QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 

With Respect to The Cridge Seniors Centre

 

 

1.  Eligibility & Resident Profile:

 

  1. Are you taking individuals names for a waitlist?

 

Yes

 

  1. I do not understand why some people get referrals from VIHA and others do not, please explain?

 

52 of the 77 suites have been given into the care of VIHA, who will select residents for those units.  VIHA will pay a portion of the suite rent for those residents.  25 of the suites are being rented directly by The Cridge and residents will pay the full rent themselves for those units. It is at the discretion of VIHA as to who is eligible for placement in the funded units/suites. They have a comprehensive assessment process. 388-CARE.

 

  1. If I am approved under the Long Term Care Program, does that automatically mean that I can move into your Centre?

 

No. VIHA will place you on their own waitlist. They will determine when and if you are eligible for moving into the Centre’s government funded units.

 

  1. If I do qualify for a subsidy under the Long Term Care Program, how much will my rent be?

 

The rate you will pay is determined by the Health Authorities. VIHA will assist you in calculating the actual amount at the time of moving into the units. The amounts may vary over time with changes in policies, and/or changes in your income.

 

 

  1. If I do move into your facility, does that mean that I automatically qualify for a rent subsidy?

 

No, it does not.

 

  1. What are the ages of people living, or will be living at the Centre?

 

65 and up

 

 

2.  Costs:

 

  1. Do you require a deposit?

 

$250.00 with your application, payable to The Cridge Centre, and $250.00 upon acceptance – combined will serve as your $500.00 damage deposit

 

  1. Do I rent or buy the suite?

 

These are rental suites on a monthy basis.

           

  1. What are the rents?

 

Rents start at $2195.00 per month.

 

  1.  If I am hospitalized do I get a rebate for the time I am in hospital?

 

No.

 

  1. If I go away on a holiday, do I get a rebate for the time I am away?

 

No.

 

  1. What does that monthly amount include?

 

The monthly fees include:

§        2 nutritious meals per day.

§        weekly housekeeping

§        laundry/linen service (sheets and towels)

§        recreational and social activities.

§        Pendant alarm

 

  1. Are there additional costs?

 

Where there are additional special services, there will be a cost recovery. (eg. cable, internet, phone, special recreation events)

 

 

  1. Are there rent subsidies available?

 

The Vancouver Island Health Authorities provide subsidization for their eligible clients through their assisted living program.  You must contact VIHA directly to inquire about their assisted living program. 388-CARE

 

  1. Do I automatically qualify for a rent subsidy when I move in?

 

No

 

  1. If I do not qualify for a rent subsidy when I move into your facility, can I obtain a subsidy some time later?

 

You would need to apply to VIHA to determine that.

 

3.  Building Features:

 

a.       When can I see the plans or building so I can see if I want to live there?

 

Many details are now available to view on our website www.cridge.org (seniors housing), or call the Manager at 220-2301 to arrange a tour.

 

 

b.      How big is the building; how many suites?

 

The Centre has 77 units and many amenity spaces. All the details of the Centre are on the web site and we encourage individuals to review this information on the site. Alternatively you may pick up information at the Seniors Centre.

 

c.       What amenities do you have?

 

We have the following facilities for the use of all residents: TV lounges; personal laundry facilities; a central bathing facility; an exercise room; a crafts room; an activity room; a library and computer room; lovely common dining facilities; an attractive front foyer; bistro; several areas to congregate with friends and family; a separate room for meetings; a chapel for use by all denominations; movie theatre; opportunity and space for family meetings and dining; a comprehensive security system; a room for visiting health care providers and mail services.

 

The building and site also has the following attributes for the resident’s convenience, enjoyment and safety: a comprehensive security system; 24 hour on-site staffing; beautiful grounds; and handicapped access throughout.

 

The Cridge offers on site: education forums; both organized as well as potential for unorganized recreation and social activities; reception services.

 

The Cridge Senior’s Centre location offers: relative close and easy access to a wide variety of community services including retail, medical and financial institutions. The Cridge also offers outings to points of interest.

 

The Cridge offers in-room: emergency call system; computer and telephone hook-up; cable hook-up; and, storage for mechanical aides such as wheelchairs.

 

 

d.      How do I get to select a room?

           

In waitlist order, residents will be able to state their preference for their suite.

 

 

e.       How big are the rooms?

 

The one bedroom units are approximately 500 square feet; and the two bedroom units are approximately 700 square feet.

 

f.        Why would I choose the Cridge over another residence?

 

We believe the location is ideal for accessing community services;  the residence is located on a beautiful piece of property offering a park-like setting and opportunity to enjoy the green space;  the amenities offered for residents are extensive and the rent is very reasonable. 

 

 

g.       What do you offer that no one else does?

 

The Cridge provides a village atmosphere.  On site, there is housing and other services for families.  While providing assisted living is not unique to the Cridge, we do have an excellent reputation in the community for supporting individuals and their families. 

 

h.       Can I decorate my room?

 

Yes, subject to the approval of the Cridge administration.  You will be responsible, however, for returning the room to its original condition if required by the administration.

 

i.         Can I change the carpet, or the wall color of my room?

