Anticipating Changes During Your Stay
This section has details on the following topics. Click on the topics below to browse this page:
- Transitioning between Units and Rooms
- Health Care Decisions
- End of Life Care
- Leaving Deer Lodge Health Centre
Transitioning between Units and Rooms
At Deer Lodge Health Centre, we work to make sure each resident receives the right level of care at the right time. As a resident’s needs change, it may sometimes be necessary to move to a different unit, room, or care environment that better supports their health, comfort, and wellbeing.
For example, residents in our Special Needs Units (SNU) or Special Needs Behaviour Units (SNBU) may transition to a Personal Care Home unit if they no longer require the specialized supports provided in these environments. In some cases, residents in Complex Continuing Care may improve and move to a Personal Care Home setting.
At times, residents may also move to a different room within the same unit. These moves may be needed to support changing care needs, infection prevention measures, room availability, or to ensure the best possible match between residents and available spaces.
These decisions are made carefully by the care team and in collaboration with residents and families whenever possible. If agreement cannot be reached, final decisions are made by Senior Leadership to ensure care needs are met fairly and appropriately across the program.
We understand that residents, families, and staff often form strong connections, and transitions can be difficult. Because specialized units are limited across the health region, it is important that these spaces remain available for individuals who need them most. Our team is committed to supporting residents and families through any transition with care, respect, and clear communication.
Health Care Decisions
Planning ahead can help prepare for decisions about your future health care, including possible end-of-life care. Everyone has the right to accept or refuse medical treatment. What feels right for one person may not be right for another. Staff at DLHC want to make sure the care you receive reflects your wishes, especially if your health changes and you are unable to speak for yourself.
Advance Care Planning
You will be invited to take part in Advance Care Planning with members of your health-care team. An Advance Care Plan summarizes the type of care and treatment you would want. It is created after discussions with you about your health, what treatments are possible, and what you prefer.
Sharing Your Wishes
There are several ways to make your wishes known:
- Participate in developing your Advance Plan with your health-care team.
- Talk with your family members or a person you trust about your wishes, concerns, and the type of care you would or would not want. Staff will ask your family member or trusted person to help guide decisions based on what you have shared with them.
If you would like more information or support with these discussions, please speak with your Social Worker or Unit Nurse.
Emergency Response
Deer Lodge Health Centre has a limited capacity to respond to emergencies.
If your Advance Care Plan indicates that you wish to be resuscitated in the event your heart stops, staff will call 911 immediately. Our response team will provide basic life support until paramedics arrive and can transport you to the nearest emergency department for further care.
End of Life Care
Deer Lodge Centre is committed to providing compassionate and supportive care to patients and residents and their families during the time surrounding death. Please see some resources below related to End of Life Care:
When Someone Close to You is Dying
Difficulties with Meals for People with Dementia
When a Person has Trouble Eating
Practical Matters: A guide for grief and bereavement – English French
Leaving Deer Lodge Health Centre
We understand that leaving Deer Lodge Centre—whether for a new care setting, home, or following a resident’s passing—can be a difficult time for residents and families. Our team is here to provide support and guidance through every step of the process.
Removal of Personal Belongings
When a resident is leaving the Centre, families or support persons are asked to arrange the removal of personal belongings within 24 hours. Our staff will assist and answer questions to help make this process as smooth as possible. Some personal items or equipment may also be donated to DLHC to benefit future residents. Families interested in this option can discuss it with the Manager of Health Services.
Funeral Arrangements
During the admission process, families are asked to share any information about advance funeral arrangements. Having this information allows staff to offer guidance and support to families during emotional times.