The process involving the transition to retirement living has its complexities. There are multiple variables that require in-depth consideration. To make things a little simpler, here are three key points to pay attention to when considering different retirement home options.

1. Location: Whether you are choosing a retirement home for yourself or a loved one, location is a very important thing to consider. Transitioning into retirement living can be a challenging time, however choosing a home in an area that is familiar or close to family and friends can help to bring ease to the situation.
2. Costs and what they mean: Cost is one of the most important factors to investigate when choosing a retirement home. When discussing costs and various packages, it is a smart idea to review exactly what is covered in the outlined costs. Ask what is not included in the cost and what services may have additional fees. Once the cost break-down is clear, compare it to your monthly “living at home” expenses to properly formulate the decision if the home is a responsible choice financially.
3. Recreation and Socialization: When moving a senior out of their home and into a new environment, it can be natural for them to withdraw and isolate as they may not feel comfortable around new people. Choosing a home with various activity and recreation options that align with your/ your loved one’s hobbies and interests can help encourage socialization and in turn keep you or your loved one from becoming lonely and isolated.

Carefor has three retirement/care homes in the Ottawa region that are in great locations, prioritize affordability and value the importance of recreational activities in the home. The Carefor Civic Complex and MacKay Centre are situated in the heart of Pembroke and the Ottawa Valley. These retirement homes have all the amenities of home with paved walkways, a courtyard, and flower/vegetable gardens at the most affordable prices in the Ottawa Valley.

Richmond Care Home is a unique retirement home for women living with dementia. It is a bungalow style 16-unit home that offers a quiet home-like setting where your mom will get the care and attention she deserves. All around, Carefor has your loved one’s best interests at heart and will ensure they feel at home. To learn more visit: carefor.ca/retirement.

As an organization that has been providing home care services to people in Eastern Ontario for over 125 years, the idea of “aging in place” is nothing new to Carefor. But recently the idea has become more popular with older adults with many of them planning their retirement around living in their homes for as long as possible. In so doing seniors are ensuring that they are surrounded by friends and family, and that their homes can withstand the changes needed to adjust to the needs that come with aging. In this month’s blog, we give tips and useful things to look out for when it comes to aging in place, and a thought as to when it might no longer be the best option.

Decision Time… where do you want to live?

When it comes to deciding where to spend the later years of your life there are many things to consider to ensure you can do so comfortably. With comfort in mind it is important to search for homes located close to public transit, emergency services, and/or close to family or relatives. Keeping the latter in mind, studies have shown that it is important to remain close to those with whom we hold social connections, be it, family members, or other adult friends. While moving closer to children or other supportive relatives may be a priority it may be beneficial to join clubs or visit senior centers to continue to build new relationships if the home you decide to age in is away from your current social circle.

Nest in your home

It’s important to make the adjustments needed to enjoy your home as long as possible. Much like a bird collecting twigs and bits of string, it is important to find and discover the things that will make your home livable as you age. These items may include many things such as

• The ability to install ramps to enter your home.
• Widening doorways to increase accessibility.
• Creating a bedroom/living space on the main floor of your home.
• Removing area rugs or other unneeded furniture.

While these items are all physical you may want to investigate technological improvements such as updated alarm systems, stair lifts, and elevators as well as inexpensive upgrades such as voice-activated devices that control your home’s climate, make phone calls, and set daily reminders.

With A little Help, Anything is Possible

Sometimes being able age in place requires some help from the outside. Throughout your community are services which can support you in being able to continue to live in your home. In the Ottawa Valley, Carefor offers meal delivery, non-urgent medical transportation and friendly visiting to name a few, which help older people continue to get that extra help should they have no other support.

