is Shar g n i ing r a C
Caregivers’ Support Binder
S s i hari g n i r ng a C
“It is not the load that breaks you down. It’s the way you carry it.” — Lena Horne, singer
To every caregiver out there showing the world how real heroes work; we want to be your best ally and create a prosperous and sustainable community of care for every person in need. We hope you find in this binder the light of a fundamental resource in the experience of caring for a family member, friend or significant other. – NYSC
PUBLISHED BY NORTH YORK SENIORS CENTRE Copyright 2020 North York Seniors Centre www.nyseniors.org Title: Caregivers’ Support Binder Creator: Jaime-Lynn Parker Authors/ Editors: Jaime-Lynn Parker, Ashley Case Text art, jacket, and art design by Camilo Andrew Sanchez
Section 1: Introduction 1.1 1.2 1.3
About the Caregiver Binder________02 Consent________________________04 Consent Form___________________05
Section 2: In Case Of Emergency 2.1
Purpose________________________10 All About Me___________________ 12 What My Day Looks Like_________ 20 Activities & Daily Living__________26 Medications & Alternative Therapies_33 Monthly Calendar________________37 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts_______________________ 50
Section 4: Medical History 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4
5.1 5.2 5.3
Purpose________________________72 Home Maintenance Services_______ 73 Personal & Financial Records______ 77
Section 6: Emergency Preparedness
In Case Of Emergency____________07
Section 3: All About Me 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7
Section 5: Home Maintenance & Personal and Financial Records
Purpose________________________58 Description Of Current Medications _59 Medical History_________________ 60 Medical Professionals Involved_____67
6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4
Purpose _______________________ 83 Planning For An Emergency_______ 84 Emergency Kit_________________ 86 Plan For Pets___________________ 88
Section 7: Caregiver Resources 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9 7.10
Caregiver Resources______________90 Services For the Caregiver_________93 Grocery and Meal Tips____________97 Home Meal Delivery/Grocery Pick Up Providers_______________________99 Self Care _____________________ 101 Financial Resources_____________ 103 Wills and Power of Attorney (POA)_105 Understanding Your Medication____107 Preparing For Home After Hospital Discharge_____________________ 108 Emergency Preparedness_________ 110
INTRODUCTION
1.1 About The Caregiver Binder
1.1 About The Caregiver Binder
Purpose The Caregiver binder was created as a guide to facilitate accurate excellent quality of support in the absence of the caregiver. This binder contains fillable templates that will assist anyone with providing verbal, physical and emotional supports, will allow community resources to remain involved, and will provide direction to anyone caring for the home in case of an emergency. How the Caregiving Binder Will Work for you Each binder is created and personalized to meet each individual need. You can update and/or modify the binder at any time, by adding or removing sections that you see fit. The binder can also hold any additional documents and/or information that would benefit or assist with individual supports and/or home maintenance. We encourage you and the person you are caring for to work together (if possible) to complete it.
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1.1 About The Caregiver Binder
Where to Keep the Binder As you choose, this binder will contain personal information pertaining to you and the person you are caring for. It is advised that you store this binder in a safe place and share it with only those who you trust with personal information. Some suggestions on where to keep the binder include: • On top of the fridge • On a table by the phone • On a table on the front entranceway If you no longer need the binder for any reason, please take the contents and have it shredded to protect the confidentiality of the personal information that has been shared. If you require further assistance in completing this binder, please contact your North York Seniors Centre Case Coordinator below.
Case Coordinator Name: Position: Phone #: E-mail address: 03
1.2 Consent
1.2 CONSENT
Before you continue on with completing this binder, we ask that you fill out this consent form below, acknowledging that you and/or the client have given permission to share the personal information enclosed. The signed consent form allows someone to access the enclosed information for the purpose of supporting you and the person you are caring for, in the event that you are unable to perform your responsibilities as a caregiver.
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1.3 Consent Form
1.3 Consent Form
I, ___________________, have agreed to disclose my health and personal information.
OR I, ___________________, have agreed to disclose health, personal and financial information on behalf of ____________________________. I understand that the purpose of disclosing the enclosed information is strictly for the use of providing home assistants and personal supports to the individual mentioned within this binder, in the event the caregiver is unable to maintain their responsibilities. Client/Substitution Decision maker name:________________ Signature:_____________________ Date:_______________________ Case Coordinator Name:_______________________________ Signature: ______________________ Date: _________________________
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2 In Case Of Emergency
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2.1 In Case Of Emergency
2.1 In Case Of Emergency
Purpose This section includes a one page quick reference, to be completed and given to emergency personnel in case 9-1-1 is called and the primary caregiver is not present. The information in this section can assist emergency personnel in providing the best care possible to the person you are caring for by: •
• •
Bringing attention to any prior or current health conditions that may affect treatment planning or may need immediate attention. Informing of current medications prescribed. Informing who should be contacted in case the primary caregiver is not available.
We recommend keeping multiple copies of this document in this section in case additional copies are requested by emergency personnels. You may also want to include the person’s health card, hospital card and insurance card (or a copy of) in the pouch of this section for quick access. It is important to keep this document up-to-date and as accurate as possible. Please review and update this document regularly.
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2
In Case of Emergency Last updated: _________________
Client Information
Name: ________________________ Nickname: ___________________ Date of Birth: __________________ Health Card #: ________________ Gender: _______________________ Primary Language Spoken/Read: _________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: ______________ Alternative #: _________________
Emergency Contact Person
Name: ________________________ Relationship to client: ___________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Phone#: _______________________ Alternative #: _________________ Email address: __________________ Power of Attorney: Yes No
Primary diagnosis:
Assistive Devices: Prior Surgeries: Type
Date
Allergies
Yes
No
If yes, please list: Allergy
Reaction
Special Alerts: (check all that apply) Mental Health Developmental Delay Non Verbal Heart Problem Swallowing Issues Cancer Other:_____________
Dementia/Alzheimer’s Risk of Fall Visual Impairment Respiratory Issues Diabetes Bladder/ Bowel Incontinence
Current Medications Medication
Reason for Taking Medication
Additional notes/Special instructions
In Case of Emergency Last updated: _________________
Client Information
Name: ________________________ Nickname: ___________________ Date of Birth: __________________ Health Card #: ________________ Gender: _______________________ Primary Language Spoken/Read: _________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: ______________ Alternative #: _________________
Emergency Contact Person
Name: ________________________ Relationship to client: ___________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Phone#: _______________________ Alternative #: _________________ Email address: __________________ Power of Attorney: Yes No
Primary diagnosis:
Assistive Devices: Prior Surgeries: Type
Date
Allergies
Yes
No
If yes, please list: Allergy
Reaction
Special Alerts: (check all that apply) Mental Health Developmental Delay Non Verbal Heart Problem Swallowing Issues Cancer Other:_____________
Dementia/Alzheimer’s Risk of Fall Visual Impairment Respiratory Issues Diabetes Bladder/ Bowel Incontinence
Current Medications Medication
Reason for Taking Medication
Additional notes/Special instructions
In Case of Emergency Last updated: _________________
Client Information
Name: ________________________ Nickname: ___________________ Date of Birth: __________________ Health Card #: ________________ Gender: _______________________ Primary Language Spoken/Read: _________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: ______________ Alternative #: _________________
Emergency Contact Person
Name: ________________________ Relationship to client: ___________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Phone#: _______________________ Alternative #: _________________ Email address: __________________ Power of Attorney: Yes No
Primary diagnosis:
Assistive Devices: Prior Surgeries: Type
Date
Allergies
Yes
No
If yes, please list: Allergy
Reaction
Special Alerts: (check all that apply) Mental Health Developmental Delay Non Verbal Heart Problem Swallowing Issues Cancer Other:_____________
Dementia/Alzheimer’s Risk of Fall Visual Impairment Respiratory Issues Diabetes Bladder/ Bowel Incontinence
Current Medications Medication
Reason for Taking Medication
Additional notes/Special instructions
In Case of Emergency Last updated: _________________
Client Information
Name: ________________________ Nickname: ___________________ Date of Birth: __________________ Health Card #: ________________ Gender: _______________________ Primary Language Spoken/Read: _________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: ______________ Alternative #: _________________
Emergency Contact Person
Name: ________________________ Relationship to client: ___________ Address: ____________________________________________________ Phone#: _______________________ Alternative #: _________________ Email address: __________________ Power of Attorney: Yes No
Primary diagnosis:
Assistive Devices: Prior Surgeries: Type
Date
Allergies
Yes
No
If yes, please list: Allergy
Reaction
Special Alerts: (check all that apply) Mental Health Developmental Delay Non Verbal Heart Problem Swallowing Issues Cancer Other:_____________
Dementia/Alzheimer’s Risk of Fall Visual Impairment Respiratory Issues Diabetes Bladder/ Bowel Incontinence
Current Medications Medication
Reason for Taking Medication
Additional notes/Special instructions
3 All About Me
3 3.1 Purpose
3.1 Purpose
Purpose This section guides you through a detailed description of the person you are caring for along with their daily supports and/or routines. This information is important to have in the event that the person providing assistance is not familiar with the person you are caring for. The intent of this section is to allow an unfamiliar support person the ability to pick up the binder and continue with the caregiving responsibilities and household maintenance in your absence. Providing as much detail as possible in this section is beneficial. If possible, complete this section with the individual to be cared for, allowing them to advocate information that is important to them. This information will also assist with promoting meaningful conversations, positive interaction and socialization, and assist with building rapport; all to better support you and the person you are caring for. Although a template has been created, we encourage you to utilize this section in a way that is best suited for you and the person to be supported. Additional forms and/or templates can be provided by contacting your Case Coordinator.
Case Coordinator Name: Position: Phone #: E-mail address:
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3.1 Purpose
This section will cover: •
Family and friends.
•
Likes and dislikes.
•
Personal health information.
•
The day to day routine and monthly schedule of the person you are caring for.
•
Current medications prescribed.
