St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre Brantford - Information Guide by Willow Publishing

Welcome!

On behalf of our Board of Trustees, Leadership Team, staff, physicians and volunteers we offer you a warm welcome to St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre Brantford (SJLCB) community.

SJLCB was founded upon the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph and their healing mission, which continues to inspire our unique blend of care and caring centered on the whole person – body, mind and spirit.

We are dedicated to delivering compassionate, person-centered care through discovery, innovation, and partnership. Your quality of care is our highest priority. We are confident that you will find our dedicated and skilled staff, medical and support services are designed to make your experience of care comfortable and enjoyable.

We feel honoured to serve you and your family and hope you will feel right at home. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team.

Sincerely,

Karen Candy, Vice President, St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre Brantford

St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre

This handbook has been developed to assist current and prospective Residents and their families to become familiar with the programs and services available at the Lifecare Centre.

Your independence is valued, and you are encouraged to make as many decisions as possible in structuring your life at the Centre. A variety of therapeutic programs and recreational activities have been developed and implemented both for resident home areas and central activities.

Family members are encouraged to attend interdisciplinary conferences, activities and any entertainment offered throughout the Centre.

Management and staff are open to your suggestions and concerns. Please do not hesitate to speak with the Registered Staff on the resident home areas should you have an issue that needs prompt attention.

Please remember that adjusting to a new living arrangement takes time. Give yourself adequate time to feel comfortable in your new surroundings. Our staff is more than willing to assist you in any possible way.

Purpose and Significance

St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre is poised to build on the strengths of the past to offer a unique model of health care that meets the needs of our community now and into the future.

Our Long-Term Care Facility accommodates 205 residents in a beautiful home-like environment. An individualized, multi-disciplinary approach to meeting each resident’s physical, emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual needs is utilized. Twenty-four-hour nursing and personal care includes: palliative care, pastoral care, recreation and restorative care and opportunities to interact with children through the on-site daycare programming.

The Stedman Hospice, operated independently from the Long-Term Care Facility, will assist people facing life-threatening illness and promote professional, compassionate support. Patients and families can access extensive day wellness programs, community outreach services, in-house palliative care, and a resource library. A Family Practice Unit, a team of Physicians who operate their practice on site as well as Specialists, clinics for diabetes and continence care all round out our comprehensive list of programs and services.

Regardless of the Program, our goal is to emphasize life. Whether it is the life of a child at daycare or the last days in the life of a senior, we will always focus on life and living life to the fullest, with dignity, comfort, and care.

Mission Statement

The St. Joseph’s Lifecare mission is rooted in Christ’s healing ministry and in the tradition of the Sisters of St. Joseph, whose commitment to the poor, sick and needy is marked by courage, compassion and caring. These values have shaped St. Joseph’s in the past and give direction to its future.

In this spirit, we the Board of Trustees, staff and Volunteers honour this commitment to our community.

We believe in the sacredness of life and respect the dignity and integrity of each person; therefore, we provide compassionate care for those in need regardless of religious beliefs, race, sex, marital or economic status.

We believe in family centered care; therefore, we will champion the needs of our residents and their families.

We are committed to the highest standards within a caring environment; therefore, we will promote excellence and assure quality in our services.

We believe that knowledge and information are key ingredients to quality resident care; therefore, we extend educational opportunities to our staff, volunteers, residents, and community at large.

We believe in the responsible use of our resources; therefore, St. Joseph’s, in collaboration with others, or alone, will provide innovative solutions to the unmet health care needs of the community we serve.

Thus, with pride in our rich Catholic traditions, St. Joseph’s is poised to respond creatively and vigorously to the Long-Term health needs of Brantford and Brant County.

Mission Living the Legacy

Resident’s Bill of Rights

Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021

(1) Every licensee of a long-term care home shall ensure that the following rights of residents are fully respected and promoted:

RIGHT TO BE TREATED WITH RESPECT

1. Every resident has the right to be treated with courtesy and respect and in a way that fully recognizes the resident’s inherent dignity, worth and individuality, regardless of their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status or disability.

2. Every resident has the right to have their lifestyle and choices respected.

3. Every resident has the right to have their participation in decisionmaking respected.

RIGHT TO FREEDOM FROM ABUSE AND NEGLECT

4. Every resident has the right to freedom from abuse.

5. Every resident has the right to freedom from neglect by the licensee and staff.

RIGHT TO AN OPTIMAL QUALITY OF LIFE

6. Every resident has the right to communicate in confidence, receive visitors of their choice and consult in private with any person without interference.

7. Every resident has the right to form friendships and relationships and to participate in the life of the long-term care home.

8. Every resident has the right to share a room with another resident according to their mutual wishes if appropriate accommodation is available.

9. Every resident has the right to meet privately with their spouse or another person in a room that assures privacy.

10. Every resident has the right to pursue social, cultural, religious, spiritual and other interests, to develop their potential and to be given reasonable assistance by the licensee to pursue these interests and to develop their potential.

11. Every resident has the right to live in a safe and clean environment.

12. Every resident has the right to be given access to protected outdoor

areas in order to enjoy outdoor activity unless the physical setting makes this impossible.

13. Every resident has the right to keep and display personal possessions, pictures and furnishings in their room subject to safety requirements and the rights of other residents.

14. Every resident has the right to manage their own financial affairs unless the resident lacks the legal capacity to do so.

