Frequently Asked Questions

Seeking a Retirement Residence or a retirement community for yourself or a loved one can be confusing. Here are some essential questions that can help guide you through the process and help you make the right choice.

Can children visit family and friends at emerald retirement? My children are fairly young. Can I bring them to visit?

Connections with family and friends play an essential role in health and well-being. Children are welcome to visit. We also plan family-friendly events to promote ongoing relationships between generations.

Can I be evicted from a retirement home?

A landlord can evict you for certain reasons. Rules and policies that apply are evictions under Section 148 of the Residential Tenancies Act.

Can I bring my pet?

We are now allowing cats in the home, but proof of up-to-date vaccinations will need to be provided. We will also ask for a pet deposit on the first months rent!

Can residents have cars?

We have a large parking lot with free parking. We offer indoor parking at an additional fee.

Can we bring our furniture?

Families are encouraged to use items from their own homes and furnish their suites to their taste. Bring pictures and personal things that make the suite feel like home. This is your new home and we want you to be comfortable and safe in your new home.

Do residents have the option of cooking in their suites?

We offer some suites with kitchenettes. Please inquire directly with lifestyle manager during your tour!

Do you accept residents who smoke?

Emerald has a designated smoking area well suited to the needs of our smokers.

Do you have studios and one-bedroom suites?

We have a range of options depending on the specific suite you are interested in.

How can I book a visit to Emerald retirement residence?

To book a visit, tour, complimentary lunch, or a short-term stay, call us or contact us to schedule a visit at a convenient time for you.

How do I talk to my loved one about retirement home living?

It's never too soon to start this conversation with a loved one. Making the transition from independent living to a retirement community doesn't have to be complicated; however, it will take some adjusting too. Start the conversation by asking your loved ones about their plans and needs. Be supportive and enthusiastic about their options. By keeping a positive outlook and assisting your loved ones with their research and planning, you'll help them feel more confident and comfortable with their decision.

How do we decide what is the most appropriate living situation?

Each person's situation is unique and can change over time. Our senior living consultants help individuals and their loved ones evaluate current needs and preferences to identify the most appropriate living situation and plan for changing care needs. Schedule a complimentary consultation.

How do you transfer from one part of the residence to another?

The care team at Emerald will help you make this transition and assist you with any questions you might have regarding this procedure.

How does Emerald retirement handle Abuse or Neglect?

Emerald has Zero Tolerance for Abuse and Neglect. Our policy is to promote zero tolerance of abuse and neglect of its residents. Resident abuse means physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, or financial abuse. Resident neglect implies the failure to provide residents with the care and assistance required for their health, safety, or well-being. It includes inaction or a pattern of inaction that jeopardizes the health and safety of one or more residents.

How much does it cost to live in a Retirement Home in Ontario?

This varies from home to home and region to region. There is also the size of suite you are considering and any care options you may need. It is best to call or make an appointment to review all costs.

I live in a retirement home, and I want to move out. Do I have to give notice to my landlord?

You have to notify the residence in writing that you are terminating your tenancy. According to the Residential Tenancies Act, you only have to give your landlord 30 days' notice if you live in a care home. The 30-day notice period begins the day you present the landlord written notice. If you leave before the 30 days are up, in most cases, you do not have to pay for services from your landlord. If you move out and your landlord can rent to someone else before the 30 days is up, you are not responsible for paying for those days during which your apartment or room has been re-rented. The notice to your landlord must identify your room or apartment, state the date of termination, and must be signed by you.

If I have special dietary requirements, how are they handled?

We work with you to find options that accommodate your needs. All menus are reviewed and approved by our Food Service Manager. Special dietary requirements are accommodated in consultation with the resident, physician, and Food Service Manager.

If I make this move, will I have to move again?

We will do our best to provide you with the care and service you require to keep you happy, healthy, and engaged in our residences. However, we recognize that your needs may change over time, and this is why we offer flexible services to accommodate those changing needs. Of course, if your needs change beyond our ability to meet those requirements, we will work with you and your family to determine the best and most appropriate options available.

In Assisted Living Services, Is There a Written Care Plan?

With all retirement residences in Ontario that offer assisted living, an initial assessment and care plan is specifically designed for each resident. This plan should include details about various things - from medical equipment needed, medications needed, specific care needs, and input from the family or in-house doctor. A copy of the plan is always made available to you.

