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Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be overwhelming for both the individual and their family. The initial shock may lead to confusion, fear, and uncertainty about what the future holds. However, with the right support, individuals with dementia can continue to lead fulfilling lives. If a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, here are some ways you can offer meaningful support during this challenging time.

1. Offer Emotional Reassurance and Acceptance

The first step in supporting a loved one is acknowledging their emotions. A dementia diagnosis can provoke a range of feelings, including denial, fear, sadness, or frustration. Be patient and provide reassurance that their emotions are valid. Avoid offering empty platitudes or pretending everything is fine. Instead, validate their feelings and let them know that they are not alone in this journey. Listen actively and allow them to express their concerns without judgment.

2. Educate Yourself About Dementia

Understanding the condition can help you support your loved one effectively. Dementia is not a single disease but a collection of symptoms related to various cognitive impairments. By learning about dementia types (e.g., Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia) and their symptoms, you can better anticipate challenges and tailor your approach. The more informed you are, the better you can make decisions regarding treatment, care, and lifestyle adjustments.

3. Encourage Routine and Familiarity

Routine is vital for individuals with dementia, as it provides a sense of stability and security. Help your loved one maintain familiar daily routines, such as regular meal times, bedtime, and activities. Simplifying their environment by removing clutter and labeling important areas (e.g., the bathroom, bedroom) can also make daily tasks easier and reduce confusion. Consistency can be a calming factor for those living with dementia.

4. Promote Physical and Mental Engagement

Physical and mental stimulation are crucial for slowing cognitive decline and maintaining overall health. Encourage your loved one to stay active through walks, gentle exercises, or hobbies they enjoy. Memory games, puzzles, or even engaging in creative activities like drawing or playing music can help keep their mind sharp. Additionally, staying socially connected is important. Involve them in family activities or connect with local support groups where they can interact with others in similar situations.

5. Help with Planning for the Future

Dementia often progresses over time, so it’s important to plan for the future as early as possible. Talk to your loved one about legal and financial matters, such as creating or updating wills, designating power of attorney, and making healthcare decisions. This can ensure that their wishes are respected and that you’re prepared for any eventuality. It also provides them with a sense of control over their future, which can be empowering.

6. Take Care of Yourself, Too

Being a caregiver can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s important to prioritize your own well-being, as caregiving can lead to burnout. Take time for self-care, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or simply resting. You might also want to consider respite care services, which can provide short-term relief, giving you a chance to recharge.

7. Stay Positive and Focus on Quality of Life

While dementia may present new challenges, it’s important to focus on your loved one’s remaining abilities and help them maintain a good quality of life. Foster an environment of acceptance and love. Help them celebrate their achievements, big or small, and engage in meaningful activities that bring them joy.

Supporting a loved one after a dementia diagnosis requires patience, flexibility, and compassion. While the road ahead may be difficult, with the right support and understanding, your loved one can continue to experience moments of joy and fulfillment throughout their journey.

8. Educate yourself about resources available to you in your community

Programs for people living with dementia in Ottawa like Carefor’s Carling and Perley Adult Day Programs, the Respite House and Carefor’s Richmond Care Home, a retirement home for women living with dementia can help.

There are also numerous resources are available via the Champlain Healthline website.

Dementia can be a challenging disease, both for those who experience it and for their families. Often it is family members who are first to notice the signs of cognitive decline. While their loved one may also notice it, those experiencing symptoms can be the last to acknowledge that their challenges are the result of something beyond aging.

If you notice signs that a loved one may be developing dementia—such as memory loss, confusion, difficulty with daily tasks, or changes in behaviour—it’s important to take proactive steps to help them get diagnosed. Early diagnosis can lead to better management of symptoms and improve their quality of life. That said, it can be a challenge to help someone showing signs of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia feel comfortable taking action.