While for many people aging in place is preferred, for some it’s either no longer an option nor the best one. Some might be unable to ensure their health at home or feel the effects of prolonged isolation. Retirement homes are obviously numerous in every community, but for those who might be continuing to live at home due to the cost of many retirement homes, the two retirement homes Carefor operates in the Ottawa Valley, Carefor Civic Complex and Carefor Mackay Centre are excellent options. Being the most affordable retirement homes in the Ottawa Valley with all-inclusive pricing makes Civic and Mackay excellent options for someone no longer able to age in place.

Managing one’s stress can often be a struggle and it can have a large impact on one’s overall health. It is a great idea for seniors to develop ways to reduce stress in their lives.

Stress is caused by facing the day-to-day challenges we all face in life. This can be anything from getting to an appointment on time, finding ways to see grandchildren and other family members, remembering to take your medication, and or feeling unsafe in one’s home while living alone.

It is important to realize the signs of stress in your life and find ways to cope and ease those stresses. Stress can result in the feeling of being anxious, depression, loss of sleep, and forgetfulness. Here are some ways to reduce stress.

Melt away that Stress.

Get Creative: Finding ways to celebrate and use your creativity is a great way to reduce your stress. Whether it is completing a puzzle, painting, drawing, journaling, or listening to music while you clean the house or enjoy time in the sun. These are all great ways to relax and reduce stress.

Gather and Meet New People: Being social whether it is connecting with old friends and family or meeting new people at local senior clubs or community activities is a great way to reduce the feeling of being isolated and alone leaving one to feel safe secure and less stressed.

Exercise: Finding ways to become more active in any compacity will often result in a feeling of confidence and reduce feelings of depression and stress. Exercise that helps reduce stress can include walking outdoors, playing with the grandchildren, yoga, meditation, or swimming.

Stress can sometimes seem unavoidable but there are many resources to help reduce stress.

We, at Carefor, offer a diverse range of services whether you are living in your home a need a helping hand or looking for retirement living options at Carefor Civic Complex or Mackay Centre.

Residents at Carefor retirement homes are given a place to call homes via many programs and services. Living at Carefor provides our residents with the security of knowing help is there when they need it be it helping with cleaning, laundry, and medication administration. While living at Carefor seniors are also provided with three nutritious meals a day, and an extensive variety of entertainment and activities all of which help foster a sense of community and social connection between residents and Carefor team members. All of which help provide local vulnerable seniors a place to call home and relieve the stress of seniors and their family members. If you’re interested in reducing some of your stress, give us a call: 613-732-9993

Volunteering is a common activity that seniors will engage in as they gain more free time post-retirement. Volunteerism has the potential to improve health, relationships and skillsets. This is especially true for seniors who turn to volunteering as a productive and positive pastime. There are several benefits that seniors can experience from volunteering within the community.

5 Benefits to Volunteering for Seniors…

1. Volunteering prevents isolation and loneliness… A lack of social interaction can hinder good health, putting adults at risk for high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, obesity, and cognitive decline. By getting out and engaging with the community, seniors can reduce the likelihood of health issues that come with being lonely and isolated.
2. Increases physical activity… Maintaining physical fitness is an important aspect of staying healthy and independent as individuals age. Volunteering creates the opportunity to keep moving, be it serving meals, providing transportation, or offering companionship to someone who needs it.
3. Bridges the generation gap… Volunteering in the community can give seniors the opportunity to interact with younger generations, and in turn share important life lessons. On the flip side, seniors can enjoy new perspectives and energy that younger generations offer.
4. Promotes a feeling of purpose… In often cases, as individuals age and transition into retirement living, they may feel that they lack fulfillment. Volunteering offers a way to regain the feeling of purpose. It creates a goal to work towards and can encourage a resurgence of excitement for life.
5. Develop new skills… In older stages of life it is common to dwell within one’s comfort zone. This can lead to feeling stuck and bored, which can lead to cognitive decline. Volunteering opens doors to trying new things and new ways of thinking, and potentially exposes individuals to new passions they didn’t even know they had

Volunteering Opportunities at Carefor…

Carefor has benefited greatly over the years from the support and passion of our volunteers. There are many opportunities at Carefor for you and/or a friend. More information regarding the programs needing volunteers can be found under the services tab on our website. Or for additional information email Beth Monaco at BMonaco@carefor.ca. Here are some of our opportunities in the Ottawa region.

