Nanaimo Hospital to Launch Canada’s First Senior-Friendly ER

A successful fundraising campaign has paved the way for the creation of Canada’s first senior-friendly emergency department at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation raised a total of $1.2 million to support this innovative initiative aimed at enhancing care for patients aged 65 and older.

Barney Ellis-Perry, CEO of the hospital foundation, noted the overwhelming community response to the campaign. “For some people that was $10,” he said, emphasizing the importance of individual contributions. Many community members, some using walkers or canes, expressed their commitment to the cause, demonstrating that even modest donations can have a significant impact. “I live pension cheque to pension cheque, but I’d like to make this $10 donation. That means the world. That’s huge,” Ellis-Perry quoted one donor.

The campaign received a significant boost from a $250,000 matching gift from the Rogers Foundation, which encouraged further donations. Ellis-Perry reported that even during the holiday season, many rushed to contribute their gifts to take advantage of the matching opportunity before the end of the year.

Designing an Inclusive Space

Set to open in winter 2024, the new emergency room will be developed from an unused overflow section of the hospital’s current emergency facilities. The redesigned area will cater specifically to the needs of older patients, who account for approximately 35 percent of emergency room intakes.

The senior-friendly emergency department will feature dimmed lighting and sound-dampening materials to create a calming environment. Additionally, hospital staff will receive specialized training in geriatrics, ensuring they are equipped to provide the best possible care. Safety measures, such as doors designed to prevent patients from wandering, will also be implemented.

The funding will cover both the modifications to the space and the purchase of specialized equipment, including pressure-reducing beds, lift chairs, and comfort carts for patients who may require longer stays.

While the funding for the senior-friendly emergency room has been successfully secured, fundraising efforts continue for other vital projects. These include $600,000 for wound and outpatient care and $500,000 for the new Parksville Treatment Centre, which focuses on mental health and addictions recovery.

Ellis-Perry highlighted the unique appeal of the seniors’ initiative: “There are certain projects that really take off, and others don’t. In this case, the seniors’ friendly emergency – the minute we started talking to people, they got it and they wanted to support it.”

Additional Funding Initiatives

The winter campaign also facilitated funding for various other health initiatives, including $1 million for cancer equipment at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and $60,000 from the Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary for new fetal monitors. These contributions reflect a strong community commitment to improving health care services in the region.

The establishment of a senior-friendly emergency department marks a significant step forward in addressing the unique needs of older patients in Nanaimo. The hospital foundation’s successful campaign not only highlights the community’s generosity but also sets a precedent for future health care innovations across Canada.