•
Non-medical professional supports that are involved with the person you are caring for.
•
And any other information you choose to add that will benefit the supports your house requires.
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3 3.2 All About Me
3.2 All About Me
All About Me Last updated:__________________
Client Information Name: _______________________
Nickname: _________________
Date of Birth: _________________
Gender: ___________________
Primary Language Spoken/Read: _______________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: ________________ Alternative #: _____________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Sexual Orientation: __________________________________________ Spiritual Beliefs: _____________________________________________ Place of Worship: ____________________________________________ Date and time of attendance: __________________________________
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me
Primary Caregiver Name: _____________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Primary Contact #: __________________________ Alternative #: ______________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Lives with Client:
Y
N
Has access to home:
Y
N
Name of Employer: ___________________________________________ Contact#: ___________________ Hours of Work: _________________________
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Emergency Contact Person #1
Emergency Contact Person #2
Name: ____________________________
Name: ____________________________
Relationship to client: ____________________________
Relationship to client: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________
Phone #: ____________________
Phone #: ____________________
Alternative #: ________________
Alternative #: ________________
Email address: ____________________________
Email address: ____________________________
Power of Attorney: Y
Power of Attorney: Y
Has Access to home: Y
N N
Has Access to home: Y
N N
Name of Employer: ____________________________
Name of Employer: ____________________________
Contact#:____________________
Contact#:____________________
Hours of Work: ______________
Hours of Work: ______________
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Special Alerts:
(Check all that apply and provide as much detail as possible) Developmental Delay
Wanders
Non-Verbal
Risk of Fall
Visual Impairment
Hearing impairment
Mental Health
Adverse drug reactions
Aggressive
Dementia/Alzheimer’s
Cardiac
Central Nervous System
Diabetes
Cancer
Dental Issues
Digestive System
Immune System
Musculoskeletal
Respiratory
Swallowing
Psychiatric
Sensory
Mood Behaviour
Agitations
Bowel Incontinence
Bladder Incontinence
Other:_____________________ Other:___________________ Other:_____________________ Other:___________________
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Assistive Devices:
(Check all that apply and provide as much detail as possible) Prosthesis
Respiratory Equipment
Wheelchair
Visual Aids/Communication Aids
Walker
Hearing Aids
Cane
Oxygen
Hoyer Lift
Other: __________________
Other: _________________
Other:__________________
How to Assist if I have a cold/flu
Allergies
Yes
No
If yes, please list: Allergy
Reaction
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Partner: Yes Name _____________________
No Primary Contact# ________________
Children: Names
Yes
No Primary Contact#
Grandchildren: Names
Yes
No Primary Contact#
Nieces/Nephews: Names
Yes
No Primary Contact#
Close Friends: Names
Yes
No
Yes Name
No
Pets: Type of Pet
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Primary Contact#
Care instructions
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Places I have lived: _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Previous Occupations: ________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Hobbies/Activities: ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Favourite shows/Movies: ______________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Favourite Music and Musicians: ________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Favourite foods: _____________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________
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3.2 All About Me
All About Me Foods to avoid: ______________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ People or topics to avoid talking about: __________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Negative Triggers: (ie. loud noises, dogs etc.) ______________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________
Other relevant topics: _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Other relevant topics: _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Other relevant topics: _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________
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3 3.3 What My Day Looks Like
3.3 What My Day Looks Like
This section allows you to develop a clear and organized daily schedule of what a typical day looks like for the person you are caring for. This encourages a smooth transition during a disruption of the regular routine, with the intent to minimize the distress that can be brought on by an unexpected change. Things you may want to include in this section: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Wake/nap/bed time breakfast/lunch/dinner/snack times morning routine afternoon routine night routine overnight routine Any specific activities done through the day i.e. phone calls, walks, visits etc. Household routines and preferences i.e. specific room temperatures and lighting, preference of specific meals and religious or cultural food preparations. Toileting schedules Bath/shower times Common food items to always have stocked in the home (ie. deli meat, eggs, bread) Medication times and how they take their medications (crushed in Jam, whole in pudding etc.)
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3
AM
Time
7:00 AM
12:00 AM 1:00 AM
2:00 AM
3:00 AM
4:00 AM
5:00 AM
6:00 AM
7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
11:00 AM
Activity
What My Day Looks Like
ie. wake up time
Last Updated: ___________________
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PM
What My Day Looks Like
Time 12:00 PM 1:00 PM
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
7:00 PM
8:00 PM
9:00 PM
10:00 PM
11:00 PM
Activity
Last Updated: ___________________
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3.3 What My Day Looks Like
Daily Routine - Additional Notes:
Eating and Meal Details Are there swallowing issues?
Yes
No
Has an Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Assessment been done? Yes No If yes, what were the results:
Special preparation of meals (please check all that apply) Regular Chopped in small pieces Soft
Special Diet Puree Other: _______________ _____________________
Additional information on food preparation:
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3
Breakfast options
Snacks/Drinks
Lunch options
Snacks/Drinks
Does the person you are caring for eat the same meals throughout the week, a favourite meal, favourite snack or drink? Use the chart below to include these things.
3.3 What My Day Looks Like
Dinner options
Snack/Drinks
Last Updated:___________________
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3.3 What My Day Looks Like
Dietary Restrictions If there are any foods that the person you are caring for needs to limit, please include them here (ie. gluten, dairy, sugar etc.)
Food Allergies and Sensitivities:
Yes
No
Last Updated: ___________________ If the person you are caring for has any allergies or sensitivities to certain foods please list any food allergies and their reactions below. Type of Allergy or Sensitivity
Reaction (what happens?)
ie. Pineapple
ie. Itchy and swollen tongue and lips.
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3 3.4 Activities & Daily Living
3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Purpose This section is meant to assist with providing accurate supports and delivering services in the absence of prior knowledge. You should be completing this section with enough detail that an individual will be able to comfortably and easily complete all support needs by reading the following chart. Be sure to outline the level of independence for each task, along with the step by step instruction of what is needed in regards to the support. Other information you may want to include in this section: •
How someone should assist with bathing/showering if required.
•
How the person you are caring for dresses.
•
How grooming is done.
•
Information on maintenance of assistive devices.
•
If the assistive device requires specific knowledge.
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3
Eating/Drinking
Stairs
Transferring from chair/wheelchair to bed
Walking
Transferring from bed to chair/wheelchair
Toileting
Mouth Care
Grooming
Dressing
Bathing/Showering
ADL
No Assistance
3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Some Assistance
Complete Assistance
N/A
Last Updated:___________________
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3.4 Activities &Daily Living
If the assistive device currently in use needs specific training and/or servicing, please include the contact information to where this training or service maintenance can be obtained, below: Name of Device: _____________________________________ Serial Number: ______________________________________ Location of purchase: ________________________________ Date of Purchase: _______________ Name of Company: __________________________________ Contact Person/Phone #: _____________________ How is it maintained? _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Organization/Contact for device training: ________________________ Additional notes/information:
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3
3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living(IADLS) This section is meant to assist with providing accurate supports and delivering services in the absence of prior knowledge. You should be completing this section with enough detail that an individual will be able to comfortably and easily complete all support needs by reading the following chart. Be sure to outline the level of independence for each task, along with the step by step instruction of what is needed with regard to the support. Other information you may want to consider including in this section: •
Particular stores you shop at.
•
How to assist with cooking.
•
How is laundry completed (sorted by colours, hung to dry etc.).
•
Who manages the finances.
•
What housekeeping tasks need to be completed.
•
Information on transportation service used.
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3
Managing Finances
Transportation
Laundry
Housework
Phone Use
Medication Management
Cooking
Shopping
IADL
No Assistance
3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Some Assistance
Complete Assistance
N/A
Last Updated:___________________
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3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Grocery store Name: _________________________________________ Location: __________________________________ Transportation Service: ______________________ Contact Person: _________________ Phone #:___________________ Housekeeping Tasks Location of cleaning supplies: __________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Vacuuming
Location of vacuum: _______________ ________________________________
Sponge mop floors
Location of mop and bucket: _________ ________________________________
Removal of garbage
Garbage pick up day: _______________
Laundry
Location of laundry room: ___________ ________________________________
Linen change
Location of linens: ________________ ________________________________
Laundry sorted Dryer Clean fridge Clean cupboards Clean toilet Clean bathtub/shower
Hung to dry Dusting Clean stove Make bed Clean sink
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3
3.4 Activities &Daily Living
Additional notes/instructions for cleaning:
Who manages the finances: Caregiver Client Other: _______________________________ Additional Notes on Financial Management:
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3 3.5 Medications & Alternative Therapies
3.5 Medications & Alternative Therapies
In this section, using the chart provided, please list all over the counter and prescribed medications and vitamins that are currently being taken. Along with this, include additional information on the medication and what it is taken for. Also use this chart to list any medication related allergies, with the reaction description. This information is useful in the event that no one is present to relay this information. Things you may want to consider when completing this section: • Consider keeping all medications in a blister or dispill pack. • Keep the chart up-to-date by adding/ removing medications you are/ or no longer taking. • Dispose of any expired medication/ vitamins and medication records safely by taking them to the pharmacy to be properly disposed of. More information on prescribed medications, and details on how to track your medication can be found at the back of the Caregiving Binder in the resource section.
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3
Who Prescribed them Dr.
Name
ie. Tylenol
Arthritis
Reason 250mg
Dosage
3.5 Medications & Alternative Therapies
Orally (mouth)
How to take Breakfast Lunch Dinner Bedtime X
08- 2021
As Expiry Date needed
Last Updated:___________________
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3.5 Medications & Alternative Therapies
Name and Location of Pharmacy: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Contact/Phone #: ___________________________ Additional Notes/Special Instructions:
Allergies to Medicine Allergy ie. Penicillin
Reaction (What Happens?) ie. Itchy skin
Yes
No Is Medical Attention Required? ie. Call 911
3
Business Location/Contact #
If you have completed this section and you still have questions about any of the medications/vitamins you listed, contact your pharmacist or make an appointment with the doctor.
