Copernicus Lodge
Family Council Information Guide
Family Members Helping Family Members
Copernicus Lodge
66 Roncesvalles Avenue
Toronto, ON, M6R 3A7
http://www.copernicuslodge.com/
416-536-7122
Published May 2016
Table of Contents
Item
Page
Introduction & Welcome
5
Copernicus Lodge, Who We Are
7
Family Council, What We Do
8
Resident’s Council, What it is
10
Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
11
Types of Services Available at Copernicus Lodge
17
Copernicus Lodge Doctors
18
Annual Care Conference Meeting
19
Levels of Point of Care: Communication
20
Communication, Speak Up!
21
Clothing
25
Laundry
27
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
2
Table of Contents
Item
Page
Meals & Snacks
30
Activation
35
Pastoral Services
37
Volunteers
42
Pets
44
Wishing Well
46
Parking
48
Transportation
51
Access Codes
53
Badge Sign-In
54
Facilities, Activities and Programs
55
External Family Visits
56
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
3
Table of Contents
Item
Page
End of Life Care
59
Copernicus Lodge Foundation
60
Gifts to Copernicus Lodge Staff
62
Family Input & Feedback
64
Additional Information
65
Closing Comments
66
Appendix I - Glossary
67
Appendix II – Resident’s Bill of Rights
69
Appendix III – Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
72
Disclaimers
77
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
4
Introduction & Welcome!
Based on our personal experiences, this guide, prepared by families*
is a brief overview of the services you can find within Copernicus
Lodge. We encourage you and your loved one(s) to use this guide to
familiarize yourself with all that Copernicus Lodge has to offer.
Copernicus Lodge is a continuum of care providing services to seniors
in our Long Term Care Home, 200 senior’s apartments with a
Supportive Housing program and an Adult Day Program. This guide
primarily focuses on the Long Term Care Home.
Every thing that the staff, Board, volunteers and we as families do at
Copernicus Lodge to ensure that our loved ones are treated with
dignity and respect must follow the Ontario Long Term Care Homes Act
2007 which includes the Resident’s Bill of Rights (Refer to Appendix II).
* Family includes: family members, friends, next of kin, Powers of Attorneys
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
5
Introduction & Welcome!
Copernicus Lodge Long Term Care Home is a large facility with 10
resident home areas (RHA) plus common areas (re: Six floors: North
and South, except for floors 5 & 6 which only have South sides).
Coming here can be overwhelming, but we hope this guide gives you,
your family and friends useful and helpful information during your stay
with us.
Please do not be shy about speaking with staff if you have any
questions or concerns. It is the mission and goal of Copernicus Lodge
to provide safe and quality care to our residents.
Thank you and Welcome to Copernicus Lodge!
Richard Gralek, President of Family Council
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6
Copernicus Lodge, Who We Are
• Copernicus Lodge Long Term Care
Home is a 228-bed Christian
community seniors home, providing
care and services that reflect the
universal values of respect, dignity
and compassion.
• Resident care is delivered through
our clinical programs and service
areas, each of which has
distinguished itself in the standard of
its Resident care.
• Our Mission statement can be found:
Posted near the elevators; Family /
Information Board ;
www.copernicuslodge.com
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Family Council, What We Do
• Provides families who have a
loved one at Copernicus Lodge, a
forum where they can:
– Share experiences;
– Seek solutions;
– Champion on behalf of your
loved ones to ensure they are
living their life with dignity.
• Works with Copernicus Lodge
management and staff to
evaluate and implement changes
to services and programs to
better meet resident’ needs.
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8
Family Council, What We Do
• Meetings are held quarterly (Refer to the bulletin board located on
the right hand side of the Main floor elevators in the Long-term Care
section of the building for updates and minutes of past meetings).
• Management of Copernicus Lodge can be invited by the Family
Council to answer questions or concerns regarding the operation of
the home to help family members to better navigate Copernicus
Lodge.
• All family members, friends, next of kin and Powers of Attorney(s)
(POA) are welcome to attend the meetings.
• Family Council is a requirement of the Long Term Care Homes Act.
• For more information please contact the President of Family
Council.
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Resident’s Council, What it is
• The Resident’s Council allows residents to actively participate in:
– Development of choices for activities, food, living arrangements,
personal care and other aspects of resident life at Copernicus
Lodge;
– Serve as an advocate in resolving grievances and ensuring
residents rights are observed while living at Copernicus Lodge
• For more information, contact Placement Coordinator & Resident
Council designated Staff Assistant
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10
Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
Your loved one’s room is their
Home (their personal space):
• You can decorate it as you
wish. Please keep in mind
space and safety.
• Surround your loved one with
articles they are comfortable
with and remember from their
lives such as:
– Belongings from their past;
– Their hobbies;
– Their passions.
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Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
• Items to consider to make a
resident more comfortable:
– Photos from the resident’s
past, things they liked to do;
– Paintings, religious artifacts,
wall hangings;
– Blankets, comforters, pillows,
bed coverings;
– Souvenirs, mementoes,
books, music, DVDs;
– Calendars, bulletin and/or
message Boards.