15. Every resident has the right to exercise the rights of a citizen.

RIGHT TO QUALITY CARE AND SELF-DETERMINATION

16. Every resident has the right to proper accommodation, nutrition, care and services consistent with their needs.

17. Every resident has the right to be told both who is responsible for and who is providing the resident’s direct care.

18. Every resident has the right to be afforded privacy in treatment and in caring for their personal needs.

19. Every resident has the right to,

i. participate fully in the development, implementation, review and revision of their plan of care,

ii. give or refuse consent to any treatment, care or services for which their consent is required by law and to be informed of the consequences of giving or refusing consent,

iii. participate fully in making any decision concerning any aspect of their care, including any decision concerning their admission, discharge, or transfer to or from a long-term care home and to obtain an independent opinion with regard to any of those matters, and

iv. have their personal health information within the meaning of the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 kept confidential in accordance with that Act, and to have access to their records of personal health information, including their plan of care, in accordance with that Act.

20. Every resident has a right to ongoing and safe support from their caregivers to support their physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing and their quality of life and to assistance in contacting a caregiver or other person to support their needs.

21. Every resident has the right to have any friend, family member, caregiver or other person of importance to the resident attend any meeting with the licensee or the staff of the home.

22. Every resident has the right to designate a person to receive information concerning any transfer or any hospitalization of the resident and to have that person receive that information immediately.

23. Every resident has the right to receive care and assistance towards independence based on a restorative care philosophy to maximize independence to the greatest extent possible.

24. Every resident has the right not to be restrained, except in the limited circumstances provided for under this Act and subject to the requirements provided for under this Act.

Note: On a day to be named by proclamation of the Lieutenant Governor, paragraph 24 of subsection 3 (1) of the Act is amended by striking out “restrained” and substituting “restrained or confined”. (See: 2021, c. 39, Sched. 1, s. 203 (3))

25. Every resident has the right to be provided with care and services based on a palliative care philosophy.

26. Every resident who is dying or who is very ill has the right to have family and friends present 24 hours per day.

RIGHT TO BE INFORMED, PARTICIPATE, AND MAKE A COMPLAINT

27. Every resident has the right to be informed in writing of any law, rule or policy affecting services provided to the resident and of the procedures for initiating complaints.

28. Every resident has the right to participate in the Residents’ Council.

29. Every resident has the right to raise concerns or recommend changes in policies and services on behalf of themself or others to the following persons and organizations without interference and without fear of coercion, discrimination, or reprisal, whether directed at the resident or anyone else:

i. the Residents’ Council.

ii. the Family Council.

iii. the licensee, and, if the licensee is a corporation, the directors and officers of the corporation, and, in the case of a home approved under Part IX, a member of the committee of management for the home under section 135 or of the board of management for the home under section 128 or 132.

iv. staff members.

v. government officials.

vi. any other person inside or outside the long-term care home.

Resident’s Responsibilities

As in all human societies, individuals have not only rights, but also obligations and responsibilities to one’s fellow residents and to the management of the home in which one is receiving care and shelter.

To observe the rules and regulations of the home as in effect at the time of admission and as altered from time to time.

To treat one’s fellow residents, roommates, table companions and staff with courtesy and consideration, and to always bear in mind their rights.

To always observe the smoking regulations for one’s own protection and that of other residents and staff.

To participate always, and with promptness, in fire and disaster drills.

To use with care all supplies, linens, and furnishings just as if they were one’s own.

To provide truthful information to the appropriate home staff and administration concerning all aspects of one’s mental, physical, and financial and status to keep them informed of any change in these.

To consider that other residents may require more assistance, and more urgently, than oneself. One cannot always be served first.

To report promptly anything one feels needs attention, i.e., safety hazards, security, or anything one feels is not right.

To give the Registered Staff or any of the Administrative Staff an opportunity to correct a complaint or grievance by speaking to them directly if one does not obtain satisfaction within a reasonable time, write, or go to an elected officer of the Resident’s Council or the board of trustees.

To be fair and loyal to one’s fellow residents and the home staff.

To participate in as many of the home’s activities as one may desire. They are planned for the benefit and entertainment of all.

To sign out, in accordance with home policy, when one goes out. This is for one’s own benefit and safety.

To associate and communicate privately with a person of their choice and send and receive their personal mail unopened, unless medically contraindicated as documented by their physician on the medical record.

The resident may refuse to see a visitor. A visitor may be restricted by the Administration for unreasonable disruptive behaviour; this will be documented in the chart.

To retain and use their personal clothing and possessions as space permits.

Residents are not required to perform services for the facility that are not included for therapeutic purposes in their plan of care.

To respect our scent free facility, by refraining from bringing in scented products for their personal use. To be mindful of signs posting specific allergies (example nuts and coconut).

Responsibility and Liability

The resident will release and indemnify St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre, its officers, agents and employees from all claims and liability resulting from:

(a) the loss of money, valuables, and personal effects unless these were respectively deposited in the trust funds or held in safe keeping by St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre.

(b) the loss or destruction of clothing unless the loss or destruction occurred as a result of negligence on the part of St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre.

(c) any responsibility related to their personal welfare and care requirements which occur off the premises of St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre, except when such absence includes a staff escort.

Accommodations

Definitions

Basic Accommodation means lodging in a standard room in the home.

