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Vol u m e 0 2 • Is s u e 01 • S p r ing 2 0 1 4
4868 Dundas St. W., Toronto (at Islington Ave.) 416-354-2220
IN THIS ISSUE Success in the Mail Follow Your Dream Elusive Sleep BIA Merchant Mingle Community Corner Living Longer Random Acts of Kindness Gardening Spring Cleaning Islington Ratepayers Memory for Music
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Community Spirit BIA volunteers pitch in Let’s Clean Toronto Event, 2013
Human Health, Wellness and Natural Systems within the Village of Islington By Peter Luciani
www.villageofislington.com
Our human health and wellness rely upon the quality, availability and distribution of key substances, such as air and water. These substances are generated through the continued vitality and service of cycles and processes of earth’s systems, in this case, the atmosphere and hydrosphere. How and where we live affects these systems, cycles and processes, and in turn, the substances which sustain us. Our choices and decisions such as: how often, when and where we drive versus walk to a destination; whether to reside within the city or suburbs; or where to shop – all have an evidenced and vast cumulative effect on natural systems. That being said, under the growing shift of the world’s population to urban areas or population centres (as termed in Canada); such areas/centres are where we live and ultimately both benefit from and affect natural systems. Accordingly, these areas are the logical geographic areas to examine, improve and provide solutions under the relationship between our health and wellness and the natural systems and services. The Village of Islington, within the City of Toronto, is one such population centre where the dynamics of this relationship exist and occur. Such centres hold more than 1,000 people above a density of 400people/km2 as defined by Statistics Canada, 2011. According to a 2013 research paper, “The Urban Opportunity: Enabling Transformative and Sustainable Development” by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network of the United Nations (UN) Secretary General, these centres possess a distinct opportunity to further sustain and improve human and natural system health and wellness. This advantage derives from the aforementioned growing urbanization of the world population. Under current trend, according to the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (2012), the urban world population is to reach 69% by 2050 from the current 52%. With this in mind, the Village, as a population centre, affords benefits and opportunities to better the health and wellness of residents and natural systems. These benefits/opportunities stem from the physical nature of, and the way people live continued on page 04
Name that mural The first person to email Info@villageofislington.com with the correct name and address of the mural below will win a gift certificate for $25 from Supperworks.
Success is in the mail Canada Post Corporation is a tough topic to write about and very rarely gets a positive note, but I would like to share a few thoughts. The Islington Times was launched in 2013, and at the time, it was determined that even though the costs were high, the best distribution for our community papers would be by Canada Post. The decision has proven to be a solid one, providing access to our readers and giving our advertisers maximum results. 95% of Canadians open their mail the day they get it, making Canada Post one of the most reliable ways to ensure our readers receive our messages. We can reach complete sections of a community, or just one street. Using demographic filtering abilities, we are able to target postal walks associated with the community. Canadians are very likely to respond to mail. The return on investment to our advertisers is significant. This has proven to strengthen our readership and advertising base over the years. Recently a customer was scammed a fly-by-night delivery service. These companies are not options for distribution. Canada Post has proven to be reliable and effective for our distribution.
Village of Islington Times Community Newspaper Volume 02 | Issue 01
Quarterly Publication ~ Circulation 15,000 Delivered by Canada Post
For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner at 416-875-1409 or by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com www.rjentpub.com
Village of Islington BIA P.O. Box 234, Station D, Dundas St West, Etobicoke, ON M9A 4X2 www.villageofislington.com Contact: Linda Plater E-Mail: info@villageofislington.com BIA Mobile Line: (647) 703-4802
@VillageofIsling
villageofislington
Editorial Contributors:
Toby Gardiner | Publisher
Linda Plater
toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com
Follow us on Twitter @RJentpub and like us on Facebook @RJEntertainmentPublishing. Read all our publications on-line @ www.rjentpub.com The Village of Islington Times is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.
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Human Health, Wellness and Natural Systems continued from front cover
within, the Village. A brief snapshot of benefits/opportunities are noteworthy. The Village simply is more densely populated (i.e. number of people living within a given land area) compared to lower density areas (e.g. suburbs). This equates to reduced rates of resource and energy consumption, and associated externalities (e.g. pollution). Higher population density is housed within higher physical building density lessening the amount and rate of land development. Less land development reduces habitat loss for wildlife and organisms, which are inherent components in healthy functioning natural systems; limits loss of local prime agricultural lands, which feed us more efficiently and with typically less energy consumed and carbon emitted compared to longer distance food sources; and decreases urban land cover change, which covers over natural land surfaces that accommodate natural fluxes and flows of natural systems. Such building and population density also make distributed, small-scale, jointventure, renewable energy generation economically viable in the Village. These systems, which can be a mix of solar, wind, etc. power, can support more stable and sustainable energy provision and can reduce the Village’s demand for conventional, non-renewable, centrally-generated energy. The latter energy source associated with higher levels of green house gas (GHG) emissions, waste disposal concerns, and longer transmission distances – all negative externalities affecting natural systems.
“Canada’s Emissions Trends” report, are the largest contributor, at 24%, of our national GHG emissions in 2010. Less fossil-fuel (i.e. gas) powered motor vehicles on the road reduces GHG emissions associated with climate change and air quality effects. Professional and health services, shops, offices, etc. within the Village also are closer to residents compared to those in suburban or rural areas which is invaluable to our aging, vulnerable and challenged populations. There is real diversity within the Village. Residents can meet their life needs (food, shelter, healthcare, etc.) foregoing the frequency and distance of trips within motor vehicles that are required within the homogeneous and disparate land use of the suburbs. Residents can walk along the ‘main street’ of Dundas Street West to shop, interact and socialize with other pedestrians, and reduce the personal isolation and ‘cocooning’ associated with a car-oriented society. Reducing isolation decreases loneliness which has been linked to negative thoughts and despair, especially within our elderly population. A mix of businesses, predominantly owned by Village residents, support and give back to the local community through BIA levies and community/grassrootsbased initiatives. Supporting these shops and local businesses fosters a healthy and resilient community where people have a vested interest in sustaining and bettering themselves, their businesses, their neighbours and the community at large. Big-box retailers and multi-national corporations, which are typically located in the suburbs, for the most part, care little about these issues as evident through track records of continued occurrences of labour, human rights and environmental degradation worldwide. In contrast, the Village is comprised of a mix of compact land uses – from open and recreation spaces, residential, commercial and professional offices. Such a compact land use mix, again, reduces trip frequency and distance and provides residents a diversity of lifestyle choice and needs close to home and within a pedestrian-oriented area.