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Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
• Avoid bringing any valuable and/or
fragile items to minimize the risk
this item may be lost.
• With many of our residents
experiencing some form of
dementia – sometimes things
disappear temporarily. Not to
worry, many of items are found on
the floor and are returned back to
their original home ).
• Large pieces of furniture may be
discouraged if they impede staff
activities or cause a health and
safety concern for your loved one
and/or for the staff providing care
and services.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
Similar to when they lived in their own homes – you are welcome
anytime!
• You can visit your loved one any time you wish; you can stay as
long as you wish.
• Be considerate when visiting your loved one making sure not to
disturb other residents if your visit is during the evening or early
morning.
• Residents can go to bed when they wish (Need to consider the
Copernicus Lodge schedule but if your loved one likes to stay up and
watch TV – they can).
• Communicate with staff and determine the best schedule that will
work for your loved one.
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14
Making Copernicus a Home
Memory Boxes
• Located outside each
Resident’s room;
• Place items in the box that will
help your loved one identify
their room/home;
• Photos, mementoes, souvenirs
and items they are passionate
about;
• All items help your loved one
feel more comfortable.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
15
Making Copernicus Lodge a Home
Name Plates
• Located above the Memory Box at the entrance of your loved one’s
room/home.
• Their name plate may have a colour coded sticker located beside
their name.
• This colour code helps Copernicus Lodge staff identify the level of
behavioural risk of a resident. This code reminds staff to refer to
the resident’s care plan to identify strategies to support the
resident and minimize risk.
• Your loved ones are assessed daily with formal assessments
completed quarterly or more often as needed to confirm that their
care plan is accurate and up to date.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Types of Services Available
at Copernicus Lodge
• Copernicus Lodge has many services available for your loved ones
(some are included as part of the fees your loved one pays and
others carry additional fees). Everyone is here to help make your
loved one(s) feel like Copernicus Lodge is truly a place called
“Home”.
• Services include:
Physiotherapy Chiropodist
Eye Clinic
Hairdresser
Pet Visits
Pharmacy1
Denture Service
Esthetician
Snoezelen Room2
• If you have questions regarding any of these services, please refer
to the “Copernicus Lodge Administration /Management Contact
List”(Copies are available at reception).
1. Need to use Classic Care Pharmacy for all medication, vitamins, supplements, etc.
2. Snoezelen Room is a calming space to allow your loved ones the ability to relax
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
17
Copernicus Lodge Doctors
• Medical Director at Copernicus Lodge oversees the medical team.
• There are 7 attending physicians who partner with Copernicus Lodge to
provide medical care to our residents.
• We also have a consulting Psychogeriatrician who comes to complete
rounds on a monthly basis.
• Family can request to speak and/or meet with the doctor (doctors visit
residents on a regular basis throughout the month. Please arrange a
meeting during the doctors’ working hours/day of rounds, where
possible). The Power of Attorney is welcome to call the doctor directly.
• At times, there may be a need to change doctors (due to personality fit,
style, approach).
• If there are any concerns, please speak with the Director of Care and a
solution will be found to meet your loved one(s) and your family’s needs.
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Annual Care Conference Meeting
•
Held:
–
–
–
–
In person or as a teleconference;
6 weeks after resident is first admitted;
Subsequently annually with family.
Meetings are generally scheduled for 30 minutes but may be longer due to
individual needs of residents and families.
•
In attendance are members of Copernicus Lodge multi-disciplinary team who
are involved with the care and comfort of your loved one (i.e. Doctor, Nursing,
Dietitian, Activation, Pastoral, etc.).
•
Please do not hesitate to ask questions, request additional information,
challenge (if necessary), acknowledge and thank the Copernicus Lodge team
who work to ensure your loved one is well cared for.
•
Please take the time to follow-up on any items identified during the Care
Conference meeting and ensure the results are to your satisfaction.
•
Keep being a Champion for your loved one and stay involved!!
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Levels of Point of Care:
Communication
• You have every right to voice your concern if it impacts your loved one.
You are their Champion and Voice.
• The management, staff, board members and volunteers of Copernicus
Lodge are all here to ensure Copernicus Lodge is indeed a place that your
loved one can call home. Consider them part of your team.
• If you feel that you are not getting resolution, please consider the
following Levels of Point of Care when communicating your concern:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
•
Charge Nurse on Floor;
Director of Care (or another Manager depending on your concern);
Chief Executive Officer (CEO);
Board of Directors;
Ontario Ministry of Health and Long term Care Complaint Line 1-866434-0144. Please also refer to http://www.ontario.ca/health-andwellness/long-term-care-home-complaint-process.
On-going & regular communication is critical to providing individualized
care for every resident. If a question or concern is not known it cannot
be addressed.
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Communication, Speak Up!
• It’s important to communicate,
communicate, communicate
what’s happening with your loved
one and ensure Copernicus Lodge
staff are aware.
• Don’t hesitate to talk to Nurses,
Personal Support Workers
(PSWs), other staff who assist in
the care of your loved one.
SPEAK UP!!
• Care related concerns should be
directed to the RN or RPN of the
resident home area. Please note
that staff are only permitted, by
law, to provide information to the
POA.
