INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
Our facility hosts its 111 residents on five wings, Young Park, Burden Lane, Blenkhorne Centre, Snow Haven and Wallace Place. Each wing has a mixture of private and double rooms.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding admission to Dykeland Lodge,
please feel free to contact us at info@dykelandlodge.ca.
PRE-ADMISSION
All admissions to nursing homes in Nova Scotia are facilitated through the Department of Health and Wellness Single Entry Access. To begin the process, please contact the Single Entry Access at 1-800-225-7225.
A Care Coordinator will visit an individual’s home and conduct a full assessment which will be used to determine the supports the applicant needs. The waiting lists for Long Term Care facilities are managed by the Department of Health and Wellness and can be viewed at https://waittimes.novascotia.ca/
Information on the cost of entering a long-term care home can be obtained from the Department of Health (https://novascotia.ca/dhw/ccs/long-term-care.asp).
WHAT TO EXPECT ON ADMISSION DAY
Moving to long-term care is a significant life transition that can bring a mix of emotions for both residents and their loved ones. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, helping make the transition as comfortable and welcoming as possible.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our receptionist or Social Worker, who will help you settle into your new home. You will be shown to your room, introduced to members of your care team, and provided with a tour of the home. We will also share important information about daily life at Dykeland Lodge and answer any questions you or your family may have.
As we get to know you, members of your care team will spend time learning about your preferences, routines, interests, and care needs so we can provide personalized, resident-centred care. We encourage a family member or support person to accompany you on admission to help us gather this important information and make the transition as smooth as possible.
During the admission process, the resident and their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM), if applicable, will complete an Advance Care Directive outlining the resident's wishes should their health status change. This document can be updated at any time and is reviewed annually as part of the resident care conference.
The resident and/or their Power of Attorney (POA), if applicable, will also meet with our Business Office to review financial arrangements, complete the necessary paperwork, and discuss any additional services that may be of interest.
PREPARATION
A. Furniture and Personal Belongings
Each resident room is comfortably furnished by Dykeland Lodge. To help make the space feel like home, residents are encouraged to bring a selection of personal belongings, such as photographs, artwork, décor, or other meaningful items.As resident rooms have limited space, we ask that furnishings and personal belongings be kept to a reasonable amount. This helps maintain a safe, comfortable, and accessible environment for residents, visitors, and staff. If you have questions about what items are appropriate to bring, our team is happy to provide guidance before or after admission.
To help personalize resident rooms safely, we ask that our Maintenance Department hang all photographs, artwork, and other wall décor. This ensures that items are securely installed and helps protect residents, visitors, and staff from potential safety hazards.
Kitchenettes located on each resident unit are equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, and kettle for residents and families to use.
For everyone's safety, all personal electrical items must be inspected and approved by our Maintenance Department before they can be used in the home. In accordance with fire safety regulations, personal appliances are not permitted in resident rooms, and any electrical equipment brought into the home must display a valid CSA (or equivalent certified) approval label.
B. Legal Representatives
Planning ahead can provide peace of mind and help ensure a person's wishes are respected. If these documents have not already been completed, we encourage individuals to consider who they would want to make decisions on their behalf if they were temporarily or permanently unable to do so themselves.
Before admission, we encourage residents to consider preparing the following:
1. Personal Directive
A Personal Directive allows an individual to document their wishes for personal and health care decisions and appoint someone they trust to make those decisions if they are no longer capable of doing so. A Personal Directive is only in effect while the individual is living and unable to make or communicate their own decisions. Upon admission, residents who do not already have a Personal Directive will be asked to identify a Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) in accordance with the Personal Directives Act. This person may or may not be their next of kin.
2. Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA)
An Enduring Power of Attorney allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to manage their financial affairs and property if they become unable to do so, or to assist them while they are still capable, if they choose. This document must be completed while the individual has the legal capacity to do so.
Residents and families looking to create a free, legally recognized Enduring Power of Attorney or Will in Nova Scotiacan access easy-to-use resources through the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia:
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Free Enduring Power of Attorney: (https://www.legalinfo.org/poa)
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Free Will Planning Information: (https://www.legalinfo.org/will)
Throughout a resident's stay at Dykeland Lodge, information will be shared with the resident whenever possible. When a Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) or Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is legally authorized to act on the resident's behalf, discussions will take place with the appropriate representative, depending on the nature of the matter. It is the representative's responsibility to communicate relevant information to other family members in accordance with the resident's wishes.