Is a Retirement Residence Licensed?

All Retirement Homes in Ontario must be licensed by the RHRA (Retirement Regulatory Authority of Ontario) and subject to regular inspections and audits.

Is there visitor parking?

Yes, we have ample parking for visitors.

May I have family and friends join me for a meal?

Yes! We encourage it! We welcome family and friends. As a courtesy to the chef, we ask that you please offer notice that they are coming. A fee may apply. For more information, please visit our "Dining" section.

What are your daily / weekly activities?

We have loads of activities, outings, and parties! Our Lifestyle and Program Manager at Emerald is responsible for coordinating our diversified and engaging life enrichment programs. To see examples of the types of programming offered, please visit our Life Enrichment page to view a monthly calendar.

What is a continuing care retirement community?

A continuing care retirement community offers multiple options along the senior living housing and healthcare spectrum. Emerald offers independent living, assisted living, and Enhanced care all In one residence. If care needs change, residents can transition to the proper care setting within our community. At Emerald, we want our residents to rest assured knowing we have all of their care needs covered now and in the future.

Following hospitalization, residents who require short-term rehabilitation or long-term skilled nursing care can receive the care and attention they need at Emerald.

What is a Retirement Community?

A retirement community is a seniors housing complex designed for older adults who can care for themselves; however, assistance, activities, and socialization opportunities are often available.

What is a Retirement Residence?

A retirement residence also referred to as a retirement home, is a privately-owned residence that provides rental accommodation. Some homes offer care and services for seniors who can live independently with minimal to moderate support or require more advanced assisted living care and can fund this lifestyle on their own.

What is the difference between long-term care (LTC) residence (also known as "nursing home") and a retirement home/community?

The main difference is the level of care provided at a long-term care residence is much greater than that of a retirement community. Generally, residents of LTC are frailer and require a heavier level of assisted living supports.

Another key difference is the level of government support – LTC residents are subsidized by a daily co-pay, which can lessen their financial strain. Monthly costs for rent, care, and services are generally less than retirement residences. Because of this, it may take up to two years on a waiting list before a room is made available.

What is the process for moving in?

Once you have decided to move into one of our residences, we will provide you with our Welcome Guidebook to facilitate the move-in process. Also, before move-in, we will schedule a time with you to visit for an hour or two to review the information and complete the required paperwork.

What is the RHRA?

The RHRA (Retirement Regulatory Authority of Ontario) is an independent, not-for-profit corporation governed by a Board of directors established under the Act by the Ontario government to regulate retirement residences.

What policies are in place in your residence?

We ensure all governing federal and provincial regulatory guidelines, and practices are adhered to in our residence in the most skilled, ethical manner. Additionally, we will supply a copy of our safety and security guidelines before your move. These guidelines include fire prevention and fire safety emergency procedures, among other topics.

What should I consider when looking for a retirement residence?

This depends a lot on your personal preferences. The following is a list of criteria to consider when looking at potential retirement options:

Accommodations: Consider things like wheelchair accessibility, whether or not a kitchenette is available, housekeeping and laundry services, etc.

Activities and Leisure activities: Be sure to inquire about outdoor spaces, common areas, recreational programming, onsite amenities (like a salon or spa), and worship services.

Health and assisted living services: Always be sure to check staff credentials and facility safety protocols. If you require more in-depth assisted living services, you may wish to speak directly to our Director of Care.

What types of services are included in a Retirement Home/Community?

In every retirement residence, there are various services available and included, or available for an additional fee. Typically, these services fall into two categories: convenience and support. Typical benefits can include meals and snacks, recreation and activity programs, housekeeping and laundry, emergency response, medication administration, personal assistance, and numerous others. You can choose and review the services and any cost associated with your package to ensure that they meet your individual needs with any residence representatives.

Where can I find information on Emerald's short-term stay program?

Our residence offers you the opportunity to stay with us for a short period, based on availability. You can experience our accommodations and services for various situations, including if you require short-term support to convalesce or if you would like to experience a trial stay at Emerald retirement home.

Who owns Emerald Retirement Residence?

Emerald Retirement Residence is a privately owned retirement home. The owners are very active in their residents' day-to-day management and care to ensure quality standards are always maintained.

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