• Ask questions and be involved!
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Communication, Speak Up!
• Consider Copernicus Lodge staff to be part of your team. You are an
equal member of the team who is here to champion for the best
interests of your loved one.
• Where possible, meet with each of the Copernicus Lodge staff who
help to provide the care and services for your loved one.
• Engage and develop a relationship – get to know your team
members in person. Find out what the best way is to communicate
for both parties. Please remember that staff are human too.
Ensure that communication is done in a mutually respectful
manner.
• Use email only for follow-ups, reminders and other non-critical
items.
• If something doesn’t work for you and your loved one – Speak Up!!
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Communication, Speak Up!
Additional points to help all team members ensure everyone is
working together:
• Update your loved one’s Nurse on any doctor visits and/or other
appointments outside of Copernicus;
• Request that a copy of medical tests/analyses/assessments be sent
to the Nursing station at Copernicus Lodge as well as the doctor
(this helps ensure your loved one’s medical file is always current
and up to date);
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Communication, Speak Up!
Additional points to help all team members ensure everyone is working
together:
• Don’t hesitate to post signs/messages/reminders inside your loved
one’s RHA (We prefer that it’s posted inside to respect the privacy of
your loved one where the information may be sensitive). There are
many people who are involved with your loved one’s care;
• This helps share the message so that everyone works together with
the most current information;
• These notices should not replace communication with your loved
ones’ nurse. Communication is essential so your loved ones’ care
plan can be updated to ensure excellence in care.
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Clothing
• All items must be labelled with your loved
one’s name (Copernicus Lodge can do this
for you or use Dymo Iron-on Labels).
• Fabrics - Polyesters and cotton are the best.
These fabrics are easy to wash and wear.
• Clothes should be easy to put on and
remove for the Resident (re: elasticized
pants, buttons or velcro fasteners, zipper
fronts).
• This helps the Resident stay independent.
It also helps Copernicus Lodge staff if they
need to assist the Resident with their
needs during the day.
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Clothing, Helpful Tips
• The goal is to help our residents to
remain independent as long as
they can. We can help with this by:
– Colour coordinate all items if possible
(allows clothing items to match and
are interchangeable);
– Residents do not have to worry
whether clothing choices match or
are appropriate to wear if they are
dressing themselves.
• Shoes: make sure they are
comfortable walking shoes,
slippers or boots with non-slip
soles that are easy to put on/take
off and are the appropriate size.
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Laundry
• Options for laundry can be:
– Copernicus Lodge (Frequency = Weekly)
– Family member and/or resident (where applicable) does laundry
• On-site – each floor has laundry facilities (washer and dryer) available;
• Off-site - at your home.
• Laundry hampers provided by Copernicus Lodge are located in the
resident’s room. The hamper can also be located in one of the
shower rooms or in a locked closet if resident has a tendency to pull
items from laundry (as a result of dementia or other illness).
• Talk to Copernicus Lodge staff who will find a creative solution that
works well for your loved one!
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Laundry
Missing laundry items?
• Speak with your resident’s PSW
team. They are familiar with
what each resident may have as
they help them with personal
hygiene & dressing if needed.
• Do not worry they will find the
missing item!
• Director of Environmental
Services will assist you in speaking
with the staff who work in
laundry if you can not find your
loved one’s item on the resident’s
home area
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Laundry – Unclaimed Items
• Copernicus Lodge does the
laundry for your loved ones
(unless advised by the family).
Sometimes labels fall off or
clothing is not labelled.
• There are many unclaimed
clothing items waiting to be
returned back to the Resident.
• Please speak with Director of
Environmental Services if you
cannot find your loved one’s
missing clothing item.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Meal & Snacks
• On the first day of admission, the Dietary Manager or Food Services
Manager will meet with the resident and family to discuss diet and special
requirements
• All residents are assessed by the Registered Dietitian within 2 weeks of
arriving at Copernicus Lodge.
• Registered Dietitian works with nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, etc. to
ensure a meal plan is developed that will best meet the needs of your
loved one.
• Your loved one’s eating habits are regularly reviewed and assessed by the
Registered Dietitian.
• The menu follows Canada’s Food Guide.
• Please see the handout for newly admitted residents and their families
from the Dietary Department.
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Meal & Snacks
• Residents are given 3 meals a
day (a full breakfast; a choice
of main entrée, soup and
dessert at lunch; main entrée
and dessert at supper), snacks
& beverages are given in
between meals.
• Family can bring food/drink
that your loved one enjoys.
• Please let the nurse know so
food can be labelled and dated
before being placed in the
refrigerator .
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Meal & Snacks
• Families can share a meal with their
loved one at a reasonable price.
• Meals can be shared in:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The resident’s dining area;
Family Dining Room (Ground floor of
Long term Care. Contact
Administrative Supervisor);
Within resident’s room/home;
Main Dining room (located in the
Apartment building).
• Contact either the nursing staff on
the floor or Food Services
Supervisor to make arrangements
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Meal & Snacks
• If necessary, you may help
feed your loved one.