The physical density of buildings and urban fabric within the Village also reduces the amount of transport-related impervious surfaces (i.e. surfaces, such as asphalt paved roads, that inhibit the natural infiltration of precipitation into the land) which are more extensive in suburban areas. Reducing these surfaces reduces the deleterious effects of storm water directly washing off of roads through storm sewers to receiving water bodies. This improves the quality of water and health of resident plants and animals which reduces the water treatment resources necessary to make our drinking water safe. The proximity of land uses under dense urban form within the Village reduces the amount and nature of trip generation. If you live close to your workplace your commute is reduced or potentially negated. A reduced commute saves you time and money which can be put towards activities which better your and others’ quality-of-life, such as physical exercise, and/or time with your family, partner, and friends. If you can walk, cycle or take public transit to your workplace you don’t need to drive or even own a motor vehicle. Walking, cycling and time with loved ones and friends improves your health and reduces the growing obesity, stress, and related ill-health issues and rates which burden our national healthcare system. In population centres, suppliers and receivers are relatively closer to each other, and thus, less freight-related transport occurs. Within Canada, vehicular emissions, according to Environment Canada’s 2012
Overall, the Village of Islington BIA continues to promote, support and undertake a number of programs, policies and events which acknowledge and foster resident health and wellness and natural system sustainability – some of these include our BIA’s Health and Wellness Fair; and Chemical Tracking Program (ChemTRAC); the Yellow Pages ‘Shop Local’ program; the Toronto Association of BIA’s GreenTBiz team and projects; and our Village’s mural program – which is building our community’s ‘sense of place’, vitality, and furthering pedestrianization – while paying homage to our historic roots and narratives. Peter Luciani is a Village of Islington BIA board member, local property owner, and a geomatics analyst/scientist operating a local geospatial environmental consultancy (LUCHGeomatics).
Follow Your Dream By Terry Reardon
What is Retirement? After a career of work, a welcome opportunity to put your feet up and then “Wait For God?” Or is it an opportunity to fulfill a long standing desire? In my case after long being an avid reader of history, I joined the International Churchill Society of Canada. In 2006 I sent an article on the relationship between Winston Churchill and Mackenzie King to the Churchill Centre magazine Finest Hour which is published in the United States and distributed in that country, in Canada and around the world. This was accepted and much to my surprise it received the award as the best article of the year. Also in 2006, the distinguished British academic and author Professor David Dilks came to Canada to promote his book, The Great Dominion, Winston Churchill in Canada, 1900 – 1954. When speaking in Toronto, Professor Dilks said that there should be a book written on Churchill and Mackenzie King, but it had to be written by a Canadian. Thus this retired banker was encouraged to embark on the project, on the rather naive basis that a book is just a long article! After being turned down by two publishers, I secured a contract with Dundurn Press, but then I thought it beneficial to bring in someone to give credibility to an “unknown.” Thus I plucked up the courage to approach former Prime Minister, John Turner to provide the Foreword – this turned out to be one of the most pleasant experiences of my life, as he was so gracious and enthusiastic on the project. The book entitled Winston Churchill and Mackenzie King So Similar, So Different is now in a second printing, and has given me the opportunity of meeting and speaking to many groups in the GTA. We all know people who have embarked on new challenges. Some have failed but the point is that they tried, and have gained from the experience. So whatever it is – “Follow Your Dream.” An excerpt from the book, and radio and tv interviews with Terry can be viewed at www.winstonchurchillcanada.ca .
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How Glenn Gould’s chair inspired a young pianist
Elusive Sleep By Dianne Kent
By Tammy Frade
In the late 1940s the famous musician, Glenn Gould, could be seen around our Village of Islington during his childhood, as he attended the Royal Conservatory of Music which was formerly located at 5048 Dundas West. The building now displays a mural illustrating Glenn Gould’s story commemorating where his musical journey began.
Do you have sleep problems? The first thing to do is to identify if you are in the “falls asleep easily, but wakes a couple of hours later” category, in which case you could be suffering from a blood sugar balance problem and may need more intervention than a short article like this can offer. This article is aimed primarily at those who simply can not fall asleep in the first place - often spending hours tossing and turning.
This past January, nearby John G. Althouse (JGA) Middle School hosted a history fair that featured the history projects of the entire school’s grade seven and eight students; totaling close to 400 students and 16 teachers. The fair, which takes place every other year, focused on encouraging the students to explore in an inquiry based approach instead of researching a broad topic for their assignment. JGA’s teacher librarian, Jill Kelsall explains, “The focus was on one artefact, or an object or a person of significance to Canadian history. Research was then conducted to build knowledge out from the chosen artefact to the social, political and cultural context the artefact emerged from. Students asked themselves, ‘What was the importance of this artefact in its time? Why did this thing stay with us through the ages? And how does it have historical significance today?’” Jill further describes that there were a vast array of artefacts and ranged from David Thompson’s maps, to a student’s ancestor’s diary that chronicled her migration to Canada.
Our modern world is full of things that negatively impact healthy sleep, so it makes sense to eliminate some of them before seeking professional help or resorting to drugs. One of the biggest issues is light. The brain is programmed to respond to light as a signal to be awake. Bedrooms should be so dark that you have difficulty seeing your hand in front of your face. The worst lights that intrude at night are blue lights. Appliances, electronics, street lights and even many alarm clocks use primarily blue light. The brain is particularly sensitive to this type of light as it naturally occurs in the morning. Every time you look at that alarm clock, you could be telling your body that it is time to wake up. Red lights do not have the same effect, being typical of natural evening light. Replace your blue or green alarm with a red lit one, and cover or put tape over any other lights in the room. On the same theme, televisions and computer screens are significant sources of blue tones. Try to avoid all electronics for about an hour before sleep - no TV in the bedroom, and no late night email. Ereaders without backlighting are fine. If you leave your cellular device on, your mind will register the need to be constantly alert. Be brave and turn it off. Blood automatically moves towards your skin as you warm up in bed, fooling your brain into thinking you are relaxing, so keep your bedroom cool at night. To help this process, try a magnesium citrate supplement before bed, especially if you experience muscle tension or cramping.
