The following article is from Comfort Caregivers Inc.
It is the time of year when everyone one is busy celebrating, shopping and getting together with friends and family. It sounds like so much fun, but sometimes the stress of this time of year can cause depression, especially in our Senior and Elderly friends and relatives. Melancholy can easily set in during this time of year and cause the Holiday Blues, as older generations remember Holidays past.
While the Holiday Blues are considered a form of depression, there is a difference between the blues and full blown depression. Most of the symptoms of both are the same, but the blues should only last for a couple of months, while depression will continue.
If you have experienced the Holiday Blues, here are some tips from, The American Geriatrics Society for getting through this holiday season, as chances are you will experience the blues again.
- Get out and socialize or invite family and friends over. Those who find it hard to get around should ask relatives and others for help traveling to parties and events.
- Volunteering can help improve mood. Contact the United Way or call local schools or religious organizations to ask about opportunities nearby.
- Don’t drink too much alcohol because it can actually lower your spirits.
- Accept the fact that many people feel blue during the holidays and there is nothing wrong with not being “merry.”
- Talking to someone about your feelings may help you understand the reasons why you feel sad.
- If you’re depressed, contact your health-care provider. Depression is treatable.
If you know a Senior or Elderly person who may have the blues, here are some tips:
- If you know of an older person who may have the blues, encourage them to talk about their feelings. Acknowledge their sadness, including a sense of loss if family or friends have died or moved away.
- Invite them out and to gatherings. Remember to take into account their needs, such as transportation or special diets.
- Lend a hand by offering to help with shopping and preparations for get-togethers in their homes.Your Text
- Encourage them to talk about their feelings. Acknowledge their sadness, including a sense of loss if family or friends have died or moved away.
- Suggest your loved one talk with a health-care provider. Many Seniors and Elderly people don’t realize when they’re depressed. Let your loved one know depression is a medical illness and there’s no shame in having it.
Watch for warning signs of depression. While holiday blues are temporary and mild, depression is more serious. Signs of depression include: persistent sadness; lack of interest; frequent crying; changes in appetite, weight or sleep; constant feelings of fatigue, restlessness, worthlessness, or guilt; suicidal thoughts.
Hello. My name is Jack and my wife Velma and I live at The Credit River Retirement Residence at Streetsville, Ontario. We take great pleasure to introduce you to a very remarkable young man who created the Lucky Iron Fish. For those of you who have not heard of it I would suggest that you go on the Internet and click on luckyironfish.com This will give you a much better explanation of its Health and Medical Benefits. First, I must reveal that Dr. Armstrong just happens to be our Grandson.
He started as a shy curious young person who wondered how he could do something to help others. From his studies at Guelph University, he found that Iron Deficiency was a World Wide Problem. Studies had shown that a chunk of Iron in a boiling pot used to cook their food in Cambodia provided the whole family, with about 75%, of the daily amount of Iron they required. The people of course would not use a chunk of Iron so another way had to be invented. Because the Fish is a lucky symbol in Cambodia the Iron was made to resemble a fish about the size of the palm of your hand. Thus the Lucky Iron Fish was born and to this day is being used in many Countries around the World.
He formed the Company, The Lucky Iron Fish and then went about seeking Donations to get things started. The first large Donation was given by the Governor General of Canada. The idea was that the Government would supply him with up to $100,000 to match what he was able to raise. The people that were approached for Donations realized the viability and importance of the Project and the amount was soon raised. It was not easy to get started as formal studies had to be done to prove the concept and this took time and patience but he stayed with it and achieved his goal.
Over the years he has won many Awards as you will see from the Web Site. As well as receiving his Doctorate from Guelph University. he has been recognized by the “Clinton University Global Initiative”, “Forbes Magazine”, the “Michaelle Jean Governor Generals Award” and named as one of the ‘Top Ten Graduates for the Last Ten Years from Guelph University”.
Congratulations Dr. Armstrong. He has requested all of the Family to still call him Gavin.
Verve Senior Living is celebrating 40 years of service excellence this year. We wanted to do something extra special, so we challenged each residence to start fundraising campaigns across Canada. They would have until April 30, 2018 to complete their events/fundraisers and the residence raising the most would receive a special prize from Corporate office. In addition, Verve Corporate office will donate up to $20,000 matching the funds raised by the homes for a total of $40,000 or more.