• Please refer to “Pleasurable
Dining Rules” located in the
RHA.
• To help feed other
residents, training is
required. Please contact
the Volunteer Coordinator.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
33
Meal & Snacks
• Your loved one’s tastes and
preferences may change.
• Please speak with the nurse
and the Registered Dietitian to
ensure that your loved one is
receiving the type of food and
drink that meets their needs.
• For more information, contact
the Registered Dietitian.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Activation
• Based on feedback from residents,
families and Activation Therapy
Assistants, a monthly calendar of
activities is developed to help engage
and stimulate residents
• Activities vary including exercise,
storytelling, singing, group workshops,
pet therapy, music therapy, games,
etc.
• Monthly calendars for each resident
home area, (North or South) can be
found on the Resident Home Area
floor and the Programs and Service
Board in the Link.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Activation
• Families are encouraged to
participate in any of the activities
scheduled. Your loved one will be
very happy to have you join them!
• If there’s an activity or event you
think may benefit your loved one,
please let Copernicus Lodge staff
know.
• For more information, contact the
Director of Programs & Services.
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Pastoral Services
• Copernicus Lodge fosters a
Polish and Christian
environment.
• The majority of the residents
are Polish and Roman
Catholic .
• Copernicus Lodge is open to
any nationality and
denomination or to those
who have no faith affiliation.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
37
Pastoral Services
• Spiritual and religious care
programs are tailored to meet each
of your loved one’s tradition, faith
or preference.
• Copernicus Lodge Pastoral team is
comprised of: Chaplain Priest,
Religious Sister, Pastoral Care
Coordinator and Pastoral Care
Giver.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
38
Pastoral Services
• Types of services provided:
– Residents who are bedridden receive the sacrament of Holy
Communion daily. Pastoral team members also visit with them
daily to provide prayer and counselling as requested;
– Once a week on each floor, religious program with prayer,
worship and individual visitations;
– Sacrament of the Sick;
– Worship services, resources and non denominational spiritual
counseling.
• Spiritual Celebrations are held:
– Every morning (Polish Roman Catholic) in Main Floor Chapel;
– 1st Tuesday of every month (Polish Roman Catholic) in Ground
Floor Chapel
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Pastoral Services
• Goal is to ensure that as many of
our residents who wish to attend
Mass, can attend.
• Families can assist by coming on
Sundays (limited availability of staff
and volunteers) to ensure that
your loved ones can attend Mass
as this is spiritually uplifting and
something many of the residents
enjoy.
• TVs located in the common areas
are programmed to allow those
who cannot attend or who have
limited mobility to participate in
the Mass celebrations.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
40
Pastoral Services
• For residents of other faiths:
– Copernicus Lodge’s Pastoral Care
Coordinator will assist in making
arrangements with their place of
worship;
– Onsite counselling.
• Spiritual/prayer rooms located within
Copernicus Lodge:
– Quiet room located on each Long
Term Care Floor, available for prayer
and meditation on a 24-hour basis
(most are located across the
Elevators);
– Two Chapels (Main floor and on the
Ground floor).
• For additional information, please
contact the Pastoral Care Coordinator.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Volunteers
• Volunteers are the HEART of the
Copernicus Lodge team. They
help to ensure that all residents
fully participate in Copernicus
Lodge activities and programs.
• If a resident requires special
attention, where possible and if
volunteers are available - a
dedicated volunteer will be
assigned to help the resident.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
42
Volunteers
• Families can help by
accompanying and participating
with their loved one in any
activity.
• Speak with the Volunteer
Coordinator who will happily find
a solution that works for your
loved one.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Pets
• As part of your loved one’s family
we know that pets are also an
important part of your loved
one’s lives.
• Prior to bringing in any pets,
here’s what Copernicus Lodge
requires:
– Approval to bring in the pet;
– Copies of valid license and
vaccination records.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Pets
• Pet therapy is available at
Copernicus Lodge and is a very
important program.
• If you feel that your loved one
would benefit from spending
some time with a pet (Copernicus
Lodge has its own Resident birds
& cats), please let the Copernicus
Lodge staff know.
• For more information, please
contact the Director of Programs
& Services.
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Wishing Well
• Residents and/or family can write
down their wishes and toss them
into the wishing well.
• Resident Council President draws
from the wishes every 3 months
and one special person’s dream
can come true.
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Wishing Well
• Types of things that your loved
one can wish for: Chocolate Feast,
Movie Night, Going to a Play,
Picnic, Tea Party, etc. The
possibilities are endless.
• Make a wish and see your loved
one smile!
• Wishing Well is located in the
Link.
Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
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Parking
• Parking at Copernicus Lodge is very limited with two Visitor
parking spots accessible for family members.
• Front entrance is open 24-hours 7 days a week. Reception
may need to let you in if you arrive in the late evening and/or
early morning as the door will be locked. Please let them
know who you are as we are always concerned for the safety
of our residents.
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Parking – Options in the area
Free Parking:
• Harvard Ave. (1 hour between 8
a.m. – 6 p.m.)
