Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

Am I Ready for Assisted Living?

If you’re wondering whether an Independent Living lifestyle is the best option for you at this stage of your life, ask yourself these questions:

Do you sometimes feel unsafe, isolated or lonely living on your own?
Have tasks like lawn mowing and snow shovelling become burdensome?
How often do you really get to participate in hobbies/activities that you love?
Are you concerned about your overall health and well-being?
Is having the option to “age-in-place” and have access to care services in the future important to you?

How Do I Find the Right Retirement Residence?

After deciding to move to a retirement residence, your next step is to find the one that best fits your wants and needs. You’ll want the right mix of amenities and services along with an overall “good feeling” about the residence. Here are a few tips:

Decide where you want to live Do you want to be located close to family? Do you want to live near your hometown? Or do you want to take on a new adventure in a different town?
Determine your priorities What is most important to you? Consider your needs and wants before choosing a senior living community. One residence might offer an amenity you desire, like a view or a walking trail, while another may not. Does the home offer the type of room or suite that you’re interested in or the services you require?
Contact the residence and schedule a visit Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few options, then schedule visits to the homes that meet your criteria. Touring them will give you a first-hand look and a feeling for the residence’s character. This checklist may be useful on your tours:
- View living spaces and common areas
- Explore what type of lifestyle programs are offered
- Talk with a current resident about his/her experience
- Observe how staff members interact with residents
- Ask about nearby amenities like churches, hospitals, shops and parks
- Check what types of transportation services are available
Ask for more information It’s hard to cover everything on a tour. You may have other questions afterward. Ask for a brochure and make a note of our website, as well as our contact person’s phone number and/or e-mail address, so you can follow up.

What are the Benefits of a Retirement Living Residence?

Making the move to a Retirement Living residence can be an exciting new chapter in your life. With convenient services and support available, a Retirement Living lifestyle can enable you to pursue your interests, enjoy being more active, and develop new friendships. MacLeod Cares helps you make sure the next stage of your life is the best it can be.

CONCENTRATE ON THE GOOD THINGS – Instead of worrying about cooking, cleaning or home maintenance, you can spend your energy on the people, activities and hobbies you enjoy most.
LIVE A HEALTHIER & HAPPY LIFESTYLE – The community-style environment, nutritious meals, activities, social events and outings offered by MacLeod Cares retirement residences can do more than free up your time — they can help you improve or maintain your overall sense of wellness.

What services are typically included in Nursing Care?

Insured Services are included as part of the daily accommodation charge. The following is a list of services normally covered. Please check the individual provincial health websites for the most up-to-date information.

Nursing and personal care on a 24 hour basis, including care given by a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse
The administration of medications and assistance with activities of daily living
Medical Care
Physician and Pharmacy Services
Laboratory tests ordered by a Physician
Dietician Services
Supplies and equipment for personal hygiene and grooming, including but not limited to skin care lotions, shampoos, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, denture cups and cleansers, toilet tissue, hair brushes and combs
Meal service and meals including three meals daily, snacks between meals and at bedtime, special and therapeutic diets, dietary supplements, and assistive devices for eating
Social, recreational and physical activities and programs, including related supplies and equipment
Laundry, including labeling, machine washing and drying of personal clothes
Bedding and linen including mattresses, pillows, wash towels and wash cloths
Standard room furniture
Housekeeping Services
Pastoral Care Services

What services are optional?

MacLeod Cares strives to provide services and programs that meet your needs while enhancing your health and well-being. Uninsured service may be available on a fee-for-service basis. Residents and family members can make arrangements with the business office for automatic electronic funds transfer for most services.

Optional Services

Examples of services that may be available on a fee-for-service basis include:

Transportation and escort to outside medical appointments
Administration of prescription drugs not covered under the Pharmacare program as well as co-payment charges under this program
Certain non-prescription drugs
Hairdresser Services
Massage Therapy
Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (insured services may be available)
Telephone, Cable and Internet
Ambulance charges
Clothing, footwear
Dental services including dentures
Hearing tests and aids, eye examinations and eyeglasses.
Specialized wheelchairs, walkers or other assistive devices
Personal care items preferred by the resident, such as special brands of soaps or shampoos

Who Owns MacLeod Cares?

MacLeod Cares homes are owned by MacLeod Group. Founded in 1984 by Brian MacLeod and his family, our founders’ vision is to provide the highest standard of care with the feeling of home. We now own and operate homes in 12 communities located throughout the Maritimes and care for over 600 seniors with a dedicated staff of over 1,000 people. Learn more about MacLeod Cares here.

Nova Scotia Specific FAQs

What Does Long-Term Care Refer to in Nova Scotia?

Long-Term Care facilities are licensed and funded by the Department of Health and Wellness to provide services for people who need ongoing care; either on a long-term basis (permanent placement) or a short-term basis (respite care).

