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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Below are some important questions that you may have regarding our residences, the different levels of care we provide and general questions our residents and their families ask most often.
Where do you start? Start your search for a retirement residence with a review of the many information sources such as the Ontario Retirement Communities Association, The Care Guide, Comfort Life or Senioropolis. If you have a residence in mind, speak with the Retirement Manager or Administrator to arrange a tour. The application process for long-term care is managed by Community Care Access Centres (CCAC). A Case Manager will be assigned to you and they will assess your individual needs. To find your local CCAC call 1-800-268-1154 or visit www.ccac-ont.ca. The Retirement Manager or Administrator will be able to provide you with guidance throughout the application process.
How is a retirement residence different than long term care? A retirement resident is usually able to function on their own, with only minimal assistance or supervision. Retirement residences are not regulated or funded by the government in any way. Only ORCA (Ontario Retirement Communities Association) member residents are reviewed by surveyors to ensure they operate using industry standards. Residents in a Long-term care home require greater levels of care on a daily basis. Long-Term Care homes are regulated and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC).
Is an Ontario health card (OHIP) needed? If you are considering long term care, you must be an Ontario resident and have a valid health card. An OHIP card is not required for residency in a retirement residence.
Are subsidies available? Yes, if your annual net income is below $21,000 per year, you may be eligible for a co-payment rate reduction. A Notice of Assessment is required from the previous tax year. Subsidies are only available to long-term care residents residing in basic accommodation. There are no government subsidies available in retirement residences at this time.
Who will take care of all the paperwork? Lifecare staff are trained to complete the administration process and will be there each step of the way to ensure the transition is smooth and seamless.
Do I have to share a room? If the home has private accommodation and you can afford the additional cost, you may request it. You can ask for the type of suite that best suits your needs (and your pocketbook).
Can I come and go as I please? Yes, assuming you are well enough. Residents will be asked to sign in and out for safety and security reasons.
Can I smoke? All Lifecare homes provide an outdoor smoking shelter. You will have to check with the individual home to see if there is a Ministry of Health approved indoor smoking room available. Residents must be able to smoke independently.
Are life enrichment, recreation and wellness programs provided? We take pride in our many diverse programs. They are scheduled seven days a week, based on resident preferences and abilities. We provide programs to meet the Emotional, Social, Physical, Intellectual and Spiritual well-being of our residents.
Do I have choices at meal time? Menus provide alternate choices for each meal. All of our food is prepared on-site and special diets can be accommodated. Snacks are also offered throughout the day.
Can I still enjoy my favourite foods and snacks? We want each resident to live life to its fullest and food is an important part of enjoying your new home. You can continue to enjoy special foods and snacks provided that it doesn't interfere with your prescribed diet.
Can I share a room with my spouse? In our long term care homes, we make every attempt to accommodate married couples, however, this is based on room availability and it may take a short time for this to happen. In our retirement residences, your accommodation option is your choice.
Can my family enjoy a meal with me? Absolutely! We invite family and friends to share meals. Advanced notice is required to make proper arrangements.
Do residents have an opportunity to talk about concerns? Each resident is encouraged to express their concerns at any time. You may go directly to the Administrator, the Director of Care or any Manager, or to the Family or Resident Councils.
Do you respect my privacy? This is your home and your privacy is most important to us. All health records and information are confidential and shared only with the multidisciplinary health care team directly looking after after you. Only specific family members or significant others you have designated can have access to your information. |
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