Preferred Accommodation means private accommodation or semi-private accommodation.

Inclusive of the above accommodations are housekeeping services, maintenance, recreational activities, dietary services, laundry and linen services, administrative services and food.

The philosophy of the St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre is to provide as home-like an environment as possible. All beds are legislated by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term care and accordingly meet the standards set for Long Term Care Facilities. We offer private, semi-private and standard accommodation.

The Centre is comprised of eight resident home areas that offer a variety of care levels. One resident home area on Level One is continuously secured, primarily for residents with exit-seeking behaviours or disruptive high-risk behaviours. All our remaining resident home areas can also immediately secure their area for short periods, if individual resident safety is a concern.

Each unit is staffed to meet the care level of the residents that reside in that specific unit.

Residents are provided with a bed, bedside table, and wardrobe.

You are encouraged to bring in some personal effects to make the room comfortable and familiar. Items may include pictures, comfortable/familiar chair, bedspreads, or other suitable memorabilia. The maintenance staff is happy to hang any pictures brought in, so please refrain from using nails or thumbtacks on the walls. Items heavier than three pounds may not be secured to the wall. Families are advised to label all accessory items brought in.

Collection, Use and Release of Personal Health Information

As part of the admission process to St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre, personal health information is collected regarding each resident. This, and any other subsequent personal health information, is collected, used and released in accordance with the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (PHIPA) - s.1(a) (excerpt) “to establish rules for the collection, use and disclosure of personal health information that protect the confidentiality of that information and the privacy of individuals with respect to that information, while facilitating the effective provision of health care”.

The personal health information that is collected is necessary for the proper administration of St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre’s programs, and for the implementation of the resident’s Plan of Care, which includes: nutrition requirements, medical, spiritual, physical, and psychosocial needs of the resident. The information’s principal use is to ensure that medical and health care needs are being addressed and met.

Generally, the Lifecare Centre will not collect, use, or disclose personal health information about a resident unless the resident/substitute decision maker has been made aware, “without deception or coercion”, the reason for collection, the use of disclosure and with implied and/or expressed consent to do so.

If you have any questions/ concerns about this, please direct them to our Director of Long-Term Care or Administrator at the Lifecare Centre.

Emotional, Social and Cultural Care

• Each resident will be encouraged to have their room reflect their personal style, cultural context and preferences with pictures, possessions, and furnishings (in keeping with safety requirements and resident rights).

• Each resident’s responses to situations and life events will be recognized and community resources contacted, as required.

• All residents will be assisted in arranging for available counseling and bereavement support, according to their needs and preferences.

• All residents will be supported and assisted in maintaining their desired involvement with family, friends, and others in the community.

• Each resident will be supported in maintaining their desired cultural observances, practices, and affiliations and in maintaining desired links with their cultural community.

Important Admission Information

• St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre is a NON-SMOKING facility and grounds, following the guidelines for the Smoke Free Ontario Act.

• St. Joseph’s Lifecare Center’s policy and form, regarding the administration of CPR, will be reviewed upon admission. If the resident/ substitute decision maker indicates a wish for CPR (to a witnessed event only), the staff will ensure that this is administered until such time that appropriate emergency response teams take over. If you have any questions about the CPR form, please feel free to consult with the Registered Nurse and/or Physician.

• The Lifecare Centre has zero tolerance for any form of abuse (physical, psychological, material or neglect). All allegations will be taken seriously and investigated. All staff and volunteers are provided annual education regarding abuse. All staff have an obligation to report any act of abuse. The Lifecare Centre has a Whistle Blowing Policy to protect any person reporting wrongdoing, preventing retaliation to that person who has acted in good faith.

• To ensure the safety and well-being of our residents, please refrain from bringing in any over-the-counter medications without consulting your home area registered staff. If you do bring in any topical creams, hair

sprays, nail polish type items, please inform and forward such items to a registered staff member located on the unit for proper labelling and storage.

• All new, capable residents admitted to the Centre are required to complete an Advance Care Planning Form. These guidelines will assist the medical/nursing staff in following the wishes of the resident regarding their medical care should a situation occur where the resident is not able to express their options for care. Residents who are not able to complete the Advance Care Planning form should have their substitute decision maker indicate the resident’s prior wishes, if applicable. These care guidelines will also accompany the resident if and when they are transferred to a hospital setting.

• The Centre has a least physical and chemical restraint philosophy and policy. We believe that the freedom of the person is paramount, and that all alternative nursing interventions are utilized as a means of managing the resident’s care.

• The Least Restraint Policy, as it relates to the individual resident, is reviewed at the six-week post admission conference, annually, and on an “as needed” basis. Residents and/or Power of Attorney will be involved in any decision making around the use of Restraints or Personal Assistive Devices.

• All residents have two (2) methods of identification. One will include the application of an identification band on their wrist of choice. Secondly, each resident will have a photograph taken and placed in the electronic medication and treatment record.

• If professional assistance is required in dealing with any of these requirements, please consult with the Lifecare Centre’s Registered Staff and/or Physician.

Billings

• The Lifecare Centre utilizes Advance Automatic Billing. Accommodation charge will come automatically out of the bank account of the resident’s choice (a voided cheque is required).

• On the fifteenth of each month the accommodation for the entire month will be deducted. If the resident is discharged from the facility, fees paid in advance will be refunded.

