Maisons des aînés

• Both of these facilities are home to seniors with a significant loss of autonomy, of whom approximately 80% have significant neurocognitive disorders.
• The biggest difference is the design of the residential units within MDAs, which feel more like home. 
• The design of CHSLDs is more institutional, with large corridors.
• The design of MDAs ensures each unit has plenty of windows, common areas, and access to landscaped outdoor areas. All units will also have access to a balcony.
• All rooms will be air-conditioned and include a private bathroom with an adapted shower. 
• The delivery of care and services will also change, with a very human approach that is adapted to the individual and a focus on community integration.
• It is Québec’s new model for residential care.

• The MDA admission process is identical to the CHSLD admission process.
• These facilities are designed to accommodate the same type of clientele, i.e. seniors with a significant loss of autonomy.
• To begin an admission process, residents must contact their local CLSC and ask for the Home Care Services Department, so that a caregiver can assess the user's abilities.
• The results of this assessment will determine whether a need for a residential ressource has been identified, or whether another solution would better meet the user's needs.
• It should be noted that if the need for a residential ressource is not indicated, it is not possible to put a user's name on a waiting list, whether in a CHSLD or an MDA.
• Citizens are invited to visit our website to consult the full range of care and services for seniors in our territory.

• The new facilities will provide residents with a welcoming place where care and services are centred on individual needs, preferences, and rhythms. As a result, work organization will be flexible to better meet the needs of the residents and their loved ones.
• This is a significant change in the way we design infrastructures and provide care and services to residents. This new vision for residential care in Québec strengthens the human aspects of the relationships between the residents, their loved ones, the staff, and the community.

• The Maisons des aînés and Alternative homes are integral components of their community. They are centrally located to encourage contact and a sense of belonging. Residents are strongly encouraged to take part in community activities. The relationships the residents have with their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the community are essential.
• Being open to the community makes it possible to create relationships with community, education, and recreational organizations. These relationships allow the residents to take part in activities within the community. Furthermore, the future facilities will include spaces reserved for community activities, which will also serve to promote closer relationships with the seniors. The exterior spaces are also carefully planned, including a courtyard that is intended to serve as a space where the residents and the larger community can interact.

• Absolutely! Volunteers and informal caregivers are strongly encouraged at the MDA. It encourages active participation in community life and prevents the seniors from becoming isolated. The setting of the MDA is also designed to support an optimal integration of the residents into the community.

How to become a volunteer

Would you like to volunteer with us? You can do so at a number of our facilities.

 Click here to find out how to get involved.

• Yes, the projects are aiming for LEED certification with regard to energy and water consumption, conservation of green spaces, promotion of sustainable development, and so on.