So far, so good! My Dad is now 87 years old and it's time that he was somewhere that has a look into his care on a daily basis. My Grandma spent a few years in Venta back in the early 90's and Dad has it in his mind that he wants to spend time where his Mom spent the final years of her life. So, last week we decided to go in and have a look at the Venta Facility. I had arranged an appointment for a tour with a nice sounding lady by the name of Jolene who would show us around at an appointed time. Upon arrival, Jolene met us at the door as Venta is a very secure environment and you must have a card pass to get in. Jolene showed us the entire facility, including 2 room options and a dining room along with several recreation rooms and the garden. Beautiful place and "extremely" clean. I'm quite picky and I couldn't even find a water mark on the floor or the sink in the dining room kitchen, very impressive! So as it stands now, Dad just needs to get to the Dr. and have his admission medical and he will be all set. He hasn't fully committed to the idea of moving out of his home yet but Jolene has made the introduction much easier than I had anticipated. I would have to say that from what has transpired to this point that Venta and especially Jolene have made the decision much easier and are a 5 Star rating at this point. To be continued....
So, fast forward 6 months. Dad has finally decided to go into Venta Manor and try to adjust to much smaller surroundings. He checked in on September 1st and I must admit he was somewhat hesitant and shy upon arrival. On moving day he was waffling back and forth and not so sure that this was a good idea. He had been to his Doctor and when the Dr. realized that his meds were not being taken regularly and his nutrition was out of whack he pretty much told Dad, "you are going into Venta to check it out for a couple months while we get you regulated and then if you want out we can take it from there" to which Dad begrudgingly agreed, "I'll go for 30 days but that's all" .
As I said, he has now been there since Sept. 1st and he is doing 100% better! His mind is clearer, his eyes are clearer, he is walking better than he has in the last few years and he has adjusted far better than I had even hoped! The Staff, namely, Jennifer, Wanda and Kimberly have made this transition so wonderful for Dad. They attend to his every need, if he is late for a meal, they call him to be sure he is alright. The food is awesome, the menu is written at the entry to the dining room and the choices are always varied, healthy and GOOD! There is juice, coffee and snacks available at all times. Cable TV and a "straight" pool table in the rec room. He always has something to do and the newfound social interaction he now has has been incredibly good for him. I can't say enough about Jennifer, she has been absolutely incredible with my Dad. She has made this transition so comfortable for him and been so kind to him that he would now be lost without her and has no intention of going anywhere, why would he? The staff clean his room, supply towels, maintain security and help him with whatever he needs. My sisters visit regularly as I am in Calgary and can only get up to Edmonton a couple times a month but now, unlike when he was at home, I am content knowing that he is in good hands with his newfound extended family. Anyone who is considering a move for a parent or loved one should not hesitate to visit Venta as it is by far a 5+ STAR rating in all aspects of care and concern.
Mori Lachappelle