One grade seven JGA student named Alex Eom decided to base his project on Glenn Gould’s special chair as he is a big fan of Glenn Gould. This chair was designed by Glenn’s father after his son injured his back and was built very low so that Glenn could sit low at the keyboard. The chair allowed him to pull down on the keys rather than striking them from above, which was a technique his teacher at the Conservatory, Alberto Guerrero (who is also featured on the mural) taught him. This famous chair is currently housed in the National Library of Canada.
Other helpful techniques include Epsom salts baths, a few drops of lavender essential oil on a tissue and placed on your pillow near your nose, meditating before bed, and avoiding late night snacks. Write down anything that you are worrying about - things that are written down seem to lose some of their power over us.
Alex, who is 13 years old and from South Korea, currently lives with his aunt and uncle in our neighbourhood. He came to Canada to improve his English and will be staying until the summer. This very talented boy has been playing the piano since the wee age of three, had his first recital when he was six years old , won a piano concerto, also plays the violin and is currently learning to play the cello. When I brought up the topic about music during the interview, I could hear the passion and enthusiasm he has for it. He is also a fan of the classical composers, Hans Zimmer and Vladimir Horowitz. His parents introduced him to Glenn Gould’s music years ago as they collect numerous versions of Glenn’s CDs. This is what led Alex to think of centering his project on the chair of one of his favourite musicians.
Diane Kent, MNINH, RH., Medical Herbalist 647-296-4372 www.dianeherbalist.ca
The favourite part of Glenn’s story that Alex likes is the fact that this eccentric person didn’t do what every other pianist was doing at the time and was not restricted to only playing “the romantics”. Glenn focused on creating his own path; one that he certainly made his mark on in Canadian and music culture. Alex says he enjoys the fact that Glenn produced many Bach variations and, “He (Glenn) was very connected to the piano.” Alex went on to win a creative award for this history project. When the interview was wrapping up, I asked what does he want to be when he grows up; he replied, “I want to be a pianist, just like Glenn Gould.”
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Easter delicacies at Patricia’s Cake Creations
Janice Fedak guest speaker at BIA Merchant Mingle Janice is thrilled to share the most current colour and design trends, as well as her knowledge of Benjamin Moore’s product offering, through her seminars, presentations, and one-on-one consultations. Janice is passionate about sharing the message of Benjamin Moore’s commitment to providing colour pallets that inspire, and products that provide architects, designers, paint contractors and homeowners with the quality performance they expect.
The Patricia’s Cake Creations team have fine-tuned their edible art in preparation for Easter. From cakes topped with a nest full of chocolate eggs to freshly baked Easter bread, the talented chefs are hard at work in advance of the April holiday. The family-run Patricia’s Cake Creations is both a pâtisserie and a café offering pastries and sweets, custom wedding and all occasion cakes, delicious specialty coffees, tea, hot chocolate, daily soups, and High Tea. Patricia’s Cake Creations are now taking orders for Easter. Don’t delay and call today to secure your Easter delicacies. Call 647-348-CAKE (2253) or email info@ patriciacakes.com. Visit them at 4130 Dundas St. West (East of Prince Edward, west of the Humber bridge and on the north side of Dundas Street).
Janice believes that “A person’s home should be a reflection of who they are” and the best way to express your own personality is through colour. Colour communicates emotion, and with Janice’s diverse background in colour and design, along with her ability to assess her customer’s style and needs, she is able to create colour pallets and give design ideas that people will feel confident to try. With her genuine enthusiasm, and dedication to helping her audiences understand colour, she inspires the people that she meets to wrap their rooms with the newest colour trends, and in the products that best suit each particular project. Janice is a sought after speaker at major design forums and events across Canada, and can also be seen as a guest expert on both Home and Garden Television, and the W- Network. Janice Fedak is a Colour & Design Specialist with Benjamin Moore & Co. Ltd. For further colour inspiration, please visit www.benjaminmoore.ca
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COMMUNITY CORNER What is the size and makeup of a typical BIA?
Hidden Treasures: Renaissance to Romantic The Etobicoke Centennial Choir presents a spectacular evening of classical choral music, featuring Cesar Franck’s Mass in A-Major, with the beloved Panis Angelicus, Mozart’s Nocturnes, Schumann’s Songs on Poems of Robbie Burns and a selection of delightful Madrigals. Saturday, April 5, 2014 at7:30 p.m. at Humber Valley United Church, 76 Anglesey Blvd., Etobicoke. Tickets: $20.00 per ticket, general admission. Call (416)769-9271 to pre-order. For further information about this concert or the Etobicoke Centennial Choir, visit www. etobicokecentennialchoir.ca, email info@etobicokecentennialchoir.ca or call 416-622-6923.
Size and makeup of BIAs vary greatly. BIAs can contain less than 50 businesses or over 2000 businesses. In the beginning a typical BIA consisted primarily of small retail businesses. Today’s BIA membership is far more diverse. BIAs now represent a wide variety of businesses - professional and creative services, high-tech, light industrial, restaurants, entertainment, etc. Typically, BIAs consist of a strip along a single main street although some cover several blocks. Some identify with the ethnic makeup of their surrounding neighbourhoods. Others are located in historical sections of the City. And still others are made up of related businesses. The only common denominator is a desire to enhance their business area and improve their community. www.toronto-bia.com
Mural Presentations The Village of Islington BIA continues to receive requests from local community groups to visit them and talk about our award winning murals. Some of the groups we have presented to over the last while include the Humber Valley United Church Daytimers, St. Giles Church Iona Group, Brentwood Library, St. James United Church, Islington United Church Lunch Group, Donna Cansfield’s Seniors Advisory Group and CARP Etobicoke. If you know of or belong to a group or association that would like a presentation about the Islington murals then please contact Gary Hepworth at 416-623-8229.
Let’s Clean Toronto
By Linda Plater As a past participant in Let’s Clean Toronto, I’m pleased to let you know that the BIA is planning another cleanup on Saturday April 26th to collect litter along Dundas Street West between Islington and Kipling Avenues. Come out and pitch in! We are meeting at 9:30 am at Second Cup. Free coffee and muffins for participants.
Leading Cardiologist to Speak at Wellness Fair Be sure to mark your calendar for the 3rd Annual Islington Wellness Fair which will take place on April 15th at Islington Golf Club from 4pm – 7pm. Come out and meet more than 20 local community health and wellness experts and listen to fabulous speakers. We are particularly pleased to welcome Dr. Anjali Anselm who will speak on ‘Heart Health’ at 6pm. See the Health and Wellness on the back page.
