Baddeck Nursing Home to be Replaced

Baddeck-area residents will benefit from new nursing home facilities with the replacement of Alderwood Rest Home, a 70-bed long-term-care facility, in Baddeck.

Premier Rodney MacDonald made the announcement today, Feb. 9, in Baddeck.

"Last spring, we outlined a plan to build a long-term-care system that meets the needs and reflects the values of Nova Scotians," said Premier MacDonald. "The Continuing Care Strategy will allow Nova Scotians to live well in a place they can call home. Today's announcement is another step forward in making that plan a reality."

"Nova Scotians want to know that, if they need it, long-term-care facilities that offer a high quality of life and a high quality of care are available close to home," said Health Minister Chris d'Entremont. "Alderwood Rest Home has been home to many people over the years, but it is now time for a new facility in a new location that will be better able to meet the needs of area residents now and in the days to come."

The replacement of Alderwood Rest Home became necessary, in part, because of its age and demands of the changing needs of residents, who generally require more complex care.

"Keeping in line with the Strategy for Positive Aging in Nova Scotia, the government recognizes that long-term care is a vital part of the whole health and social care system," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister responsible for the Seniors' Secretariat. "Today's announcement demonstrates the work the province is doing to provide the long-term care services needed by seniors and their families."

New long-term-care facilities will reflect more home-like environments for smaller numbers of residents. This will also allow them to be located in more communities around the provinces, giving Nova Scotians access to care closer to home. Facility resources will include more social and recreation space, more personal space, and private rooms. Facilities may also include different levels of care, allowing people to remain in the same location even as their health requirements change.

The new facility for Baddeck is expected to open by March 2010.