- If my family member only receives basic OAS (Old Age Security), GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement) and CPP (Canada Pension Plan) monthly how can they afford the accommodation fees?
- Residents with limited resources can apply for a Rate Reduction on their Long-Term Care Accommodation Fees, provided they are living in a basic accommodation shared room, and meet the criteria set out by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
- What is required to apply for a Rate Reduction?
- The resident needs to be living in a basic accommodation shared room, and the Home requires a copy of the Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment for the resident for the prior year income tax return. This information is used to calculate a rate affordable to the resident.
- Is there financial assistance for a spouse in the community?
- Seniors can apply for what the government terms “Involuntary Separation” when one spouse has to reside in long-term care. This process allows the government to view each person as a single pensioner instead of as a couple, which then results in an increase to their monthly pensions.
- Who can I speak with regarding the purchase or rental of wheelchair/walkers or other equipment?
- Our Therapy Coordinators, at Extension 2283 or 2242, would be happy to discuss the purchase or rental of mobility equipment.
- Is the physiotherapy free?
- Yes. Physiotherapy is funded through the Ministry in Long Term Care. You or your love one will receive at minimum quarterly physiotherapy assessments.
- How much furniture do I need to bring?
- Rooms are equipped with a hi-low electric medical bed , each equipped with a pressure relieving mattress. In addition a comfortable sitting chair is provided, as well as a dresser for clothing. Residents are welcome to supply some of their own furniture, with the exception of the bed, however there needs to be sufficient clearance in the room for staff to work safely. Television sets for example are not supplied and it is not uncommon for residents or their families to substitute Spruce Lodge furniture with family furniture.
- What is the procedure to get on SL wait list?
- Applicants must arrange to meet with the Community Care Access Center to determine if they are in need of and eligible for Long Term Care. (LTC) They will then be required as part of the process to select up to 5 LTC Homes as part of the application process and the CCAC will forward the application to the Director of Resident Care for approval to be placed onto the Spruce Lodge waiting list.
- What is the cost/fee of the various room accommodations?
- Costs are set out by the Ministry if Health and Long Term Care according to the type of room selected and are comparable across the province. (i.e Basic, Semi-private and Private) The MOHLTC communicates the room rates annually.
- What is included in the fee?
- Included in the cost or monthly fee is the bed and mattress, linens, 3 meals and snacks per day, 24 hour nursing services, activity programs, therapy programs, and basic hygiene items, including continence supply products if and as needed.
- How do we pay for items not covered in the accommodation fee?
- For incidental spending for items such as hairdressing charges, foot care services, recreational outings and activities, transportation costs, medication co-payment from the pharmacy, etc. residents and their POA's can deposit money into a non-interest bearing account with the home called a Home Trust Account, by filling out a Spruce Lodge Purchase of Services Agreement. This agreement allows items approved by the POA to be paid directly by the home to the service provider. An itemized statement will be sent out each month with the monthly accommodation statement, and it is up to the POA to ensure there is a sufficient positive balance in the account to cover such expenses.
- How long is the wait list for Spruce Lodge or how long does it take to move in?
- The waiting list is generally more than 150 applicants, each of which are deemed to be eligible and in need of LTC services and accommodation. Given the sheer number of applicants it can take years before a suitable room becomes available. It is not possible to accurately predict how long this process will take, because it's dependent on the priority set by the CCAC for the applicant and the type of accommodation they require. (ie. basic, semi-private or private)
- What are your visiting hours?
- Family and friends are welcome are encouraged to visit throughout the day, as there no set time restrictions. There are many comfortable living spaces available to use, should your visit impact the daily routines of another resident. If when you arrive and the front door is locked, please use the door bell located near the entrance key pad, and the registered staff will be able to assist you with entry.
- Can we bring our pets in for a visit?
- We encourage family and friends to bring in their pets for visit. It is important that your pet have up to date vaccinations for their safety as well as the safety of our residents. Your pet must be on a leash while in the building and we ask that you kindly clean up after your pet.
