Frequently Asked Questions about Red Deer Hospice
What is the cost to stay at Red Deer Hospice?
There is no fee to stay at the Red Deer Hospice. No one is ever denied care due to financial situations. A portion of our operating costs are covered by Alberta Health Services, however, as a not-for-profit society, we depend primarily on donations and fundraising efforts in order to meet our annual operational budget. We ask that you consider making a donation to help cover the costs of care.
What costs can we expect to incur?
Resident families can expect to incur some medical costs. Medication costs are exactly the same as they would be if the resident were at home. All medications in this facility come from Shopper`s Pharmacy at the Bower Place Mall - this is non-negotiable for safety reasons. Residents who are over age 65 will be partially covered by Senior`s Blue Cross. Everyone at Hospice is registered with Palliative Drug Benefits, which covers another portion of the medication costs. Medication coverage from employment benefit plans may also apply.
Do you have specific visiting hours?
There are no formal visiting hours at Red Deer Hospice. Family and friends are encouraged to visit as often as they and the resident wish. Many residents appreciate knowing when to expect company, and we encourage family and friends to phone us at 403-309-4344 before visiting. Please sign the visitor registry each time you visit, both on arrival and when you leave. Hospice staff reserve the right to ask any visitor exhibiting inappropriate behaviour to vacate the premises.
What should we bring with us to Red Deer Hospice?
Residents are provided with food, blankets and bedding for basic comfort. Please bring the following personal items:
Residents are encouraged to use the wall unit in their room to house special mementos from home. All personal items must be removed at time of death.
- Hair care needs: shampoo, conditioner, hairbrush, comb
- Oral care needs: toothbrush, toothpaste, denture care supplies, mouthwash
- Hygiene needs: Bath soap, body wash, deodorant/antiperspirant, body lotion
- Shaving needs: razor, shaving cream, spare blades
- Nail care needs: clippers, nail files or emery boards, nail polish
- Incontinence supplies: bring whatever you have been using at home
- Peri wipes (baby wipes). We are unable to supply this product and we request that you bring them with you and be prepared to purchase more as they are needed.
- Moisture Barrier Ointment (ex. Baza Protect by Sween) Available at Medical Supply stores such as Millerdale Pharmacy
- Clothing: pyjamas, nightgowns (loose), slippers, housecoat, bed socks
Residents are encouraged to use the wall unit in their room to house special mementos from home. All personal items must be removed at time of death.
Can we bring special furniture for our loved one?
We are unable to allow outside furniture in our facility for health and safety reasons. All furniture in our Hospice is covered in approved Health Care Facility fabric.
Can we bring our pets to visit?
Well behaved pets are welcome to visit during the day. They must be on leash or in a carrier when outside of the resident`s room. They must never be allowed into the kitchen area.