There are two types of Long-Term Care available in Nova Scotia:

Residential Care Facilities (Residential Care, Level 2)
Nursing Homes (Nursing Care, Level 3)

All seven MacLeod Cares homes in Nova Scotia offer Nursing Care. Four of our locations also offer Residential Care within the same facility.

What are Residential Care Facilites?

When Home Care does not meet the needs of a person and Nursing Home care is not required, a Residential Care Facility may be the solution. Residential Care Facilities provide people with personal care, supervision and accommodation in a safe and supportive environment. People living in Residential Care Facilities must have the ability to self-evacuate in the event of an emergency.

What are Nursing Homes?

Nursing Homes are important options for people who have difficulty performing everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing and toileting. Nursing Home placement is appropriate for people who are medically stable but have nursing needs that cannot be met through home care.

What Services do Residential Care Facilities and Nursing Homes Provide?

Residential Care Facilities provide assistance with personal care such as, bathing and dressing, and reminders about daily routines. Personal care and supervision are provided by Residential Care Workers who are available on site at all times.

Nursing Homes provide nursing and personal care on a 24-hour basis including care given under the supervision of a nurse, administration of medication and assistance with daily living. Other services may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and recreation.

For both Residential Care Facilities and Nursing Homes, the staff administer all medications for residents. The facilities have medical advisors but residents may continue to visit their family doctor. Residents usually have private bedrooms or share with one other person. Common spaces include dining and living areas, bathrooms and outdoor spaces. Residents are served three meals per day and snacks. Menus consider the resident’s preferences, can accommodate special diets, and follow Canada’s Food Guide.

How do I know if my personal care needs can be met in Residential Care vs. Nursing Care?

Completion of the provincial government’s Assessment can determine the appropriate place for you or your loved one. The Assessment will describe physical and mental health challenges.

What Happens If I Move into Residential Care then become ill and require Nursing Care?

Because many MacLeod Cares facilities in Nova Scotia offer both levels of service, you could transfer to Nursing Care within the same facility when a bed becomes available.

Are Residential Care and Nursing Care Homes inspected by the Nova Scotia government?

MacLeod Cares homes operate under a license issued by the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness, Continuing Care Division. The Department’s licensing decisions are informed by inspection results and this requires the facility to comply with all the established rules as governed by the Community Care Facilities and Nursing Homes Act, Nursing Home Regulations, Operational and Care Service Standards Manual for Private Nursing Homes, and the Continuing Care Division’s Policy and Standards. Residents’ care is carried out by or under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. The type of care provided involves skilled professional assessments and observation on a 24-hour basis. All inspection reports are public documents available on-line.

What does it cost to live at a MacLeod Cares Residential Care or Nursing Care residence?

Residential Care or Nursing Care costs are shared by you and the provincial government. The Department of Health and Wellness pays for the health care costs and you pay your accommodation costs and personal expenses.

The Department of Health and Wellness sets standard accommodation charges annually. Those who are able to pay the full standard accommodation charge are not required to complete a financial assessment. Those who cannot pay the standard accommodation charge can apply to have their rate reduced through an income based financial assessment Learn more about Paying for Long Term Care

What are the financial requirements upon admission?

Current month’s room and board charges from the day of admission to month end. After admission, accommodation charges will be debited directly from your bank on the first banking day of each month.
Accommodation charges are paid in advance.
Void check for setting up automatic debit for monthly room and board charges.
An amount of money for the resident to access for incidental purchases. This is called the Personal Use Account or PUA. If the family is managing this spending, PUA is not required. This can be any amount as needed to cover requirements.
A photocopy of any Power of Attorney documents including Personal Directives concerning health care.
Provincial Health Card to be retained by the facility.

How Do I Apply for Nursing Care in Nova Scotia?

To apply for residency in a Residential Care Facility or a Nursing Home in Nova Scotia, please contact Continuing Care, toll-free at 1-800-225-7225 to find out about the application process, arrange for a Care Coordinator to assess your care needs, and identify the best method of having your needs met. You may also Visit the Nova Scotia Health and Wellness website at : https://novascotia.ca/dhw/ccs/long-term-care.asp

New Brunswick Specific FAQs

How Do I Apply for Special Care or Nursing Care services in New Brunswick?

First, you need to be assessed

Assessments to confirm your care needs are conducted prior to admission to a care facility.

Special Care (Level 2)

If you are assessed as requiring Special Care facility support, you may chose where you wish to live based on availability. You are encouraged to visit facilities, tour and speak with staff to determine which facility will best suit your needs.

Nursing Care (Level 3)

The New Brunswick Department of Social Development manages placement in Nursing Care nursing homes. A single point of entry is used to determine and set priority for access to all Nursing Care homes and beds. Learn more on the Department of Social Development’s website. If you require financial support, application may be made for a Financial Assessment under the Standard Family Contribution Policy. Here is a link to the Department’s Standard Family Contribution Policy brochure.