• Triller Ave. & Grafton Ave. (1 hour
at all times)
Paid Metered Parking:
• On many of the streets around
Copernicus Lodge ($2/hr Mon –
Sat. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sun. 1 – 9
p.m.). Please check the signs as
some areas only allow permit
parking and you will be ticketed!
• 55 Triller Ave. – In Visitor Parking
Spots only (.50/1/2 hr; $4/12 hrs;
$5/24 hrs – Mon – Sun)
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Parking
Resident drop-off and pick-up areas:
• If someone is driving a resident with mobility issues,
there is a drop off and pick up area in front of the
Main Entrance.
•
Drivers can temporarily park in one of the three spots
and escort the resident to the lobby of the home.
•
There are 3 short term parking spots in front of the
building which can be used for maximum of 15
minutes. Please be respectful of this time limit, we
are all sharing these spots.
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Transportation
• If your loved one has a hospital or an outside appointment (nonemergency) please consider the following transportation options:
– Public Transit on Wheel-Trans (Wheel-Trans provides door to door
wheelchair-accessible transit service 7 days a week. Regular TTC fares
apply. Please call 416-393-4111 to book a pick up time);
– 1st Ambu.Port.com 416-446-7678;
– AVS 1-877-556-9991;
– City taxi.
• Ambulance service is costly and you will be invoiced for each trip if
you use this service.
• Please speak with the Nursing Administrative Assistant if you need
more information on transportiation options.
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51
Transportation
• Majority of residents who arrive will be assessed whether they
need transportation assistance via Wheel-Trans.
• Resident needs to be approved and will be provided a Wheel-Trans
# to be able to use the service.
• For additional information, please contact the Placement
Coordinator.
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52
Access Codes
• To help keep our residents safe, Copernicus Lodge uses Access Codes
throughout the building.
• Access Codes required for:
– Entering the Main building and the Long-term care area;
– Entering the Self-Care Apartments/Administrative office area;
– Using the elevators, stairwell and when entering a RHA.
• Some of our residents also wear monitoring bracelets where an additional
code is required to use the elevator, enter/exit areas within Copernicus
Lodge.
• All access codes may change periodically. Access to enter Copernicus
Lodge may be granted to a known visitor. Access codes however are only
provided to a confirmed, known visitor to ensure we protect our residents.
• For additional information, please contact the Nurse and/or Placement
Coordinator.
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53
Badge Sign-in
• To ensure the safety of all Copernicus Lodge residents, staff,
volunteers, board members and family members, everyone needs
to sign-in at Reception.
• In an emergency if the building needs to be evacuated, this sign-in
will identify everyone who is in the building.
• Please return all badges (even if you took one home by accident).
• Returning badges is just one small way you can help keep our
operating costs down. This in turn helps us use the majority of the
funds to assist our residents in their care and safety.
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54
Other Facilities, Activities
and Programs
Other areas within Copernicus Lodge that you can use:
• Family Dining Room (located on the ground floor of the Long Term Care
Building). You can bring your own food or have Copernicus Dietary staff
assist. Use of the room is for a nominal fee.
• Common areas:
– Main Floor Lounge (Large screen TV). Good area to sit, talk and meet other
residents;
– Ground floor seating area (visit the cats!);
– Children’s Play Area (Ground floor)
– Patios (Available during Spring, Summer & Fall. Great for getting some fresh
air, sunshine, seeing what’s happening in the neighbourhood);
• Front of Copernicus on Roncesvalles
• Ground floor level
– Activation Rooms (located on each Resident floor). These rooms can be used
for family gatherings (visits, celebrations, meals, etc.).
• Speak with the Placement Coordinator for more details.
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55
External Family Visits
• We encourage where possible to visit with your loved ones and to
also consider taking them home or outside of Copernicus Lodge for
brief visits and social interactions
• This helps the residents feel a sense of normalcy, being able to
participate in things they once did when they were healthier
• External visits break up the routine of always being in the same
place, with the same people, doing similar things
• It allows residents to extend their social network – interact with
new people in a different environment
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External Family Visits
• For short-term needs where
your loved one may have
mobility issues, Copernicus
Lodge staff can identify a
solution (i.e. wheelchair) to
allow you and your loved one
the opportunity for a visit
outside.
• Please speak with the nurse
on the RHA to identify the best
way to accommodate your
loved one’s needs.
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External Family Visits
Things to consider for an extended external visit:
• Request a list of medications in advance of visit (Nurses need to
contact the Pharmacy to order any medication beyond one week);
• Update nursing staff and health providers on dates the resident will
be away;
• Post a notice on the resident’s door (to ensure staff who assist with
cleaning, hygiene, meals and snacks are updated. You can never
over-communicate!);
• Sign out resident in log book located beside nursing station.
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End of Life Care
• To help the resident and their
families in the resident’s final
journey.
• End of Life Care includes:
– 24 hour visitations;
– Family room for overnight stays;
– One to One visits and administration
of the sacrament of the sick
conducted by Pastoral team, on
request.
– On-site chapel & pastoral quiet
rooms for reflection, spiritual &
religious practices;
– Bereavement support.
• For more information, please
contact the Pastoral Coordinator.
