Convalescent Care
Following surgery or serious illness you may be ready to leave the hospital but are not able to return home safely. The Convalescent Care Program provides 24-hour care to people who require specific medical and therapeutic services in a supportive environment. The program will help you recover your strength, endurance and functioning before returning home.
Convalescent care provides the care you need, when you need it, including:
- Medical and therapeutic support;
- A specialized care plan to help you regain your strength and independence; and
- Guidance for your family and caregivers in how to support you.
Depending on your needs, you will receive care from a specialized care team led by doctors and nurses with support from professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians and social workers.
You may benefit from convalescent care if:
- Your doctor has said your health condition is stable and you do not need to be in the hospital;
- You plan to return to your home or community and your health care team says you are likely to do so within 30 to 45 days;
- You are willing to learn and are capable of acquiring the knowledge and skills that will help you become more self-sufficient;
- You have needs that currently cannot be met by the home care program in your community;
- You are at least 18 years of age; and
- You have a valid Ontario Health Card.
The Convalescent Care Program is not intended to serve individuals waiting for long-stay admission to a long-term care home, or those needing complex continuing care or palliative care.
Most convalescent care residents remain in the program for no more than 30 to 45 days.
Your doctor, hospital staff and Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) care coordinator can discuss with you how your needs could be met through the new Convalescent Care Program.
Referrals to the program are coordinated through your Community Care Access Centre.
The Convalescent Care Program is delivered in long-term care homes that have met guidelines for this specialized care.
These guidelines include:
- A core team of professionals providing specialized care services to convalescent care residents;
- Proven experience in delivering quality health and personal care;
- Appropriate supplies and equipment; and
- Rooms designed to give you privacy, rest, and comfort.
There is no fee for this program. The Convalescent Care Program is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. However, you will be charged for some additional services, such as telephone and television. You will also be responsible for transportation to and from medical appointments.
When it is time to return home, your CCAC care coordinator will help you arrange the services and supports you may need at home or in your community.
The Convalescent Care Program is offered at the following facilities in our region:
- Shalom Village, Hamilton
- Townsview Life Care Centre, Hamilton
The program is also available at other facilities across Ontario.