Dear Editor:
Here is my perspective as a family member who has a mother living in Summerland Seniors’ Village for nearly five years and from my experience as a volunteer.
First, my mom lived in assisted/independent living but now lives in one of the 80 residential care beds.
There are 120 assisted/independent living suites with 18 being funded by Interior Health.
There are up to 200 residents living at Summerland Seniors’ Village.
Not only are there 150 full time and part time staff who come up and down the valley to work at Summerland Seniors’ Village but also a dedicated group of volunteers within the recreation department who help with the many activities offered to all residents, six days a week.
I am at the facility almost on a daily basis, either visiting or as a volunteer.
The residents I have met are a great and fun-loving group of people.
The staff are very caring and accessible any time of the day or night to family members.
Family members should be involved.
If you cannot reach a resident when calling and you become concerned, you can call the LPN’s or aide’s direct number, which is readily accessible to all family members.
I know this because when I have not been able to reach my family member, I have called staff. They look into my concern immediately, day or night.
There is a family council which meets once a month.
At our meetings, all are pleased with the quality of care our family member is receiving.
Yes, there were some issues which needed to be addressed.
These issues are being addressed or have been addressed and improved upon. The morale is great among staff, as far as I can see, and they are pleased with the improvements being made.
Some residents have lived here since the day it opened. Some staff have worked here since the day it opened nearly seven years ago.
It takes special people to work in a care facility with the many different needs that residents require.
I have the utmost respect for these caregivers.
I know if anyone has questions you would be welcomed at Summerland Seniors’ Village to speak with staff and residents or go on a tour.
Rona Taylor
Summerland