Scams targeting seniors are on the rise, with older adults losing billions annually to fraud. In 2024 alone, Americans aged 60+ reported nearly $4.9 billion in scam-related losses, with an average loss of $83,000—more than four times the average across all age groups. In Canada, fraud is the number one crime against older adults. These scams range from fake tech support calls to elaborate financial schemes, and they often prey on trust, isolation, and unfamiliarity with digital tools.

But seniors can fight back—and stay safe—with a few proactive strategies.

1. Be On Guard

Protecting yourself starts in your head. While many of us grew up trusting the world around us, things have changed, and we must treat people with a degree of suspicion. Assume anyone contacting you wants something from you. It’s your responsibility to ensure they are who they say they are.

2. Know the Common Scams

Awareness is the first line of defense. Some of the most frequent scams include:

• Grandparent scams: A caller pretends to be a grandchild in distress, asking for money urgently.
• Bank investigator scams: Fraudsters pose as bank staff investigating fake fraud, asking for debit cards and PINs.
• Tech support scams: Pop-ups or calls claim your computer is infected and demand payment for fake repairs.
• Phishing emails and texts: Messages impersonate banks, government agencies, or delivery services to steal personal information.

One tactic is to create a code word with close friends or family members that only they would know should someone contacting you claiming to be them.

3. Pause and Verify

Scammers rely on urgency. If someone pressures you to act fast—whether it’s sending money, clicking a link, or sharing personal details—pause. Verify the request by:

• Calling a trusted family member
• Contacting the organization directly using official contact info
• Ignoring unsolicited messages and pop-ups

No legitimate organization will demand immediate payment or sensitive information over the phone or email.

4. Use Simple Tech Tools

Technology can help protect seniors from scams:

• Robocall blockers like RoboKiller or Nomorobo filter out scam calls.
• Email filters and antivirus software reduce phishing risks.
• Password managers help keep accounts secure.

Even basic tools like caller ID and two-factor authentication can make a big difference.

5. Stay Connected

Isolation increases vulnerability. Seniors who regularly talk with family, friends, or community support workers are less likely to fall for scams. Encourage open conversations about suspicious messages or financial decisions. Organizations like Carefor offer social work and home support services that can help seniors navigate confusing situations with confidence.

6. Report and Recover

If you suspect a scam, report it to:

• The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)
• Local police
• Your bank or financial institution

Reporting helps authorities track patterns and protect others. In many cases, quick action can also help recover lost funds.

Scammers are clever, but seniors are resilient. With knowledge, support, and a few smart tools, older adults can stay one step ahead—and protect their hard-earned savings and peace of mind.

Practice Getting Up from the Floor

One way to help reduce the risk of falling is to practice getting up from the floor regularly. Often as we age, we avoid getting down on the ground to avoid the groaning that invariably takes place as we work to get back up again. This contributes to a lack of agility over the years that can increase our risk of falling.

One good way to maintain agility is to practice getting up from the floor every week.

To start, you must get on the floor. That may seem daunting.

For those of you who feel you should be able to get down to the floor with just a little instruction follow these steps. (For those who feel that getting onto the floor is not an option, see the instructions for practice that can be done on your bed at the end of this article.)

Here’s one way to get on the floor with control.

1. Stand by a sturdy piece of furniture like a couch or solid chair and bend at the waist so that your hands can rest on the seat.
2. Slightly bend the knee of your weakest leg so that you can use your arms and strong leg to lower yourself to one knee.
3. Place your other knee and both hands on the floor.
4. Lower your chest to the floor and slide your legs out behind you until you lying on your stomach.

Now you’re on the floor! Unfortunately, most of the time when we fall to the floor we end up on our side and then our back. Before you practice getting up, you’ll need to roll onto your back. I’m going to describe this with directions to roll onto your right side before finally rolling onto your back. You can reverse the instructions if you need to roll to the other side

1. Place your hands under your shoulder so you can push your chest off the floor slightly.
2. Slide your right hand through the space between your left arm and torso. This should make you feel off balance.
3. Roll onto your right side.
4. If you haven’t already rolled onto your back, lift your left arm toward the ceiling and then behind you.

Now you’re on your back and you might be feeling a little stranded. Not to worry. If we reverse all these steps, we can get back up!

