Visitors can even become a source of entertainment for other residents. Some residents would very much enjoy being included in a card game or conversation. Our doors open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the winter and 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the summer. When the doors are locked, you only have to use the intercom to have someone open them. Some of our residents like to go to bed early, therefore, it’s important to adjust visits and activities accordingly.

Children are always welcome. It is natural that our open spaces can sometimes encourage them to run and be noisy. You may want to plan things for them to do such as board games or colouring projects. Residents will love showing off their grandchildren’s handiwork. We are certain that you will find a little hiding space in your room for treats that will leave them with fond memories of their visit. (You will find suggestions and advice for visitors attached).

Do you like dogs? We do too! Their presence is valuable to our residents, especially to those who are used to having pets. For health and safety reasons, arrangements with management must be made prior to bringing any pets in our facility. They must also be up to date on their vaccinations with a current vaccination certificate signed by a veterinarian.

If you are planning to be absent for an extended period of time, notification prior to your leave will allow us to plan your care needs and ensure that you have all your medication ready to take with you.

Yes, as long as your doctor allows it. Due to the danger of mixing alcohol with certain medications, all alcoholic beverages will be stored in the pharmacy and served based on your doctor’s recommendations.

You may also bring wine during a family meal if you reserve the Jean-Audette room (there is no charge for reserving this room). Your family will be responsible for meal arrangements and the purchase of wine. To reserve the room, simply call the receptionist.

If you are uncomfortable speaking to the nurse in charge for any reason, you may contact the Director of Care at the administration offices.

Should no resolution to your problem be reached, you may then speak with the Chief Executive Officer. We will do everything we can to ensure your concerns are addressed.

Any issues, questions or concerns may be submitted to the council to be addressed at their regular meetings. Their information is located on the bulletin board at the entrance to the nursing units. The receptionist can also help you contact a Residents’ Council representative.

Here are some ways they can help:

• Participate in meetings regarding your care. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss your care plan and to review it at least once a year.
• Appoint a family member to be the primary contact for your family. This person will be responsible for connecting with other family members and informing them of your health and also coordinating participation in these meetings.
• Come to visit. Adjusting to a new home is often difficult especially if you don’t know all the other residents yet. Calls and visits from family and friends will help overcome boredom and loneliness. (See suggestions for visitors attached.)
• Organize your dental, hearing and vision appointments. It is important to continue with those check ups. Families are responsible for making necessary appointments. If you are unable to go out, arrangements can be made by speaking with the nurse in charge.

Another way to reduce the risk of infection is through immunization. There is an optional flu vaccine available to you every year administered right here at the Villa. Another important vaccine for seniors is the pneumonia vaccine. Your visitors can be vaccinated by their doctors or through community clinics. It’s an important precaution for them and you.

Lastly, asking your family and friends to refrain from visiting you if they have flu symptoms (fever, sore throat and muscle or body aches) or gastrointestinal illness symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea and stomach ache), will also prevent the spread of infection.

The Villa Youville has a comprehensive fire protection system. Fire is the most serious and frequent source of catastrophe in personal care homes. Equipment and products that cause fires such as toasters, tea kettles, heating pads, candles and halogen lights are not permitted in rooms. All rooms are equipped with automatic sprinklers and alarms.

A detailed evacuation plan is in place and regular fire drills are performed to ensure that staff knows what to do in the event of a fire. We also have similar plans in place for all natural disasters, chemical disasters, train derailments and bomb threats.

Certain units are locked to ensure the safety of our residents with cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Open spaces, hallways and unknown visitors can increase their anxiety and confusion. They need a familiar environment around people they know. Family members will be given the code to access these units and with regular visits, they will become people who are recognized by all our residents.

It should be noted that personal care homes cannot be held responsible for the damage, loss or theft of any money or valuables.

Head nurses will be available to answer most of your questions; however, if there is something that they are unable to help you with, there is a contact page at the end of this guide for your reference. We are always happy to help.