Ottawa

• Richmond Care Home
• Adult Day Programs (Carling ADP, Vince Malette Functional Fitness, PWR!Moves etc)

Pembrooke / Renfrew County

• Driver – Non urgent medical transportation
• Friendly Visiting – In person or virtual
• Volunteers for Special Events
• Recreation Volunteers (Civic and Mackay)
• Palliative visiting in the community
• Special Skills Volunteers (musicians, crafters, singers)

Although we may not be too keen about the rainy and damp April weather, it is important to keep in mind how thankful our gardens are for their chance to soak it all up before flourishing into bloom. With gardening season approaching, it is important to consider the benefits of gardening for seniors.

Right off the bat, gardening is a great activity for seniors as it gets them outside and into the fresh air. Some will think that gardening requires a plot of land, which comes with great work and effort, but in reality, it can be as much or as little as you want. Planter boxes, potted plants and more offer options for people not looking to make as much of a physical investment in their garden. But no matter what you do, there are great health benefits to gardening:  

• Reduces Stress – Gardening can reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. It can increase a sense of fulfillment in times of feeling helpless.
• Strengthen Bones – When skin is exposed to sun, the body is prompted to produce vitamin D; this helps the body to absorb calcium, a mineral essential for bone building. The exposure to sunlight can also help to counteract bone decalcification, but don’t forget to wear your sunscreen and a hat.
• Helps you stay active – As we age, staying active replaces the concept of exercise. In gardening there are various motions that keep your body moving. Movements such as digging, pruning, pulling and lifting work muscles, and in turn increase strength, stamina, and flexibility.
• Experience Success – Gardening can be a very rewarding hobby, as the hard work eventually amounts to the growth of something new. Seniors witnessing the fruits of their labour will lead to a feeling of accomplishment, ultimately building confidence.
• Keep in touch with the Community – Visiting and contributing to a community garden will reap the above benefits with the added bonus of a chance to socialize with others who share similar interests. You can also join your local horticultural society or connect with other green thumbs online.
• Share it with your family – Gardens can be a great way to connect with your children and grandchildren as you teach, learn from one other and share the fruits of your labour.

Additionally, research has shown that gardening has several mental and physical benefits to those with Alzheimer’s as well. This is due to the fact that gardening is an activity that engages all the senses. Research shows that gardening therapy could even help people with Alzheimer’s recall pleasant long-term memories.

Carefor recognizes what gardens can mean to people and how they require consistent care and compassion. As an organization that supports seniors and people living with disabilities, and in turn their caregivers, we want to create a place in Ottawa that celebrates the importance of caregiving. This is why this spring we will be unveiling the Carefor Caregivers’ Garden in Strathcona park. This garden will be a testament to caring for those we love and the notion that although caregiving can be difficult at times, it brings joy, and comfort to our loved ones – much like the blooms of a garden after all the hard work of tending to it. We encourage you to create your own garden and use it as a tool to enrich the lives of your loved ones and become a place where love can continually grow.

Learn more about the Carefor Caregivers’ Garden at caregiversgarden.ca

We at Carefor Health & Community Services have spring fever and are excited to bring you some handy tricks and recommendations for healthy senior living this spring. From dressing for the weather to dealing with seasonal allergies, or staying hydrated, don’t forget to create healthy habits to live a healthier life.

Layer Up and Down

We all remember those days when we didn’t want to pack that extra sweater or put on those gloves but these Ottawa Valley Spring weather conditions can change on a whim. Some days seem like we should be laying out on the beach while others have us bundled up to our ears with the chills.