So far, the totals raised by the residences is almost $40,000 – WOW. The money that the residences raise goes to their local chapters of the Alzheimer’s Society, and the Corporate donation will go to the National Alzheimer’s Society.
Keep watching for updates on this exciting challenge. The winner of the corporate contest will be announced in May, 2018.
The following article is from Comfort Caregivers Inc.
Too many seniors are injured as a result of falls. Fall prevention is a must. Learn what caregivers and seniors can do to reduce the risk of falling.
Believe it or not the CDC(cdc.gov) has found that the leading cause of death and injury among older Americans is falling down. For their own safety, caregivers and their seniors must take steps to reduce fall risks.
The dangers of falls for seniors are numerous. Everything from minor bruising to death can result depending on the severity of a fall and the individual’s health. While not all falls can be prevented, many can be.
Signs a Senior is at High Risk of Falling
The National Institute on Aging (nihseniorhealth.gov)says that losing a steady, healthy balance and gait is common among seniors. Other factors, like certain medications and diseases, can increase difficulty with balance. To determine if a senior is at high risk of falling, watch for the following signs:
- A change in gait
- Difficulty getting in and out of chairs or bed
- Reaching for support when bending, moving, or climbing
- Needing breaks while moving about routinely, like while climbing upstairs
- Straining to see clearly
- Watching one’s feet while moving
- Shuffling instead of lifting the feet when walking
- Pain in the joints, back, or lower body
- Diseases like Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, or Arthritis
If you notice signs like these, be proactive. Take steps to help seniors with preventative measures around the home and encourage them to practice walking safely outside the home as well.
Common Medical Conditions That Increase Fall Risk
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s and Dementia
- Chronic Pain
- Dehydration
- Disorders of the Foot or Legs
- Thyroid or Blood Issues
- Weakened Muscles
- Sensory Issues with Hearing, Vision, or Neuropathy
(healthinaging.org)
Fall Risks and Prevention Strategies at Home
Floors and Stairs
Risk Factors:
- Loose rugs
- Steep steps or inclines
- Slippery surfaces
- Clutter
- Pets that get under foot
Prevention:
Add traction surfaces and rails along the walls. Clean up obstacles and secure pets when seniors need to move. Install a chair lift on stairs if needed.
Kitchen
Risk factors:
- High or low shelves
- Slippery floors
- Poor lighting
- Too much furniture
Prevention:
Move common kitchen items to waist level. Add traction pads to floors and increase lighting. Remove or rearrange furniture for easier maneuvering.
Bathroom
Risk Factors:
- Slippery surfaces
- Hard-to-access showers or tubs
- Lack of support
- Poor ventilation
Prevention:
- Keep the bathroom ventilated and dry.
- Add non-slip mats and grab bars.
- Install more accessible fixtures or seating and grab bars within shower and tub.
Bedroom and Living Area
Risk Factors:
- Dim Lighting
- Clutter or excess furniture
- Lack of phones or night lighting
Prevention
Add lighting, include night lighting and clear a path for easy navigation at any hour. Secure cords, wires, and other tripping hazards behind furniture. Make phones accessible in case help is needed.
Outside the Home
Risk Factors:
- Unfamiliar areas
- Crowds and cluttered places
- Uneven terrain
Prevention:
Accompany seniors closely, offering support as needed. Avoid busy hours and crowded locales. Stick to the sidewalk and locations that are familiar.
Home Care Tip:
Participating in a balance and exercise program decreases fall risk. Contact a doctor, local YMCA, or Area Agency on Aging to find programs nearby for seniors with balance problems.
The following article is from Comfort Caregivers Inc. dated December 1, 2017
Nutritionists say that winter is a terrific time to enjoy healthy foods that are rich in fiber, B-vitamins, minerals, and are good sources of protein. Here is a look at some healthy choices:
Legumes
Legumes – including kidney, garbanzo, and pinto beans, lentils, and white and black beans – are a healthy and hearty ingredient for winter recipes. They are rich in important nutrients like fiber andprotein, legumes, and make a tasty addition to winter soups and stews.
Turkey
Turkey is a lean source of protein, and has few calories. This can include turkey soup, a turkey sandwich on a hearty whole-grain bread and turkey on its own.