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Copernicus Lodge Foundation
• The Copernicus Lodge Foundation raises funds to maintain and
enhance the comfort and quality of resident care at Copernicus
Lodge by providing funding for major initiatives; new and expanding
facilities; specialized equipment and services; and resident
activities.
• The Copernicus Lodge Foundation works with the Copernicus Lodge
Board of Directors and Copernicus Lodge management to identify
the highest priority needs to ensure that funds raised are directed
to the areas of greatest need, while maintaining the mandate of the
Foundation.
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Copernicus Lodge Foundation
• Donations can be made either:
– Online http://www.copernicuslodgefoundation.com/;
– Dropped off at the Foundation office (located across the hall
from the Main floor elevators in the Long-term Care building).
• For more information, see Manager of Fund Development,
Copernicus Lodge Foundation.
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Gifts to Copernicus Lodge Staff
• We can all appreciate the hard work and dedication that Copernicus
Lodge staff members provide to your loved ones.
• There are many people who are dedicated to ensuring our loved
ones live their life with dignity (re: Nurses, PSWs, Dietary Aides,
Housekeeping Aide, Laundry, Maintenance, etc.).
• Please consider making a contribution to the Copernicus Lodge
Staff Fund (Note: Copernicus Lodge staff are not allowed to receive gifts
from residents and/or their families. A contribution to the Staff Fund
allows everyone to be thanked for the care and devotion that they have
given to your loved ones during the year. These gifts are not eligible for a
tax receipt).
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Gifts to Copernicus Lodge Staff
• Donations can also be made to Copernicus Lodge to highlight the
contributions of a staff member under the “I Made a Difference
Program”.
• For more information, contact Manager of Fund Development at
Copernicus Lodge Foundation.
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Family Input and Feedback
Copernicus Lodge staff are always interested in your feedback on areas
where we can improve what we do for our residents. Ways to provide
your feedback include:
• Family Council – Be a champion for your loved one, come join us!
• Quality of Life Survey – Completed annually where all areas are reviewed;
• Suggestion Boxes – Located at the main lobby (large white metal mail box)
and the Quality Improvement bulletin board in the Link (black metal box in
the lower right hand corner of the board);
• Suggestion Forms – Activation suggestion forms located beside the
Programs & Services bulletin board in the Link on the left hand side of the
monthly calendars; Family Council suggestion forms located on the right
side of the main elevators;
• Speak with any Managers or Chief Executive Officer directly. Photos of all
managers and their phone numbers are available on the resident / family
boards in the Link.
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Additional Information Available
To find out on what is happening at Copernicus Lodge please locate:
• Bulletin boards located in the Link, you will find:
– Monthly calendar of activities and programs scheduled for each floor;
– CQI News (provides insight into areas done well, areas that need improvement
within Copernicus Lodge);
– Residents’ Bill of Rights (The guidelines that everyone at Copernicus Lodge
follows to ensure our residents live their lives with dignity);
– Minutes of Meetings for Family and Resident Councils.
• Bulletin boards located beside the Nursing station on each resident’s floor.
• Notices posted on the doors, elevators, hallways and reception of
upcoming events and/or updates.
• TVs located beside the elevator on the main floor and on every floor near
the elevators routinely provide updates.
• Copernicus Lodge website www.copernicuslodge.com (Calendar of
programs & services are updated each month).
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Closing Comments
• Keep asking questions.
• Share your feedback with
Copernicus Lodge staff – they
value your opinions.
• New ideas are always welcomed.
• If there is anything missing from
this guide or something you have
learned based on your own
experience, please share it with
us. We can all learn together.
• Contact the President Family
Council with your feedback.
• Thank you for being part of the
Copernicus Lodge family!!
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Appendix I - Glossary
• CEO = Chief Executive Officer
• Charge Nurse = Head Nurse on the RHA who is responsible for the
care of your loved one
• CQI = Continuous Quality Improvement (a program allowing
residents and families to voice any concern, idea or suggestion on
how to improve the quality of life for our Residents)
• Families = To include family members, friends, next of kin, Powers
of Attorneys
• Link = The passageway that connects the Main building of
Copernicus Lodge to the Long-term Care Building
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Appendix I - Glossary
• POA – Power of Attorney
• Psychogeriatrician = A psychiatrist specialising in the assessment
and treatment of elderly people
• PSW = Personal support worker
• RHA = Resident’s home area / floor / unit
• RN = Registered nurse
• RPN = Registered practical nurse
• Snoezelen Room = a calming space to allow your loved ones the
ability to relax
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Appendix II - Resident’s Bill of Rights *
3. (1) Every licensee of a long-term care home shall ensure that the following rights of residents are fully respected and promoted:
1. Every resident has the right to be treated with courtesy and respect and in a way that fully recognizes the resident’s
individuality and respects the resident’s dignity.
2. Every resident has the right to be protected from abuse.
3. Every resident has the right not to be neglected by the licensee or staff.
4. Every resident has the right to be properly sheltered, fed, clothed, groomed and cared for in a manner consistent with his or her
needs.