If you prefer to tackle another area on your spring cleanup, registration is now open. Get together with friends, family, coworkers and classmates to clean a park, laneway or any other space that needs your help. The event dates for 2014 are: • Friday April 25 - Corporate & School Clean-up Day • Saturday April 26 & Sunday April 27 - Community Clean-up Days Visit www.toronto.ca/cleantoronto to register your event which helps the City schedule pick-up of your litter and recycling. Working together we can eliminate litter, stop graffiti vandalism and keep Toronto clean and green. Thank you for doing your part!
Dr. Anjali Anselm is a cardiologist on staff at St. Joseph’s Health Centre. She practises general cardiology with an interest in pacemaker implantation and follow-up. Her training in Internal Medicine was at the University of Ottawa, and in Cardiology at the Ottawa Heart Institute. She is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine. She is a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario and of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Battle of Normandy Did you know that June 6, 2014 marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy? If you have stories to share about local people involved in the war effort, please submit them to info@villageofislington.com before Wednesday, June 4th for the summer edition of the Village of Islington Times.
Humber Valley United Church BIDS ‘N BITES –Bridge and Luncheon Wednesday, April 23, 2014 at 76 Anglesey Blvd. Starting at noon. Grab a deck of cards and round up your friends (ladies and gentlemen both welcome) for an afternoon of food, fun, fellowship and card playing, either Bridge or Euchre or your card game of choice. Tickets are only $25 and available at 416-767-1289. Proceeds support United Church Women projects and charities. Flowers Galore Geraniums, trailing petunias,begonias, New Guinea Impatiens, greenery and trailing plants for sale. Advance orders only, must be placed by May 8th. Pick up is Thursday, May 15th, 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. rain or shine in the church parking lot at 76 Anglesey Blvd. Delivery options are available. Great prices and remember—ALL TAXES ARE INCLUDED Call 416-231-3477 for more information or to place an order. Order forms and colour selection also available at www.hvuc.ca.
Welcome New Business Igli Salon and Spa 5092 Dundas West 416-354-2450 8
My Mom and her Gift of Life
Living longer, but how do we prosper
By Linda Plater
By Lola Macanowicz
It’s no secret that medical breakthroughs have had a significant impact on improving our life expectancy.
April 22 would have been my mother’s 86th birthday but she died just before Christmas last year.
Today, 95% of heart attack victims survive their first attack, more than 70% survive their initial cancer diagnosis, and 75% survive their first stroke. Good news is that the odds of surviving a critical illness are better than they’ve ever been. Our healthcare system, combined with employer-sponsored health and disability plans, often covers many of the predictable and direct costs of a serious illness — drugs, hospital stays and, potentially, disability income. But unpredictable and indirect costs — home modifications and repairs, childcare, nursing care, travel and accommodation — can go beyond what health and disability insurance typically cover.
While all who knew her love and miss her, more than her memory continues to lives on. You see, my sister made sure that mom’s wish to donate her eyes was fulfilled. Because of this donation, our family is now part of Ontario’s group of donor families who are ambassadors for the Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN). And best of all, mom’s eyes could help someone else. One organ donor can save up to eight lives and enhance up to 75 others through tissue donation. Corneas can help someone to see again; skin can aid in the healing for burn patients; bones can restore mobility; and valves can help heal a child’s heart. Donor organs come from people of all ages; all donations can greatly help others or support research and medical advancement. In 2013, 225 deceased organ donors saved 775 lives while 1,842 tissue donors enhanced the lives of thousands more. I was privileged to accept a medal engraved with the name of my mother, Mary Plater, last fall at TGLN’s Celebration of Life ceremony at the Palais Royale. What an honour to hear of the courage of other donor families and the gratitude of the transplant recipients and their families. Stories of the generosity of the donors were deeply moving and through their loss how they helped others was inspirational beyond words.
And with so many people choosing self-employment or working with smaller employers, many Canadians have no group health or disability coverage at all. It all adds up to angst about the future. So buying special insurance now for potential costs and access to the best health care advice down the road is a great strategy for ensuring a healthy, financially sound lifetime.
Many people mistakenly believe they are registered because they signed the donor card that used to come with the driver’s licence in Ontario. A signed donor card doesn’t mean one is registered. To register your consent to donate, visit www.beadonor.ca or visit a ServiceOntario Centre to register in-person. Also be sure to share your wishes with your family as it is the policy of TGLN to reaffirm consent with the family or power of attorney.
Critical illness insurance was designed with these concerns in mind. Unlike life insurance, critical illness insurance is considered a “living benefit insurance” — if you’re diagnosed with a critical illness specified in your policy, you receive a lump sum payment. There is a wide range of options available from over 25 different companies, and coverage can range from just three critical illnesses to as many as 27 different conditions. Since over 75% of the claims arise from cancer, stroke or heart attack, the great majority of policies cover these illnesses along with Alzheimer’s Disease, blindness, burns, coma, loss of limbs, major organ transplant and paralysis. The amount of coverage can be tailored to your financial needs.
Registration saves lives. TGLN’s experience has shown when there is proof of registration a family almost always consents to donation, without proof of registration they consent only about 60 per cent of the time. Registration relieves your family of the burden of making a decision at a difficult time. To learn more about the Trillium of Gift of Life Network come to the Islington Health and Wellness Fair at the Islington Golf Club on April 15th.
The tax free, lump sum payment can be put it towards additional health care, a nurse or caregiver, modifications to your home as a result of your illness, buying a wheelchair or expensive drugs outside of Canada. Others may decide to pay off or reduce their mortgage or replace lost income. Many take a holiday to relax and help focus on their recovery. It all depends on your personal circumstances and goals. The common thread in all cases, though, is that recipients are free to spend it however they choose.
Sprinklers in Seniors’ Homes By Gary Hepworth - Chair, CARP Etobicoke
The fatal fire that destroyed a seniors’ home in rural L’Isle-Verte, Quebec has brought attention to whether automated sprinkler systems should be required in all parts of seniors’ homes. Changes to the fire and building codes in Ontario took effect in 2013, but the Ontario government gave retirement homes time to comply. Licensed retirement homes and private care facilities have up to five years to install sprinklers, while publicly owned nursing residences have until 2025.