Additional Notes/Special Instructions: _____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Therapy
Frequency
Last Updated:___________________
List any alternative therapies the client regularly receives, location and how often (ie. Massage therapy, acupuncture etc.)
Alternative Therapies:
3.5 Medications & Alternative Therapies
3 3.6 Monthly Calendar
3.6 Monthly Calendar
Using a monthly calendar is a great way to stay organized, especially if you both have busy schedules. Keeping a calendar helps you prepare for appointments, avoid double booking yourself, and provide you with assurance in knowing important appointments/tasks/events will not be missed in your absence. Here are some things you may want to include in your calendar: •
Appointments-work, family, medical.
•
Home Visits-case coordinators, nursing visits, Personal Support Workers.
•
Major Reminders-Bill payments, renewals, special events.
•
Any regular home maintenance/cleaning visits.
•
Expected deliveries.
Attached is a monthly calendar to help keep you organized, if you already have your own you can include it in this section instead.
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3
January
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
February
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
March
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
April
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
May
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
June
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
July
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
August
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
September
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
October
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
November
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3
December
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
3 3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
This section lists all of the supports by external agencies and their contact information. This is important information to have as it will assist with: • • • •
Keeping track of who may be coming in and out of the home on a regular basis. Who to contact in case additional supports are needed. Who to contact in case there are questions or concerns about a service. Keeping track of payment schedules and billing dates.
Some services may be funded by affiliated organizations.(ie. MS Society, Veterans Affairs Canada). In this case, it would be considered a “billed service”. It would be helpful to include this information along with their billing address, and frequency of service.
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
If you currently don’t receive the service, check N/A (not applicable).
N/A
Case Coordinator/Case Manager
Name: _____________________________________________________ Organization: _______________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________
N/A
Adult Day Program
Name:______________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone#: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: __________________________________________
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
N/A
PSW
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ___________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: __________________________________________
N/A
Respite
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: ___________________________________________
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
N/A
Social Worker
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: ______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of Visits: __________________________________________
N/A
Food Services
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of Deliveries: ______________________________________
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
N/A
Mobility Services
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone#: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency: _________________________________________________
N/A
Speech Pathology
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: ______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: ___________________________________________
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
N/A
Transportation Service
Name: _____________________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Organization: _______________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency: _________________________________________________
N/A
Other
Name: _____________________________________________________ Organization: ______________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Phone #: ___________________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits:___________________________________________
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3
3.7 My Non-Medical Professional Contacts
N/A
Other
Name: _____________________________________________________ Organization: ______________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Phone #: ___________________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits:___________________________________________
N/A
Other
Name: _____________________________________________________ Organization: ______________ Paid Service:
Yes
No
Method of Payment: ______________ Phone #: ___________________ Billed Service:
Yes
No
Billed to: ________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits:___________________________________________
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4 Medical History
4 4.1 Purpose
4.1 Purpose
Purpose In the event of an emergency, medical information regarding the person in need is crucial for medical personnel and/or someone caring for the individual. The information provided in this section is aimed at outlining specific diagnoses, information of any/all surgeries/procedures that should be known when providing medical care, and providing a list of medical professionals involved in the individuals care. The following information can be used to: •
Update healthcare professionals on any recent procedures or hospital visits.
•
Outline the level of supports required during a task.
•
Contact the appropriate medical professionals if there are questions or further help is needed.
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4 4.2 Description of Current Medications
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Who Prescribed them Dr.
Name
ie. Tylenol
Arthritis
Reason
4.2 Description of Current Medications
250mg
Dosage Orally (mouth)
How to take Breakfast Lunch Dinner Bedtime X
08- 2021
As Expiry Date needed
Last Updated:___________________
4 4.3 Medical History
4.3 Medical History
Provide as much information as you can for each diagnosis, procedure and hospital stay. Refer to any documents that you have to help you with this section. Please list the most recent events first in each section. Feel free to add actual copies of any medical reports. Additional pages can be added if needed.
DIAGNOSES
Last Updated:___________________
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
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4.3 Medical History
DIAGNOSES
Last Updated:___________________
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
Year: _________________________ Diagnosis: __________________________________________________ By Who: ____________________________________________________ Special Information regarding Diagnosis:
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4.3 Medical History
HOSPITAL VISITS
Last Updated:_________________
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
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4.3 Medical History
HOSPITAL VISITS
Last Updated:_________________
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
Year: _________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ER Visit Only
Admitted to hospital
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4.3 Medical History
SURGERIES/ PROCEDURES
Last Updated:_______________
Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ 64
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4.3 Medical History
SURGERIES/ PROCEDURES
Last Updated:_______________
Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ Year: ________________________ Procedure:__________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Reason: ____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Where: ____________________________________________________ 65
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4.3 Medical History
Completed Assessments If the person you are caring for has had any assessments, sharing the results could assist with providing proper care. Please list the assessments below and provide any copies of the assessments. Examples of assessments may include, but are not limited to: Speech Language Assessment, Cognitive Assessment, Psychogeriatric Screening, etc.
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4 4.4 Medical Professionals Involved
4.4 Medical Professionals Involved
This section lists all of the medical professionals involved with the person you are caring for. This information will allow: •
To track any scheduled home visits.
•
Who to contact in case additional supports are needed.
•
Who to contact in case there are questions or concerns regarding any supports and/or service.
•
Keep track of payment schedules and billing dates.
In some cases, organizations may assist with covering the cost of services (ie. MS Society Veterans Affairs Canada). In this case, it would be considered a “billed service”. It is helpful to include this information along with their billing address, and frequency of service. If you do not currently receive any of the following services, please write N/A (not applicable).
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4.4 Medical Professionals Involved
N/A
N/A
Psychologist
Family Doctor
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: ______________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Phone #: ____________________ N/A
Nurse Practitioner Name: ______________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Phone #: ____________________
N/A
N/A
Dentist
Psychiatrist
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
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4.4 Medical Professionals Involved
N/A
N/A
Optometrist
Occupational Therapy
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
N/A
N/A
In-Home Nursing
Physiotherapy
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
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4.4 Medical Professionals Involved
N/A
N/A
Other: _______________
Other: _______________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
N/A
N/A
Other: _______________
Other: _______________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: ____________________________ Company Address: ___________ ____________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ____________________ Phone #: ____________________ Email: ______________________ Frequency of Visits: ___________
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5 Home Maintenance & Personal and Financial Records
5
5.1 Purpose
5.1 Purpose
This section is aimed to assist you with preparing for the management of any/all home, legal, financial and/or personal matters, should an unforeseen circumstance arise. This is important information to have so that the proper companies and individuals can be contacted to ensure the continuity of service, that bills will continued to be paid and that matters can be settled with as little disruption as possible.
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5.2 Home Maintenance Services
5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
This section lists all of the home maintenance services provided in the home and who to contact if there are questions or concerns around the service, payment and due dates. Water Shut-off Valves Location: ____________________________________________________________ __________________________ Hot Water Heater Location: ____________________________________________________________ __________________________ Furnace Location: ____________________________________________________________ __________________________ Source: Gas Electric Propane Oil Thermostat Location: ____________________________________________________________ __________________________ Instructions: ____________________________________________________________ __________________________
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5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
Maintenance Providers Type
Name/ Company
Contact Number
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5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
Hydro Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Gas Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Phone Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Cell Phone Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________
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5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
Internet Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Cable/Satellite/ or Streaming Service Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Cable/Satellite/ or Streaming Service Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Cable/Satellite/ or Streaming Service Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________
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5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
Home Alarm System Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Cleaning Services Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of Visits: __________________________________________ Landscaping Services Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of Visits: __________________________________________
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5.2 HomeMaintenance Services
Snow Removal Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Paid Service: Yes No Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Billed Service: Yes No Billed to: ________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of Visits: __________________________________________ Other: _________________________________________________ Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: ___________________________________________ Other: _________________________________________________ Account #: __________________________________________________ Name: _____________________ Payment due by: _________________ Method of Payment: __________________________________________ Company: __________________________________________________ Phone #: ____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Frequency of visits: ___________________________________________
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5.3 Personal & Financial Records
5.3 Personal & Financial Records
PLEASE NOTE: The information in this section should only be accessed in the event that the person responsible for legal decision making is unable to do so. These records should be kept in a safe location, allowing only one or two trusted people, to access them. This trusted person(s), Lawyer and/or Accountant will only be contacted in the event that you or the assigned person(s) are unable to communicate any/all legal, financial or personal care arrangements. If you are the person providing care and need access to any of the information or documents listed below. Please contact the person(s) listed here for further direction.
Person who is able to access your personal documents Name: _________________________________________________ Relationship to client and caregiver: ________________________ Phone #: ___________________ Email: ______________________
Lawyer’s Name: _________________________________________ Contact Number: ________________________________________
Accountant’s Name: ______________________________________ Contact Number: ________________________________________
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5.3 Personal & Financial Records
Military
- Check all that apply -
Military Records Veteran (V/A) Number Veterans Benefits Documents Discharge Certificate Contact Person: _________________ Phone Number: ________________
Identification Social Insurance Driver’s License Birth Certificate Marriage Licenses Divorce Records Spouse’s death Certificate
Financial Assets Checking/Saving accounts Investments Sources of Revenue Real Estate Owned Personal Property Owned Financial Institution: _______________ Contact Person: _________________
Phone Number: _________________
Inventory of Money Owed Mortgages Home Equity Loans or Leases Other Secured Loans Business Loans Unsecured Loans Credit Card Debt Financial Institution: _______________ Contact Person: _________________
Phone Number: _________________ 80
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5.3 Personal & Financial Records
Insurance Health Insurance Disability Insurance Long-Term Care Insurance Homeowner/Renter Insurance Vehicle Insurance (include all vehicles, recreational vehicles, campers, boats etc): ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
Liability Insurance Insurance Company: _______________ Contact Person: _________________ Phone Number: ________________
End of Life Planning Advance Medical Directives Burial Policy/Certificate for Cemetery Plot Cemetery Name ________________ Contact Person: _________________ Lawyer’s Contact Information: ___________________________________
Other Deed to House Vehicle Titles Loan Agreements Personal Property Appraisals (jewellery, collectibles): ______________________________________________________ Tax Records
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Emergency Preparedness
6 6.1 Purpose
6.1 Purpose
The following guide will help prepare you or anyone providing care and/or support in the event of a natural disaster, mandated home isolation for a period of time, or if there is need to evacuate the home. This section will assist in creating an emergency kit and plan in place should an emergency arise.