 Here’s what you can do if you suspect someone is showing signs of dementia:

1. Observe and Document Symptoms

Before approaching the individual, take time to observe their behavior closely. Keep track of specific symptoms, such as forgetfulness, confusion about time or place, difficulty finding the right words, or changes in mood and personality. Document these observations over a few weeks. This will help provide concrete examples of behavior changes when discussing the issue with medical professionals.

2. Start the Conversation Gently

Talking about dementia can be difficult, especially if the person is not yet aware of their symptoms. Approach the conversation with empathy and compassion. Avoid using labels like “dementia” right away; instead, express concern over the changes you’ve noticed. For example, you might say, “I’ve noticed that you’ve been forgetting things lately, and I’m worried about you. I think it would be helpful to speak with a doctor to understand what’s going on.” Encourage them to share their feelings and thoughts and reassure them that seeking help is a positive step.

3. Encourage a Doctor’s Appointment

Suggest that they visit their primary care doctor for a general check-up. Frame it as a way to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing their symptoms. Many issues, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, or infections, can mimic the early signs of dementia. A thorough evaluation can help clarify the cause of the symptoms. Offer to help schedule the appointment and accompany them if necessary.

4. Seek a Specialist

If the primary care doctor’s evaluation suggests potential cognitive issues, the next step is often a referral to a specialist. Neurologists, geriatricians, or psychiatrists with experience in cognitive disorders are best suited to perform more in-depth assessments. They may recommend a battery of tests, including cognitive exams, brain imaging, or blood tests, to diagnose dementia and identify its type.

5. Be Supportive Throughout the Process

The diagnostic process may take time, and it can be emotionally challenging for both the individual and their family members. Be patient and offer your full support. Stay involved by accompanying your loved one to appointments, helping them recall symptoms they might forget, and ensuring they have all the necessary information.

6. Consider a Second Opinion

If you’re unsure about the diagnosis or feel that the medical professional hasn’t fully addressed your concerns, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Dementia can be complex, and early signs may overlap with other conditions. Getting a second opinion ensures the diagnosis is accurate and thorough.

7. Understand the Importance of Early Diagnosis

An early dementia diagnosis opens the door to treatments that can slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life. It also allows time for legal and financial planning, as well as adjustments to lifestyle that can help both the person with dementia and their caregivers.

If Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia is the diagnosis, it’s not the end. People can still live very satisfying and meaningful lives well beyond diagnosis. Programs for people living with dementia in Ottawa like Carefor’s Carling and Perley Adult Day Programs, the Respite House and Carefor’s Richmond Care Home, a retirement home for women living with dementia can help.

Today, September 30, marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day when Canadians honour the survivors of residential and day schools, remember those who never returned home, and acknowledge the ongoing trauma experienced by Indigenous families and communities. This day also serves as an annual reminder of the importance of committing to the ongoing process of truth and reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis across Canada.

Reconciliation is a responsibility shared by all Canadians. It requires us to confront and acknowledge our history while working together to ensure these injustices are never repeated.

As a healthcare agency, we at Carefor, recognize the inequities that Indigenous people in Canada have faced in our healthcare system. We are a committed partner in changing the story for Indigenous people and are committed to truth, equity, and reconciliation as we embark on a new chapter through our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism strategy. 

We encourage everyone to reflect on how you can contribute to reconciliation in your personal and professional lives. To honour the path of Truth and Reconciliation, take this opportunity to learn more about Indigenous history and the legacy of the residential school system.

Here are a few sources.

Indigenous History in Canda:

We understand that today may be especially difficult for many, as it brings up reflections on confronting past traumas. If you need support, please reach out to the following resources:

Miigwech, (from the Algonquin dialect of Ojibwe meaning thank you)

Steve Perry Amy Boudreau
Presidents & CEO Vice-President, People, Strategy, Performance & Partnerships

Climate change is increasingly affecting everyone, but older adults are particularly vulnerable to its impacts. As global temperatures rise, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods, are also increasing. These changes pose significant risks to older adults, who may have pre-existing health conditions, reduced mobility, and limited access to resources, making it harder for them to cope with and recover from these events.

