March 30 – For the first time in provincial history, Ontario is proposing legislative protections for seniors living in retirement homes. The proposed Retirement Homes Act, 2010 would, if passed:
- Create a regulatory authority with the power to license homes and conduct regular inspections, investigations and enforcement, including issuing financial penalties or revoking licenses if necessary.
- Establish mandatory care and safety standards, and require emergency plans and infection control and prevention programs, assessment of care needs and care planning, police background checks and training for staff.
- Establish residents rights that include the right know the true cost of care and accommodation and the right to live in an environment that promotes zero tolerance of abuse or neglect.
A retirement home would be defined through proposed regulations as a home where a minimum of six or more unrelated residents, primarily 65 years of age or older, purchase accommodation and care. The government will have the flexibility to reduce the minimum number of residents if necessary.
Over 800 people participated in public consultations on the standards of care needed in retirement homes. The bill incorporates input from seniors, their families and the retirement home industry.