Published November 20, 2023

Photo: Local leaders inaugurate MDAA Parc-de-la-Montagne, the first of 46 planned seniors’ and alternative centres in Outaouais, marking a transformative step in residential and long-term care environments. (TF) Photo courtesy of the Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Centre

With notes from Mary Baskin, Marie-Eve Turpin and Lily Ryan

In a significant step towards enhancing care for the elderly and adults with special needs, the Parc-de-la-Montagne seniors and alternative home opened its doors to its first residents on November 8. This event marked the culmination of a dedicated effort to create a living space that balances quality care with a home-like environment, signifying a shift in how society approaches long-term residential care.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by notable figures, including Sonia Bélanger, the Minister responsible for Seniors and Minister for Health, and Suzanne Tremblay, the Member of Parliament for Hull. Located at 155, boulevard Lionel-Émond in Gatineau, the facility is a testament to a collaborative vision of providing compassionate and specialized care.

The Parc-de-la-Montagne is distinguished by its unique design, featuring 72 new places for the region’s population, with 60 dedicated to seniors and 12 for adults with special needs. This establishment consists of six households, each accommodating 12 individuals. These residents are provided with single rooms, each equipped with adapted toilets and showers, ensuring privacy and dignity.

A key aspect of this new facility is its emphasis on creating a familiar, home-like atmosphere. The design and architecture of the Parc-de-la-Montagne are centred around recreating the warmth and comfort of a home, aiming to provide a more human-centric living environment. Thisapproach is part of a broader vision to transform the nature of residential and long-term care facilities.

This innovative model extends beyond the physical layout. It fosters a community-centric approach, promoting human contact and an active lifestyle. Both interior and exterior spaces arethoughtfully arranged to meet the needs of residents and their families. The inclusion of caregivers in the daily lives of residents is a strategic move to enhance interaction and provide holistic care.

In her address, Sonia Bélanger expressed her pride in the realization of this project, highlighting its alignment with the government’s commitment to providing inclusive and pleasant living environments on a human scale. Suzanne Tremblay shared her sentiments, emphasizing the importance of providing seniors with quality services and care in a stimulating and secure environment in Gatineau.

MNA Mathieu Levesque, also present at the inauguration, celebrated the addition of 72 new places for the Outaouais population, acknowledging the role of Sonia Bélanger in bringing this vision to life.

The Parc-de-la-Montagne is one of the 46 seniors and alternative homes announced, contributing to a total of 3,480 places, nearly 3,000 of which are new. This initiative is part of a ​broader transformation in residential and long-term care settings, reflecting a shift towards morehumane and resident-focused care models.

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