One of the most immediate threats from climate change for older adults is extreme heat. Heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent and severe, can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and exacerbation of chronic conditions like heart disease and respiratory problems. Older adults may be less able to regulate their body temperature and might not sense temperature changes as acutely, increasing their risk of heat-related illnesses.

Additionally, older adults are more likely to be isolated, which can compound the dangers of climate-related disasters. For instance, during hurricanes or floods, they may find it challenging to evacuate quickly due to physical limitations or lack of transportation. Moreover, social isolation can mean that they are less likely to receive timely help from neighbors or community members during emergencies.

To protect themselves from the adverse effects of climate change, older adults can take several proactive steps. First, they should stay informed about the weather and have a plan in place for extreme events. This includes knowing the nearest cooling centers during a heatwave or evacuation routes in case of a flood or wildfire. They should also prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies like medications, water, non-perishable food, and important documents.

Another crucial step is to maintain social connections. Staying in touch with family, friends, or neighbors can ensure that someone is available to check on them during extreme weather events or emergencies. It’s also important for older adults to discuss their specific needs with their healthcare providers, who can offer advice on managing health conditions during extreme weather.

Finally, making homes more resilient to climate change is vital. This could involve installing air conditioning, securing windows and doors against strong winds, or elevating electrical systems to prevent flood damage. For those with limited financial means, seeking out community resources or local government programs that provide assistance in home modifications can be beneficial.

In summary, while climate change presents significant challenges for older adults, by staying informed, preparing in advance, and fostering strong social connections, they can better protect themselves and enhance their resilience in the face of a changing climate. Carefor’s health and wellness clinics in Ottawa and Eastern Counties can offer support to seniors on how to protect themselves against climate change

At Carefor, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the inclusivity of our practices. Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism (EDI-AR) is more than just a policy; it’s a vital part of our path to excellence. 

Under our new strategic plan we are working towards a better understanding of EDI-AR within our organization and creating meaningful changes to support a more engaged and connected workforce.

With the assistance of equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism consultants, we have surveyed the current landscape at Carefor to better understand the needs, experiences, and barriers of our staff.  We are now in the final stages of developing our EDI-AR strategy, with implementation starting over the summer. Our goal is for our EDI-AR strategy to weave itself into all aspects of our work as we assess, acknowledge and act on ways we can be more inclusive of all our staff.

Carefor is committed to embracing inclusion and diversity. We recognize the importance of creating a workplace where all employees can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination or exclusion and to be an organization that provides the best care to all. We celebrate the diversity within our community and acknowledge that our strength lies in embracing and supporting each other.

Carefor stands proudly with our 2SLGBTQ+ community members. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and included, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Pride Month is a time not only to recognize and celebrate the 2SLGBTQI+ community but also a time to embrace and encourage our differences. By supporting our 2SLGBTQ+ community, we uphold these values and enrich our organization with diverse perspectives and experiences.

Happy Pride everyone!

Steve Perry
President & CEO

One thing that makes the Ottawa Valley unique is the staying power of its residents. There’s something about being “from the Valley”. People take pride in it.

In communities stretching throughout Renfrew County, including towns and the rural areas in between live just over 100,000 people. In Pembroke, the percentage of residents who are above 65 is 26%. For the rest of the country it’s 20%.

Some might say it’s a good place to grow old. But is that the case for everyone? If you have means, then okay. But if you’re living in a fixed income as are many elderly people in Renfrew County, the increasing cost of living is diminishing their ability to afford basic essentials such as transportation, food and housing.

This leads to a chain effect with limited access to food and healthcare preventing people from being able to continue living in their homes. As a not for profit charity, Carefor’s role is to help bridge the gap for seniors to community services and affordable living.