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6 6.2 Planning for an Emergency
6.2 Planning for an Emergency
The information provided below are the general recommended guidelines to have in place. Things you may want to have on hand are: •
A 72 Hour Emergency Kit.
•
A Communication plan.
•
Evacuation plans.
•
A Friend or neighbour that can access your home.
•
Plan in place for pets.
If you live in a building, you may want to make yourself aware of the building’s evacuation procedures in the event of a natural disaster. If you find yourself in a situation where you do need to evacuate your home, call or email someone if you can, to let them know where you are going. You should also leave a note somewhere in the home so that if someone is looking for you, they know where to find you. Remember; always call 9-1-1 to report a fire, a crime or to save someone’s life. You can use the websites listed in the resource section of this binder to help create a more detailed emergency plan. Once completed, keep a copy inside your emergency kit where it can be easily accessible if needed.
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6.2 Planning for an Emergency
Location of Emergency Exits in the home: ___________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Home Security System Company Name: _____________________ Phone #: _____________________ Locations of fire extinguisher: ______________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Water Valve Location: ____________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Utility Company Phone #: _________________________ Electrical Panel Location: _________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Utility Company Phone #: _________________________ Gas Valve Location: ______________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Utility Company Phone #: _________________________ Floor Drain Location: ____________________________________ _______________________________________________________
Note: Please ensure these areas remain free from clutter so they can be easily accessed in the event of an emergency.
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6 6.3 Emergency Kit
6.3 Emergency Kit
It’s good to have access to an emergency kit in the event that you are without power for a period of time or you need to evacuate and may be without basic necessities for 72 hours. Below is a list of basic items that are recommended to include in an emergency kit. The emergency kit should be inside a backpack, suitcase or duffle bag; something that you can easily grab and transported if needed. Once you have made your emergency kit, store it in a safe place and indicate where it is located so that it can be known to others in case someone needs to access it.
Location of Emergency Kit: _______________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________
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6.3 Emergency Kit
Things to include in an Emergency Kit:
Bottles of water Non-perishable food ie. (canned food, granola bars, dried fruit) Manual can opener Flashlight (crank powered or have extra batteries on hand) Radio (crank powered or have extra batteries on hand) Spare phone charger Spare keys to the house and car Cash Copy of emergency phone contacts Prescription medication for yourself and/or pets Candles and matches or lighter Spare blanket Toiletries Whistle (in case you need to attract attention)
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6 6.4 Plan for Pets
6.4 Plan For Pets
In the event of an evacuation, some hotels and shelters do not accept pets, therefore you should have a plan in place of where to take them in case the home needs to be evacuated. Identify places that are pet friendly or boarding places your pet can go to outside of the city. Name: _____________________________________ Location: __________________________________ Phone #: ___________________________________ Name: _____________________________________ Location: __________________________________ Phone #: ___________________________________ Name: _____________________________________ Location: __________________________________ Phone #: ___________________________________
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7 Caregiver Resources
7 7.1 Caregiver Resources
7.1 Caregiver Resources
Caring for aging parents, family or friends can become life changing as you take on additional roles on top of all your current responsibilities. You may not realize the impact caregiving has had on your life, ignoring signs that could hinder your well-being. This section of the binder is dedicated to you as a caregiver. It is developed with the intent of supporting the needs of the caregiver by sharing resources and information that may be helpful when providing additional care, addressing your own needs as an individual and as a caregiver. The following tips will be described further through the section of the binder: 1.
Recognizing your difficult role: Often times, people in this roll don’t see themselves as caregivers, which contributes to why needs are not recognized and assistance is not obtained. Acknowledging the challenges of caregiving and understanding the importance of self-care, is a great start to finding the right supports for your needs.
2.
Don’t set high expectations for yourself: Caregiving can be an overwhelming job leaving you feeling tired and easily frustrated. You may make mistakes, get upset, or even feel like you need to do everything on your own. But, we are human! It is okay to make mistakes or get upset, and you don’t need to do everything on your own. Be easy on yourself and take one day at a time.
3.
Say YES to help: Make a list a of things that others can help you with and if someone offers to do something for you, let them help! Small things like cooking a meal, doing some laundry, or doing an activity with the person you are caring for, can allow you the opportunity to focus on your personal needs. 90
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7.1 Caregiver Resources
4.
Set boundaries: Don’t agree to host big family events or go on trips if it’s going to cause additional stress for you later on. Establish boundaries by saying no to these events or delegate someone else to plan or host.
5.
Stay organized: Using a calendar for events and appointments, shopping and to-do lists can help you stay on track from day to day.
6.
Connect with others: Look into helpful resources available in your community. Support groups are a great way to meet people who may be sharing the same experiences as you are. Other services like transportation, meal delivery and housekeeping can benefit both you and the person you are caring for.
7.
Avoid isolating yourself: Look into community drop in centres for activities you can participate in, make time for hobbies that you enjoy and schedule visits with your family and friends.
8.
Make time for you: Ensure you are getting the proper rest and physical activity needed, and seek help for you own health and well-being.
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9.
Take advantage of respite care: Short term relief can be provided by PSWs in your home or arrangements can be made within a facility to help give you a break and reduce the risk of burnout.
10.
Use industry resources: Connect with a local community support agency and speak to someone who can help find resources that are available to you.
*Source: http://carf.org/family-caregiver-burnout/
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7 7.2 Services For the Caregiver
7.2 Services For The Caregiver
Did you know that North York Seniors Centre (NYSC) provides the following services to caregivers and clients residing in North York and York Region: Information and Referral: Case coordinators provide support to seniors and adults with physical disabilities through crisis intervention, referral to services and community-based resources. They help by addressing concerns like: Safety Housing options Finances Completing forms Home Support: Certified and friendly personal support workers (PSWs) provide services to help seniors and homebound and isolated adults live safely and independently in their homes. Personal care services include: Bathing Toileting Light housekeeping Meal preparation Grocery shopping Escorting clients to appointments Respite Care: Temporary, short term relief for the caregiver provided by PSWs. In-Hospital: Personal care services are also available for clients during a hospital stay. 93
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7.1 Caregiver Resources
Transportation: Courteous and professional drivers provide safe, comfortable rides for seniors. Rides are available to and from: Medical appointments Adult day programs Social gatherings Shopping Running errands Caregiver Support Groups: Various support groups are offered to help caregivers cope with the day-to-day stress related to the provision of care to a senior. Day and evening support groups are facilitated by qualified staff members in a supportive setting. Assistance includes: Navigating community resources Learning relaxation techniques Meeting others who are in similar situations Social Club: Spend an afternoon with friends. The Social Club is for older adults who would benefit from social interaction, discussion, exercise and activities within a lightly structured environment. It is led by qualified staff in a safe and caring setting. Lunch is included. A Day Away Club: Provides clients an opportunity to spend a day in a safe and friendly environment under supervised care. It caters specifically to seniors who require assistance due to physical frailty or cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
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7.2 Services For The Caregiver
Activities at the A Day Away Club are tailored to the needs of clients and are provided by a team of trained and caring staff. Daily activities include: Arts Games Exercises Lively discussions Special events Lunch and snacks are included This program also allows caregivers an opportunity to continue to work, catch up on errands, attend to personal needs or take a much-deserved rest. The Active Living Centre (ALC): Provides educational and recreational programs, social opportunities and special services to adults 55 and older. The variety of activities and services helps seniors ease into and enjoy a retirement lifestyle by encouraging activity, well-being and social connections. Complete with a fitness centre, programs at the ALC include: Arts and crafts Exercise classes Health and wellness services Lifelong learning classes Multicultural social groups Recreation and leisure activities Special events Opportunities for travel The ALC also includes a café, offering a variety of meals at reasonable prices, and special health and wellness services.
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7.2 Services For The Caregiver
If you have questions or need more information about NYSC programs and services you can contact your case coordinator (you may also find your coordinator’s contact in the front page of this binder).
Case Coordinator Name: Position: Phone #: E-mail address:
If you are looking for services outside of what NYSC can provide or need access to specific health and social service information, you can contact the following organizations below: Ontario Caregiver Organization 416-362-CARE (2273) 1-833-416-2273 (This is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week) info@ontariocaregiver.ca The Live Chat is also available 7am – 9pm (Monday – Friday). Central Health-line 416-222-2241 1-888-470-2222 healthline.info@lhins.on.ca Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) 416-222-2241 1-888-470-2222 Hours of Operation: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. 7 days a week 96
7 7.3 Grocery and Meal Tips
7.3 Grocery and Meal Tips
Life in general can be busy; adding caregiving responsibilities can make the planning of nourishing meals challenging or seem impossible. This often leads to a quick bite to eat on the go that may not be the healthiest option. It is important to maintain a well-balanced diet so that you have the energy needed to accomplish the day. This section offers some tips and additional resources on how to maintain a balanced diet while you are on the go. Meal Planning and Preparation Using the template provided at the end of this section, plan out a few meals that you can rotate through on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Include the ingredients for each meal on the template so that you know what needs to be picked up while at the store. Think of things that can easily be reheated the next day or can be made in large batches so it can last for a few meals throughout the week. Home Delivered Meals/Grocery Pickup Services These services provide fresh or frozen prepared meals that get delivered to your door on a re-occurring basis. Many home delivery meals can often accommodate cultural specific diets and some dietary restrictions. Grocery pick up and delivery services allow you to order your groceries from the comfort of your own home and allow you to select a pick up time that is convenient for you. Some local home delivery and grocery pick up options are listed at the end of this section. Pre-made snacks Having snacks prepared and ready to go is a good way of ensuring healthier choices, instead of grabbing something quick at the drive-thru. These can include:
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7.3 Grocery and Meal Tips
Cut up fruits and veggies Mixing nuts and dried fruits together for a trail mix Homemade protein balls/bars by mixing oats, nut butter, chocolate chips/raisins and adding some honey or maple syrup to sweeten These will ensure you have the energy you need to keep going if you haven’t had the time to stop and make yourself a meal. Smoothies Smoothies are a great way to get a serving of fruits and veggies on the go and can be whipped up quickly and easily. Some things to include are: Fruits like berries and bananas Green veggies like kale and spinach Avocados Nut butters like peanut, almond or cashew Milk or dairy free alternatives like almond or coconut milk Protein powders Make extra and keep it in the fridge for later or freeze it for a later day. Choosing healthier fast food options Sometimes planning healthy meals and snacks a head of time isn’t always possible. In those instances where you find yourself heading to the local drive-thru, ask for: Egg whites Have grilled chicken instead of crispy Ask for lettuce leaves instead of using a bun Choose water over soft drinks.