• When communication with the resident/substitute decision maker is necessary, email, letter or telephone calls may be used. Please ensure that you have gone through all the information, for you to be accurately updated and informed.

• Trust Accounts are available for the residents’ convenience to assist with payment of miscellaneous expenses such as haircuts, recreation trips or resident cash withdrawals. Please sign up at reception.

• Penalties for non-payment. Where payment is not received, St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre may choose to contact Revenue Canada and have resident monies, e.g. OAS or GAINS, directed to the St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre.

Housekeeping

Our Housekeeping Staff are responsible for maintaining a clean, safe and pleasant environment. Resident rooms are cleaned frequently, but maintaining a tidy and uncluttered room requires the assistance of the resident and their family.

Please note we are a scent-free facility.

Equipment and Furnishings

Some electrical equipment can be brought into the Centre, such as:

• Televisions, preferably with earphones. Please remember, flat screen televisions may not be hung on the wall and will require a secure stand.

• Lamp

• Small Personal Fan

• Clock

• Electric Razors

• Small Bar Fridges

• VCR/DVD Players

• Radio

NOTE: All electrical equipment must be checked by our Maintenance Staff prior to being used by a resident. Please take all the new equipment to the Nurses’ Workstation. It is also advisable to clearly label each item with the resident’s name.

Small electrical equipment not permitted:

• Space Heaters

• Electric Blankets

• Heating Pads

• Toasters, Kettles, Hot Plates

• Microwaves

• Humidifiers

Lost Articles

In an organization of this size, it is possible that an article of clothing or other personal effects may be misplaced. If you are missing an item, please see the Registered Staff on the unit where the resident resides. We will endeavor to locate any missing articles; however, the Lifecare Centre does not take responsibility for replacement, if lost. For lost clothing, items can be viewed in the Resident’s Laundry room, located on Level 2. Once found please ensure the item is labeled properly by the laundry department.

Clothing Suggestions

At the time of admission all clothing that will remain in the Centre must be labeled.

The Laundry Department will label all clothing items. There is no charge for the labeling or laundering of clothing. If time permits, it is preferable that clothing be brought in to be labeled prior to the admission day, to have a supply of labeled clothing ready for the resident.

The resident will need at least a three day supply of clothing at the time of admission to accommodate the 2 day laundry cycle. The number of individual clothing items should cover a 4-to-5-day span.

When considering clothing purchases for a resident, ensure that the fabric is washable and dryer safe. Some fabrics that are not suitable are wool, wool blends, silk, viscose, or 100% cotton.

Residents are encouraged to wear their usual style of clothing. It is important that they are comfortable and have a variety. Consider ease of dressing when making a purchase, as this may help the resident maintain independence and dignity.

Footwear (shoes and slippers) need to fit well and have a slip proof sole.

Residents that are primarily bedridden are still dressed daily by the staff. Their clothing may require modifications, such as splitting the back of the garment and adding Velcro closures. The resident/ substitute decision maker will be notified about these needs by a staff member.

Clothing is not purchased by our staff, on behalf of a resident, unless arrangements are made in advance by the resident or their substitute decision maker.

Family members may assume responsibility for a resident’s laundry; however, all clothes must be labeled to prevent loss or misplacement.

Bedding and Linen

• Bedding and linen including a comfortable mattress with waterproof cover, pillow, bed linen, wash cloths and towels will be provided at no cost to the Resident.

• Bed frames with adjustable head/foot mechanisms will be provided. The use of assistance bars will be determined at time of admission based on individual resident needs and safety guidelines.

• Bedding is changed on a regular schedule and as necessary. If residents would like to bring in personal bed linen (or any item that would require washing) please ensure it is brought to the laundry department for labeling before use.

Laundering of Clothing

• The Laundry Department is equipped to launder all personal washable clothing. Any clothing brought into the home should be delivered to the reception desk for labeling. The laundry operates seven days a week to ensure a consistent turn- around of clothing.

NOTE: If clothing is being laundered by St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre, it is important that all clothing be washer and dryer safe. This will avoid the possibility of shrinkage or damage to any clothing.

• Clothing items damaged in our sorting system will be replaced if the damage occurs as a result of equipment failure and / or staff negligence. Every effort will be made to ensure that this does not occur.

Conveniences Available at the Lifecare Centre

• Beauty Salon - independently owned, service by appointment.

• Hearing Healthcare-independently owned, onsite services by request

• McMillen Hall

• Outside Gardens and Sitting Areas

• Resident Lounge Areas on each Floor

• Activity / Recreational Rooms

• St. Joe’s Java/Tea Room

• Outdoor Balconies (off of Recreation Rooms)

Inter-Disciplinary Care Conferences

Each resident has an Inter-Disciplinary Care Conference shortly after admission (approximately 6 weeks post admission), annually and as needed. The purpose of these conferences is to develop and share individualized plans of care that reflect the resident’s medical, spiritual, recreational, psychosocial, and restorative care needs. All disciplines involved in caring for the resident participate in the Interdisciplinary Conference, often referred to as the IDC. Scheduling dates and times for the IDC are negotiated to ensure that family (and physician if necessary) can attend. The resident will be informed and encouraged to participate in the conferences where able. Registered Staff will facilitate the meetings; this is an opportunity for clarification, addressing questions or concerns regarding the resident’s care.