Here’s one way to roll to the right side and onto your stomach

1. Bend your left knee and place your foot flat on the floor.
2. Rotote the left knee to your right side as you reach with your left hand to your right side. You should now be on your right side and you may feel like your right arm is trapped.
3. Use your left arm to push your chest off the floor slightly and pull the right arm through so you can place your right hand under your chest. (You may need to straighten your left leg also.)
4. Push yourself up onto all fours by straightening your elbows and shifting your weight backwards.
5. Place your hands on the sturdy piece of furniture.
6. Place the foot of your strongest leg flat on the floor so that you are now kneeling on one knee.
7. Use your hands and strong leg to push yourself up.
8. Instead of standing up directly, rotate to one side so you can sit on the chair.

If you’re not confident that you can get up from the floor with these instructions, start by practicing rolling onto your stomach and then moving into kneeling on all fours on your bed first.

Carefor’s Allied Health Team in Ottawa can support seniors improve their mobility and recover from injury quickly. To learn more about how to access their services visit www.carefor.ca/rehabilitation

When Patricia moved to Pembroke four years ago, she hoped to meet new people and give back to her community. She found the Carefor Friendly Visiting Program and was matched with Therese, a 96-year-old woman living in a local retirement home. What began as a simple volunteer visit has grown into a deep and lasting friendship. They’ve been meeting every week for over three years.

“I brought games on the first day,” Patricia says, “but Therese said, ‘No, no, we’re just going to talk.’ And we haven’t stopped talking since.”

Both women are mothers, grandmothers, and have lived full lives. They connect over shared experiences, from politics and parenting to baseball and aging. One of Therese’s favourite memories? “My son took me to see the Blue Jays in Toronto,” she says proudly. “It was wonderful.”

Patricia, who is retired, finds comfort in her talks with Therese. “She used to be a nurse, so I can talk to her about things I don’t want to burden my family with. It’s not just small talk—it’s meaningful.”

Even in the summer, when Patricia spends time at her cottage, the connection stays strong. “I call her every week from Lakefield,” she says. “We always stay in touch.” For Therese, who has family living far away, the visits bring connection and joy. “My sons call every night, but it’s not the same as seeing someone. I didn’t think I wanted a visitor but Patricia is different. She’s a friend.”

Friendly visiting helps reduce isolation and loneliness, which can seriously affect seniors’ health. It’s not just about companionship—it’s about well-being. “I think people assume volunteering is about giving,” Patricia says. “But I’ve received so much in return. It brightens my week.”

The commitment is small—just an hour or two a week—but the impact is huge. Patricia encourages others to try it. “If you have a caring heart and a little time, you’ll get back more than you ever expected.”

Want to become a Friendly Visiting Volunteer?
Carefor is always looking for kind, compassionate people. Visit carefor.ca or contact your local office at 613-732-9993 to learn more. Because sometimes, a simple visit can change two lives—for good.

By Carefor Health & Community Services

If you’re in your 50s or 60s, you’ve probably started to notice that your body doesn’t bounce back quite like it used to. You might feel a little stiffer in the mornings, recover more slowly from a cold, or find that a few extra pounds are harder to shed. According to Susan Snitynsky, a registered dietitian with Carefor Health & Community Services in Ottawa, these changes are normal—but they’re also a wake-up call.

“The choices you make in your 50s will determine how well you live in your 70s and beyond,” says Snitynsky. “You can’t change everything, but you can absolutely set yourself up for a healthier version of yourself down the road.”

1. Keep Moving — Mobility Is Everything

Before talking about food, Snitynsky starts with movement. “Mobility is huge,” she says. “You don’t have to run marathons, but you should move every single day. If you don’t use it, you lose it—and that affects everything, including nutrition.” Staying active helps preserve muscle, maintain appetite, and support digestion as you age.

2. Eat Out Less — It’s More Important Than You Think

Snitynsky says one of the biggest health pitfalls she sees is how often people eat out. “We go out way too much,” she explains. “Even grabbing a coffee or snack adds up. When you eat out, you’re eating food that’s jam-packed with calories, fat, salt, and sugar—and not much volume or nutrition.”

She explains that fullness is based on volume, not calories. “You can eat a small, high-calorie meal and still feel hungry an hour later. That’s how people gain weight without realizing it.”

In today’s environment, she adds, maintaining a healthy weight is hard work. “We live in a world designed to make us gain weight. You have to go out of your way not to.”

3. Choose Whole, Less Processed Foods

Another key piece of advice: reduce processed foods. “Ask yourself, how many steps did this food go through before it reached my plate?” says Snitynsky. “Processing usually removes water, fibre, and nutrients—and adds salt, fat, and sugar.”