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7 7.4 Home Meal Delivery/Grocery Pick Up Providers
7.4 Home Meal Delivery/Grocery Pick Up Providers
Meals on Wheels (Servicing North York Area) 416-225-6041 info@mowam.ca http://www.mealsonwheelsandmore.ca/ Meals on Wheels at CHATS (Servicing York Region) (905)713-6596 1-877-452-4287 seniorshelp@chats.on.ca Hello Fresh Pre-portioned recipes and ingredients delivered weekly. https://www.hellofresh.ca Chef’s Plate Pre-portioned recipes and ingredients delivered weekly. 1 (855) 420 2327 https://www.chefsplate.com hello@chefsplate.com Walmart Grocery Delivery and Pickup Order your groceries online and have them delivered to your home or picked on when convenient for you. 1-800-328-0402 https://www.walmart.ca/en/grocery/
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7.4 Home Meal Delivery/Grocery Pick Up Providers
PC Express (Loblaws and Superstore) Order your groceries online. Several pick up and delivery options are available. https://pcexpress.ca 1-844-295-8219 help@pcexpress.ca Grocery Gateway by Longos Order your groceries online and have the them delivered to your home or pick up when it’s convenient for you. https://www.grocerygateway.com/ 1-877-447-8778 customerresponse@grocerygateway.com * (Refer to: Meal Plan Template)
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7 7.5 Self Care
7.5 Self Care
When caring for someone, making time for your own physical, mental and emotional well-being becomes your last priority. Finding time is challenging, obtaining enough energy at the end of the day is a struggle, and having resources available seems impossible. The next few pages are aimed to: Assist you with self-care by promoting effortless actions throughout your busy day. Maintaining physical activity while completing your day to day tasks. Keeping you informed on topics of interest while on the move.
* (Refer to: Self care folder information)
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7.6 Financial Resources
7.6 Financial Resources
The cost of caregiving can be unpredictable, especially when unexpected situations arise. You and your loved one could be eligible for the following caregiver benefits, tax credits and veteran benefits through the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Federal benefits and tax credits you could be eligible for: Employment Insurance Compassionate Care Benefits Employment Insurance Family Caregiver Benefit for Children Employment Insurance Family Caregiver Benefit for Adults Child Disability Benefit (CDB) Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Employer benefits and assistance for caregivers Employers benefits and pensions Family Caregiver Amount Tax Credit Medical Expenses Tax Credit Disability Amount Tax Credit Transfer For more information on federal benefits and tax credits, please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/caring-so meone-ill/tax-credit-caregiver.html or talk to your accountant. Provincial benefits and tax credits you could be eligible for: Medical: Reduced Co-payment for Lower Income Seniors Medical: Trillium Drug Program Medical: ODB: Ontario Drug Benefit Program Income: Provincial Land Tax Deferral Program for Low-Income Seniors and Low-Income Persons with Disabilities Income: Ontario Electricity Support Program Public Transit: Ontario Seniors’ Public Transit Tax Credit Homes and vehicles: Home and Vehicle Modification Program Homes: Ontario Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant 102
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7.6 Financial Resources
For more information on provincial benefits and tax credits, please visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/seniors-manage-your-finances or talk to you accountant. Municipal initiatives: Ontario Renovates – provides forgivable loans to eligible low-income homeowners and landlords to make necessary repairs to home or units to increase accessibility and create affordable rental housing or single-family homes. Property Tax Relief for Low-Income Seniors and Low-Income Persons with Disabilities – provides relief from property tax increases that result from assessment reform for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who own residential property. To find out more, contact your local municipal office or visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/list-ontario-municipalities Pensions and benefits for veterans: Ontario’s Soldiers’ Aid Commission - provides assistance to Canadian veterans who served overseas and their dependents living in Ontario. The assistance is provided on a one-time basis to resolve a specific problem when all other resources have been exhausted. It does not support ongoing needs related to income deficiencies. Funds may be granted to assist with buying: Health-related items like hearing aids, glasses, prescription drugs or dental needs. Home-related items like rent, repairs, moving costs, furniture, repair/replacement of roof and furnace. Specialized equipment like assistive devices, wheelchairs and prosthetics. Personal items like clothing and specialized support services. 103
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7.6 Financial Resources
For more information on Ontario’s Soldiers’ Aid Commission, contact: Royal Canadian Legion Toll Free: 1-888-207-0939 Phone: 905-841-7999 https://www.on.legion.ca Email: info@on.legion.ca Veterans Affairs Canada - Offers a range of services and benefits to eligible veterans and others. The benefits are available for conditions related to service in the Merchant Navy, Canadian Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or those serving in support of the Canadian Forces in wartime or in Special Duty/Operational Areas. You may be eligible to apply for: Disability pensions The Disability Award Benefits for survivors of disability pension recipients The War Veterans Allowance is available to eligible low-income veterans of the Second World War or Korean War. Surviving spouses, common law partners and orphans may qualify for this allowance if the deceased veteran had the required war service. For more information, contact: Veterans Affairs Canada 1-866-522-2122 https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng vac.information.acc@canada.ca
If you do not have access to the internet and are interested in learning more about any of the financial resources listed above, please contact your case coordinator at the beginning of this binder to help you get the information you need. 104
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7.7 Wills and Power of Attorney (POA)
7.7 Wills and Power of Attorney (POA)
It is never too early to plan for the future. It’s important that you and the person you are caring for are well protected and taken care of, in the event that anything should happen. It is best to seek legal advice from a lawyer in preparing your legal documents and appointing someone to take on the responsibility of decision making and assets in the event that you can no longer do so. The following are types of decision making options: A Will - A legal document that outlines how you want your property and assets distributed. Substitute Decision Maker - Someone you assign to make decisions on your behalf if you are not mentally capable to do so. Power of Attorney (POA) Document - A legal document that gives someone else permission to act on your behalf to make decisions when you are not in a capacity to do so. Estate Planning - the transfer of someone’s assets after they have died. If you already have these important documents in place, it’s best to review them at least every 3 years or after an important milestone such as a move, financial change or death. The following resources provide more detailed information regarding future planning and legal documents: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/family/pgt/index.php https://www.ontario.ca/page/seniors-plan-for-the-future
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7.7 Wills and Power of Attorney (POA)
If you do not have a lawyer and wish to inquire about a will or other legal documents, you can speak with a lawyer at North York Seniors
Centre by booking an appointment with reception at 416-733-4111.
Included in this section is a Substitution Decision Maker Wallet card. When filled out, if an unforeseen emergency happens to you or the person you are caring for, and emergency personnel find you, they may look for this document and it will assist them in finding the person who can make decisions on your behalf. * (Refer to: Substitute Decision Making Card)
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7.8 Understanding Yo u r M e d i c a t i o n
7.8 U n d e r s t a n d i n g Yo u r M e d i c a t i o n
While it’s important for you and the person you are caring for to take your medication as prescribed, it is also just as important to understand the purpose of the medication you are taking. Do you know the names of your medications and why you are taking them? Do you know how to read the labels on the bottles? It is best to speak to your doctor, when the following questions arise: What is the name of the medication and why am I taking this? Is there a generic version? What are the side affects? What happens if I miss a dose? How often should I be taking it? When should I start seeing results? If I don’t see any positive results, can I stop taking the medication? Is this medication safe to take with current medications? Should I avoid any foods or activities while taking this medication? knowledgeisthebestmedicine.org is a Canadian website that offers helpful tips about your medication, allows you to create your own medical record online and a wallet card for which can be printed off for your records and wallet. They also offer a free app called MyMedRec that tracks your medications and immunizations, gives dose/refill reminders, gives you the ability to email your health care team to keep them up-to-date, allowing you to log both information pertaining to you and the person you are caring for. This app is available on all apple, android and blackberry devices. More helpful tips around medication can be found on the Understanding your Medication handout at the back of this section. * (Refer to: Understanding Your Medication Handout)
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7.9 Preparing For Home After Hospital Discharge
7.9 Preparing for Home After Hospital Discharge
Bringing your loved one home from the hospital can be overwhelming, and leave you unprepared if supports need to be increased. You may be eligible for additional help during the transition home for a short period of time, but this will become your responsibility eventually. You may not think of it now, but the reality is you may need to take on additional tasks on top of what you are already responsible for, like: bathing/showers lifts and transfer wound care changing incontinence pads or briefs Would you be prepared to do this? Prior to discharge, it is important to speak with the doctor and nurse about what to expect when your loved one is sent home. Do not leave the hospital until you have spoken to the discharge planner to see if you qualify for OHIP covered home support. If you go home before setting anything up, you and the person you are caring for may no longer be eligible for home support service.