Cranberries
Cranberries are not only delicious when they’re fresh, they’re low in calories. Fresh whole cranberries add snap to salads, breads, and muffins.
Winter Squash
Acorn and butternut squash are loaded with vitamins and nutrients, and while you can buy them year round, they make great recipes during this time of year. These foods burst with nutritional value, and shouldn’t be smothered with high-calorie condiments like butter and syrup. Instead, use a teaspoon of low-fat margarine in the cavity of the squash while you bake it, or just a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Citrus Fruits
Winter is the season for fresh citrus, and oranges are loaded with vitamin C. One orange alone offers up more than 100% of your daily requirement of power-packed vitamin C, as well as other disease fighting nutrients. Oranges also have folate, a B vitamin that may help to keep your heart healthy, as well as fiber and potassium.
Cabbage and Kale
Red cabbage is low in calories, has plenty of vitamin A and contains the natural phytochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin. Kale is a power source of a multitude of healthy nutrients, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, iron, magnesium, and a number of phytochemicals. Served in salads, soups, and stews, cabbage and kale add flavor and zest to hearty winter recipes.
Port Credit Residence took part in the Be A Santa To A Senior Program, fulfilling over 70 donations which came from around the community including, Fram & Slokker office, TD Bank, residents, and staff.
The Be A Santa To A Senior Program was started by Home Instead Senior Care in 2003. Port Credit Residences is proud to take part in this amazing and thoughtful program. We look forward to continuing to enhance the lives of seniors in our local community this holiday season.
Pictured are a few residents along with General Manager – Stephen Holland and Life Enrichment Manager – Justine Beard, show off some of the Christmas gift requests. All those involved were thrilled to participate. They enjoyed giving back to the community and in particular to a senior, who has little or no family and who otherwise would not receive a gift at Christmas.
(From the Alzheimers Society Blog)
Written in collaboration between the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada and Parkinson Canada.
The leaves are changing, the days are feeling frosty, and decorations are making their way across homes and storefronts. Though the holiday season is enjoyable for many, it can be a stressful time for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease. Unfamiliar places, large groups of people, noise, and a hectic pace can bring feelings of anxiety, fatigue, and depression.
As a caregiver, this adds to the other challenges you may be facing. For example, you may find that seasonal obligations are pulling you in multiple directions and adding to your stress level. Finding the time and energy to buy gifts, visit others, and even feel “the holiday spirit” can be difficult as the commitments layer on.
So how can you make the coming holidays a time to enjoy and connect with family and friends for you and the person living with the disease? Here are some tips that can help make the holidays more enjoyable—for everyone:
Make a simple wish list
To help you manage some of the holiday stress, try to plan as much as you can ahead of time. Creating a list of simple and straightforward goals will allow you to set realistic expectations for yourself and the person you care for, and prioritize the occasions and traditions that are most important to you and your family.
Some items to consider include:
- Scheduling your holiday gatherings for dates and times that best suit the person with the disease.
- Letting your family and friends know in advance about your priorities and availability.
- Aiming for as few changes in routine as you reasonably can.
- Ensuring that you are well-supplied for the season to avoid last-minute running around (for example, having extra medication on hand).
It’s also a good idea to make a list of doctors, walk-in clinics, and pharmacies that are open during holidays in case of an emergency.
Keep gatherings small and short
Smaller gatherings, with fewer faces to see and conversations to hear, will reduce overwhelming feelings of stress for the person living with the disease. For larger, longer gatherings, consider bringing the person to the most meaningful part of the event, and designate a quiet room where the person can retreat to. Consider choosing familiar and accessible places for gatherings.
Get them involved
Have the person participate in preparations and tasks that have meaning for them. Are there any holiday activities that bring them joy, like making cards or wrapping gifts? Remember that changing abilities have not altered the person’s importance in the family or the need to be included in special activities and events.
Travelling? Have a plan
Changes in the person’s abilities can make travel challenging, but careful planning can help. If your holiday plans include travel, make as many requests as you can ahead of time, particularly with flights and accommodations. Most airlines have assistance services for those with medical conditions, and can provide special accommodations such as wheelchairs, additional legroom and early boarding. If staying at a hotel, let the staff know about your needs and explain some of the possible difficulties you might encounter.
Long trips can be stressful for you and the person living with the disease, so plan ahead and give yourself plenty of extra time to get where you’re going. Pack a few days before you have to leave, and have a doctor’s note for any medication you carry.