That doesn’t mean you have to give up convenience entirely. “Some packaged foods, like certain protein bars, are fine,” she says. “But in general, the fewer ingredients and the shorter the shelf life, the better.”

4. Eat More Plants — Without Going Full Vegan

Snitynsky has been plant-based for 20 years, but she doesn’t expect everyone to be. “You don’t have to go vegan,” she says, “but your plate should lean more toward plant foods.”

That means more beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, whole grains like bulgur and barley, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. “People are scared of tofu or think carbs are bad, but the problem isn’t healthy carbs—it’s the refined, processed ones. Whole grains and plant proteins are amazing for your heart, digestion, and longevity.”

5. Make Conscious, Not “Moderate,” Choices

Many people rely on the idea of “everything in moderation,” but Snitynsky isn’t a fan. “If you eat everything, that’s not moderation,” she laughs. “Planned indulgences are fine but be intentional. Don’t let food culture—which constantly pushes us to eat—make the decisions for you.”

6. Start Now, Not Later

Snitynsky often works with older adults living with chronic conditions like COPD, heart disease, or diabetes. “By the time people reach their 70s or 80s, a lot of damage is already done,” she says. “That’s why your 50s and 60s are so important. This is when the outcomes of past choices start to show up—but it’s also when you can still change your trajectory.” Her final message is simple: “It’s never too late to start eating better, but the sooner you start, the better—not just in longevity, but in energy, mobility, and independence.”

Honouring World Alzheimer’s Month this September

As we mark World Alzheimer’s Month this September, it’s a timely reminder that brain health deserves just as much attention as physical wellness—especially as we age. While Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia affect millions globally, research shows that adopting healthy daily habits can help preserve memory and cognitive function well into our senior years.

Here are 10 brain-boosting habits that support mental sharpness and may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline:

🧠 1. Stay Physically Active

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support brain cell health. Even light activity like walking or stretching can make a difference.

🥦 2. Eat a Brain-Friendly Diet

Foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon and walnuts), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and healthy fats (avocados, olive oil) help reduce inflammation and support memory.

📚 3. Keep Learning

Lifelong learning strengthens neural connections. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reading, or taking a class, mental stimulation builds cognitive resilience.

😴 4. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and toxin removal in the brain. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.

🧩 5. Challenge Your Brain

Puzzles, crosswords, chess, and brain-training apps keep your mind engaged and help build new neural pathways.

🧘 6. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can impair memory and shrink parts of the brain responsible for learning. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga help regulate stress hormones.

💧 7. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to confusion and poor concentration. Drinking enough water daily supports overall brain function.

🧂 8. Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

High sugar intake contributes to inflammation and oxidative stress, which negatively affect memory and cognition.

👥 9. Stay Socially Connected

Social interaction stimulates the brain and reduces the risk of depression and dementia. Joining clubs, volunteering, or simply chatting with friends can make a big impact.

🧠 10. Protect Your Brain

Avoid head injuries, manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, and wear hearing aids if needed—these steps help preserve cognitive health.

These habits aren’t just about memory—they’re about maintaining independence, confidence, and quality of life. And while no single habit guarantees protection against Alzheimer’s, together they form a powerful defense.

World Alzheimer’s Month is a global campaign to raise awareness and challenge stigma around dementia. It’s also a call to action: to support those affected and to invest in prevention. By incorporating these brain boosters into daily life, we honour that mission and empower ourselves and our loved ones to age with vitality.

If you’re looking for ways to stay engaged, Carefor’s senior support centres in Alexandria, Winchester, Ingleside, Finch, and Lancaster offer programs that promote connection, learning, and wellness—all key ingredients for brain health. From group activities to educational workshops, these centres help seniors stay sharp and socially connected.

Let’s make this September not just a month of awareness—but a month of action. Your brain will thank you.

Loneliness is more than a passing emotion—it’s a growing public health concern, especially among older adults. While it’s natural to experience solitude, chronic loneliness can quietly erode both mental and physical health. For seniors, the effects are particularly profound.

According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness and social isolation are linked to increased risks of depression, cognitive decline, heart disease, and even premature death. The World Health Organization has gone so far as to name loneliness a global health priority, noting that its impact can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Depression, often triggered by prolonged isolation, can further impair decision-making and lead to poor health choices—such as neglecting medication, skipping meals, or avoiding medical appointments.