Access to Health Care

Carefor’s non-urgent medical transportation picks up seniors and transports them to their medical appointments. With Renfrew County having no public transit system and private alternatives being limited and costly, Carefor’s transportation program provides a more affordable alternative to allow seniors to get to the places they most need. Without access to medical appointments, elderly people might not as well have them, increasing the likelihood of hospitalizations.

Food Insecurity

Throughout the Ottawa Valley are seniors who live alone. Many for whatever reason don’t cook as much as they used to. Perhaps it’s not having anyone else to cook for; perhaps a loved one had always taken care of it; perhaps they just can’t get to the grocery store like they used to.

Carefor’s frozen meal delivery program brings prepared meals right to people’s doors so they have easier access to good, nutritious food. “These programs are becoming more and more essential,” says Alice Grenon, Carefor’s Manager of Community Support Services. “We’re not only seeing more seniors in our communities, and with the cost of living, people are struggling to afford basic things that they might have previously been able to.”

Housing Insecurity

The vast majority of people want to age in their homes, but that’s not always the best option for some. With limited supports, many seniors are isolated and age alone. It can be dangerous for many, causing them to seek out other options. But if you’re on a government pension without other sources of financial supports, where can you go?

Many retirement homes are out of range for lower income seniors leaving a gap between them and the other alternatives: hospital, long-term care and homelessness. Carefor’s two retirement homes, Carefor Civic Complex and Carefor Mackay Centre bridge that gap offering accommodation for people with limited means and options.

What people often don’t see in these two retirement homes are the integrated supports that exist for the residents. “We’re seeing more and more people coming to us with complex physical and mental health challenges,” says Sharon Maye, Director of Retirement Home Services. “Here we offer specialized services such as assisted living and mental health supports that help people dealing with more complex challenges.”

While large buildings, what you can’t see when you look at Civic and Mackay from the outside are the intimate communities and relationships between the staff and residents, and residents with one another. There is a family feel in the homes and people looking out for one another. People understand what each other has gone through and where they’re from, and they help each other feel a sense of belonging.

To learn more about our retirement homes in Pembroke or our community support services, please visit our website.

In an age where mental acuity is prized, the search for methods to stave off cognitive decline has intensified. While brain teasers and puzzles have long been heralded as the champions of cognitive health, recent research suggests that physical activity may hold the key to maintaining a sharp mind well into old age.

Engaging in regular physical activity is not just beneficial for the body; it also provides a wealth of advantages for cognitive function. Numerous studies have shown that exercise can boost cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and decision-making. Moreover, physical activity has been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.

So, what types of physical activities are particularly effective in preventing cognitive decline?

Aerobic Exercise: Activities that get your heart pumping and your blood flowing, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling, are excellent for brain health. Aerobic exercise increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain, promoting the growth of new neurons and enhancing synaptic connections, which are crucial for learning and memory.

Strength Training: Building muscle isn’t just about looking fit; it also has profound benefits for the brain. Strength training exercises, like lifting weights or using resistance bands, can improve cognitive function by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and maintenance of neurons.

Yoga and Tai Chi: These mind-body practices combine gentle movements with focused breathing and meditation. Research suggests that practicing yoga or tai chi regularly can improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and enhance overall brain health. These activities may also help to mitigate the effects of aging on the brain by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.

Dance: Whether it’s ballroom, salsa, or two-stepping, dancing offers a fun and engaging way to stay physically active while challenging your brain. Learning new dance routines requires coordination, memory, and spatial awareness, all of which are vital for cognitive function. Plus, dancing is a social activity, which can further support brain health by reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Mindful Movement: Activities like qigong or mindful walking combine physical movement with mindfulness practices, fostering a deep connection between body and mind. These gentle exercises promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function by encouraging present-moment awareness and mental clarity.

Incorporating these physical activities into your daily routine can have profound effects on your cognitive health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with two or more days of strength training and regular practice of mind-body activities. By staying active both physically and mentally, you can keep your mind sharp and resilient as you age.

