Augustine House’s new “neighbourhood” is a big hit and easily could have been triple the size to accommodate the ever-growing community demand for around-the-clock nursing care.
It was back in January when the Arthur Drive retirement residence opened Haven House South, instantly doubling the number of long-term suites to 24.
The impressive secured home-like area is a mirror image of the original Haven House North.
Licensed under the “Community Care and Assisted Living Act,” the ground floor wings feature an enclosed garden, a central living room, along with a dining room and kitchen area, where residents can participate in daily activities to the best of their ability.
“We were very intentional to retain the smaller number of residents per neighborhood or household. This encourages feelings of belonging and community for the residents as well as allowing staff to meet the needs of each individual in a personalized way,” says Jackie Reiners, Executive Director of Augustine House.
The additional suites in Haven House South were promptly filled.
By proving more long-term care support and services within the campus, couples that are already residing at Augustine House have the opportunity to remain close to one another in the event that one spouse should require more extensive care.
“We were taking calls when the word got out that we were expanding, but it’s primarily residents who were living on the private side that transitioned over here,” added Reiners. “We probably have about 30-to-35 people from outside of Ladner on a wait list. It reflects the number of people who are aging and are staying longer in their home. Maybe they would have come to see us four years ago to get on the wait list (for independent living suites), but then their health care needs change and they require coming right into this type of care.”
Of the many Haven House features it’s one of the residents’ most frequent needs management is thrilled to provide, she said.
“The thing I’m most proud about, honestly, is the showers,” she said. “All of the showers in this space are roll-in, so they will be able to roll-in to their own bathroom and own shower. It just leads to so much more dignity.”
MARK BOOTH
