Life as a Resident
Villa Saint‑Joseph du Lac is more than a care facility — it's a place to call home. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, respectful, and compassionate environment where residents can feel safe, supported, and valued in every stage of life.
Each day is thoughtfully structured to promote well-being, connection, and comfort. Residents enjoy a variety of engaging activities, meaningful social opportunities, and personalized care tailored to their individual needs.
Whether it’s taking part in a musical performance, joining a group outing, spending quiet time with loved ones, or enjoying a nourishing meal, life at the Villa is centred around dignity and choice.
Our dedicated staff take the time to know each resident — their stories, preferences, and routines — creating a strong sense of belonging and community. Spiritual care is available for those who wish to access it, and our programs are designed to nurture the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being of every individual in our care.
From cozy private rooms to beautiful natural surroundings, everything at the Villa is designed to support a safe, peaceful, and enriching experience for residents and their families.
Visiting Guidelines
We encourage regular visits from family and friends, with flexible visiting hours. For safety, please use the doorbell after 8:00 p.m. to access the building.
-
Supervised visits from children and pets are welcome.
-
Residents are encouraged to attend facility events and maintain social connections outside the Villa.
-
Please inform nursing staff before taking your loved one offsite.
-
If bringing food or drinks, please ensure they are labelled and dated, and check with the nurse to ensure dietary needs are respected.
Programs & Recreation
Our Therapeutic Recreation team provides a range of programs and interventions based on each resident's needs; whether it be through individual visits, small groups or large programs, we strive to provide recreation opportunities that address all domains of health. Examples would include regular musical
entertainment, modified sports and exercise groups, outings using our own accessible bus, special events, time in our gardens, arts and crafts, etc.
Calendars are posted on each Villa, and whiteboards are updated daily to inform residents, family and staff as to what is happening each day.
Services & Amenities
Mail & Banking
Available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.:
-
Stamp sales, incoming/outgoing mail
-
Resident trust accounts and safekeeping of small amounts of money
-
We recommend that families hold valuables or large sums
Hairdressing
On-site services are available, billed to the resident’s trust account. Residents may also use an outside hairdresser by family arrangement.
Telephone & Cable
Available in resident rooms (monthly rates):
-
Telephone: $28
-
Cable: $35
-
Both: $55
Invoices are sent to families for payment.
Housekeeping & Laundry
Housekeeping and laundry services are available to all residents.
Dietary Services
Nutritional services provide home-cooked, nutritious, and appealing meals and snacks for our residents. Resident nutritional assessments are completed within the first two
weeks of admission by the Dietitian, and ongoing individual needs are monitored as required.
Villa Saint Joseph du Lac menu is based on a six-week cycle with options that ensure Canada's Food Guide nutritional requirements are met. Menus are adjusted to meet required therapeutic diets and diet textures. Food alternatives are available to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, dislikes, and specific nutritional needs.
The RN or LPN on each resident's floor must be consulted before bringing special meals or treats to residents. Any food/drinks permitted to be brought in for individual residents must be dated and identify the resident they are intended for.
Safety & Security
-
Doors are locked after 8:00 p.m. for resident safety
-
Monthly fire drills on all shifts to ensure emergency readiness
-
The Villa is equipped with a full security system
-
The main entrance is locked with a code required to exit
Spiritual Care
-
We recognize the importance of spiritual well-being and offer:
-
Weekly mass
-
Devotional programs and memorial services
-
Sacrament of the Sick and spiritual care for the dying
-
Non-Catholic services and individual pastoral visits
Admissions & Rooms
Private Rooms
All resident rooms are private. Families are encouraged to personalize spaces with familiar items. Room changes may occur based on care needs and compatibility.
Admission Process
Villa Saint‑Joseph du Lac participates in the Single Entry Access (SEA) system. Once approved for long-term care, placement is managed by the Department of Health. Upon acceptance, our team provides orientation, support, and answers to any questions.
To learn more or to arrange a tour, please contact us or visit Nova Scotia Continuing Care.
Advance Care Directives
Residents are encouraged to create an Advance Care Directive to outline their wishes for future health care. These directives guide staff in respecting individual preferences regarding treatment and care.