There are now 20 more continuing care beds open in Ponoka, located at Seasons Retirement Community Ponoka.
“We are excited to increase our capacity for care,” said Nicole Almost, senior regional director, resident and guest services, Seasons Retirement Communities in a press release.
“We have continued to see the demand for this level of care rise, and this allows us to support even more residents and help keep more people in their local community,” said Almost. “It’s been a pleasure to work with our AHS partners to support the transition, and we thank them for their ongoing collaboration.”
The beds provide the highest level of support living services, Supportive Living Level 4 (SL4), and are for individuals with complex medical needs. This can include chronic disease management and assistance with daily activities, such as meal assistance (including tube feeds), mechanical lift or two-person transfers, medication assistance or administration.
“Adding these new beds in Ponoka provides residents the opportunity to stay in the community they know and love, close to family, and get the care they need,” said Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr in a press release.
Seasons Retirement Communities also expects to open 12 more SL4 beds in Drayton Valley over the next several months.
SL4 beds were introduced to Ponoka and Drayton Valley this past summer, when Seasons Retirement Communities transitioned 20 beds in Ponoka and 16 in Drayton Valley.
Alberta Health Services said the decision to offer this higher level of care was made following a thorough review, and consideration of current and future needs of both communities.
“I’m proud of the work we’re doing to increase choices and options for seniors,” said Lori Sparrow, AHS senior operating officer, seniors health, central zone, in the release.
“Providing more Albertans the opportunity to age in place, in familiar surroundings near family and loved ones, is an important cornerstone of enhancing care in the community,” she said.
Once all new beds are added, both communities will have a total 40 of SL4 beds.