Family Integration

• Important developments affecting the Lifecare Centre, Resident care or any legislative changes within the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care will be communicated via email. Please ensure staff are provided with an active email address. Information of a more general nature will be posted on the family information board located in the Ground floor lobby area.

• A monthly calendar of events and activities will be posted on all resident Information Boards, located in the Dining Rooms, Resident boards and online at www.sjlc.ca

• Family Council is a great way to be informed of what is going on in the facility and provides a great way to provide input into many aspects of the care and home.

Advocacy

• Residents/substitute decision makers will be encouraged and supported to participate in the planning and evaluation of programs and services.

• Residents/substitute decision makers will be encouraged to participate in the assessment, planning, provision, and evaluation of the resident’s care.

• Residents or their substitute decision makers will have access to, and an explanation of, the resident’s care plan, receiving assistance as necessary, to read and understand the information therein.

• Note: For those residents who are unable to give consent, the person who is lawfully authorized to make decisions regarding personal care will have access to the resident’s plan of care.

• Residents will be informed of any advocacy/support mechanisms that may assist them in promoting their rights (both within the Lifecare Centre and within the community).

• Residents will be assisted in accessing advocacy/support agencies, according to their request.

• It is the policy of St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre that any form of abuse by any person to another while they are on the premises of the facility is forbidden. Forms of abuse may include physical, psychological, or financial.

• If abuse is suspected to have occurred, a complete investigation will be conducted. Substantiated abuse will be reported to the police for their investigation and action.

Notification of Change in Resident Status

• Any situation that involves a change in the resident’s health, medication or injury of any sort will be documented and problem-solved with the multi-disciplinary team.

• The resident’ substitute decision maker will be notified by phone of any changes. If consent is needed, all risks, benefits and alternatives will be discussed so that the substitute decision maker may make an informed decision about care and/or treatment plans.

Concerns or Complaints

St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre has a Whistleblower Protection Policy and is strongly committed to maintaining an environment in which staff, residents and families are respected and are free to report, in good faith, a concern or wrongdoing without fear of intimidation and/or retribution, regardless of the investigation’s outcome.

If you have a concern, the following process should be utilized in obtaining information, raising concerns, lodging complaints, or recommending changes:

• Discuss the issue with the Registered Nurse in your resident home area. If your concern is not resolved:

• Discuss the issue with the Director of Care at 519 751 7096 Ext 3424

• You may contact the Administrator at 519-751-7096 Ext 3410,

• Should your concern continue to go unresolved, you may contact:

Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care

1075 Bay St., 11th Floor

Toronto, ON M5S 2B1 Phone: (905) 546-8294 Toll Free: (800) 461-7137

Response to Resident/Substitute Decision Maker Complaints/Concerns

• The Administrator will respond within ten (10) days to all resident/ substitute decision maker’s suggestions and complaints, indicating possible plans of action.

• All concerns and complaints received will be documented, including a list of the issues, date expressed, date and follow up taken, final resolution if any, and date feedback was provided to the resident/ substitute decision maker.

Resident Council

• The Resident Council is an integral part of the Lifecare Centre’s governance. Residents are elected annually by their peers and meet monthly along with a Staff Liaison to discuss current issues within the Lifecare Centre.

• Family members or other individuals from the community may attend Resident’s Council meetings by invitation only of the Resident’s Council.

• Residents will be informed of the results of all Resident’s Council meetings, along with feedback from the Administrator; meeting minutes are posted on the family/resident information board located at the dining room entrance.

• Suggestions and complaints from the Resident’s Council shall be documented, investigated, and responded to in writing, by the Administrator of the Centre, within twenty-one (21) days. If this does not occur, the Council has the authority to contact the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care for their intervention. The Centre values the role of the Resident Council and appreciates their dedication to making the Lifecare Centre a better place for our residents.

• In addition to governance responsibilities, the Council is active in taking on many initiatives throughout the year. They actively fundraise, hold social events, and participate in special services and functions.

Fire and Disaster Planning

The Lifecare Centre has written policies on Fire and Disaster Plans. Monthly fire drills are held, randomly, to ensure that staff are well prepared for the unlikely event of a fire. All new employees will receive an orientation to the fire routine for all three shifts. The Centre is inspected regularly by the Brantford Fire Department and our fire panel is directly connected to the main Fire Station.

It is important for residents and their families to be aware of the fire procedure. At time of admission, the resident/ family member will be orientated to the procedure for the resident home area where the resident resides. Each resident home area will have clearly marked fire exits.

Please note the following important facts concerning our Fire Alarm System:

• Fire doors close when the alarm sounds. Please assist any resident in close proximity of one of these doors during this time.

• Magnetic door locks are deactivated if the alarm is pulled in that corresponding area, therefore our security system for protecting residents from wandering off an affected home area is ineffective at this time. As part of our Fire procedure, our staff will directly monitor each door to prevent wandering residents from exiting.

• “ALL CLEAR” is announced once the fire alarm has been responded to by the Fire Department and the fire panel has been re-set.

YOUR ROLE AS A VISITOR DURING A FIRE ALARM: DO NOT LEAVE THE RESIDENT YOU ARE VISITING. REMAIN ON THE FLOOR AND IN THE RESIDENT’S ROOM, IF POSSIBLE. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS DURING A FIRE ALARM. PROVIDE SUPPORT AND REASSURANCE FOR THE RESIDENT. TAKE DIRECTION FROM STAFF IN CHARGE, OR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.

