Nova Scotia has opened the first long-term care facility in a First Nations community in the province. The 48-room facility, named Kiknu, which means “our home” in Mi’kmaq, is located in the Cape Breton Mi’kmaq community of Eskasoni. The home will offer culturally responsive services to Mi’kmaq seniors from across the province. The design and care-management plan for the facility were guided by discussions with Eskasoni elders. The facility is owned by the First Nation and will be operated by the private long-term care provider Shannex. The construction of the facility was funded by $19.6 million from Ottawa and $11.6 million from the province. Residents are scheduled to begin moving in on April 23.
The opening of the Kiknu facility marks a significant milestone in providing culturally appropriate care to Indigenous seniors in Nova Scotia. The facility’s design and care management were developed with input from Eskasoni elders, ensuring that the services offered are responsive to the unique needs and cultural practices of the Mi’kmaq community. By partnering with a private long-term care provider, the First Nation is able to enhance the quality of care provided to its senior population while maintaining ownership and control over the facility.
The collaboration between the First Nation, the private sector, and government funding demonstrates a commitment to improving access to long-term care for Indigenous communities in Nova Scotia. By investing in the construction of the Kiknu facility, Ottawa and the province are addressing the need for culturally appropriate care options for Indigenous seniors. The funding provided for the facility underscores the importance of addressing the gaps in long-term care services for marginalized communities and demonstrates a commitment to reconciliation and addressing historical injustices.
The Kiknu facility is set to become a model for culturally responsive long-term care services in Nova Scotia, providing a blueprint for future facilities in Indigenous communities across the province. By prioritizing cultural sensitivity and community engagement in the design and operation of the facility, the Kiknu home is poised to provide a high standard of care for Mi’kmaq seniors. The opening ceremony for the facility reflects a celebration of the partnership between the First Nation, the private sector, and government in addressing the long-standing need for culturally appropriate long-term care for Indigenous seniors.
The investment in the Kiknu facility represents a step forward in reconciliation efforts in Nova Scotia, recognizing the importance of providing culturally responsive care to Indigenous seniors. By involving community elders in the design and planning of the facility, the Kiknu home embodies a commitment to respecting traditional knowledge and practices in delivering care services. The collaboration between the First Nation and private sector demonstrates a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for Mi’kmaq seniors and addressing the systemic barriers to accessing culturally appropriate care. The Kiknu facility stands as a testament to the power of partnerships in creating inclusive and equitable long-term care options for marginalized communities.