Look for quality coverage with premiums, benefits and illness definitions that are guaranteed for the full term of the policy. Other features may give you the option of recovering a significant portion of your premium outlay if your policy expires and you’ve never made a claim. Many policies include the Best Doctors program which gives you instant access to a global network of over 50,000 doctors who are at the top of their profession. They can provide confirmation of your diagnosis and narrow down your search for a specialist. While no one can protect against every eventuality in life, the flexibility and control that critical illness insurance provides makes its protection well worth investigating. As life expectancies continue to rise, chances are you have a long life ahead of you. A little planning today can ensure you have the financial security you need to make the most of your tomorrow.
The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs lauded the government’s move when it was announced last May, saying it was the most important fire-safety improvement since smoke alarms became mandatory. Most nursing homes built since 1998 were required to install sprinklers, but many older facilities don’t have them. Ontario has witnessed several horrific nursing home fires. Over the past three decades, nearly 50 seniors have died in blazes in retirement residences without sprinklers, including 25 in Mississauga in 1980. Ontario is the first province to regulate the retrofitting of sprinklers in care homes for seniors and individuals with disabilities – people who have difficulty moving quickly. CARP wants other provinces to require operators of seniors’ homes to retrofit their facilities with sprinklers. But we also contend that the Ontario government should move much more quickly than its current timeline. Cost should not take precedence over protecting lives. www.carp.ca/etobicoke.
Lola Macanowicz & Associates Insurance and Financial Services – The Co-operators has provided insurance and financial planning advice in Etobicoke since 1985. For more information, please call 416-234-2777, lola_macanowicz@cooperators. ca, visit us on Facebook or drop by at 5048 Dundas St W.
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Random Acts of Kindness: The Health Benefits to Canadians
Special Music Services & Events at Islington United Church
By Wendy Margolese
Join us at Islington United Church in celebration and reflection this season.
Did you know that giving is good for our health? Doing something unselfish not only makes us feel better about ourselves, it also gives a boost to our physical and mental wellbeing.
Services with Music for Holy Week & Easter April 13 Morn Palm/Passion Sunday Morning Recalling the last week of Christ (9:30 & 11:15am) April 13 8:00pm Passion Evening Taizê • Candlelight worship April 17 6:00pm Maundy Thursday • Handwashing ceremony, community dinner & Communion at 7:30pm April 18 11:00am Good Friday Service • Worship at the Cross in the Taizé style April 19 8:00pm Easter Eve Gospel Service First celebration of Easter with Choirs & Organ April 20 Morn Easter Morning Services • Alleluia! Joyous celebration of the Risen Christ (9:30 & 11:15am)
Studies find the following benefits: Lower blood pressure, Increased self-esteem, Less depression and Lower stress levels The idea that giving is of benefit to our health is not new. According to a 2006 study published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology, people who gave their time to help others through community and organizational involvement had greater self-esteem, less depression and lower stress levels than those who didn’t. Long before medical studies began to document these benefits, a timehonoured book of spiritual inspiration promised the reward of cultivating within us a concern for the good of another. As an avid student of the Bible, I looked for references made long ago to the correlation between health and giving – as in Isaiah, where the prophet saw this connection between unselfishness and health: “…deal thy bread to the hungry….and bring the poor that are cast out to thy house….then shall thy light break forth as the morning and thine health shall spring forth speedily.” Giving to others can create a ripple effect. One act of giving can spread from one person to the next and so on.
June 8 • Music Sunday • A Celebration in Music (9:30 & 11:15am) Sunday Morning • Featuring the Music Program at Islington , with Choirs, Handbells, Shoenstein Organ
Concerts presented by Music at Islington If you enjoy wonderful music in a beautiful space made by exceptionally talented people, you’ll be interested in the creative concerts with your friends, neighbours & families, & all child-friendly. Upcoming concerts for the community include: April 12 • A Place in the Choir: Youthful Voices Saturday 4:00pm • Youth Choir & Junior Choir of Islington United An inspiring performance by & for young people including Bob Chilcott and Allen Pote “The Rock Swinger & His Greatest Hits”, followed by dinner. Brenna Conrad & Christy Cummings, directors. $25, (Children & Youth-Free) in support of Outreach programs
Consider the phenomena of ‘pay-it-forward’ – popularized by the novel of the same name and made into a movie. Pay-it-forward means to repay a kindness by being kind to someone else rather than the person who was kind to you. This typically happens at your local drive-through. Place your order and then find at the cash window that the driver in front of you paid. This may have occurred a few times a year a decade ago, but now, according to fast-food operators, it might happen several times a day. The largest outbreak of this kind occurred at a Tim Horton’s, in Winnipeg, Manitoba last December, when 228 cars paid it forward.
April 13 • Heart & Soul: A Vocal Collaboration Sunday 3:00pm • Andrew Aitchison & Friends A collection of soul, folk & gospel, with special guests The O’Pears plus Choir of Islington United. Ever-popular & versatile performer Andrew Aitchison returns with his smooth and smoky baritone voice & equally talented friends. $20, std $10 (under 12-Free) plus FoodBank donation appreciated.
We can all choose to undertake unselfish acts towards others. These might include: • Dropping off a toy or game at a homeless shelter • Shoveling snow off your neighbour’s driveway • Reading to a child or elderly person • Visiting an animal shelter to give a hand
April 26 • Don Banks Music Awards Concert: Stars of the Future Sunday 3:00pm • A concert by young Etobicoke/Mississauga musicians performing for the annual music awards. Free.
Compassion, kindness, and generosity – these health-giving qualities come from within each of us. They bless others, and make us all healthier.
Doors Open Toronto May 24/25 • Doors Open Toronto The Sanctuary of Islington Saturday 9-1 • For almost 200 years Islington United Church has been a presence in Islington, from Methodist circuit Sunday 9-5 to village church to urban cathedral, changing the world one life at a time. Explore the architecture, stained glass, organ & history of this community building with Doors Open Toronto. Free
Wendy Margolese has a keen interest in health especially the link between well- being, consciousness and spirituality. She is a representative of the Christian Science community of Islington.
For details call 416.239.1131 or visit www.islingtonunited.org 25 Burnhamthorpe Road (at Dundas)
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Gardening: A Great Way To Cultivate Your Health By Dr. Janet McKenzie
With the arrival of spring, my thoughts turn to my garden. Gardening is great for your health in many ways.
grass or pruning large trees. Do some gentle stretching before you begin to prevent strained muscles. Use assistive devices and protective gear to relieve strain on your joints and avoid uncomfortable positions. Rotate your tasks to avoid repetitive movements. For example, after 15 minutes of pruning, do some digging or raking for a while. Bend at the knees and don’t strain when lifting heavy objects. If the object is too heavy for you, seek help.
