Tantramar has officially joined the Nursing Homes Without Walls program, a community-driven initiative designed to help seniors age comfortably in their own homes. The new chapter, operating out of The Drew Nursing Home, launched on Tuesday afternoon with an event that saw strong community interest and support.
Piloted between 2019-2023, Nursing Homes Without Walls started in four rural New Brunswick communities. It’s official launch at the Drew is now the 27th Home the program is operating in, with funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada under the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project. Local Sackville coordinator Rachelle Gariepy explained the program’s core mission:
“Nursing Home Without Walls is all about supporting aging in place—helping seniors live securely and well in their own homes and community.”
Innovative Approach & Expansion
The program was created by researcher Dr. Suzanne Dupuis-Blanchard, a professor and researcher at the Université de Moncton. Reflecting on her experience in community healthcare, she saw a critical gap in support services for seniors wanting to remain in their homes.
“We have great home care programs, but when it comes to social support and fighting isolation, the resources just weren’t there,” she said.
To Suzanne’s knowledge, this model is the first of its kind. Unlike many formal senior care programs, it offers easier access to services without rigid qualification requirements, making it more accessible for seniors who may not meet the criteria for traditional government support.
The provincial government has recognized its value and is now working through Social Development to allow any nursing home in New Brunswick to adopt the program over the next three years. Additionally, research is underway to expand beyond the province, with an interprovincial launch planned for Spring 2025.
Growing Demand and Key Services
Despite just launching, the Sackville branch already has 60 seniors registered on launch day, with 500 more benefiting from the Port Elgin program – part of the initial programs pilot project. The initiative provides essential services, including:
- Social interactions, visits and phone calls
- Health Information and Education
- Transportation assistance for medical appointments and community events
- Help navigating government forms and resources
- Access to accessible bathing facilities at The Drew Nursing Home
According to early research, 69% of seniors using the program had said it has helped them stay in their homes longer – a testament to its success.
Community Support and the Need for Volunteers
For local seniors like Bob Nelson, the program offers peace of mind.
“I don’t need it much right now, but knowing it’s available is reassuring. You never know what’s coming.”
Linda Shannon, Executive Director of The Drew, emphasized the importance of reducing social isolation, especially after COVID-19 exposed the challenges many seniors face.
“This program is a huge benefit—not just for our 40 senior residents but for the wider Sackville community.”
The success of Nursing Homes Without Walls depends on community involvement. Volunteers are needed for social visits with seniors experiencing isolation.
During the celebration at the home, attended by about 50 visitors, heard speeches from those mentioned above, as well as local MLA Megan Mitton, and Tantramar mayor Andrew Black.
For more information or to volunteer, contact:
Rachelle Gariepy at NHWW@drewnursinghome.ca or (506) 688-4688. Folks can also visit www.drewnursinghome.ca or visit The Drew Nursing Home in person.
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Snaps from the event! 📸
