A smooth transition from one local facility to another may not come off as desired for all of the current residents of the Eagles Bluff seniors residence on McMillan Road.
Controversy had arisen early in the year with the announcement the facility would close with relatively short notice. The decision had apparently been motivated in part by union-organizing among the Eagles Bluff staff. The end of February had been suggested as a deadline for residents’ families to find alternative accommodations for them.
A series of meetings was subsequently held with residents’ groups; personnel from the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) and Malahat-Juan de Fuca MLA John Horgan. Extensions were granted and it appeared the dozen or so residents would likely be spared the trauma of extra moves before settling in at the soon-to-be-completed Ayre Manor Lodge. The new facility boasts fully up-to-date quarters including apartments for those able to live independently and smaller units for those requiring more assistance.
It is not all so clear, however, when at least one of the Eagles Bluff residents will begin calling Ayre Manor home.
Evelyn Rhode told the Sooke News Mirror last week of a snag in the plan, that her mother Mae Linnell may not make it in when the Ayre facility is open – expected to be late June or early July.
Rhode described a frustrating six months since the issue arose last January… with a lack of clear information from VIHA on the subject.
“They can’t give you any definite answer,” said Rhode. “I have to admit they didn’t promise that mother or the ladies from Eagles Bluff would be put in Ayre Manor.” It was Rhode’s feeling, however, that VIHA had implied the local moves would likely happen.
As the Ayre Manor opening date has drawn closer Rhode says it has grown more and more uncertain whether her mother would be moving there.
“I guess about a month ago we heard she wasn’t going in… now, we’re back to…’it’s doubtful.’”
Shannon Marshall, a communications officer with VIHA, expressed empathy for those facing a move and those trying to make arrangements for loved ones. But she said there are procedures which must be followed.
“When clients are assessed as being ready for residential care they’re assessed by a home and community care case manager,” said Marshall. “Then a decision is made by the family or a resident for a preferred geographic location, and facility.” She said residents are on a list for acceptance into a facility which “may or may not be Ayre Manor.” The Eagles Bluff residents wishing to make Ayre Manor their new home, in effect, have no priority to do so although they may apply to transfer there from another facility.
Eagles Bluff Lodge owner Ming Yang has set January 2009 as the date the premises will cease being a seniors’ residence. Mae Linnell and Evelyn Rhode represent at least one family hoping for positive news before then – that only one more move is in the picture and the move may be to a nearby facility.