On those sunny days, it is important to remember to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes or try a fashion-forward wide-brim hat if you like, but remember not to block your vision when out for walks or spending time outside. Alternatively,  it is always wise to check the weather before venturing outside just because yesterday was bright and sunny doesn’t mean today will offer the same great temperature. On those cooler windy days try a windbreaker over your sweater to stay warm and don’t put the warm hats and mitts away just yet they are an easy way to regulate one’s body temperature outside. 

Seasonal Allergies

As we age many of us find ourselves dealing with more spring allergies than when we were younger. While going outside or opening windows may trigger these unwanted allergies it might be best to limit your time outside or keep any doctor or pharmacist-recommended allergy medications on hand for those high pollen days.

High on Hydration

With our activity levels increasing as the snow melts and the temperature rises it is key to remember to hydrate. Regardless of our age or time of year, it is crucial to remember to stay hydrated as studies have shown dehydration can have negative effects on memory and overall focus as well as increase fatigue.

In general healthcare providers recommend drinking at least 8 cups of water a day if you don’t like water, try herbal teas and freshly squeezed or juiced fruit and vegetable drinks. Though they may taste great it is also important to limit the number of sugary drinks like coffee and sodas.

Get in the Habit

Spring is the perfect time to start a new habit maybe it is crosswords on the front porch, walking around the block, building news, or continuing regular visits with friends. What is important is to stay active and stay moving. Many of the residents at Carefor Civic Complex and Mackay Center find that springtime is the best time to start getting out and enjoying the fresh air and visiting with other residents. Which we at Carefor fully support, with a fully loaded activities calendar, and multiple outdoor spaces that will be reopening when the snow has melted for the residents at Carefor to enjoy.   

As Ottawa Valley’s most affordable all-inclusive retirement home Carefor Civic Complex and Mackay Center it is our goal to make residents feel supported, reassured, and free to make choices that work for them through all seasons of the year. By providing high-quality care to vulnerable seniors living in Pembroke Carefor creates a place they can call home.

With what we hope is the last of winter, behind us, and the warmer spring days on the way in this month’s blog we ask the question “Are you ready for spring cleaning?” and give tips and tricks to work your way through the ups and downs of cleaning and decluttering your home this spring.

Little Steps Win the Race

Sometimes when looking at the road ahead spring cleaning can be a daunting task. There are windows to clean walls to scrub, shelves to dust, and not to mention all the paperwork we pile on our desks. It is best to try and look at the major spring clean as a series of small tasks.

Not sure where to start? One cloth in front of the other, or top to bottom, working your way through the hardly used areas and moving on to places you spend the most time. The important thing to remember spring cleaning does not need to be done in one day.

Leave the heavy lifting to some else

Like most of us, you may want to move bedroom furniture or change up how the couch is in the living room. Though it may have seemed manageable by yourself in the past it is best to ask a friend or loved one for help. Often times we can forget how heavy an item is and moving it can result in injury.

It is important to stay safe while spring cleaning to prevent any major injuries. Ask a friend or family member to help move those hard-to-maneuver objects or hire a professional who will come and clean and move furniture.

Ding! Ding! Don’t forget the detectors.

With daylight savings time coming up on Sunday, March 12th many use this as a reminder to change, test, clean, and update any smoke/carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. 

These often-forgotten items in homes help keep you and your family safe. Like moving heavy objects often these detectors are often in hard-to-reach areas. Do not hesitate to ask a neighbor or friend to help change batteries and inspect detectors around the home.

Get Rid of Clutter

We are all guilty of having those dump rooms or junk drawers or maybe a closet that is full of clothes that no longer fit or have not been worn in a while. Though the items found in these areas of the home may hold some value it is important to keep control of the number of things we hold onto.  It may not seem to be a nuisance, however some items in these piles can become overwhelming and become fall and or fire risks limiting the space one can move around in one’s home.  Not to mention the possible risk of hygiene and health issues when these piles make it difficult to clean in and around common rooms.

Studies have shown that tackling and organizing these areas in our homes have proven to help, regulate emotions, improve focus, and create a sense of balance and control of our lives.