 

You cannot change the carpet, but you can change the colour of your room subject to the approval of the Cridge administration.

 

j.        Will there be phone, cable and internet service in my room?

 

Tthere will be individual phone service in each room and you can bring your own

phone set and keep your existing telephone number.  Each unit will have cable

television and SHAW Lightspeed internet service.  You will be responsible for

paying the initial hook-up, and a package cost for all three services of $81.95

(plus tax)  per month.  This includes UNLIMITED long distance calling in North

America, voice mail, caller ID and 1000 minutes free per year to the 25 most

popular overseas countries.  You will also have the option to purchase additional

enhanced services (eg Highspeed Internet or pay movie channels)

 

 

4.  Accessibility:

 

a.       I have a wheelchair, or walker and need assistance with getting around who will help me?

 

We do not provide personal care.

 

b.      Do you allow wheelchairs?

 

Wheelchairs are allowed, however, the person must be able to mobilize independently without assistance.

 

c.       Can I take my wheelchair to the dining room?

 

Yes

 

d.      Can I take my walker to the dining room?

 

Yes

 

e.       Am I allowed to take my walker/wheelchair to my table?

 

Yes

 

f.        Do you allow scooters?

 

Scooters are allowed in the building. The Cridge has designed the hallways so that there is an alcove outside the front of some suites.  The scooter may be plugged in and stored outside the resident’s front door.

 

Scooters batteries MUST be acid free due to ventilation requirements for their batteries.   Scooters do not have acid-free batteries are not allowed.

 

g.       Am I able to use my scooter in the building?

 

Residents may use their scooters in the building provided they follow the rules stipulated in the Occupancy Agreement about scooter usage.

 

h.       Do you have scooter storage?

 

The scooters may be stored outside the residents room or downstairs in the scooter room.

 

i.         Am I able to store my scooter in my suite?

 

No

 

 

j.        Can I take my scooter to my table in the dining room?

 

No

 

5.  Admission/Occupancy Policy:

 

a.       Can I bring in my own furniture and pictures?

 

Yes, certainly.  Residents must be aware that the amount of furniture in a suite must not cause a fire or safety hazard.  Our staff will be happy to help you determine if your furniture is suitable for your suite.  Small electrical appliances (eg. Kettle) must all be CSA approved.  You will be responsible for moving in and moving out.

 

b.      Am I a tenant under the Residential Tenancy Act?

 

Yes.   Additionally,  the Cridge Seniors Centre is subject to another piece of legislation (Community Care and Assisted Living Act)

 

c.       What regulations are in place to ensure my rights and safety are protected?

 

You are protected under the standards and legislation applied to registered Assisted Living residences.  A registrar has been appointed by the provincial government and will oversee certain requirements in accordance with the Community Care and Assisted Living Act.

 

d.      What kind of rental agreement do I sign, and where can I get a copy?

 

The Cridge has developed an Occupancy Agreement which will be available for viewing on the website and/or in hard copy available at the Taylor Building for pick up.  The Occupancy Agreement will be used for describing the responsibilities and expectations of the renter and the Cridge.

 

e.       Can I let someone stay with me from time to time?

 

Yes, on a time-limited basis – there would be an additional charge if your guests had meals in the Centre.

 

f.        Will I have to give up my car?

 

You may keep your personal vehicle on site, however, it must be properly maintained, insured and licensed.

 

g.       Can my wife/husband stay with me?

 

Yes.  There will be an additional fee for an extra person.

 

h.       Where will out of town visitors stay?

 

The Cridge has a lovely guest suite, subject to availability.  The rental is $50.00 per night with a maximum of two people occupying the suite.  There are a number of hotels and motels in the area and arrangements will have to be made between yourself and your guests for that accommodation.  Cridge staff are more than happy to direct you to the nearest accommodation.

 

 

i.         Can I be asked to leave the Cridge? 

 

Yes, in accordance with policies of the Cridge, the Occupancy Agreement, and in the case of VIHA sponsorship, their policies and requirements.

 

j.        Can I change rooms if I don’t like the one I get?

 

There may be limited opportunity to change rooms, however, we would not normally encourage this.  In any event, you would require the approval of the Cridge administration.  Should approval be granted, there would be a fee imposed and you would have to arrange to return the room to its original condition.  In addition, you would be responsible for changing items such as telephone and cable as well as moving your furniture and belongings.

 

6.  Health Services:

 

a.       If I get sick what happens?

If your health deteriorates to the point where you can no longer manage on your own and you need assistance with your activities of daily living, the Cridge’s administration will assist you in contacting the appropriate Health Authorities to initiate an application for assistance under the Long Term Care Program.

 

b.      If I need extra supports- care or assistance- who pays for that?

 

If you qualify under the Long Term Care Program for personal assistance, the Health Authorities determine the cost of that service.

 

c.       If I need extra supports- care or assistance- who arranges for that?

 

This can be arranged by family members or personal friends, however, the Cridge Administration would be happy to assist you in this process.

 

 

d.      Will I be able to live out my days there?

