there are 4 Caregivers and the LPN Manager on days, 4 caregivers on evenings and 2 caregivers on nights. At any time of the day, we have access to a RN from the Nursing Departments.
Q. Will my doctor visit me at the facility?
A. Whisperwood Villa has a house doctor that you can transfer to or you can keep your own doctor. You may keep your own doctor but it may mean you will have to go to their office for appointments.
Q. Is my rent tax deductible?
A. Many residents reside in a Licensed Community Care Facility at the request of their doctor. In such cases the expense becomes an eligible expense under the Income Tax Act and is fully deductible. A certificate must be signed by the doctor and forms completed for the Canada Revenue Agency. Please check with your accountant.
Q. My family would like to hold birthday and anniversary parties. Is it possible?
A. YES! The Activity Department would be happy to help with arrangements.