New continuing care home spaces now open in Spirit River

SPIRIT RIVER - Spirit River's first Type B continuing care home (CCH) spaces (formally known as designated supportive living spaces) are now open at Pleasant View Lodge, enabling more community members to receive a higher level of care closer to home.

Residents began moving into the new spaces in November.

The new facility, located at 5120 44 Ave., includes a total of 52 CCH spaces, as well as 40 lodge spaces.

The Grande Spirit Foundation operates Pleasant View Lodge and will manage accommodation services to its residents. Alberta Health Services (AHS) is responsible for the care needs of the Type B CCH residents, a level of care previously unavailable in Spirit River. An AHS registered nurse provides home and community care case management for clients in the facility.

This range of care options (Type B, Type B Secure and lodge services) enables individuals to access the most appropriate level of care at one facility as their needs change over time.

"Having these new care spaces ensures that more residents receive the level of care they need in a safe and supportive environment, right here in our community," says Todd Loewen, MLA for Central Peace-Notley.

A Type B CCH space is a home-like environment that provides 24-hour on-site scheduled and unscheduled professional and personal care and support, provided by licensed practical nurses and healthcare aides. Of the 52 Type B CCH spaces, half are dedicated for residents with dementia.

"Having a variety of care levels and services offered at one facility creates an ideal environment for both couples and single individuals to thrive as their care needs change over time," says Stacy Greening, Chief Zone Officer, AHS North Zone. "This offers flexibility, convenience and security, ensuring everyone can continue to receive the right care for their evolving needs, all under the same roof."

The living spaces include accessible washrooms with roll-in showers. A sensory room at the facility is also being developed, which will promote relaxation, reduce stress and agitation, and enhance the overall well-being of residents.

There are currently both Type B and Type B secure spaces available for new residents to move into at the time of this release.

"These new care spaces not only enhance the quality of life for our seniors but also provide peace of mind to families, knowing their loved ones will have access to the care they need right here in their own community," says Judy Kokotilo-Bekkerus, Board Chair, Grande Spirit Foundation.

The Government of Alberta and the federal government provided $24 million in capital funding to replace the existing Pleasant View Lodge.

Visit the AHS website to learn more about continuing care or contact an AHS home care case manager, at 1-855-371-4122, to discuss health needs and options.

Alberta Health Services provides a range of healthcare services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide excellent, patient-focused healthcare that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.