Many of Carefor’s programs incorporate physical activity. Whether at our retirement homes in Pembroke, our adult day programs for people living with dementia in Ottawa or our seniors support centres in Eastern Counties, keeping moving is part of the program.

As seniors continue to embrace an active and vibrant lifestyle, the importance of flexibility and mobility cannot be overstated. Incorporating stretching exercises into daily routines plays a pivotal role in maintaining joint health, preventing injuries, and promoting overall well-being. In this guide, we explore essential stretching tips tailored for seniors, promoting a path to active aging.

Start Slow, Progress Gradually

One of the golden rules of stretching for seniors is to start slow and progress gradually. Before delving into stretches, it’s crucial to warm up the body. Gentle aerobic activities such as walking or cycling for 5-10 minutes increase blood flow to muscles, preparing them for stretching exercises. This helps prevent injuries and ensures a more effective stretch.

Begin with gentle, dynamic stretches that engage major muscle groups. Stretch major muscle groups including, hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, shoulders, and the lower back. These areas are particularly prone to stiffness, and regular stretching can enhance the range of motion and alleviate discomfort.

As flexibility improves, seniors can introduce static stretches, holding each position for about 15-30 seconds. Be sure to pay close attention to your body and avoid pushing beyond your comfort zone. Discomfort is normal during stretching, but pain should be avoided.

If a stretch feels painful, it’s essential to ease off and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary. For those new to stretching or individuals with existing health conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional or a certified fitness trainer is advisable. They can provide personalized guidance, taking into account individual health needs and limitations.

Enjoy the Process

Stretching should be an enjoyable and rejuvenating experience. Seniors are encouraged to embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and appreciate the positive impact stretching has on their overall well-being.

To experience the full benefits of stretching try to stay on track and keep stretching regularly. Aim for at least 10-15 minutes of stretching exercises most days of the week. This regular practice contributes to improved flexibility and enhanced overall mobility.

Though consistency is key it is also important to switch things up now and again. Try activities such as balance exercises and chair exercises like chair yoga. For seniors with limited mobility or balance concerns, chair exercises offer a safe and effective alternative.

Seated stretches can target various muscle groups, providing the benefits of flexibility without putting stress on joints. Balance exercises, including stretches that involve balancing on one leg, are vital for seniors. These exercises enhance stability and reduce the risk of falls, a common concern in the senior population. As seniors embark on their journey to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, incorporating these stretching tips into their daily routine can be a game-changer. At Carefor retirement homes in West Ottawa and Pembroke-Renfrew Country we provide a full activities calendar to our residents which features many opportunities for our residents to exercise and stretch to help them maintain their mobility and flexibility. Through these activities and others including bingo, cards, and trivia games we aim to create a welcoming environment that will help foster a sense of community.

Imagine that you cook for yourself every single day. For years, you make breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Then, one day, you find that you no longer have the physical energy to cook so often, and you’re forced to find another way to get food. Or maybe someone cooked for you, someone you cared about, and when they pass you don’t know what to do. This is a reality for a lot of seniors, who need consistent access not only to nutritious ingredients, but feasible ways to prepare them.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable to the plight of food insecurity. In a world with ever-rising food prices, seniors also have to contend with other barriers, such as an inability to stand over a stove for extended periods of time or a lack of transportation to stock up on groceries. Food insecurity isn’t just about food prices, there’s the complicated factor of accessibility, especially for vulnerable communities.

In Pembroke-Renfrew County, where many seniors experience food insecurity, Carefor’s frozen meal delivery service has been a valuable resource. For over two decades, Carefor has been a pillar of support for vulnerable communities, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities facing isolation and limited access to fresh food.

By sourcing from local provider Griffith Farms and lovingly crafting meals before flash-freezing them, Carefor’s frozen food delivery ensures both convenience and nutritional quality. The service proves beneficial, especially in rural areas where traditional grocery shopping is often impractical due to transportation challenges.