5. Every resident has the right to live in a safe and clean environment.
6. Every resident has the right to exercise the rights of a citizen.
7. Every resident has the right to be told who is responsible for and who is providing the resident’s direct care.
8. Every resident has the right to be afforded privacy in treatment and in caring for his or her personal needs.
9. Every resident has the right to have his or her participation in decision-making respected.
10. Every resident has the right to keep and display personal possessions, pictures and furnishings in his or her room subject to
safety requirements and the rights of other residents.
11. Every resident has the right to,
i. participate fully in the development, implementation, review and revision of his or her plan of care,
ii. give or refuse consent to any treatment, care or services for which his or her consent is required by law and to be informed of
the consequences of giving or refusing consent,
iii. participate fully in making any decision concerning any aspect of his or her care, including any decision concerning his or her
admission, discharge or transfer to or from a long-term care home or a secure unit and to obtain an independent opinion
with regard to any of those matters, and
iv. have his or her personal health information within the meaning of the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 kept
confidential in accordance with that Act, and to have access to his or her records of personal health information, including
his or her plan of care, in accordance with that Act.
* Ontario Long Term Care Homes Act 2007, S. O. 2007, c. 8
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Appendix II - Resident’s Bill of Rights
12. Every resident has the right to receive care and assistance towards independence based on a restorative care philosophy to
maximize independence to the greatest extent possible.
13. Every resident has the right not to be restrained, except in the limited circumstances provided for under this Act and subject to
the requirements provided for under this Act.
14. Every resident has the right to communicate in confidence, receive visitors of his or her choice and consult in private with any
person without interference.
15. Every resident who is dying or who is very ill has the right to have family and friends present 24 hours per day.
16. Every resident has the right to designate a person to receive information concerning any transfer or any hospitalization of the
resident and to have that person receive that information immediately.
17. Every resident has the right to raise concerns or recommend changes in policies and services on behalf of himself or herself or
others to the following persons and organizations without interference and without fear of coercion, discrimination or
reprisal, whether directed at the resident or anyone else,
i. the Residents’ Council,
ii. the Family Council,
iii. the licensee, and, if the licensee is a corporation, the directors and officers of the corporation, and, in the case of a home
approved under Part VIII, a member of the committee of management for the home under section 132 or of the board of
management for the home under section 125 or 129,
iv. staff members,
v. government officials,
vi. any other person inside or outside the long-term care home.
18. Every resident has the right to form friendships and relationships and to participate in the life of the long-term care home.
19. Every resident has the right to have his or her lifestyle and choices respected.
20. Every resident has the right to participate in the Residents’ Council.
21. Every resident has the right to meet privately with his or her spouse or another person in a room that assures privacy.
22. Every resident has the right to share a room with another resident according to their mutual wishes, if appropriate
accommodation is available.
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Appendix II - Resident’s Bill of Rights
23. Every resident has the right to pursue social, cultural, religious, spiritual and other interests, to develop his or her potential
and to be given reasonable assistance by the licensee to pursue these interests and to develop his or her potential.
24. Every resident has the right to be informed in writing of any law, rule or policy affecting services provided to the resident and
of the procedures for initiating complaints.
25. Every resident has the right to manage his or her own financial affairs unless the resident lacks the legal capacity to do so.
26. Every resident has the right to be given access to protected outdoor areas in order to enjoy outdoor activity unless the
physical setting makes this impossible.
27. Every resident has the right to have any friend, family member, or other person of importance to the resident attend any
meeting with the licensee or the staff of the home. 2007, c. 8, s. 3 (1).
Further guide to interpretation
(2) Without restricting the generality of the fundamental principle, the following are to be interpreted so as to advance the
objective that a resident’s rights set out in subsection (1) are respected:
1. This Act and the regulations.
2. Any agreement entered into between a licensee and the Crown or an agent of the Crown.
3. Any agreement entered into between a licensee and a resident or the resident’s substitute decision-maker. 2007, c. 8, s. 3 (2).
Enforcement by the resident
(3) A resident may enforce the Residents’ Bill of Rights against the licensee as though the resident and the licensee had entered
into a contract under which the licensee had agreed to fully respect and promote all of the rights set out in the Residents’
Bill of Rights. 2007, c. 8, s. 3 (3).
Regulations
(4) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations governing how rights set out in the Residents’ Bill of Rights shall be
respected and promoted by the licensee. 2007, c. 8, s. 3 (4).
Note: Copies of the The Resident’s Bill of Rights can be found in the Link or
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/07l08?search=residents+bill+of+rights#BK5
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Appendix III - Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
Name
Title
Contact Info
Area of
Responsibility
Catharine Kowalenko
Interim Chief
Executive Officer
[email protected] or Ext. 238
•Oversees the management
of Copernicus Lodge, the
safety and care of resident
living at Copernicus
Carmen Miller
Director of Care
[email protected] or Ext. 240
• Oversees the nursing
department. Works closely
with Dr. Klodas (Medical
Director) and the rest of the
medical team
Elizabeth Chabelska
Assistant Director of
Care
[email protected] or Ext. 242
•Health and well-being of
resident. Part of the medical
team
Ewa Morelli
Nursing
Administrative
Assistant
[email protected] or Ext. 279
•Assists in scheduling
appointments, coordinates
updates between medical
team, nursing staff, residents
and families
Copernicus Lodge Main # is 416-536-7122. Please note that in some cases where staff may change, the extension # for the
position remains the same. For an updated listing of the Copernicus Lodge Management team – please refer to Copernicus Lodge
Administration/Management Contact List available at Reception.