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7.9 Preparing for Home After Hospital Discharge
Questions to ask before I leave the hospital: Do I feel comfortable taking care of my loved one on my own? Did anyone check with me to see if I was ready for my loved one to come home? Are there certain tasks that I may be uncomfortable doing (ie. bathing, changing a diaper)? Did anyone check with my loved one to see how they felt about coming home? Do I understand everything they have communicated to me? Was I able to express any of my own concerns and have my questions answered? Do I understand my loved one’s diagnosis and prognosis? Should I expect to see any changes with my loved one? Are they able to resume work and/or regular activities? Will my loved one need any supports once home (ie. bathing, nursing, physiotherapy). For how long? Who do I contact? How is the cost covered? Will they need any equipment? (ie. grab bars, wheelchair, hoyer lift). For how long? Who do I contact? How is the cost covered? Who do I call if I have questions or concerns once we are home? Who can I contact if I need help for myself? Are there any support groups or counselling services available to me?
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7.9 Preparing for Home After Hospital Discharge
Take notes and get as much information from the professionals that you can and remember, if help is offered to you, take it! Notes:
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7.10 Emergency Preparedness
7.10 Emergency Preparedness
As mentioned in section 6, it’s really important to prepare and have a plan in case of a natural disaster. This is especially true, if you or your loved one have mobility issues, chronic health issues or live in an area that isn’t easily accessible. Section 6 gave a brief overview of the things to consider and what to include when putting an emergency plan in place. However, the following resources through the provincial, federal and local governments, provide more information on how to prepare for emergencies. These include plans that can be completed through a pre-made template (see attached document) or a digital format which can be filled out and printed off. That format can be accessed here: https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/plns/mk-pln-en.aspx If you live in Toronto: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/public-safety-alerts/ emergency-preparedness/ If you live in a Toronto Community Housing building, you should familiarize yourself with their guidelines here: https://www.torontohousing.ca/residents/your-safety/emergency-preparedness/ Pages/Get-prepared.aspx If You live in York Region: https://www.york.ca/wps/portal/yorkhome/yorkregion/yr/emergencies/ emergencymanagement https://www.emergencymanagementontario.ca/english/beprepared/ beprepared.html http://www.ibc.ca/on/home/emergency-preparedness If you do not have access to the internet and are interested in learning more about any of the financial resources listed above, please contact your case coordinator at the beginning of this binder to help you get the information you need. * (Refer to: Ontario Seniors: How to be Prepared for an Emergency document, Emergency Preparedness for Pets document, and Save My Pet Poster) 110
Resources
8 Resources
* WEEKLY Meal PLANNER Monday
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* WEEKLY Meal PLANNER Monday
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* WEEKLY Meal PLANNER Monday
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* WEEKLY Meal PLANNER Monday
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* WEEKLY Meal PLANNER Monday
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* Self Care Folder Information
* Applications Available To Promote & Assist Self-Care
HEADSPACE APP: Say hello to Headspace Founded in 2010 by Rich Pierson and Andy Puddicombe, Headspace was created with one mission: to improve the health and happiness of the world. And with more than 30 million users in over 190 countries, we’re well on our way. Headspace offers hundreds of guided meditations and exercises on everything from stress to sleep and is consistently among the top-ranked Health & Fitness apps on iTunes and the Google Play Store.
* Applications Available To Promote & Assist Self-Care CAREGIVER STORYTELLER PODCAST: Caregiver/Storyteller is a storytelling podcast about Alzheimer's and dementia caregiving. Every caregiver has a story to tell. Chris Doucette interviews caregivers to learn how they became caregivers, the ups and downs of their journey, and how they've changed as a result. Other podcasts teach. Through confessional storytelling, Caregiver/Storyteller helps listeners understand the first-person reality of what caregiving is actually like. While all caregiving stories convey a sense of loss, there is also a surprising amount of fortitude, loyalty, gratitude, joy, and humor. These are their stories. Music by Ravi Krishnaswami at COPILOT Music and Sound.
BALANCE APP: We are living in a time when mobile phones and tablets are information hubs for everyday life. Need help? There’s an app for that. When it comes to caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, the latest in technology is a welcome friend to manage a stressful and often chaotic time. And when there are multiple caregivers in a family, often living many miles apart, it is even more important to communicate any time, anywhere in real time. A newly redesigned app by the National Alzheimer Center (NAC) and CaringKind is an ideal tool to help caregivers manage the complexity of caring for a loved one with the disease. Whether tracking changes in behavior or managing multiple doctors’ appointments, the Balance app easily organizes information and serves as a resource.
* Applications Available To Promote & Assist Self-Care
HAPPY HEALTHY CAREGIVER PODCAST: Caring for aging parents or other loved ones while working, raising children, and trying to live your own life? Wondering how to find the time for your personal health & happiness? Welcome to the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast. The show where real family caregivers share how to be happy and healthy while caring for others. Host and Certified Caregiving Consultant, Elizabeth Miller shares her stories and content and also talks with others who are either current or former family caregivers. Real people who are figuring out how to integrate caregiving with their lives and ready to share what they have learned with you. On Apple Podcast or
www.happyhealthycaregiver.com/podcast/
* Substitute Decision Making Card Your Substitute Decision-Maker Wallet Card 1. Cut along dotted line 2. Fill out the necessary information 3. Carry your wallet card with you at all times
Name:
Complete Reverse Side.
Date:
This wallet card is NOT a Power of Attorney for Personal Care.
In planning for possible incapacity to make my own health care decisions I have identified the following:
Keep this card in your wallet.
I have completed a Power of Attorney for Personal Care and have appointed this person to be my SDM:
Substitute Decision-Maker (SDM) Contact Information
Name and contact telephone number 2. Fold here
I do not have a Power of Attorney for Personal Care and understand that the heath care provider would be obliged to contact my representative or highestranking available family member who is:
I do not have a Power of Attorney for Personal Care and have no family available to act as my SDM. A contact who is aware of my wishes would be: Name and contact telephone number
1. Fold here
Name and contact telephone number
Health Practitioners should consider this only as a guide when determining SDMs under Ontario’s rules for consent to treatment. “A Guide to Advance Care Planning” is available at www.ontario.ca/seniors or by calling 1-888-910-1999.
*Understanding Your Medication The following information is based on resources from the “Knowledge is the Best Medicine” website – an online resource for information to help you keep track of your medication at home. Please visit www.knowledgeisthebestmedicine.org for more information.
Types of Medication: • Prescription medicines – such as antibiotics, blood pressure and other medicines which are obtained with a prescription • Over the counter medicines (OTCs) – such as allergy medicines, cough and cold medicines • Vitamins and minerals • Natural health products – such as herbals, homeopathic medicines • Traditional medicines – which could cultures or countries
Helpful Tips about Your Medication • It is best to take your medicines according to the directions on the label. • If directed, take your medicines at the same time each day (e.g., with breakfast, at bedtime, etc.).
• Do not expect a new prescription every time you visit your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. • Use the same pharmacy for all of your prescriptions.
• If you forget to take your medicine, do not assume you can double the dose, call your pharmacist for information on the best course of action.
• Before you use an over-the-counter medicine or natural health product, make sure it is safe to use with your prescription medicines.
• Take your medicine for the full length of time you were instructed, even if you start to feel better.
• Tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse if you have any allergies or have had a reaction to medications in the past.
• Do not share your prescription medicines with anyone and do not take anyone else’s prescription medicines.
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* Understanding Your Medication Understanding How and When to Take Your Medication If you are unable to give yourself a required medication, a nurse may help you. Medications have different ways they need to be taken in order to work properly. Not all of these can be done at home or without special training. understand how to take your medication.
Dose: How much medication you take. Only the dose stated in the prescription or instructions should be taken.
Route: The way you take your medication. • Oral route: swallowed by mouth as a pill, liquid, tablet or lozenge • Rectal route: inserted into the rectum • Intravenous route: injected into vein with a syringe or into intravenous (IV) line • Infusion: injected into a vein with an IV line and slowly dripped in over time • Intramuscular route: injected into muscle through skin with a syringe • Topical route: applied to skin • Enteric: delivered directly into the stomach with a G-tube or J-tube • Nasal: sprays or pumps that deliver drug into the nose • Inhaled: inhaled through a tube or mask (e.g. lung medications) • Otic: drops into the ear • Ophthalmic: drops, gel or ointment for the eye • Sublingual: under the tongue • Buccal: held inside the cheek • Transdermal: a patch on the skin • Subcutaneous: injected just under the skin
Frequency: How often you need to take your medication. Timing of medication is very important. Some medications need to reach a consistent level in your bloodstream in order to be effective. This means that your medications need to be taken at the right times to keep that level of drug in your system so it works the way it is intended.
Hold or d/c: If a medication is on “hold,” you should not take it again until your doctor or pharmacist tells you. Medications can be put on hold if it could interact with another, new medication you are on, and put you at risk. D/C means the medication has been discontinued, and you should no longer take it.
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* Understanding Your Medication The Best Ways to Store Your Medication • Store your medicines in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Heat and moisture (e.g., storage in the bathroom) can damage certain medicines.
• To reduce the risk your medications being stolen (especially narcotics), store them in a safe place
• It is a good idea to clean out your medicine • Keep medicines away from children cabinet once a year, and take outdated and pets. Store them in a place where they ones to your pharmacy for disposal. cannot see or reach them. • Gather any medicines that are expired, are
• Only store your medicines in the refrigerator if instructed to do so
• Do not use your medicines after the expiry date has passed
no longer needed, are not in their original container or have labels that are no longer clear, and return them to your pharmacy.
Tips for Taking Your Medication from a Pharmacist • If you take more than one medicine, use daily or weekly pill containers to help remind you when to take the medicine. • If you have trouble opening the pill bottles, ask your pharmacy to put your medicine in a bottle with an “easy open” lid. • If you have trouble reading the prescription label, ask the pharmacist to use large print on the labels. •
are able to chew or crush it.
comes in a liquid form, or if you
• Try to use the same pharmacy for all of your medicines so they will have all your records and can check for drug interactions with each prescription. •
the last time, if it doesn’t, ask your pharmacist.
