Extendicare Columbia Forest

The home’s team includes registered nurses, practical nurses, personal support workers, physicians, social workers and recreation staff. It identifies expertise in wound and continence care, falls prevention, end-of-life care, chronic disease management and dementia care.

The Director of Care supervises the nursing team and can answer questions about nursing practice, personal care and care plans. The Medical Director coordinates clinical services in the home.

The home works with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dentists, podiatrists and beauticians to provide access to specialized therapies and services.

Room options include private accommodation and shared semi-private or basic/standard accommodation. Private rooms may suit someone who values their own bathroom and longer family visits; the home notes that private accommodation is an added expenditure.

Shared-room residents are matched by gender, with an effort to pair people whose routines are compatible. Furnishings, bedding and linens, housekeeping, maintenance and laundry are included for all residents.

Residents who are able are encouraged to take shopping trips, visit family for holidays and celebrations, or revisit favourite places. Residents sign out when leaving the home.

The home’s team includes registered dietitians, cooks—including certified Red Seal chefs—and dietary aides.

Activities listed at the home include music to engage residents with dementia, worship services, exercise classes and reminiscing with a volunteer.

Community connections include an intergenerational program, Family Fun Day, holiday activities, a city food drive and Adopt-A-Family.

To help residents and families settle in, the home describes a meeting with the primary caregiver, introductions to department heads, a Guardian Angel transition program, welcome baskets and welcome events.

Family supports include a family function space, a social-worker-supported group lunch, monthly newsletters, memorial services and an open-door policy.