Safety Response Systems

• All resident accessible areas are equipped with functional call bells. These may be pressed when any resident needs assistance.

• Bluebird home area has a coded exit system which is activated at all times. Families/ friends will be provided with the access code number upon admission.

Resident Care Programs

Medical Services

The Lifecare Centre employs a Medical Director to:

• Participate as a member of the inter-disciplinary team.

• Ensure medical coverage for the home 24 hours/day, seven days/week.

• Provide an alternative for emergency medical coverage.

• Monitor and regulate policy and practice for all Attending Physicians. A resident may have the Physician of their choice; however, the Physician must have privileges at the Lifecare Centre and be in compliance with the Ministry Standards for medical coverage in a Long-term Care Facility.

Ministry Standards for medical care are as follows:

• Visit the resident monthly and as the condition warrants and document in the resident chart.

• Review medications quarterly.

• Conduct an annual physical, document in the resident chart.

• Sign phone orders within one month of giving the orders Physicians are invited/encouraged to attend IDC Conferences.

Nursing and Personal Care

The Resident Care Program of the St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre dedicates itself to the highest standard of geriatric care. The primary goal of all members of the team is to maximize the independence of each resident through a supportive environment. The Program consists of the following levels of staff:

• The Director of Nursing, in the Senior Nursing position, is responsible for the overall delivery of care to the residents.

• The Registered Nurse is responsible for the management of all resident home areas, including all resident care and staff on the units.

• The staff working in each home area is comprised of the following classifications: Registered Nurse, Registered Practical Nurse, Health Care Aide/Personal Support Worker, Dietary Aide, Housekeeping Aide, and Recreational/Restorative care programmers.

Each has a specific job description for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating resident care.

• In the absence of Senior Administration, the Registered Nurse assumes responsibility for the management of the Lifecare Centre.

• A manager is on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Registered Nurses (RN) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPN) must maintain their current licensing with the Ontario College of Nurses.

Supplies and Equipment

Residents are encouraged to bring any supplies that are special/familiar to them, as this will assist in their adjustment and transition. Regardless, the following nursing services and equipment are provided without extra cost to the resident:

• Medical supplies and nursing equipment necessary for the care of residents, including the prevention or care of skin disorders, continence care, and sterile procedures.

• Supplies and equipment for personal hygiene and grooming, including lotions and powders, shampoos, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, denture cups and cleansers, toilet tissue, TENA products, facial tissue, hairbrushes, combs, razors/shavers, shaving cream, feminine hygiene products.

Mobility Aids

Residents are encouraged to bring their own mobility aids that are currently being used (walkers, canes, wheelchairs). These items should be labeled with the resident’s name. Should individuals require any of the above-named aids, they will be assessed for their needs following admission. The Lifecare Centre has a limited supply of these items for resident use. Residents wishing to purchase mobility aids, may qualify for financial assistance from the Assistive Devices Program (ADP).

Nutrition Services

The Nutrition Services Department at the Lifecare Centre provides a full range of food services and resident nutrition counseling services.

• Residents of the Centre are provided with three nutritional meals daily. Snacks between meals and before bedtime are also provided.

• Nutrition planning is approved by a Registered Dietitian for nutritional Adequacy and takes into consideration Residents preferences and current Dietary Reference Intakes relevant to the home’s resident population. The menu is based on a twenty-one (21) day cycle which offers a main food choice and an alternative choice. Menus are available to accommodate those residents on special diets. Weekly and daily menus are posted on resident home areas on digital television screens.

• Residents are welcome to join the monthly food committee to discuss the menu, upcoming holidays & events.

• A Registered Dietitian is on staff to address the individual nutritional needs of the residents. On admission, a dietary consultation will be arranged to discuss food preferences and dietary concerns. Resident’s diets are monitored regularly to ensure their nutritional needs are being met. At any time, a representative from Nutrition Services can be accessed between mealtimes.

• Residents will eat meals in their resident home area Dining Room. Nourishments are provided/ available to all residents between meals. These nourishments are accessed in each home area Dining Room.

Services Provided by the Lifecare Centre

Physiotherapy

The Centre contracts Physiotherapy services residents are accessed upon admission and all treatments are provided within the Lifecare Centre.

Laboratory and Radiological Services

The Laboratory and Radiology service are facilitated by various companies, on a contractual basis. These companies are privately owned and are accessed as OHIP billable services in the Centre. All tests must be ordered by a Physician and are done at the Centre on a regular basis, or as required.

Respiratory Services

All respiratory services are provided via a contracted service provider. This 24hour service includes resident assessments, the delivery and maintenance of all concentrators (stationary and portable) for oxygen, and on a limited basis, equipment required for inhalation therapy.

Drug Therapy

Medications are prescribed by the resident’s Physician and are administered as required on a 24-hour basis by either a Registered Nurse or by a Registered Practical Nurse.

All medications prescribed are closely supervised and routinely reviewed by the Physician to ensure optimum benefit. Only nitroglycerine spray, respiratory inhalers or designated treatment creams/ointments may be kept at the resident’s bedside for emergency use, provided the Physician has ordered the same.