• If other people in your family are taking medicines, use a marker to highlight the person’s name on each bottle or store them in different locations. • Read the patient information sheets you receive when you pick up your prescription from the pharmacy. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
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The Information in Your Prescription It is a good idea to make sure that you can read and understand what is written on your prescription before you leave your doctor’s appointment or pharmacy. You should know which medicine you are being prescribed and how you are supposed to take it. for when to take your medicine. BID - twice a day TID - three times a day QID - four times a day HS - at bedtime Q4H - every 4 hours
Q12H - every 12 hours QAM - every morning PO - by mouth PRN - as needed UD - as directed
SL - under the tongue ung - ointment ac - before meals pc - after meals STAT - right away
Parts of a Prescription Label There is important information on a prescription label. Knowing what the information means can help you know which medicine you are taking and how to take it properly. The look of the label will depend on which pharmacy you use. In general, your label will contain the following information.
A= Pharmacy Name
F= Form of medication given to you
B= Prescription Number (this refers to your personal prescription)
G=
C= Directions on how to take the medication D= Generic medication name E= How much medication is being given to you in total *
H= Name of medication from manufacturer I= Name of person who prescribed medicine J= Abbreviation for drug manufacturer name K= y Health Canada to a
dosage form in Canada and is located on the label of prescription and over-the-counter drug products that have been evaluated and authorized for sale in Canada. 4
* Understanding Your Medication Meaning of the Extra Stickers on Your Medication Containers Here is a list of commonly used auxiliary labels and stickers found on medication, and an explanation of what they mean. These stickers are used to remind you of important information about your medicines. Take with food - Take medication with a meal or a snack. Food can help certain medications be absorbed into the body better or taking medications with food can help prevent side effects like stomach upset and nausea. Do not chew or crush. Swallow them whole. Some tablets and capsules have a protective coating that allows the medication to be released slowly. Crushing or chewing the protective coating will destroy it and all of the medication will be released at once, which can be harmful. Do not drink milk or eat dairy products. Calcium, antacids and iron can lessen the amount some medications are absorbed into the body. To avoid this, take your medication at least one hour before or after these products. Dairy products and multivitamins contain calcium. Iron supplements, multivitamins and certain foods can contain iron. Do not eat grapefruit. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications, affecting the level of medication in your body. While you are on these medications, it is best to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice. Finish all this medication. For some prescription, especially for antibiotics.
May cause drowsiness. Some medications can cause drowsiness and may make driving a car or working with heavy machinery dangerous. Alcohol can make these effects worse. 5
* Understanding Your Medication Medication should be taken with plenty of water. Drink at least a full glass of water with medication or right after taking it. Water can help the medication be absorbed into the body and can help prevent side effects like irritation to the throat. Rinse mouth thoroughly after each use. When using an inhaler, not all of the medication particles are inhaled directly into the lungs, even if the correct technique for inhaling is used. Some of the medication particles can remain in the mouth and throat. With certain inhalers, this can result in an oral thrush infection. Rinsing your mouth after each use will help to prevent this from happening. Certain medications may alter the effectiveness of birth control pills. Some medications can lessen the effectiveness of your birth control pill. A back up method of birth control should be used. Consult with your pharmacist, physician or nurse for more a more detailed explanation, including how long back up birth control is necessary. Take medication on an empty stomach. Some medications are better absorbed into the body when taken on an empty stomach. It is recommended to take these medications at least one hour before or two hours after eating.
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* Ontario Seniors: How to be Prepared for an Emergency
The people of Ontario have faced all kinds of emergencies, from ice storms and power outages to tornadoes and industrial accidents. We will face more in the future.
Step 1 — Make a Plan In an emergency, you may not have access to everyday conveniences, and you may be asked to evacuate your home. Thinking about what you would do is the first step to being prepared.
Emergencies can strike at any time, and being prepared is critical since it can take time for help to arrive. Your Plan Should Include Everyone should have an emergency • Two safe locations in case you have to plan and a kit to take care of leave your home. One should be nearby, themselves for at least three days. such as a local library or community Your emergency plan should reflect centre. The other one should be farther your personal circumstances and away, outside your neighbourhood, in unique needs. case the emergency affects a large area. • A family communication plan. During an How to Use This Guide emergency, local telephone lines and networks may not work. Identify one or two out-ofThis part of the guide contains town contacts you and your loved ones can information to help you prepare call to connect and share information. an emergency plan and a three-day • A list of the people inyour personalsupport survival kit. The second part is a network. This includes all the people who will form you can fill out with important be able to help when you need it. Consider information for an emergency. including family members, neighbours, and health-care and personal support workers.
Ontario.ca/beprepared ● 1-877-314-3723 | 416-314-3723
ONTARIO SENIORS’ SECRETARIAT
* Ontario Seniors: How to be Prepared for an Emergency
Step 1 — Make a Plan Planning Tips Contact serviceproviders. If someone in your home gets routine treatment outside the home or support services at home, work with the service provider on a back-up plan. Have a buddy. Consider giving an extra set of keys to someone you trust and let them know where you keep your emergency kit. Arrange for that person to check on you during an emergency. Be ready to evacuate.Plan how you would travel to a safe location if evacuation was advised. Have an emergency survival kit ready (see Step 2). Plan for your pet(s). Often, only service animals are allowed at reception centres. If possible, identify someone who can take your pet(s) if you have to leave your home. Consider your living situation. Do you live in an isolated community? In a high-rise? Do you or someone you live with have limited mobility? Be familiar with evacuation plans, and talk to your building manager or neighbours to make special arrangements, if necessary.
When Your Plan Is Ready
Other Tips
• Discuss your plan with family and friends • Contact your local municipal so they know what you would do. to find out what phone number to • Teach others aboutany special use to get more information during needs, such as how to use medical an emergency (211, 311 or other). equipment or administer medicine. Also ask if they have a registry for • Practice your plan with those “vulnerable persons” and whether you who have agreed to be part of your should sign up. Use 911only when personal support network. someone needs help right away to • Be aware and follow instructions. Stay protect their health, safety or property. tuned to the news before and during • Sign up for alerts. You can sign up an emergency. Follow the advice of online for free emergency alerts sent by first responders and officials. email or text message. Visit Ontario.ca/beprepared and follow the links. Ontario.ca/beprepared ● 1-877-314-3723 | 416-314-3723
ONTARIO SENIORS’ SECRETARIAT
Step 2 — Build an Emergency Kit
Your emergency survival kit should have everything you need to be safe and take care of yourself for at least three days. These checklists outline all the essentials, items to meet your unique needs, and items to have ready in case you have to leave your home.
What to Put in Your Survival Kit Special Considerations
Essentials • Food (non-perishable and easy-to-prepare items, enough for 3 days) and can opener • Water (4 litres per person for each day) • Medication(s) • Flashlight • Radio (crank or battery-run) • Extra batteries • First-aid kit • Hand sanitizer or moist towelettes • Important papers (identification, contact lists, copies of prescriptions, etc.) • Extra car keys and cash • Whistle (to attract attention if needed)
• Medical supplies and equipment (cane, walker, hearing aid and batteries, breathing device, etc.) • Prescription eyewear and footwear • Dentures and supplies • Pet food and supplies Extra Supplies for Evacuation • Clothes, shoes • Sleeping bag or blanket • Personal items (soap, toothpaste, other toiletries) • Playing cards or travel game
* Ontario Seniors: How to be Prepared for an Emergency Ontario.ca/beprepared ● 1-877-314-3723 | 416-314-3723
ONTARIO SENIORS’ SECRETARIAT
Step 2 — Build an Emergency Kit
Other Tips • Place all these items in an easy-to-carry bag or case on wheels. • Keep your emergency survival kit in a place that is easy to reach. • Keep your cell phone or mobile device fully charged.
* Ontario Seniors: How to be Prepared for an Emergency
For more information on preparing for emergencies: 1-877-3 14-3723 | 416-314-3723
AskEMO@Ontario.ca Ontario.ca/beprepared
Ontario.ca/beprepared ● 1-877-314-3723 | 416-314-3723
ONTARIO SENIORS’ SECRETARIAT
Information for my Emergency Plan Fill out this sheet and keep in a location where you and others can find it. Update it as needed. Keep a copy in your emergency survival kit. Share the information with key members of your support network.
My Support Network List the people who already assist you and others who could help you in an emergency: doctors, pharmacists, personal support workers, in-home health-care workers (including back-up providers), as well as family members, friends and neighbours. Name
Organization or Relationship
Contact Number(s)
Notes
My Safe Locations In an emergency, you may need to leave your home. List two locations you would go to, one close, the other one farther away. Some examples include a local library, place of worship, or community centre. Location #1 & Address Location #2 & Address
Location of my Emergency Survival Kit Make a note of where your kit is stored, so others can find it easily if they are assisting you. Location of my Emergency Survival Kit
Ontario.ca/beprepared ● 1-877-314-3723 | 416-314-3723
ONTARIO SENIORS’ SECRETARIAT
My Family Communication Plan In emergencies, local telephone and email networks can be affected. Identify someone outside your town/city whom you and other family members can contact to connect and share information. If an out-of-town choice is not available, consider a community or cultural centre. Name
Contact information (phone, email)
Contact Name #1 Contact Name #2
Important Medical Information For each person in your household, note any medical conditions and special needs, as well as medications and devices. Occupant name
Occupant Name
Medical Conditions / Allergies / Special Needs
Medication or Device
Notes
Notes (where supply is stored, batteries, other necessary instructions)
Doctor & contact number
*Emergency Preparedness for Pets
* Save My Pet Poster
* Healthy Meal Recipes for Caregivers and Their Loved Ones Being a caregiver is not an easy job as many caregivers find it hard to take care of themselves and their loved ones and also prepare simple meals. Being faced with the challenges of caregiving, caregivers can be faced with challenges of eating healthy as there is not enough time in the day to prepare these simple and healthy meals. Here are some simple and health recipes to help you and your loved one reduce the risks of a host of diseases and conditions and have full control of your health to stay healthy.
