Frequently Asked Questions

As a person is dying, their body will go through a number of physical changes as it slows down and moves towards the final stages of life. Many of these changes are normal and to be expected. Hill House nursing staff will keep you informed of noted and expected changes. Please remember everyone is different. All these signs and symptoms may not occur for everyone:

• Sleep longer.
• Eat and drink much less. 
• Experience emotional and spiritual changes. 
• Become confused and/or restless. 
• Have difficulty swallowing.
• Have irregular or shallow breathing. 
• Become unresponsive. 
• Lose control of bladder or bowels. 
• Have a change in body temperature and skin colour.

You may notice your loved ones’ breathing and heartbeat have stopped, their eyes may be open or closed, their mouth may fall or remain open as the jaw relaxes and their skin may look pale. Please remember that we are here for you and will provide you with guidance and support as needed. 

Hill House does not produce, copy or store death certificates. The funeral home can issue copies of proof of death that can be used in certain situations; however, if an official Medical Certificate of Death is needed, copies can be obtained through a formal online request from the Government of Ontario. There is a fee to receive an official death certificate copy.

Yes, each resident has their own, private bedroom. Each bedroom has a window that looks out to the beautiful gardens.

Parking is located to the east of Hill House in the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts parking lot. Staff will give you a parking permit for the duration you are with us.

Hill House is open 24/7 for visitors.

Hill House does provide food such as eggs, toast, pudding and soups. If the resident has a particular food or meal that they love, please feel free to bring it and we can serve it to them. 

Hill House is equipped with all essential care items needed such as soap, shampoo, incontinence products, towels and clothing like night gowns and shirts that are easy to put on and take off. Residents should bring with them their Health Card, Ontario Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Confirmation Form, a copy of their Power of Attorney documents and all prescribed medications.

Yes, residents and families are encouraged to bring in personal items such as pictures and mementos. 

Hill House welcomes families to stay overnight if they wish. Please notify the on-duty team. A reclining chair is in each bedroom for a family member to sleep on.

Children are welcome at Hill house and must be accompanied by an adult. 

Yes, WiFi is available for residents and families. Please speak with staff for login information. Each resident room is equipped with a television with basic cable, as well as a CD player. 

Pets may, at the resident’s or family’s request and the discretion of the Hospice staff, be brought to visit and spend time with the resident.  

Hill House does not permit smoking inside the hospice or in front of the hospice; however, residents and visitors are permitted to smoke outside in the breezeway between the house and the garage.