Residents will be responsible for the cost of non-prescription (over the counter) drugs, as well as medications not covered by the Ontario Drug

Benefit Program. The resident is responsible for the dispensing co-payment paid to the Pharmacy provider as their portion of the prescription service for every prescription filled. (per Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care regulation for Long Term Care Facilities) A unit dose method for packaging/ storing medications is used.

Families are not permitted to bring in any medications from home, as all medications are required to come from one service provider, contracted through the Long-Term Care Home.

Immunization

Influenza and Pneumovax Vaccines

• The Influenza Vaccine is administered to the residents of the

• St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre during the months of October/November. It is recommended by the Medical Officer of Health for the Province of Ontario that all elderly people, particularly those that reside in a

• Long Term Care Facilities, receive this annual immunization.

• The Pneumovax Vaccine is also available and is administered to those residents that wish the vaccine and have not had it within the required time frame.

• Both vaccines are available at no cost to the resident. The capable resident has the right to refuse to receive immunization through the signing of a consent form. Please speak to your doctor regarding any questions about taking either the Influenza Vaccine or the Pneumovax Vaccine.

Tetanus Vaccine

All residents will receive Tetanus vaccination as required under the direction of their Physician.

Vaccinations

Any vaccination that is recommended by the Ministry of Health and approved with the facility Medical Director may be administered after consent is given from the resident or substitute decision maker –example vaccinations during pandemics.

Infection Control

Resident infections are monitored and treated accordingly. Swabs are done on admission to obtain a baseline on certain types of infections such as MRSA and VRE.

Infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections may develop and will be treated as needed.

One of the most important ways to stop the spread of infection is through hand hygiene. Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer for 15 seconds, or soap and water when hands are visibly soiled is recommended. Everyone –residents, visitors and staff must be completing hand hygiene. Residents are to have hand hygiene done before and after every meal – if they are not able to do it themselves, they will be assisted in performing this task. Visitors should be doing hand hygiene before and after visiting the resident. Staff complete hand hygiene according to the duties and care needs of the residents.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Other personal protective equipment (PPE) may be necessary at times of outbreak. Directions will be provided to the facility by the Brant County Health Unit, Ministry of Health and Long-term care or other authority. Isolation signs will be posted informing if further PPE is needed prior to visiting with the resident. Information can be obtained on the facility website as well regarding outbreak status for the facility.

Expenses Not Covered by

the Resident Co-Payment Fee

Items and services not covered by the monthly co-payment are as follows:

• Social events outside the home

• Phone installation/monthly bills

• Prescription medication not covered under Ontario Drug Benefit or “over the counter medications.”

• Clothing purchases

• Personal incidental items

• Cable television

• Travel costs for discretionary medical appointments or other outings requiring the use of Brantford Lift, Taxi, or other transportation options.

• Maintenance and repairs to personal effects (i.e., mobility aids, personal equipment)

Fee - For - Service Resources

Foot Care

Foot Care Services can also be provided at the Lifecare Centre. Qualified foot care specialists visit the Centre on a regular basis and provide foot care for the residents wishing to purchase this service. Referral for this service may be made by speaking with the Registered Staff on the resident’s specific home area.

Registered Massage Therapy

This service offers the intervention of a Registered Massage Therapist, onsite. Treatments can take place in the comfort of the resident’s room or in the Therapist’s Clinic, which is located on the fourth (4) floor of the Lifecare Centre.

Hearing Healthcare Services – Located On-site

A Licensed Hearing Healthcare Practitioner provides services to all residents, staff, and their families on-site. A complimentary hearing health assessment is available to every new resident, which includes a comprehensive hearing test, tinnitus assessment and assessment of communication needs. A consultation can be arranged directly with the clinic or by request through staff on the resident’s home floor. The clinic is conveniently located on the main floor.

Dental Services

A mobile Registered Dentist service visits the Centre on a regular basis and provides a variety of oral health services. Service is available on a fee for service basis and a referral may be made through the Registered Staff in the resident’s home area.

The Centre has a Dentist on-call for emergencies. Residents must be transported to the Dentist’s office or to the Emergency Department at the Brantford General Hospital to access this service.

NOTE: Dentures should be labeled prior to admission.

Support Services - No Fee

Geriatric Mental Health

The Lifecare Centre can access the services of the Psychogeriatric Outreach Program, for their expertise in managing the problems associated with mental health/dementia. The Psychogeriatric Case Manager can be accessed through a referral process. They can provide recommendations to the multidisciplinary care team regarding medication regimes and/or behaviour management.

Spiritual Care Services

The Lifecare Centre has a Life Enrichment Manager whose responsibility is to develop and provide Spiritual Care for residents, families, and staff. The Life Enrichment Manager also serves as a liaison between residents and their own personal faith advisor from the community. Spiritual Care is provided through one-on-one visitation to residents, family members and staff in times of life crises, losses, and bereavement.

The residents’ religious practices are facilitated through regular inter-denominational worship and sacramental services in McMillen Hall. This includes weekly interfaith Sunday service and Roman Catholic Mass and Communion are offered monthly.

Volunteer Services

All Volunteers are recruited and supervised by the Lifecare Centre. The scope of Volunteers includes individuals of all ages and all walks of life.

A number of local community members assist with regularly scheduled group activities such as special events and meal enhancement. They also provide one-on-one visits. Our Tuck Shop is volunteer run. The Lifecare Centre appreciates all Volunteer work and provides an annual Volunteer recognition event.

