Allied health services improve care for residents in private long-term care homes
Private long-term care homes across Prince Edward Island are seeing valuable improvements in resident care, thanks to a one-year funding agreement that expands access to allied health services.
Announced in April, this support is part of the Canada–PEI Aging with Dignity Funding Agreement helping to provide regular visits from allied health professionals, including registered dietitians, occupational therapists, whose focus is on improving motor skills for daily living, and physiotherapists, who work to maintain or improve physical function and mobility.
At The Mount Continuing Care Community, Director of Nursing Rochelle Visser says having a consistent occupational therapist (OT) on-site has made a noticeable difference.
“It’s a game changer,” she says. “Residents are being seen more regularly, and the therapist has more time to build relationships and support their care in a way that feels personal and responsive.”
Visser shared the story of one resident who had lived with chronic back pain for years. After being fitted for a new wheelchair with help from the OTs, he’s now pain-free, less anxious, happier, and more comfortable overall.
“That’s the power of consistent OT care and also the power of a good chair,” she adds.
Routine visits from allied health professionals are helping families better understand the care their loved ones receive, including how specialized equipment can support comfort and well-being.
With regular access, staff can introduce these services earlier, answer questions more easily, and involve families in meaningful ways. Seeing familiar faces each week builds trust and allows care teams to work together more closely, creating a connected and coordinated approach to resident care.
At MacLeod Cares South Shore Villa and Clinton View Lodge, Director of Facility and Resident Care Jade Brookins has seen firsthand how the addition of allied health professionals is strengthening care throughout the two facilities.
“It’s been incredible to see how quickly these services are making a difference,” Brookins says. “Staff are learning, residents are benefiting, and families are feeling more supported. It gives me chills to think about it!”
She notes that the collaboration between staff and allied health professionals is leading to practical changes, like kitchen teams working with dietitians and OTs supporting safe eating practices and mobility needs.
These kinds of everyday improvements are making a real difference. One resident, with help from the OT, will soon be able to adjust his wheelchair to fit in his wife’s van. That means a drive through Kensington, sharing onion rings from the Frosty Treat - a simple outing, but one he’s really looking forward to.
Prince Edward Island and the federal government are committed to continuing to work together to improve health care access and services. For more information, visit Canada-PEI Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians and Aging with Dignity agreements.