“We’re always looking to fill a gap in the community,” says Janna Wood, coordinator of the delivery program. For her, the importance lies in giving seniors an easy option for nutritional meals, something that can be accessed with little physical or mental effort. This allows seniors and adults with disabilities to remain independent for as long as possible, helping them stay in their homes and avoid long-term care or hospital stays. Ultimately, it gives people choices.

However, the stark reality of escalating food prices underscores a harsh truth: while Carefor’s service addresses immediate hunger, its cost may create barriers for those most in need. Ultimately, while it provides a vital buffer against food insecurity, long-term solutions demand systemic changes, such as governmental subsidies and community-driven initiatives.

Essentially, Carefor’s frozen meal delivery service represents resilience in the face of adversity, offering sustenance and dignity to those grappling with food insecurity. It’s a testament to compassion and community solidarity, striving to bridge gaps and nourish spirits in uncertain times. If you’re in Pembroke-Renfrew County, this might be a helpful option for you.

To learn more about Carefor’s frozen meal program and to place an order, visit the Carefor website.

A lot of people struggle with isolation and feelings of loneliness. Seniors in particular are at risk, with 1 in 5 people over the age of 65 reporting that they lack companionship.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, most people had an easier time maintaining their social life. The lockdowns and social distancing during the pandemic disrupted this, and many people had a hard time reconnecting after lockdowns were lifted. This has been especially impactful to seniors, who often lack a means of transportation and are less familiar with virtual socializing.

Social isolation can be very harmful to your health. Studies show that social isolation and feelings of loneliness can contribute to:

  • Depression
  • Poor sleep habits
  • A weakened immune system
  • Worsened cardiovascular health

Forging connections with people is essential to your health. Forming community is more than just a warm fuzzy feeling; human beings need it. If you’re a senior looking to build new relationships and don’t know where to start, here are some resources that might be helpful for you.

Public Libraries

Libraries are a great place to meet people and make friends. They’re not just for checking out books; most libraries host social events and clubs as well. In Ottawa libraries you can find writing groups, knitting groups and book clubs, among other things. Look at your local library’s website and there will be a section for clubs and events.

Senior Community Centers

Community centers often host events to get people more involved in the community. Senior centers are also designed to be fully accessible. The activities offered usually include card games, exercise programs and congregate meals. Check out your local community center online or by phone to see what they have to offer.

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to reduce isolation and meet new people. You don’t need to come away from the experience with a best friend; it’s just nice sometimes to spend a day among people sharing a desire to make the world a better place. A great place to look for opportunities is Volunteer Ottawa, the City of Pembroke and on the Carefor website, where we’re always looking for people to make our clients’ days a bit brighter.

Connect with family and old friends

One of the great things about the internet is it allows you to connect with people from your past. Whether it be through social media sites like Facebook or sites that help you find friends from your school days, there are many ways to find old friends.

Connect online

For those who might be dealing with mobility restrictions or who live far away from family and friends, the internet is a great way to connect with and find new social networks around things that interest you. Connecting online might be intimidating but luckily there are resources available to support you.

Carefor

Carefor offers several ways for seniors to stay connected. Depending on your location, we have services and programs to choose from that meet different needs. Adult Day Programs for people living with dementia (Ottawa and Eastern Counties), the Companion Program (Pembroke-Renfrew County) and Seniors Group Exercise (Eastern Counties) are all great opportunities to meet new people.

If you cannot access the mentioned services due to a disability, consider checking out OC Transpo’s Para Transpo service or Carefor’s transportation services. Carefor also offers one-on-one social visits that can take place in your own home or over the phone.

Additionally, if you require some extra help around the house with cleaning or personal care, Carefor offers Personal Support and Homemaking Services. These can be more than just some help and can offer social connection.

Finally, Carefor also operates retirement homes in Pembroke and a retirement home for women living with dementia in Richmond in west Ottawa, which allow people who are unable to or choose not to live at home anymore the ability to connect with new friends.

To see which Carefor services are in your area or find more resources, visit our website.

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