A private long-term care home in Chesley is closing, and staff and residents will have to find another place to live or work.
A letter to staff from Southbridge Care Homes, has been shared by employees in the community.
It’s written by VP of Long-Term Care and Retirement Andrea Loft, and says Parkview Manor in Chesley will close December 31st, 2024.
It says, “After careful consideration and with a very heavy heart, we have made the difficult decision to apply to the Ministry of Long-Term Care and Ontario Health to close Parkview Manor,”
They explain, “Unfortunately, given the challenge of meeting Ontario Regulation 150/13 (fire code related to sprinklers) we are unable to sustain the operations of the long-term care home.”
The Ontario Long-Term Care association explains on its website, “Many older homes, particularly those in rural areas, also face structural barriers to additional sprinkler installation such as a reliance on well water, insufficient water pressure to support the expanded coverage, insufficient electrical capacity to run the pumps, inadequate electrical service, limited generator back-up capacity, and asbestos in the walls, ceilings and floors.”
The OLTA adds, “If homes are unable to install additional sprinklers or rebuild and modernize by the sprinkler deadline, they will lose their insurance. Without insurance, a home cannot remain open.”
Southbridge says it will work with residents and the Ministry of Long-Term Care and Ontario Health At Home in the Southwest Region to transition residents to an alternate care arrangement that best suits their individual needs and preferences. There are reportedly about 25 residents there, though the website says it is a 34-bed home.
It reads, “Please be assured that residents and families will be fully supported throughout this transition.”
It adds to staff, “Please be assured we will support you throughout this transition,” and thanks staff for their dedication and commitment to the residents at Parkview Manor.