Find time for yourself
Be realistic and don’t overdo it—avoiding burnout and finding respite is key to enjoying the holidays. Spread your errands around, and don’t feel afraid or guilty to ask for help. Take a look at your network—is there another family member, friend, or a neighbour whom you can ask for help? The holidays provide good opportunities to seek support from those you know. Should you be unable to find support in your personal network, remember that you’re never alone—we’re here to help!
Proudly featured in The Richmond News, Courtyard Gardens Resident and Veteran, Anna Paul shared her brave story & enjoyed War-Time songs.
From The Richmond News article:
I’ll be seeing you,
In every lovely summer’s day,
In everything that’s light and gay,
I’ll always think of you that way…”
It was one of the most popular wartime songs, White Cliffs of Dover, being performed at Courtyard Gardens Retirement Residence last Wednesday.
The performance room was full of poignant music, along with laughter and tears.
It was a special concert given by the Minoru Seniors’ Centre glee club. All the songs performed were from the First and Second World War, when soldiers left their loved ones to fight for their countries.
More than 50 seniors, including Second World War veterans, attended the concert. They were singing along with the choir to popular songs of the day such as I’ll see you againand Land of Hope and Glory, all of which brought tears to the audience’s eyes.
In the end, everyone in the room stood up and sang together, when the choir performed White Cliffs of Dover, a song dreaming about a time when the war would be over and peace would rule over the iconic white cliffs of Dover (Britain’s symbolic border with the European mainland).
“It’s nice for them to get a chance to sing it. It brings back their memories,” said Nan Baardsen, music director of the glee club.
“Lots of songs are very sad and make people cry, but it’s also good for them. It’s their memories; they are part of them,” said Baardsen.
War-time music is not unfamiliar to Baardsen, 91, who was a teenager in Scotland when WWII broke out. Her father, sister and two brothers served in the war, and one of her brothers was kept in an Egyptian camp for four years.
“That was the biggest grief for my family,” said Naardsen. “War is horrible.”
Some songs reflect Baardsen’s own experience during that difficult time, when people dealt with the cruel reality with a positive attitute and a hint of humor, such as the song I did what I could with my gas mask (1941)
Stouffville Creek is excited to introduce our first Resident-of-the-Month, O. Ernest Brown.
Mr. Brown has been a resident of Stouffville Creek since 2013 and has a very special place in our hearts. We are so touched that Ernest has offered to share his story with us.
“The torpedo struck at about 0400, Oct. 2, 1941. There was no mistaking that shuddering shock and crashing explosion. The sound of engines died, the light went out in the Radio room. The Chief Operator came out of his adjoining cabin to call the bridge, then he took over at the radio to send the “SSSS” report. My task was to dispose of the code books and then get the emergency radio to my assigned lifeboat. As I tied the weighted sack into which I had dropped the code books, the stem of the ship settled a little more, so that the pad and pencil on the desk slid to the back. The chief was already sending the message, in morse code, and did not even pause. Out on deck it was very dark, the weighted sack was tossed over the rail and I made my way up to the boat deck, got the radio out of its stowage, and carried it to the lifeboat where one of the Mates was already organizing the crew to free the boat from its lashings and prepare to lower.”
Eric Koch, a resident at Hazelton Place, volunteers his time and expertise by organizing discussion groups featuring different guests twice a week.
He says “I make a modest contribution by masterminding discussions twice a week on important political, social and cultural issues. I invite guests from the outside and inside attracting approximately twenty residents to my discussions.”
Some of his guest speakers are resident’s, while others work in politics, are writers, judges, and journalists. He interviews those he feels are interesting in their own right. It is his unique interviewing style and humorous nature that attract a large number of residents to his discussion groups. Resident’s at his home are found to plan their Wednesdays and Fridays around his discussions. His contributions are very much appreciated by the staff and the residents.
How does he feel about being living in a verve home? In his words, “The staff meets all my needs, and do so in style. I am particularly impressed by the nursing staff. The “Human Enrichment” department goes to great length to devise festivities and entertainment to provide means for residents to spend their time as rewardingly as they can.”
To get to know Eric a bit better please find a link to an old CBC interview and his Wikipedia page below.
http://www.cbc.ca/player/play/821840963933
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Koch