If you grow fruits and vegetables, for example, you can reap the benefits of nutrients at their peak. Gardening promotes strength, flexibility and endurance. It even relieves stress and fosters peace of mind[i], [ii].
Know your limits. Have something to eat and drink before you garden. Drink more fluids and take frequent breaks in hot weather. Stop if you experience breathlessness or muscle soreness, and pay attention to signs of heat-related illness, including headache, rapid pulse, dizziness, and nausea.
A small study published last summer found that cancer survivors who were mentored by master gardeners significantly improved their strength, agility, and endurance by gardening.[iii] Research has also shown that gardening can help you maintain a healthy weight.[iv]
Remember to care for yourself while you tend your garden and you’ll enjoy all the health benefits gardening can offer. [1] Grabbe, Linda, Janell Ball, and Allison Goldstein. “Gardening for the Mental Well-Being of Homeless Women.” Journal of Holistic Nursing (2013). [1] Wang, Donna, and Thalia MacMillan. “The Benefits of Gardening for Older Adults: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” Activities, Adaptation & Aging37.2 (2013): 153-181. [1]Blair, Cindy K., et al. “Harvest for health gardening intervention feasibility study in cancer survivors.” Acta Oncologica 0 (2013): 1-9. [1] Zick, Cathleen D., et al. “Harvesting more than vegetables: the potential weight control benefits of community gardening.” American journal of public health103.6 (2013): 1110-1115.
Gardening is an activity that can contribute to your health, but are there healthy ways to garden? Yes! Here are some tips: Make sure your tetanus/diphtheria (Td) vaccination is up to date. Tetanus bacteria live in soil and enter the body through breaks in the skin. Gardiners are especially vulnerable to infection because they dig in the dirt, use sharp potentially dirty - tools, and deal with plants with sharp points. All adults should get a tetanus vaccination every 10 years.
Janet McKenzie, BSN, MBA, ND Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director Summit Natural Health Centre 5133 Dundas Street West Etobicoke, ON M9A 1C1 www.summitnaturalhealth.ca Telephone: 416-236-7642 Email: contactus@summitnaturalhealth.ca
Put safety first. Follow instructions on chemicals and equipment. Make sure equipment is in good working order. Sharpen tools carefully. Cover up if you are using herbicides or pesticides, even if they are natural; make sure your skin and eyes are covered, and avoid inhaling the spray. Wash your hands after gardening or before eating. Protect yourself from the sun. Prepare to be physically active. Ease into the work of gardening gradually, especially if you are doing physically demanding activities such as cutting the
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Spring cleaning for your body Dr. Patricia Gabryl
There is little doubt that our environment is polluted with toxins and harmful substances. One of the keys of anti-aging is to identify useful ways to detoxify our bodies from our exposure to toxic surrounding elements including our air, water and food. The logic is simple - the more toxins you ingest, the faster you age. What is detoxification? The concepts of internal cleansing and detoxification have been around for centuries. Detoxification of the body refers to the cleansing of the bowels, kidneys, lungs, liver and skin. These organs are involved in the detoxification of chemicals and toxins from the body. What are the effects of toxins? Toxins can damage the body in an insidious and cumulative way. Once the internal detoxification system becomes overloaded, toxic metabolites begin to accumulate. It is this accumulation of toxins over a period of time that interferes with normal metabolic processes thus causing numerous diseases and progression of aging. Long-term exposure to toxins can result in metabolic and genetic alterations that can affect cell growth, behavior and immune response. How to detoxify? It is always best to consult with a qualified health care professional. There are various products available to help the body eliminate toxins and a Naturopath can tell you the sequence to follow in order to safely remove toxins from the body. The colon is probably the most important organ that needs to be functioning at its optimum when starting a detox program. Health care professionals will individualize a detoxification program, always taking your age, previous medical history, medications, and health status into consideration.
Ensuring Canadians Have a Say on Cell Towers
By Bernard Trottier MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore Canadians depend on reliable wireless service now more than ever before. As a result, we are seeing an increasing number of new cell towers being built in Etobicoke and across Canada. The placement of these towers is often a divisive issue. Increasingly, we have seen an alarming number of cell towers built in neighbourhoods when there has simply been an inadequate level of consultation with homeowners. This is especially true of cell towers under 15 metres, where until now no consultation was required at all. Rightly, people have expressed their frustration to me about not having a say in the cell tower placement process in areas where they live, work, and play. Homeowners and municipal governments should be at the forefront of the process whenever a new cell tower is built, and it is up to wireless companies to ensure this occurs. Previously, builders of cell towers were only required to consult communities on towers above 15 metres high. When advising local homeowners, the consultation notices were not clearly explained, or plainly marked. What was missing was that there were no rules on the visibility of this package. Cell companies often addressed consultation packages generically to the “occupant” and residents often mistake them for junk mail. And if approval was granted, wireless companies were known to wait years before building that tower, even as the tower site and the neighborhood surrounding it went through fundamental change. This resulted in many companies constructing smaller towers, with inadequate consultation. Our Government’s changes will close these loopholes and ensure that local residents and municipal governments are at the centre of the cell tower placement process in three important ways. Effective immediately, wireless companies will now be required to:
When to start a detox program? There are tests that can determine your toxicity level. A Naturopath can sample blood, urine, stool and hair to give you an assessment of what needs to be detoxified, as well as determine the sequence of detoxifying the key organs: bowels, kidneys, liver, lungs and blood.
• consult communities on all new cell towers, regardless of height; • ensure residents are clearly informed of upcoming consultations with wellmarked consultation notices delivered to their homes with relevant details on how to particpate; and • if approval is granted, company must build that tower within three years.
A simple BODY IMPEDANCE ANALYSIS TEST is an easy place to start. In one minute, it can give patients the information required to know if toxins have started to accumulate at the cellular level. Consult with a Naturopathic Doctor who will help you make the right choice in choosing the appropriate detox program for you!
Our Government’s objective is to strike a balance between local concerns and the increasing demands consumers place on wireless networks. Most of all, it is to ensure Canadians have a say on where new cell tower towers are being built in their neighbourhood.
Dr. Patricia Gabryl ND and Dr. Kristin Caria ND Academy Health Centre, 4984 Dundas St. W. 416-234-1451
We are listening, and ensuring that with these changes to our cell tower policy, we are working with residents and municipalities to make sure their voices are heard.
