SAINT JOHN (GNB) – Cohen Hall, a new 60-bed nursing home owned by Shannex, officially opened today in Saint John. The home was named in memory of the late Senator Erminie Cohen.
“We are pleased to see the expansion of nursing home beds to better respond to the increasing demand of the province’s aging population,” said Social Development Minister Dorothy Shephard. “Shannex is an important partner in our constant efforts to provide better services to seniors.”
Cohen Hall is physically connected to the existing Shannex Parkland campus in the Millidgeville area. Each floor, or neighbourhood, in the new two-storey nursing home can accommodate 30 residents and has a nursing station, dining room and living room, library and activity space. Each resident will have their own private suite and washroom to help ensure privacy, dignity and safety.
The new home also includes an indoor Main Street, a feature now in place at a number of Shannex nursing homes. This concept promotes independence and a sense of community by allowing residents to enjoy the experience of spending time on a small-town street complete with a hair salon, café, town hall and a multi-purpose room that will serve as a chapel, theatre and community gathering space.
“There has never been a more important time to prioritize the needs of seniors in New Brunswick,” said Jason Shannon, Shannex president. “We are confident that when the first resident walks through the doors to Cohen Hall, they’ll find a home where they’ll receive the support they need to live fully, and they’ll be surrounded by compassionate and professional team members who care deeply for them.”
With this new home, there are currently 72 nursing homes in the province providing 5,013 beds. The provincial government plans to increase this to 81 licensed nursing homes, adding 520 beds to the system.
All nursing homes are subject to the licence and inspection requirements of the Department of Social Development.
16-01-23