In addition to Volunteers, the Centre offers clinical placement for several Colleges/Universities. The students not only gain insight into the care of the elderly, they bring quality of life to the residents. Ethnic Volunteers help many of our residents feel more comfortable within the Centre by speaking their native language or ensuring that cultural customs are preserved, when possible.

Helpful Information

Valuables

The St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre is not responsible for loss or damage to resident’s personal belongings i.e., clothing, jewelry, and furnishings. Residents who wish insurance coverage on the above items should do so through their own insurance agent. It is also not advisable to have large sums of money (no more than $5 or $10) left at the bedside. A resident trust account may be set up at the reception desk and money can be withdrawn at the resident’s discretion. Parameters and access to funds will be set by the resident or substitute decision where applicable.

Visiting Hours

There are no restrictions on visiting hours at the Lifecare Centre. Families and visitors are encouraged to visit whenever possible. However, for security reasons, the main entrance is locked from the hours of 8:00pm to 8:00am, access can be gained by calling Ext 3035 or by pressing the buzzer in the front foyer. During outbreak situations within the home visiting is limited to registered essential caregivers.

Parking

Limited short-term parking is available for the public and families near the entrance. Staff parking is designated on the side of the Lifecare Centre. There are also several Handicapped parking spots along the front portion of the public parking area. There is a ramp at the main entrance, which enables residents to be picked up or returned as close as possible to the front door. Please do not block the driveway in front of the main entrance as this is an emergency fire route.

Liquor

Liquor will be given to a resident under a Physician’s order. Liquor may no be kept in a resident’s room at any time. The family must provide any alcohol and submit it to the Nursing Station for labeling and storage purposes. Please be aware that alcoholic beverages affect the nutrition and medication regime of a resident; hence the Lifecare Centre’s policy regarding the limited use of alcohol.

Food Brought in from Home

All food brought in by family members must be clearly labeled with a date for food safety. All foods must be within the recommended dietary texture. Any food not within resident diet type results in family/resident assuming the risk of choking.

Beauty Salon

The Lifecare Centre has a beauty salon that is located on the third (3) floor. This service contractor provides a variety of hair and beauty treatments at the request of the resident and/or substitute decision maker. Hours of operation are set by the service based on the needs of the residents. Pricing is at the discretion of the service provider. Please contact the Beauty Salon at extension 3116.

Auditorium / McMillen Hall

McMillen Hall is a large, multi-purpose room located on the first floor of the Lifecare Centre. This room is available for residents, families, staff, and community use. Church services, recreational activities, educational seminars, or community meetings can be accommodated in this area. Please consult the Life Enrichment Manager at extension 3315 on how to access this room.

St. Joseph’s Lifecare Foundation

We are grateful to receive additional funding through the support of St. Joseph’s Lifecare Foundation. The Foundation is the official fundraising organization for St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre and Stedman Community Hospice. Through this additional financial support, we offer superior programs, services, training, and equipment that would otherwise not be available since these wonderful enhancements are not funded by the government.

Our residents reap the rewards of the generous donations from our caring community. For more information on the Foundation or how you can donate, please call (519) 751-7096 ext. 2475 or visit their website at www.sjlc.ca.

Grand River Community Health Centre

Primary health care, health & wellness programs, and community development initiatives.

COPD Program • Memory Clinic • Fitness Programs Group Programs including Stitch n Chat, 2SLGBTQ+ Social, Men in Action, Notes and Beats, Acting Up, Breakfast Club, Gender Journey, Mood for Thought: Coping with Anxiety/Depression Nutrition/ Cooking and more! ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE!

See our website or Facebook page for program dates & info. 363 Colborne St, Brantford ON | tel. 519.754.0777 WWW.GRANDRIVERCHC.CA

Sound Choice

Sound Choice Hearing Health Services

Hearing Health Services

Sound Choice Hearing Health Services

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Can’t hear as well as you used to? That can happen to the best of us, but when people don’t sound clear enough and you need to turn volume up louder than you used to hear it, it’s time to take action. You should know that recent research shows that early intervention has numerous benefits.

• It helps prevent a decline in your brain health

• It helps prevent a decline in your brain health Over time, reduced stimulation in the ears and to the brain can actually impair the brain’s ability to process sound and recognize speech — which is only partially recoverable with hearing aids in place.

Over time, reduced stimulation in the ears and to the brain can actually impair the brain’s ability to process sound and recognize speech — which is only partially recoverable with hearing aids in place.

• It slows cognitive decline and communication problems. When you can’t hear well it causes a strain on your brains processing abilities, your brain has to work too hard for information making it more difficult to retain information and process conversations. Treating your hearing loss may prevent these issues.

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Complete Hearing Health Assessments

Audiology Services

CAPD Testing

Hearing Aid Fittings And Follow up Care

Hearing Health Counseling

Hearing Aid Repairs/Services

Ear Wax Removal

Cognitive Screening

Cognitive Screening Tinnitus Assessments And Treatments

Tinnitus Assessments And Treatments

Custom Earmolds/Plugs

Noise Protection

Onsite Industrial Noise Protection Services

Noise Protection Onsite Industrial Noise Protection Services Onsite Long Term Care Services

Onsite Long Term Care Services

Assistive Listening

Assistive Listening Devices FM Systems

Batteries and Accessories

House Call Services