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Appendix III - Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
Name
Title
Contact Info
Area of
Responsibility
Basia Leja-Plaza
Director of Programs
& Services
[email protected] or Ext. 253
•Types of programs and its
schedule to help engage and
stimulate the resident
Aniela Ganczak
Volunteer Coordinator
[email protected] or Ext. 269
•Coordinating volunteers to
assist resident to allow them
to be able to fully engage with
programs available within
Copernicus.
Ewa Kaminiska
Pastoral Care
Coordinator
[email protected] or Ext. 284
•Leads and coordinates all
pastoral activities; works with
pastoral team members
(Chaplain, Sister, Pastoral care
giver and volunteers) to
develop and implement all
pastoral activities
Copernicus Lodge Main # is 416-536-7122. Please note that in some cases where staff may change, the extension # for the
position remains the same. For an updated listing of the Copernicus Lodge Management team – please refer to Copernicus Lodge
Administration/Management Contact List available at Reception.
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Appendix III - Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
Name
Title
Contact Info
Area of
Responsibility
Susan Goldberg
Clinical Dietitian
[email protected] or Ext. 278
•Performs nutrition
assessments and develops
nutrition care plans for
residents, with the goal of
optimizing health and quality
of life, in collaboration with
families and inter-disciplinary
team.
Halina Jaros
Manager of Dietary
Services
[email protected] or Ext. 282
•Oversees meal preparation
as per Ministry of Health and
Long Term Care and Canada
Food Guide requirements &
service for residents.
Joanna Wysocki
Dietary Services
Supervisor
[email protected] or Ext. 241
•Oversees meal preparation
as per Ministry of Health and
Long Term Care and Canada
Food Guide requirements &
service for residents.
Copernicus Lodge Main # is 416-536-7122. Please note that in some cases where staff may change, the extension # for the
position remains the same. For an updated listing of the Copernicus Lodge Management team – please refer to Copernicus Lodge
Administration/Management Contact List available at Reception.
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Appendix III - Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
Name
Title
Contact Info
Area of
Responsibility
Robert Marcinkiewicz
Director of
Environmental
Services
[email protected] or Ext. 260
• Oversees environmental
department that is
responsible for Housekeeping,
Laundry and building
maintenance.
Waclaw Bielawa
Environmental
Services Supervisor
[email protected] or Ext. 249
•Works with Director of
Environmental Services to
assist resident’s needs.
Iwona Rogozinska
Placement
Coordinator
[email protected] or Ext. 235
• Assists families and
residents with placement
within Copernicus Lodge
Dale Mayerson
Education & CQI
Coordinator
[email protected] or Ext. 277
•Leads and oversees all
Education and CQI activities
at Copernicus Lodge.
Catharine Kowalenko
Director of Employee
Relations
[email protected] or Ext. 256
•Oversees the Human
Resources department
including facilitator of the
Long Term Care Task Force on
Resident safety.
Copernicus Lodge Main # is 416-536-7122. Please note that in some cases where staff may change, the extension # for the
position remains the same. For an updated listing of the Copernicus Lodge Management team – please refer to Copernicus Lodge
Administration/Management Contact List available at Reception.
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Appendix III - Copernicus Lodge Key Contacts
Name
Title
Contact Info
Area of
Responsibility
Richard Sredzinski
Director of Finance
[email protected] or Ext. 257
•Oversees the finance and
accounting.
Mirka Damiecka
Accountant
[email protected] or Ext. 258
•Works with Richard in
providing updates on the
finance and accounting for
Copernicus Lodge, resident’s
accounts and related charges
Richard Gralek
Family Council
President
[email protected] or Ext. 253
•Providing advocacy as Family
members on behalf of
resident.
Matthew Warszawski
Manager of Fund
Development,
Copernicus Lodge
Foundation
[email protected] or Ext.
252
•Fundraising for Copernicus
Lodge
Copernicus Lodge Main # is 416-536-7122. Please note that in some cases where staff may change, the extension # for the
position remains the same. For an updated listing of the Copernicus Lodge Management team – please refer to Copernicus Lodge
Administration/Management Contact List available at Reception.
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Disclaimers
• Please note that this Family Council Guide has been prepared by
family members based on our own personal experience working
with Copernicus Lodge staff, volunteers, board members, etc.
• These helpful suggestions, tips, guidelines do not replace and/or
supersede the policies and procedures developed by Copernicus
Lodge that are in compliance with the Ontario Ministry of Health
and Long Term Care and all other legislative requirements.
• For more information on Copernicus Lodge’s policies and
procedures, please refer to the applicable Department Manager or
to the Chief Executive Officer.
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Copernicus Lodge Family Council Information Guide
Family Members Helping Family Members