How do I know if my personal care needs can be met in Special Care vs. Nursing Care?

Completion of a Standardized Assessment by the provincial Department of Social Development can determine the appropriate place for you or your loved one. The Assessment will describe physical and mental health challenges and is typically completed in the hospital or by a provincial government Social Worker. Persons living at home who are looking for placement can contact their regional office of the Department of Social Development.

Are Special Care and Nursing Care Homes inspected by the New Brunswick government?

MacLeod Cares homes operate under a license issued by the New Brunswick Department of Social Development. The Department’s licensing decisions are informed by inspection results and this requires the facility to comply with all the established rules as governed by the Nursing Homes Act, Nursing Home Regulations, Operational and Care Service Standards Manual, and Department Policy. The care required by private nursing home residents is carried out by or under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. The type of care provided involves skilled professional assessments and observation on a 24-hour basis. All inspection reports are public documents available on-line.

What does it cost to live at a Special Care or Nursing Care residence?

If you are seeking government subsidization, the amount you pay for accommodation is determined prior to admission through the financial assessment process conducted by the provincial Department of Social Development.

What are the financial requirements upon admission?

Current month’s room and board charges from day of admission to month end. After admission, all charges will be debited directly from the bank on the first banking day of each month.
Accommodation charges are paid in advance.
Void check for setting up automatic debit for monthly room and board charges.
A photocopy of any Power of Attorney documents including Personal Directives concerning heath care.
Provincial Health Card to be retained by facility.

PEI Specific FAQs

How Do I Apply for Community Care or Long-Term Care services in PEI?

First, you need to be assessed

Assessments to confirm your care needs are conducted prior to admission to a care facility.

Community Care

If you are assessed as requiring Community Care facility support (Levels 2 or 3), you may chose where you wish to live based on availability. You are encouraged to visit facilities, tour and speak with staff to determine which facility will best suit your needs.

Long-Term Care

If you are assessed as requiring Long-Term Care facility support (Levels 4 or 5), Health PEI manages placements in Long-Term Care nursing homes. A single point of entry is used to determine and set priority for access to all Long-Term Care nursing home beds.

If you require financial support, applications may be made under the Social Assistance Act through the Department of Family and Human Services.

Contact information:

Department of Health and Wellness
Community Care Facilities and Nursing Home Consultant
Health Policy and Programs
Phone: 902-368-4953

Learn more on the Health PEI website

What is the difference between Community Care and Long-Term Care?

Community Care provides personal and supervisory care 24 hours per day. Long-Term Care services are designed and equipped to provide medical care. As such, they are staffed with Geriatric Assistants, Resident Care Workers, Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses 24 hours per day. In PEI, MacLeod Cares offers both services within our facilities. The advantage of this for Community Care residents is that the professional staff from Long-Term Care can provide medical attention in special circumstances.

How do I know if my personal care needs can be met in Community Care vs. Long-Term Care?

Completion of Health PEI’s Senior Assessment Screening Tool (SAST) can determine the appropriate place for you or your loved one. SASTs are documents that describe physical and mental health challenges. They are typically completed in the hospital or by Government Home Care Staff. Persons living at home who are looking for placement can contact their local Home Care and Support office to inquire about moving to a Community Care home and having an SAST completed.

What Happens If I Move into Community Care then become ill and require Long-Term Care?

Because many MacLeod Cares facilities in PEI offer both levels of service, you could transfer to Long-Term Care within the same facility when a bed becomes available.

Are Community Care and Long-Term Care Homes inspected by the PEI government?

MacLeod Cares homes operate under a license issued by PEI’s Community Care Facilities and Nursing Homes Board. The Board’s licensing decisions are informed by inspection results and this requires the facility to comply with all the established rules as governed by the Community Care Facilities and Nursing Homes Act, Nursing Homes Regulations, Operational and Care Service Standards for Private Nursing Homes, and Board Policy. The care required by private nursing home residents is carried out by or under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. The type of care provided involves skilled professional assessments and observation on a 24-hour basis. All inspection reports are public documents available on-line.

What does it cost to live at a Community Care or Long-Term Care residence?

There are two parts to live at any Home in the province: an accommodation rate and a health care rate. If you are seeking government subsidization, the amount you pay for accommodation is determined prior to admission through the financial assessment process conducted by Health PEI. Your health care costs are covered 100% by Health PEI.

What are the financial requirements upon admission?

Current month’s room and board charges from day of admission to month end. After admission, accommodation charges will be debited directly from the bank on the first banking day of each month.
Accommodation charges are paid in advance.
Void check for setting up automatic debit for monthly room and board charges.
An amount of money for the resident to access for incidental purchases. This is called the Comfort Fund. If the family is managing this spending, PUA is not required. This can be any amount as needed to cover requirements.
A photocopy of any Power of Attorney documents including Personal Directives concerning heath care.
Provincial Health Card to be retained by facility.