Islington’s Art Walk Honours Jane Jacobs With spring here it is time to put on your walking shoes and join one of our popular BIA mural tours. Although the winter was a chilly and challenging time for many in our area unable to enjoy the outdoors, Gary Hepworth managed to reach out to 80 members of the Humber United Church. He tells us that people always ask him how the murals on the 15,000 square feet of art in the Village stay in such great shape. Simple, high quality Benjamin Moore exterior latex paint, that’s all! These exceptional quality works, many ten years old now, keep people coming back to see them and discover new additions each year. And they send their friends and family! This spring we expect many more visitors and locals to come out and enjoy the murals. Two additions are underway to be unveiled by the fall. The tour season launches with our third annual Jane’s Walk. If you don’t know about world-renown city-builder Jane Jacobs, you should explore one of the many Jane’s Walks held year round in her honour. Getting out to explore neighbourhoods just makes for a better city. Even the New York Times raved about Toronto neighbourhoods in a Feb. 28th article called Toronto’s Ethnic Buffet. Every year on Jane’s birthday Toronto sets out to share diverse walks, connect people with the place, learn and enjoy new insights on urban living. Again this year Ron Quinn and Valerie Gibson will showcase our murals and proudly share stories of their neighbourhood. You’ll want to keep coming back to this area after you meet them! Our BIA fosters Jane’s spirit with our year round FREE Mural Tours for groups of ten or more. Ron personifies what makes our area great and how important local connections are to everyone. Valerie is a natural story teller and accomplished author. The Village is her backyard and she loves to share it! She has a great sense of humour and sensitivity to people of all abilities. In addition to Ron and Valerie, the Village has six other dedicated mural guides and we are building a larger team of dedicated guides versed in the art and history of our area. The tour training session will begin at Montgomery’s Inn on the Sunday of Jane’s Walk, followed by a tour. If you are interested in becoming a mural guide, please contact Linda Plater at info@villageofislington.com or 647-703-4802 for more information. Mark your Calendar: Janeswalk 2014 www.janeswalk.org Meet up at Montgomery’s Inn parking lot at 10:30 on Sat. May 3rd or 3PM on Sunday May 4th. Doors Open Toronto May 24 and 25th FREE trolley tours every hour on the hour departing from Montgomery’s Inn at noon with last tour at 4PM. Walking tours set out upon demand. First come, first served; tour groups gather 15 minutes before departure.
Why Chiropractic Care for Pregnant Mothers?
Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association
By Dr. Matt Garofolo
In our Family Wellness Practices we have seen lots of pregnant women and kids over the last 11 years and are often asked “why?” and “how do you adjust them?”.
Connect with your community through Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association … plus “like” us on facebook and WIN! Community interests in your neighbourhood, and issues at the municipal, provincial and federal level that have local impact, are all of concern to the Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association, IRRA. This volunteer non-profit organization has been both a watchdog and champion of local matters since its inception in 1971, promoting and protecting the interests, rights and responsibilities of its community members.
It seems that there are many misconceptions out there about Chiropractic care. Basically, the Chiropractic adjustment is all about taking pressure off of nerves, which relaxes muscles and increases stress regulation, which leads to healthier function. Yes, this is very oversimplified. In relation to pregnancy, the goal of the adjustment is the same, to reduce spinal nerve stress, particularly in the top of the neck and the lower back. When these areas are misaligned, the nerve stress creates an imbalance in surrounding muscles and ligaments. Sacral misalignment causes the tightening and torsion of specific pelvic muscles and ligaments. It is these tense muscles and ligaments and their constraining effect on the uterus which prevents the baby from comfortably assuming the best possible position for birth. The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment that reduces nerve stress and facilitates biomechanical balance in pelvic structures, muscles and ligaments. This has been shown to reduce the effects of intrauterine constraint, allowing the baby to get into the best possible position for birth. Dr. Larry Webster, Founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) discovered this technique as a safe means to restore proper pelvic balance and function for pregnant mothers. In expectant mothers presenting breech, there has been a high reported success rate of the baby turning to the normal vertex position. This technique has been successfully used in women whose babies present transverse and posterior as well. It has also been successfully used with twins. Any position of the baby other than ROA may indicate the presence of sacral nerve stress and therefore intrauterine constraint. At no time should this technique be interpreted as an obstetric, “breech turning” technique.
With communication as the IRRA’s central role, aiming to keep area residents and members “in the loop” about matters of local relevance, the IRRA board of directors is excited to be expanding its community outreach via social media. Check out the association’s new website, www.irra.ca and new facebook page, IRRA - Islington Ratepayers and Residents Association. Both of these platforms will enable members of our community to remain vitally connected and informed. LIKE US on facebook and WIN! The IRRA has launched a campaign to invite our community to connect on facebook. Visitors who “like” our facebook page, ‘IRRA - Islington Ratepayers and Residents Association’, will be entered into a draw to win Dinnner for Two at one of our neighbourhood’s finest restaurants. Campaign closes May 31st, draw is June 1st. Among the issues currently on the IRRA agenda are land development proposals, neighbourhood crime prevention, traffic calming and OMB/Committee of Adjustment administration. Looking ahead to the fall municipal election, IRRA will be mounting all-candidates meetings to allow residents to interface with the councillor candidates for wards 3, 4 and 5. Meeting details will be available on the IRRA website and facebook. Your IRRA neighbours urge you to stay connected (win a prize!), stay informed - and join your Islington Residents & Ratepayers Association.
It is strongly recommended that this analysis and adjustment of the sacrum be used throughout pregnancy to detect imbalance and optimize pelvic biomechanics in preparation for safer, easier births. By reducing nerve system stress, pregnant mothers can optimize health benefits for both the mother and baby.
Carolyn McGee, President, Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association Website: irra.ca Facebook: IRRA - 1:47 Islington and Residents Association ad_easter:Layout 1 3/21/14 PM Ratepayers Page 1 Inquiries: 416-233-7468
Hands on Health Family Chiropractic is a family wellness clinic with a niche in Pregnancy and Pediatric Care. All of the doctors are ICPA http://icpa4kids.org certified in the Webster’s Technique. Matt Garofolo, B.B.A., B.Sc., D.C. of www. handsonhealthchiro.com 4939 Dundas St. W. 416-237-0069
Join us at Islington United Church for Holy Week Services Thursday April 17- Sunday April 20
Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore 2014
Maundy Thursday
The Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore are a great opportunity to recognize an outstanding business or organization in our community. The small businesses and groups unique to this area provide incredible service and we want to celebrate those making this community a more vibrant place to live!