 

The terms and conditions of occupancy at the Cridge specify that residents must be able to live independently, however, the Cridge Administration is willing to look at creative alternatives to allow an individual to stay as long as possible.

 

e.       Do you provide a personal alert system?

 

A personal alert system is provided for all residents of the Cridge. 

 

f.        If I press my personal alert pendant, who will respond?

 

A Cridge staff member will be your first responder.

 

g.       If I have a problem in the night, can I press my pendant to get help?

 

Any resident in the building can press their pendant to receive assistance. This service is provided for emergency use only.

 

h.       Will I have to give up seeing my doctor?

 

No, you can continue to see your own personal doctor.

 

i.         How do get to my doctor and other health services?

 

If you are unable to get to these services on your own (private transportation, help from a family member of friend), the front desk staff at the Cridge would be happy to make arrangements for a taxi cab, or to help you make prior arrangements for handi dart.  There is also public transportation available.  The front desk staff will know where the specific bus stops are located and advise you accordingly.

 

j.        If I have a fall, or my health deteriorates significantly, will I be able to remain

living at your facility?

 

The Cridge’s philosophy is to provide residents the opportunity to live independently as long as possible.  The criteria for remaining at the Cridge is determined on ones ability to live safely.  Each circumstance has to be looked at individually. The Administration will be happy to discuss this issue when the need arises.

 

k.      How far is the hospital?

 

The Royal Jubilee Hospital is the closest hospital to the Cridge. It is approximately 10 minutes away (by vehicle).

 

l.         Do you have other on-site health services available such as podiatrist services,

Denturist, periodic blood pressure clinics?

 

Yes.

 

7.  Cridge Services and Supports:

 

a.       Who does my laundry?

 

You are required to do your personal laundry and there are machines available on every floor for this purpose.  These will be coin operated machines and laundry is done at your expense.  On occasions, such as illness, the Cridge can make arrangements to have your personal laundry taken care of, but you will be expected to compensate the Cridge for this service.  In accordance with the hospitalilty services outlined in the Occupancy Agreement, the Cridge will provide weekly cleaning and changing of sheets and towels at no additional cost to the resident. 

 

b.      Do you provide sheets and towels?

 

Yes – for twin, double or Queen beds.  No Water beds are allowed in suites.

 

c.       If I want to use my own linens, are you able to launder them for me?

 

No.

 

d.      Who does my cleaning?

 

The Cridge will do a thorough cleaning of your suite on a weekly basis.  Windows and blinds will be cleaned on a less frequent basis.  Appliances will be cleaned on an as needed basis.

 

e.       What type of housekeeping do your provide?

 

Cleaning floors, counters, toilets, showers, sinks, and walls and dusting.  Your personal items are your responsibility.

 

f.        Do I have to remove items (small knick knacks) off my furniture?

 

Yes, for your own protection. The Cridge does not take responsibility for residents’ personal items.

 

g.       Do you do my dishes?

 

No

 

h.       Do I have to cook for myself?

 

2 nutritious meals per day are provided for you.  You may choose to use your suite facilities. (Your room is equipped with a  fridge and microwave.)  You are free to use this equipment for preparing snacks and meals.  If you wish to have meals delivered to your room, this would only be supported during illness.   If you don’t choose to access the meals provided, there would be no rent reduction.

 

 

i.         Do I have to join in recreational activities?

 

No, but we encourage individuals to do this because we know a healthy social and active lifestyle maintains and/or improves wellbeing.  Residents will have an opportunity to influence the type of activities at the centre as well as participation in entertainment and programs outside the Centre.

 

j.        What types of recreation activities do you provide?

 

Hobbies and crafts, visiting entertainment and education seminars, counselling services, exercise programs, computer and library services, quiet games, audiovisual services (TV, movies, music), presentations and displays, chapel services, walks, social events (birthday or special holidays and events), socialization and companionship.

 

k.      Do you have a bus?

 

The Cridge Centre will have a vehicle available for outings.

 

8.  Community Services and Supports:

 

a.       My wife/husband is in another home or care facility how will I be able to visit with them?

 

If you do not have private transportation (your own car, or family member or friends) there is public transportation (city bus) or handi dart available.  Taxi cabs can also be used.  If you require assistance accessing any of these services the Cridge Administration will be happy to assist.

 

b.      I am very active and like to go to different places, but I need someone to help get me there, are there any services you provide that will help me do that?

 

The Cridge bus is available for Cridge outings and activities, you will have to make your own arrangements for personal outings.

 

c.       How far is the nearest mall?

 

Hillside mall is the closest to the Cridge, it is approximately a 2 minute drive.

 

d.      How far to the nearest bank?

 

A Scotia bank is located on Douglas and Hillside, there is also a TD and CIBC located at Hillside Mall.

 

 

  1. Other Questions

 

May I have Pets?

 

No pets of any kind are allowed.

 

May I entertain guests in the dining room?

 

Yes there will be a fee for your guest’s meal and it should be pre-booked with Reception 24 hours in advance.

 

            Is Smoking Allowed?

 

There is NO smoking within the building at all or within 25 feet of any entrance. Smoking is not allowed on the sitting room balconies.  There will be a designated small outdoor smoking patio.