Breakfasts Best Oven Baked French Toast www.allrecipes.com/recipe/221259/best-oven-baked-french-toast/ Ingredients ● ½ cup butter, melted ● ¾ cup brown sugar ● 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon ● 12 slices sandwich bread ● 6 eggs ● ½ cup milk ● 1 pinch salt Directions Step 1 ● Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Spread any remaining melted butter over bottom of dish. Step 2 ● Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over melted butter. Step 3 ● Arrange bread in two layers over brown sugar mixture. Step 4 ● Beat eggs, milk, and salt in a bowl; pour over bread.
Step 5 ● Cover and refrigerate overnight. Step 6 ● Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Step 7 ● Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 343 calories; protein 8.3g 17% DV; carbohydrates 40.9g 13% DV; fat 16.8g 26% DV; cholesterol 171.2mg 57% DV; sodium 421.1mg 17% DV. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scrambled Egg Muffins www.allrecipes.com/recipe/222586/scrambled-egg-muffins/ These scrambled egg muffins with plenty of sausage and Cheddar cheese make a filling and fun treat at your next brunch. They're pretty, hearty, and fun to serve. Ingredients
● ½ pound bulk pork sausage ● 12 eggs ● ½ cup chopped onion ● ½ cup chopped green bell pepper, or to taste ● ½ teaspoon salt ● ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper ● ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ● ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions Step 1 ● Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease 12 muffin cups, or line with paper muffin liners. Step 2 ● Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and stir in sausage; cook and stir until sausage is crumbly, evenly browned, and no longer pink, 10 to 15 minutes; drain.
Step 3 ● Beat eggs in a large bowl. Stir in onion, green pepper, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix in sausage and Cheddar cheese. Spoon by 1/3 cupfuls into muffin cups. Step 4 ● Bake in preheated oven until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 143 calories; protein 10.2g 20% DV; carbohydrates 1.6g 1% DV; fat 10.6g 16% DV; cholesterol 201.7mg 67% DV; sodium 364.8mg 15% DV. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soups Homemade Creamy Vegetable Soup www.myfoodstory.com/homemade-creamy-vegetable-soup-recipe/ Ingredients ● 2 tablespoons Butter ● 1 tablespoon Olive Oil ● ½ cup Onions chopped ● ½ cup Celery chopped ● 1 cup Carrots chopped ● 1 tablespoon Garlic minced ● 1 cup Green Beans chopped ● 1 cup Mushrooms sliced ● 1 cup Broccoli Florets ● 1 cup Corn Kernels ● 1 teaspoon Thyme dried ● 1 teaspoon Oregano dried ● 3 tablespoons All Purpose Flour ● 4 cups Whole Milk ● Salt and Pepper to taste Directions Step one ● Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet and add onions, celery and carrots. Cook for a few minutes till the onions soften, making sure not to brown them. Add the garlic, beans, mushrooms, broccoli and corn and saute for 2-3 minutes. Mix in the thyme and oregano and add the flour.
Step Two ● Add the flour along with thyme and oregano and cook the flour with veggies for a minute and a half. Add the whole milk slowly, while stirring continuously. Keep stirring while you bring this to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Step Three ● Add salt and pepper and let everything simmer for 6-7 minutes or till the soup thickens. Add a little broth or more milk to thin it out if its too thick for you. Serve hot. Notes
● You can use pre-cut or frozen veggies to make this soup even faster ● Feel free to add half & half or cream if you prefer, in combination with the milk ● For a non vegetarian option, add some cooked chicken, ham or shrimp towards the end ● To make this into a meal, you can also add cooked pasta to the soup
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Rich and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13113/rich-and-creamy-tomato-basil-soup/ The secret to the richness of this soup is to use real butter, fresh basil leaves, and heavy cream. Please do not substitute, or you will not have the same high quality end result. Ingredients ● 4 tomatoes - peeled, seeded and diced ● 4 cups tomato juice ● 14 leaves fresh basil ● 1 cup heavy whipping cream ● ½ cup butter ● salt and pepper to taste Directions Step 1 ● Place tomatoes and juice in a stock pot over medium heat. Simmer for 30 minutes. Puree the tomato mixture along with the basil leaves, and return the puree to the stock pot. Step 2 ● Place the pot over medium heat, and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Heat, stirring until the butter is melted. Do not boil. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 473 calories; protein 4.4g 9% DV; carbohydrates 16.8g 5% DV; fat 45.4g 70% DV; cholesterol 142.5mg 48% DV; sodium 216.6mg 9% DV.
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Salads Green Bean and Potato Salad www.allrecipes.com/recipe/83637/green-bean-and-potato-salad/ A twist on potato salad. Green beans and potatoes are served in a Dijon mustard and balsamic vinaigrette. Ingredients ● 1 ½ pounds red potatoes ● ¾ pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped ● ¼ cup chopped fresh basil ● 1 small red onion, chopped ● salt and pepper to taste ● ¼ cup balsamic vinegar ● 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard ● 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ● 1 clove garlic, minced ● 1 dash Worcestershire sauce ● ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Directions Step 1 ● Place the potatoes in a large pot, and fill with about 1 inch of water. Bring to a boil, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Throw in the green beans to steam after the first 10 minutes. Drain, cool, and cut potatoes into quarters. Transfer to a large bowl, and toss with fresh basil, red onion, salt and pepper. Set aside. Step 2 ● In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce and olive oil. Pour over the salad, and stir to coat. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 176 calories; protein 1.9g 4% DV; carbohydrates 17.3g 6% DV; fat 11.3g 17% DV; sodium 97.3mg 4% DV. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Simple Herb Salad Mix www.allrecipes.com/recipe/247121/simple-herb-salad-mix/ Simple herb salad mix. You may add dried fruit, meats, dressings, and toppings to your liking. Store leftover greens in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. Ingredients ● 1 (5 ounce) bag mesclun lettuce salad mix ● 1 (5 ounce) package baby spinach ● 1 (5 ounce) package baby arugula ● 1 small head endive, sliced ● ¼ cup coarsely chopped parsley ● ¼ cup coarsely chopped dill ● ¼ cup coarsely chopped tarragon (Optional) Directions Step 1 ● Place mesclun lettuce, baby spinach, baby arugula, endive, parsley, dill, and tarragon in a large bowl; fold gently to mix together. Step 2 ● Transfer mixture to a a gallon-size resealable plastic bag and seal, pressing out as much air as possible to avoid condensation. Store in the refrigerator. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 35 calories; protein 3.2g 6% DV; carbohydrates 6g 2% DV; fat 0.6g 1% DV; sodium 57.6mg 2% DV. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorful Winter Fruit Salad You can add any type of fruit to this colorful winter salad. Nuts or dried fruits like cranberries go well with it, too. www.natashaskitchen.com/winter-fruit-salad-recipe/ Ingredients ● 2 red apples, cored and diced ● 2 pears, cored and diced ● 3 clementines, peeled and segmented ● 3 kiwifruit - peeled, sliced, and quartered ● 1 cup pomegranate seeds
Dressing ● 1 tablespoon honey ● 3 tablespoons lime juice ● 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint Directions Step 1 ● Combine apples, pears, clementines, kiwi, and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl. Whisk together honey, lime juice, and mint. Drizzle dressing over fruit and toss until well combined. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 142 calories; protein 1.5g 3% DV; carbohydrates 36.6g 12% DV; fat 0.6g 1% DV; sodium 4.5mg. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lunch Crispy Vegetable Turkey Wrap www.allrecipes.com/recipe/257912/crispy-vegetable-turkey-wrap/ The crunchy matchstick-cut colorful bell peppers are rolled in a tortilla with sliced turkey, chard, and sprouts for a fresh-tasting lunch wrap. Ingredients ● 3 ounces Oven Roasted Deli Turkey ● ¼ cup Swiss chard, chopped ● 3 sprigs daikon radish sprouts ● 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks ● 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into matchsticks ● 1 medium orange bell pepper, cut into matchsticks ● 1 (6 inch) whole grain tortilla or flatbread ● 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar ● 1 ½ teaspoons soy sauce ● 1 teaspoon honey ● salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions Step 1
● Lay tortilla on plate or flat surface.
Step 2 ● Layer Swiss chard, sprouts and pepper on tortilla. Step 3 ● Pile turkey evenly in center of wrap. Step 4 ● In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, honey, salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle over turkey. Step 5 ● Fold sides of tortilla to center. Fold bottom of tortilla up. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 295 calories; protein 22.5g 45% DV; carbohydrates 50.9g 16% DV; fat 2.9g 4% DV; cholesterol 38mg 13% DV; sodium 1472.8mg 59% DV. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References
References
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Kelly-Barton, C. (2017, September 20). CCAC Ontario: Community Care Access Centres. SeniorAdvisor.Com Blog. https://www.senioradvisor.com/blog/2015/09/ccac-ontario-community-care-access-centres/
Kind, C. (2021, March 17). Diversity Conference | Issue 1 2021. CaringKind - The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving. https://www.caringkindnyc.org/2021v1-p3/
Meditation and sleep - Headspace. (2021). Headspace. https://www.headspace.com/sleep/phone-before-bed
Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility. (2020, September 9). Aging well: Information for Seniors. Ontario.Ca. https://www.ontario.ca/page/information-seniors
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The Monday Campaigns. (2021, February 9). DeStress Monday. https://www.mondaycampaigns.org/destress-monday
S s i hari g n i r ng a C
PUBLISHED BY NORTH YORK SENIORS CENTRE Copyright 2020 North York Seniors Centre www.nyseniors.org Title: Caregivers’ Support Binder Creator: Jaime-Lynn Parker Authors/ Editors: Jaime-Lynn Parker, Ashley Case Text art, jacket, and art design by Camilo Andrew Sanchez