Welcome Booklet

You can read more about our programs and services and what it’s like to live in one of York Region’s long-term care homes in our Welcome to Your New Home booklet.

Health Care Consent and Substitute Decision Makers

Health care consent is making an informed decision to accept or refuse care or treatment. It is based on information the health care provider explains about the person’s condition, treatment options, risks, benefits, side effects, alternatives and what would happen if treatment is refused. Consent is required when proposing a plan of care, a new treatment, a change in medication or a change to a current treatment.

A Substitute Decision Maker is the person who will make health care decisions on behalf of the resident if the resident becomes mentally incapable to make these decisions.

For more information on Substitute Decision Makers please review Substitute Decision Maker information package.

Hiring a Private Caregiver or Companion

Some residents or their families wish to hire a private caregiver or companion to attend to some of the resident’s needs for a specific number of hours per day or week. Some key points to keep in mind when hiring a private caregiver of companion:

• Private caregivers and companions are not employees of York Region
• As the Hirer, you will determine their responsibilities, set their schedules and coordinate pay
• Private caregivers and companions must meet the requirements set out in the Private Caregivers and Companions Policy
• It is mandatory for private caregivers to attend an orientation session provided by York Region
• The long-term care homes have ultimate responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of all residents.
• If a private caregiver or companion disregards the long-term care home’s policies, violates the confidentiality agreement, or interferes with the comfort and wellbeing of any resident, the Home’s Administrator has the right to prohibit them from providing services

If you are interested in hiring a private caregiver or companion, please call 1-866-967-5582 and ask for the private caregivers policy and forms.

In addition to providing nursing and personal care, York Region’s Long-Term Care homes offer a range of supports and activities to help residents continue to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Recreational Activities

The recreational programs York Region offers meet the five key domains of well-being – emotional, spiritual, intellectual, social and physical wellness. These programs allow long-term care residents to grow and try new things, which is important at any age.

Participating in these activities helps residents develop friendships and become part of their Home’s community. Family and friends are also encouraged to join in, volunteer for organized activities or simply take part in the fun. (A nominal charge may apply for specific activities, outings or programs.)

Activities include:

• Gardening
• Pet therapy
• Musical groups
• Casino nights
• Special Events and outings
• Cultural and holiday-themed events (Christmas, Halloween, Canada Day)

Recreation Program Staff

Recreation staff coordinate special events and provide recreational activities for residents on a monthly basis. Staff members plan small group activities based on residents’ interests and abilities. Monthly activity calendars are posted below and are also available in each Home.

Residents can also arrange their own outings and events or stay involved with their former communities. Please speak to a nursing staff member for more information and appropriate service supports.

Meals

Daily menus are posted and alternate choices are available if you have special dietary needs (e.g. diabetes, vegetarian, or low salt). Refreshments and snacks are offered three times per day and are also available upon request or in the refreshment areas in each Home area.

People who are leaving the hospital after an accident or illness but are not ready to return home can recover in a convalescent care bed. Convalescent care beds are available at Newmarket Health Centre and Maple Health Centre. All the services that are available to long-term care residents are available to clients staying in the convalescent care beds.

Eligibility

This service is available to York Region residents while they recover from an accident or illness. Residents are entitled to a maximum of 90 days of convalescent care.

Cost

This service is provided at no cost. Costs such as a telephone are extra.

How to Apply

Contact the Central LHIN Home and Community Care to request a convalescent care bed.

Telephone: 1-888-470-2222

Short stay beds are available for seniors and adults with disabilities to use while their regular caregivers are on vacation or need a rest. The Short Stay/Respite program offers family members relief from the physical, mental and emotional demands of caring for their loved ones.

Rates

There is a daily rate for this program service.  Click the Rates for Long Term Care button below to view current rates.

How to Apply

Please note that if you wish to use these services during the peak holiday season you are encouraged to book well in advance.

For adults who require complex or secured care, contact the Central LHIN Home and Community Care to request a Short Stay/Respite bed in a long-term care home.

Telephone: 1-888-470-2222