C. Funeral Planning
Thinking about end-of-life wishes can be difficult, but having conversations and making plans in advance can provide comfort, reduce uncertainty, and help ensure a resident's preferences are honoured.
Residents and families may wish to contact their preferred funeral home before or during their stay at Dykeland Lodge to discuss or document their wishes. While these conversations are never required, some individuals find that planning ahead offers reassurance for both themselves and their loved ones.
When discussions regarding funeral arrangements are needed, they will take place with the resident whenever possible. If a Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) or Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is legally authorized to act on the resident's behalf, Dykeland Lodge will communicate with that individual in accordance with the resident's wishes and applicable legislation.
SETTLING INTO YOUR NEW HOME
ROLE OF THE FAMILY
Resident Rooms and Common Spaces
Residents are assigned a room based on availability at the time of admission. Each room is thoughtfully prepared to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming home. If a private room is preferred, residents or their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are encouraged to speak with our Receptionist to have their name added to the private room waitlist.
We understand the importance of feeling at home. Although we strive to minimize room changes and provide residents with consistency, familiarity, and a sense of belonging, there may be occasions when a move is requested or becomes necessary to better support a resident's preferences, changing care needs, or the needs of the wider community. We recognize that a resident's room is their home, and any room changes are carefully considered. Whenever possible, we will communicate with the resident and their family in advance and provide support throughout the transition to help make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Common Areas
Each resident neighbourhood features a comfortable lounge and kitchenette with a television and fireplace for residents and their families to enjoy. Dykeland Lodge also offers a bright solarium for larger gatherings and recreational programs, a shared living room where residents can relax and socialize, and a private family room that may be reserved for special occasions, family visits, or quiet conversations.
Resident and Family Involvement
At Dykeland Lodge, we are committed to a resident-centred philosophy of care that recognizes each person's values, preferences, and right to make decisions about their own life. Residents are encouraged to participate in decisions about their care, quality of life, and daily routines whenever possible. When appropriate, their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) or legal representative will be involved in accordance with the resident's wishes and applicable legislation.
Families and loved ones are valued members of the care team. We encourage them to participate in care planning, attend resident care conferences, assist with care if desired, participate in recreation and special events, accompany residents to appointments or community outings, and advocate for their loved one's needs and preferences.
Resident and Family Councils
Residents and families play an important role in shaping life at Dykeland Lodge. We encourage open communication and welcome feedback to help us continually improve the care and services we provide.
Our Resident Council meets monthly, with meeting dates listed on the monthly Recreation Calendar. The council provides residents with an opportunity to share ideas, discuss concerns, and help guide decisions that affect life in the home.
Our Family Council meets quarterly and provides family members and loved ones with an opportunity to connect, share experiences, offer feedback, and discuss ideas that support resident care and quality of life.
We also host quarterly Food Committee meetings, where residents and families are invited to share their thoughts and suggestions about menus, dining experiences, and food services.
Resident Council meeting dates are included on the monthly Recreation Calendar, and notices for all council and committee meetings are posted throughout the home. Residents, families, and loved ones are warmly encouraged to attend, participate, and share their voices as we work together to foster a welcoming, supportive, and resident-centred community.
VISITS AND OUTINGS
Visits from family members, friends, and loved ones are always welcome at Dykeland Lodge. We recognize that maintaining relationships and staying connected with the people and communities that are meaningful to residents is an important part of quality of life. Our doors are open between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. to support visits and time spent with those who are important to our residents.
When visiting, we kindly ask guests to be mindful of each resident’s routines, preferences, privacy, and the comfort of other residents who may share their room.
If you need to visit outside of these hours, please ring the doorbell located at the main entrance, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Residents are welcome and encouraged to continue enjoying outings and time away from the home with family and friends. If you are planning to take a resident out of Dykeland Lodge, please notify the resident’s nurse before leaving. The nursing team will complete the required Leave Request Form in accordance with provincial requirements. Before leaving the home, the resident or accompanying person is asked to sign out at the main entrance by providing their name and a contact number where they can be reached while the resident is away. This helps us support resident safety and remain connected while they are enjoying their time away.
Overnight visits with family and loved ones are also welcomed. If you are planning an overnight visit, please speak with the resident’s nurse in advance so the team can support a smooth transition and ensure the resident’s needs are supported.