Spotting loneliness isn’t always straightforward. Seniors may not openly express feelings of isolation, but subtle signs can speak volumes. Watch for withdrawal from social activities, changes in appetite or sleep, increased irritability, or a noticeable decline in personal hygiene. These behaviors may signal deeper emotional distress.

Fortunately, there are ways to intervene—and connection is the antidote. Carefor’s five senior support centres located in Alexandria, Winchester, Ingleside, Finch, and Lancaster offer a lifeline to those feeling disconnected. These centres provide a variety of programs designed to foster community, encourage engagement, and reduce isolation. From group exercise classes and congregate dining to meal delivery and transportation services, Carefor’s support centres help seniors build meaningful relationships and stay active.

Creating opportunities for connection doesn’t require grand gestures. A weekly phone call, a shared meal, or a walk in the park can make a world of difference. Encouraging seniors to participate in local programs or volunteer activities can also restore a sense of purpose and belonging.

Loneliness may not be a disease, but its consequences are undeniably real. By recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps—whether through community programs like Carefor’s or simple acts of kindness—we can help seniors live healthier, more connected lives.

Let’s treat social connection as essential to aging well. Because no one should grow older feeling invisible.

On September 5^th, 2000, John and Lilian Bosco opened the doors to Richmond Care Home, a small dementia care retirement home exclusively for women living with dementia. Tucked in the village of Richmond, Ontario in southwest Ottawa, it wasn’t just another care facility—it was a deeply personal and purpose-built response to a challenge John had spent much of his career studying: how to support people with dementia in a way that preserves their dignity, comfort, and autonomy.

John, a social worker and department manager at St. Patrick’s Home in Ottawa for two decades, became increasingly interested in alternative care models after hearing about a study from Australia. A psychiatrist, Dr. John Tooth, had unintentionally discovered the power of a home-like environment for people with dementia. When a psychiatric facility was temporarily closed for renovations, patients were moved into small, home-style residences. The results were profound—individuals previously labeled aggressive or uncooperative became calmer, more independent, and more responsive. Dr. Tooth concluded that it was the environment itself that was driving this change.

Inspired by that research, John envisioned something similar in Canada. At St. Patrick’s, he had managed multiple departments—including social work, volunteer coordination, and dementia care—and saw firsthand how traditional institutional environments could hinder, rather than help, individuals with memory loss. With this in mind, he and Lilian set out to create a small, secure home where women with dementia could live with purpose, routine, and peace.

They designed Richmond Care Home themselves, eventually hiring an architect and builder to bring their vision to life. The home was small by design—just 16 residents—and exclusively for women. This choice was based on demographics and practicality: most residents in long-term care are women, and in a small group, a mixed-gender population would have introduced additional staffing complexities.

The couple secured a business loan, and both their mothers contributed personal funds to support the project. It opened with just three residents and filled to capacity within six months, thanks to open houses, local newspaper ads, and word-of-mouth within the retirement and dementia care community.

But what truly made Richmond unique was its philosophy. Drawing from the “Gentle Care” approach by Moyra Jones, the Boscos believed in meeting residents where they were—using cues, not commands, to support activities of daily living. The home was warm and intimate: meals around one table, familiar routines, and a sense of family between staff and residents. John recalls one woman who, after being declared unable to live independently by a hospital, returned to Richmond and immediately resumed dressing, toileting, and caring for herself—proof, he says, of the power of home.

The Boscos ran Richmond Care Home for eight years before retiring and selling it to Carefor. Though no longer at the helm, John is proud of their legacy which continues at Richmond Care Home.

With September 5th, 2025 being Richmond Care Home’s 25^th anniversary, we’re excited to be hosting a 25^th Anniversary Open House for people to come and take a look at our home and see what John and Lilian Bosco believed for year: that it’s the best retirement home for people living with dementia in Ontario.

Join us Sunday, September 28 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at Richmond Care Home at 27 Nixon Farm Dr. in Richmond. To RSVP contact info@carefor.ca or visit www.carefor.ca/anniversary

Finding the right retirement home on a budget can be a challenge—but with the right information, it’s entirely possible to find a safe, supportive environment that doesn’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or helping a loved one transition into retirement living, making informed decisions is key. With the cost of retirement homes increasing, retirement home seekers are having to get a little more creative in their search options. 

