The provincial government is redeveloping more than 4,100 long-term care home beds.
Residents in long-term care homes are expected to have to more modern and comfortable living as the province redevelops those beds across Ontario.
Ontario is rebuilding 4,183 existing beds, and upgrading facilities at 37 long-term care homes. That is part of the government’s plan to redevelop 35,000 older beds over 10 years to help improve access to long-term care throughout the province.
The redeveloped homes will meet the most modern design standards and will feature greater wheelchair access for residents in private and public spaces.
The redeveloped homes are expected to be completed as early as 2012.
This phase of the government’s renewal strategy is expected to help create or sustain approximately 4,000 jobs in Ontario.
Deb Matthews Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, said of the plan “It’s all about comfort and safety, and how important that is to residents and their families. I’m pleased we can redevelop our long-term care beds and give residents a higher quality of life in a more comfortable, home-like setting.”
Christina Bisanz, the chief executive officer of the Ontario Long-Term Care Association, said, "We applaud government for beginning to ensure that all residents will have access to modern standards of physical comfort, privacy, and dignity. We have long supported the renewal of older homes as an investment in the quality of care and quality of life that residents need and deserve."
Chief executive officer of the Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors, added, “This announcement marks the start of a long term commitment by the government to improve the quality of life of residents. Through this support, homes will be able to create modern and comfortable living environments that Ontarians can be proud of for many years to come.”