Good Friday Holy Saturday Easter Sunday
Who can recognize a Gem? The general public. Anyone in Etobicoke-Lakeshore is free to nominate their favourite small business or organization. Help us recognize those who make our community stand out!
Punch and Fellowship Supper Worship Worship at the Cross Easter Eve Service Worship & Communion
6:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm 11:00 am 8:00 pm 9:30 am & 11:15 am
Infant and toddler care available at all services, except Holy Saturday
For more information please contact the office of Bernard Trottier MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore 416-251-5510
Good Friday
Discovery Quest Children up to Grade 6
Easter Sunday Children's Sunday School 9:30 am & 11:15 am
What are the criteria for a Gem’s selection? The business or organization must be within the riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore. The Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore Awards aim to recognize those that provide outstanding customer service. Nominate your favourites!
How will the Gems be selected? The Gem nominations will be reviewed by a community panel in partnership with Etobicoke-Lakeshore BIAs.
or Doug Holyday MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore 416-325-5551
When is the deadline to submit the nomination forms? Forms are available for download at: www.BernardTrottierMP.ca and will be accepted until noon on April 21st, 2014.
Islington United Church
Please send completed Gem of Etobicoke-Lakeshore forms to The Office of Bernard Trottier, MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore 700 Kipling Ave. Suite 200 Etobicoke, Ontario M8Z 5G3 By e-mail to: Bernard.Trottier@parl.gc.ca Or Fax to: 416-251-2845
Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors
25 Burnhamthorpe Road
I Toronto, Ontario I 416-239-1131 I www.islingtonunited.org
Sign up for our events newsletter: office@islingtonunited.org I Like us at www.facebook/islingtonunited
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A memory for music
Baby Boomers and Alzheimer’s
By Shelby Lynn
By Gary Hepworth
As I sat across from my dinner companion at a restaurant on Roncesvalles, I couldn’t help but be distracted by the music spilling out of the speakers.
As baby boomers reach 65, the more Alzheimer’s will become a reality for them. Alzheimer’s disease is degenerative and progressive.
I was absorbed in a vivid memory. I was 18 years old, in my bedroom. I was folding laundry and the dust in the sunlight swirled about as if dancing to this familiar song. Although the memory had no significant meaning, the music acted like a time machine, taking me back to that particular moment, to a time seemingly lost and long forgotten. Research has shown that music is profoundly linked to personal memories. But what happens if your memory has been compromised?
It destroys vital brain cells and is not a normal part of aging. And although Alzheimer’s can start as early as 40 years of age, by the time Canadians are over the age of 65, 1 in every 11 of them will develop the disease. The risk of developing a debilitating brain disease, Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, then doubles every 5 years after the 65th birthday. The stark reality of these statistics is alarming. If those in this age category don’t develop Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia themselves, at the very least it will happen to someone they know.
People who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia have difficulty remembering names, places, and facts but memories from the past, from childhood and
In 2011, there were over 110,000 new cases of dementia a year or one new case every 5 minutes! Within the next generation that statistic will swell to over 250,000 new cases or one new case diagnosed every 2 minutes. In fact, without a medical breakthrough over the next 25 years, more than four million Canadians can be expected to develop Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. If baby boomers are going to be their own best detectors of Alzheimer’s, they need to at least be aware of which early symptoms should be reported to their health professional. Yet, a recent survey by the Alzheimer Society of Canada shows that an alarming number of baby boomers reveal a worrying lack of awareness about the disease. Many couldn’t correctly identify a wide range of symptoms that may present themselves in the early stages of dementia from memory loss, changes in mood and behaviour, difficulty with everyday tasks and misplacing common items. Since early detection of dementia can result in potential symptomatic treatment options, it’s vitally important to become informed.
teenage years, can be well preserved. Music can awaken these memories. While one may not recall every detail from these events, music is well known as one of the most effective ways to reach someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Many people who have not spoken in years find words and sing lyrics. They often regain the ability to converse and connect to those around them.
The Toronto Alzheimer’s office is an excellent starting point and has excellent educational programs for families and caregivers alike.
Hearing and remembering a song can be profoundly reassuring and can give back a sense of identity as nothing else can. When I visited my grandmother after she suffered from a series of mini-strokes, I could see that she was confused and struggled to remember me. I didn’t know how to connect to her. I sang to her the familiar standard “Stardust” and, as I sang, she smiled and looked right into my eyes. She appeared to be calmer, focused and engaged, if only for a few moments.
Visit their web site at www.alzheimertoronto.org for more information. If a friend or loved one does develop Alzheimer’s, there are community based supports to help at home. Find an accredited homecare company that specializes in Alzheimer and Dementia care, offering compassionate, knowledgeable services for those who have loved ones in need of extra assistance or monitoring and care up to 24 hours a day. Accredited home care agencies will employ caregivers who are given additional training in Alzheimer’s and Dementia care and are well prepared to handle the unique challenges that may arise when caring for an individual with Dementia.
A familiar song can stimulate feelings, imagination, a sense of humour and creativity, as documented in the film, Alive Inside: A Story of Music & Memory. A clip reveals a man named Henry who is suddenly transformed upon listening to his favourite music on an iPod. You can watch this remarkable moment at: http://musicandmemory.org/
Gary Hepworth is Managing Director at Premier Homecare Services in Etobicoke. He can be reached at 416-623-8229 or www.premieretobicoke.com.
Listening to music as a form of music therapy is being used to help recover memory and retain abilities of people with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of cognitive impairments. One does not need to have any formal training to enjoy music and respond to it. Music is part of being human and it appears to be good for our health. Shelby Lynn has a genuine interest in people and helping them to reach their full potential. She has extensively researched music as a form of therapy. For the last three years, Shelby has applied music therapy in her teaching at The Music Studio in Etobicoke (Toronto) with a program called Communicating Through Music. She works closely with children and adults with special needs, managing learning and communication problems, using music as a medium to help improve the quality of day-to-day life skills and well-being. For information on Communicating Through Music, please contact The Music Studio at 416.234.9268 or Email: lessons@themusicstudio.ca Shelby has implemented music programs that can help promote and maintain health for those who are struggling with cognitive and physical challenges due to aging. For more information, The Music Studio will be hosting an exhibit on this subject at the Islington Village Health and Wellness Fair on April 15 at 2:00 p.m. at the Islington Golf Club, Etobicoke.
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