What to Consider When Searching for a Retirement Home on a Budget

Affordability is important, but so is value. When researching affordable retirement homes, it’s essential to look beyond monthly costs and consider what’s included in the overall package.

1. Understand the Pricing Structure

Many retirement homes offer tiered services, with some all-inclusive packages and others charging separately for personal care, medication assistance, or meal plans. Ask for a full cost breakdown and clarification of what’s included. Avoid surprises by requesting sample monthly invoices or fee schedules.

2. Not-for-Profit vs. For-Profit Providers

One of the biggest differences in pricing often comes down to the type of organization running the retirement home. Not-for-profit homes tend to reinvest in care, staff, and programming rather than focusing on profit margins. This often results in higher-quality care at a lower cost.

3. Level of Care Offered

Determine what level of care is needed—independent living, assisted living, or full support—and find a facility that can meet those needs without upselling unnecessary services. This helps ensure your loved one isn’t paying for more than they require.

4. Location Matters

While being close to community, medical services, or familiar surroundings can make a big difference in emotional well-being and accessibility often options in larger centres like Ottawa are less affordable. preventing someone from being able to find a home in their budget. Smaller communities like Pembroke offer a quieter, simpler lifestyle with many of the amenities of larger cities, but at a lower cost.

5. Quality of Life

Even on a budget, your loved one deserves a place that feels like home. Look for warm, well-maintained environments with engaging activities, nutritious meals, and compassionate staff. The social atmosphere is just as important as the price tag.

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Affordable Retirement Home Options in Pembroke: Carefor’s Civic Complex and Mackay Centre

If you’re looking for affordable retirement homes, two excellent options are Carefor’s Civic Complex and Mackay Centre, both located in Pembroke. Operated by Carefor, a trusted not-for-profit organization with over 100 years of experience, these retirement homes are built around people—not profit.

Carefor Civic Complex

This welcoming residence in Pembroke offers an all-inclusive model with comfortable rooms, 24/7 support, delicious meals, and life-enriching programs. It’s ideal for those seeking affordable retirement living in a community-oriented setting.

Carefor Mackay Centre

A more intimate option, the Mackay Centre provides compassionate care and strong social connection for seniors who might require a little more care. Both Civic and Mackay are known as two of the most affordable retirement homes in the Ottawa Valley, without sacrificing the level of personal attention and dignity every resident deserves.

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Why Choose Carefor?

As a not-for-profit with deep roots in Eastern Ontario, Carefor is focused on delivering quality care at a fair price. Their mission is to provide seniors with safe, respectful, and enriching retirement living—making them a go-to option for families seeking affordable retirement homes near Ottawa.

If you’re beginning your search, start with the right questions—and consider Carefor’s Civic Complex and Mackay Centre as trusted, budget-friendly solutions.

Learn more about these affordable retirement homes in Pembroke by visiting Carefor’s website or speaking directly with their team. Contact us at 613-732-9993, by email at infopembroke@carefor.ca or visit our website: www.carefor.ca/retirement

We are also hosting a Lunch and Look Open House for each home at the end of September when guests can tour the homes after enjoying the type of delicious meal residents are used to. Carefor Mackay Centre is on September 25^th and Carefor Civic Complex is on September 26^th. Both events are from either 12:00 – 1:30 PM or 5:00 – 6:30 PM. Take your pick. To register, please visit: www.carefor.ca/openhouse

Caring for someone with dementia is often described as a labour of love—but over time, it can also become a source of stress, fatigue, and emotional strain. As dementia progresses, care needs increase, often surpassing what one person can reasonably provide on their own. Respite care for dementia offers a short-term break for caregivers while ensuring that the person living with dementia receives professional, compassionate support.

But how do you know when it’s time to seek respite care? And what does quality respite care look like?

Understanding Dementia Respite Care

Dementia respite care is a short-term care option designed to give family caregivers temporary relief. It can last for a few days or several weeks, depending on the needs of the family. Whether planned or in response to a crisis, respite care provides a safe, supportive environment where individuals with dementia receive assistance with daily living, medical monitoring, and opportunities for meaningful engagement.

