Issue link: https://www.newlifestylesdigital.com/i/343193
• 71 Retirement homes in Ontario are now regulated and must follow the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 (Act). The Act establishes the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA), a not-for-profit organization independent of government that administers and enforces the Act. The Act provides protections for retirement home residents by setting out care and safety standards that retirement homes must meet. The RHRA's responsibilities include: • Licensing and regulating retirement homes in Ontario • Maintaining a public register of retirement homes in Ontario • Educating retirement home operators, consumers and the public about the Act • Inspecting retirement homes for compliance and enforcing the Act How do I know if a retirement home is licensed? The RHRA maintains a public register of applicants and licensed retirement homes on its website (www.rhra.ca). Use the register to view the licence status and inspection reports of retirement homes in Ontario. To operate a retirement home in Ontario the home must be licensed. What are the rights of retirement home residents? The Act requires retirement home operators to post and adhere to a Residents' Bill of Rights as set out in section 51 of the Act. Examples of residents' rights include: • Knowing what care services are provided in the home • Knowing how much care services cost • Living in a safe and clean environment How do I report a concern about resident care and safety? Persons who see or suspect harm or risk of harm to a retirement home resident must immediately report it to the RHRA, along with any supporting information. To make a report, call: 1-855-ASK-RHRA (1-855-275-7472). You may report anonymously. What should I do if I have a complaint about a retirement home? If you have a complaint about a retirement home, contacting the home is often the most direct and fastest way to ensure your concerns are addressed as all homes are required to have a complaints process in place. Residents and families may also contact the RHRA to file a complaint if you believe a home is not following the Act. The complaint form can be found on the RHRA website. Contact the RHRA 1-855-ASK-RHRA (1-855-275-7472) www.rhra.ca info@rhra.ca