KEEPING IN TOUCH
We post notices, including our recreation calendar and menu, at various locations within the home. Our website (www.dykelandlodge.ca) contains such things as the current recreation calendar, news, and email address for management team members. We attempt to keep it up to date on activities/notices. We also, from time to time, mail notices to resident’s legal representatives. Legal representatives are asked to leave their email address with us so that such notices can be sent via email. We encourage these representatives to share such notices with other family members as unfortunately we can only send them to the legal representatives.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES PROVIDED
A variety of additional services and amenities are available to residents for an additional fee. Where applicable, the resident or their legally authorized representative is responsible for arranging payment for these services.
Telephone and Cable
Resident rooms are equipped with telephone and cable connections. Telephone services, including long-distance packages, are available through the home. Residents are welcome to bring their own television for use in their room.
Computers and Wi-Fi
Each resident neighbourhood has a laptop available for resident use. These devices can be used to help residents stay connected with family and friends, including those who live outside the community.
Residents are also welcome to bring their own personal electronic devices. Please note that Dykeland Lodge is unable to assume responsibility for personal devices that may become lost, damaged, or misplaced.
A guest Wi-Fi network is available for residents, families, and visitors to use while in the home. The guest network password is available in the Reception area.
Hairdressing and Advanced Foot Care
Hairdressing and advanced foot care services are available within Dykeland Lodge. Residents may also choose to access these services within the community.
If a resident chooses to attend appointments outside of the home, arrangements for scheduling, transportation, and any related costs are the responsibility of the resident or their legally authorized representative. Please notify the Nursing Department of any upcoming appointments so we can support the resident’s care needs and ensure the team is aware of their schedule.
RESOURCES
A GUIDE TO MOVING INTO LONG-TERM CARE IN NOVA SCOTIA
We will guide you through the long-term care application process and help you identify the best path to meet your needs. Long-term care helps people whose care needs can no longer be met at home. Long-term care provides accommodation, help with personal care, supervisory care and nursing services. Last updated January 23, 2023 We understand that it can be stressful and confusing when you or a family member move into long-term care. This guide will help you and your family get ready for the transition. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your Nova Scotia Health care coordinator or call us (toll-free) at 1-800-225-7225.
We will guide you through the long-term care application process and help you identify the best path to meet your needs. Long-term care helps people whose care needs can no longer be met at home. Long-term care provides accommodation, help with personal care, supervisory care and nursing services. CLICK HERE
MOVE-IN HANDBOOK FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS
Welcome to Dykeland Lodge! We know that moving into long-term care is a significant life transition—for both residents and the people who love them. Our Admission Guide was created to help make this journey a little easier by answering common questions and walking you through what to expect before, during, and after admission. Inside, you'll find information about preparing for the move, our approach to resident-centred care, available services, visiting guidelines, financial information, advance care planning, and the many ways we support residents and families every step of the way. Whether you're preparing for admission or simply getting to know our Home, we hope this guide helps you feel informed, supported, and welcomed into the Dykeland community. CLICK HERE
Last updated February 2026
SETTLING INTO LIFE AT DYKEAND LODGE
Moving into long-term care is a major life transition, for residents and families alike, and it's normal to experience a mix of emotions along the way. This guide walks you through what to expect before admission and during your loved one's first day, week, month, and year at Dykeland Lodge. You'll find practical information, helpful tips, and reassurance about the adjustment process, along with guidance on how our care team will support both you and your loved one every step of the way. Our hope is that this resource helps make the transition feel a little less overwhelming and reminds you that you don't have to navigate it alone. You can also reach out to our Social Worker for additional supports and resource navigation. CLICK HERE
Last updated February 2026
CAREGIVERS NOVA SCOTIA
At Caregivers Nova Scotia, we’re focused on empowering caregivers, supporting their efforts, and recognizing the invaluable contribution they make both to those in need and to society in general. We do this through programs, support groups, advocacy, and services all geared toward the unique needs of friends and family giving care. We are here to help in every way we can. Whether you require some information, would like to talk to someone on the phone, or attend one of our peer support groups, please contact us and we’ll be there for you. Caregivers Nova Scotia is not a home care provider. We are not able to offer counselling services, or legal, financial, or medical advice, but we will refer you to organizations that do. If you require some information, would like to talk to someone on the phone, or attend one of our peer support groups, please contact us and we’ll be here for you. CLICK HERE