Key Signs It Might Be Time for Respite Care

Here are some signs that respite care might be beneficial:

1. Caregiver Fatigue or Burnout
   Even the most dedicated caregiver needs rest. Chronic fatigue, irritability, depression, or physical illness can be indicators that a break is necessary. Rested caregivers are better equipped to provide quality care over the long term.
2. Increased Care Needs
   As dementia advances, your loved one may require 24/7 supervision, help with mobility, or behavioural support that’s difficult to provide at home. Respite care allows professionals to manage complex care needs safely.
3. Life Commitments or Emergencies
   Sometimes, a caregiver needs time away due to a family emergency, travel, or work obligation. Respite care ensures continuity and stability for your loved one during your absence.
4. Behavioural or Medical Changes
   Sudden changes in mood, memory, or physical condition can be challenging to manage at home. A temporary stay in a professional care setting allows for proper observation and adjustment of care plans.
5. Preventative Self-Care
   Perhaps most importantly, respite care doesn’t require a crisis. Planning breaks regularly can be a healthy part of a long-term caregiving strategy.

Finding the Right Respite Care Near Ottawa

When choosing respite care, it’s essential to find a place that specializes in dementia and understands the unique needs of women. That’s where Richmond Care Home comes in.

Located just 15 minutes south of Kanata, Richmond Care Home is a retirement home exclusively for women living with dementia that also provides respite care in a peaceful, home-like setting. We serve families across the Ottawa region, offering long and short-term stays that prioritize dignity, safety, and emotional well-being. For $200 a night or $25 an hour for daytime respite, with no minimum stays, Richmond Care Home is ready and available to help you when you need it.

At Richmond Care Home, we provide:

• 24/7 professional dementia care
• Personalized care plans
• Nutritious meals and daily routines
• Recreational activities tailored to our residents
• A calm, secure environment for rest and engagement

Supporting You Through the Journey

If you’re feeling unsure about taking a break, remember: respite care isn’t giving up—it’s getting support. It’s a proactive step that helps caregivers continue to provide love and stability over time.

Richmond Care Home is here to support you. Whether you’re planning ahead or need immediate respite care in the Ottawa or Kanata area, our team is ready to help.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family with respectful, reliable respite care for women with dementia. Call (613) 838-9356, email RCH@carefor.ca or visit www.carefor.ca/richmondcarehome

We are also hosting our 25^th Anniversary Open House on September 28^th from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. Come by for some cake and see what a wonderful and welcoming place it is for yourself. For more information and to register, please visit: www.carefor.ca/25anniversary

Carefor clinic nurses like Stephanie Beattie see clients with a wide range of healthcare needs. Often part of the process of helping someone manage or overcome a health concern isn’t just about the concern itself but also the person dealing with the concern. Any healthcare professional will tell you that there are things a patient can do before, during and after treatment to help with the condition they’re facing.

What Stephanie has learned is that being a “good patient” isn’t about perfection or knowing all the answers. It’s about participation. Whether a client is recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, or receiving home care services, their attitude and actions can make a big difference in your outcomes. Here are some tips from Stephanie on how you can help your wellness journey along.

Before the Appointment: Lay the Groundwork
Good care starts before you even walk through the door. Taking care of your health—by staying active, eating well, managing chronic conditions, and keeping regular appointments—can help prevent the need for more intensive care down the road. If you’re receiving treatment for a recurring condition like diabetic foot ulcers or venous leg ulcers, prevention is key. That might mean wearing prescribed compression stockings daily, monitoring your feet, or following a nutrition plan. It’s also helpful to keep a health journal or notebook to track symptoms and questions for your care team.

During the Appointment: Show Up and Speak Up
When you come in, arrive on time, bring your medication list, and be ready to talk openly. Nurses and healthcare staff often already have your background information, but your voice is essential. Let us know how you’re feeling, what’s changed, and what you need help with. If something isn’t clear, ask. We often ask patients to repeat back instructions to ensure they understand. If English isn’t your first language, bring someone who can help translate or advocate for you. And remember—it’s okay to bring a family member to help absorb information, especially when emotions run high.

After the Appointment: Follow Through
One of the biggest differences between those who recover well and those who don’t is follow-through. Nurses often provide instructions for wound care, diet changes, mobility exercises, or medication schedules. Patients who stick with these plans usually see better outcomes. When patients don’t follow recommendations—sometimes due to confusion, lack of support, or other challenges—their recovery can stall or reverse. It’s also a good idea to keep a health journal where you can document actions and recommendations. If you’re unsure about anything after your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out.

One Last Thing: You’re Not Alone
Many patients, especially seniors, rely on caregivers. If you’re a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. There are supports available—from respite care to day programs. Ask us. We can connect you.

Being a good patient is about working with your healthcare provider—because they’re working for you.