Included in Carefor Civic Complex and Carefor Mackay Retirement Home’s all-inclusive pricing are many helpful services which help our residents feel at home in the Ottawa Valley. With laundry and light housekeeping, our residents no longer have to worry about the day-to-day stresses of keeping a home clean. Along with those services our lowest in the Valley all-inclusive pricings also includes nutritious meals, a full activities calendar, help with medications and the security of knowing help is there when you need it.

If you or someone you know is interested in knowing more about Carefor Retirement Living please contact us at 613-732-9993 ext. 3223

Having a healthy diet and cooking healthy and affordable food during these winter months can be a challenge for seniors living in the Ottawa Valley. With the snowy weather pounding on into February you can feel lost not knowing where to get nutritious meals or not wanting to go that extra mile and cook a full meal when you are alone or living with your partner.

Here are some tips on keeping meals easy in the winter months.

Eat the Rainbow

Try to eat lots of colors and make your meals appealing. Try substituting regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, or mini baby potatoes. Trying red or green onions instead yellow onions. Add spinach to your cream sauces. Just make sure you are keeping overall nutrition in mind.  

Keep it Fun

Go on a culinary adventure and travel the world in your kitchen. With YouTube videos, food blogs, and the food network at your disposal, dig in and try new recipes from Europe, Asia or South America. Many of these recipes are nutrient-dense and full of flavors. You never know you might just find your new favorite food.

Go to Flavor Town

Many seniors find they lose their sense of taste later in life, so pump up the seasoning without adding more salt. Try cooking with lots of herbs and spices, as well as try avoiding salt or use low-sodium spice blends.

Healthy Eating at Carefor Civic Complex and Mackay Center and the Ottawa Valley

Carefor Pembroke Renfrew County has many healthy meal options for local seniors and seniors living at Carefor Civic Complex and Carefor Mackay Centre. While living at Carefor retirement homes our residents are treated to an all-inclusive meal program that features nutritious options for each meal three times a day. Set in a communal dining hall where many social connections have been made and are also encouraged.

Try our Frozen meal program today

During the pandemic, Carefor Pembroke Renfrew County partnered with local producer Griffith Farms providing frozen meals to often isolated seniors in the Ottawa Valley. With over a dozen nutritious meal options to choose from as well as soups and desserts, it is quick and convenient for meals to be ordered and enjoyed by members of our beautiful community.

To order frozen meals visit our website at https://carefor.ca/services/frozen-meals-program 

Meal Planning Made Easy With Epicure 

Carefor Health & Community Services is excited to partner with Stephanie from Epicure just in time for spring madness. At the end of February, Carefor Pembroke Renfrew County will be fundraising with Epicure and selling their convenient Weeknight Dinners Kits with proceeds going to help local seniors in our area. These Dinner Kits include five easy meal solutions for even the pickiest of eaters. As an affordable option, try some healthy and adventurous meals including Taco Seasoning, Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Seasoning, Pulled Chicken Seasoning, Crispy and Crunchy Coating Mix, Mac and Cheese Seasoning, and (the best part) Chocolate Pudding Mix. With pick-up available for the week before March Break this kit makes for a great way to meal plan and get the family in the kitchen during March Break.

Epicure Products are:

• Gluten Free
• Nut Free (excludes coconut)
• Free of Corn syrup and hydrogenated Fat
• Free of artificial colors sweeteners and preservatives
• Sugar and sodium conscious
• Made from ethically sourced ingredients
• 90% Non-GMO-Project verified
• 80% Vegan

To order this kit click here or

Contact Andrew at achenard@carefor.ca or 1 (833) 922-2734 x 3237

Finding love can seem daunting, filled with the highest of highs and lowest of lows. On top of that looking for love in later years of one’s life can add even more pressure. Often, we can find ourselves being less social as we age, looking for that one person for companionship.

Although dating methods have changed and can be seen as a younger person’s space with the ever-growing list of apps, websites, and other dating methods, it is still anyone’s game. Studies on marriages in Canada have shown that individuals in the 60-65 age gap have become the largest group of people getting married. Below are some examples of ways to meet that special someone or find that sense of community we all crave as we live on through the later years of our lives. 

Rekindle Old Flames.

Sometimes reconnecting with old friends and getting together socially is the best way to meet new people. The methods of dating may have changed but often it’s our friends that we trust the most. You never know, your high school friend may know the perfect person for you. Worst case scenario you reconnect and get to spend time with old friends.

No Pressure… Slow and Steady

Don’t put too much pressure on any new budding relationships. Often, we can feel we are running out of time to find that one person. Many people later in life have become set in their way and may need the time to slowly let others in and share their lives. Take the time to get to know each other and remember that this time in your life should be spent getting out there and meeting new people while enjoying every moment.

Try Groups

Put yourself out there. Many small communities in the Ottawa Valley have various seniors clubs that offer classes in quilting, photography, cooking or outings. Many seniors join these clubs to meet, mingle and make new friends. The worst that can happen is you leave with a new blanket, photo album, or a new set of recipes to try on your friends and family.

Find a Sense of Community At Carefor Pembroke Renfrew County

Carefor Civic Complex and Carefor Mackay Center residences are not only safe places for seniors to call home but are also great places to find that sense of community that brings joy into our lives. Residents at Carefor Civic Complex and Mackay Centre are treated to full monthly calendars with activities designed to foster a sense of community, allowing seniors to meet each other tell stories, and participate in both physical and creative activities.

What’s more, as Carefor Civic and Mackay are the most affordable retirement homes in the Ottawa Valley you’ll have some extra money for those outings with friends, or that special someone. To find out more about safe affordable Retirement Living at Carefor Pembroke Renfrew County click here. https://carefor.ca/services/retirement-living 

You have worked hard for your money and want to keep it safe. Unfortunately, there are people who want to part you from it and are using new and advanced ways of doing so.

You’ve likely received emails, text messages or phone calls from people or companies pretending to be someone or something they’re not. Often charlatans are easy to spot but there are those who are very skilled at separating you from your money.

Here are some things to consider when receiving an email, text or phone call:

1. Does it evoke emotion? If an email, text or phone call makes you panic it’s likely malicious. Cyber-criminals use fear to get you to take an action, like clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Beware of people creating a sense of urgency or making your feel threatened. They’re trying to get you to act before you think.
2. Is it money related? Is the message saying you owe money to the gas company, CRA, etc? Often scams involve either threats to the money you do have or provide you opportunities to save a lot of money on things you might want. Remember that if it’s too good to be true, it usually is.
3. Is it romance related? Sometimes cyber-criminals will prey upon elderly people’s loneliness. Has a message come from out of the blue? Be cautious. These criminals can try and get you to transfer or launder money by offering promises of love.
4. Is the contact information correct? There’s a technique cyber-criminals use call “spear phishing” where they send you an email making it seem like it’s from someone you know. Check the email address? Is it correct? If it seems suspicious, call the person or company to confirm.
5. Trust your gut. If it seems suspicious it often is. Things that are too good to be true, major problems that come out of the blue, these are all ways cyber-criminals get you. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
6. Stay informed. Cyber-criminals are always looking for new ways to cheat people out of their money so remember to stay vigilant and to stay up to date on the latest scam trends.

Unfortunately, seniors are often the target of cyber-criminal activity. Using these techniques as well as those found here can help protect you.

Many seniors think, “Who’d want to steal my information?” but there are those out there who do. Elderly people are unfortunately targeted so require extra thought and care to protect themselves, even in a place as friendly as Eastern Ontario. Whether you are receiving home care in Ottawa, community support services in Eastern Counties or living in one of our retirement homes in Pembroke, we want you to be safe.

Don’t be afraid, just smart and cautious as you’ll be surfing safely for years to come.