The most complete guide of products, services and activities for mature adults
Moose Jaw Funeral Home still locally-owned and always ready to assist
After working at Moose Jaw Funeral Home full time for eight years as a director, Michelle Ellis decided to purchase the business to ensure it remained community-owned and -operated.
The opportunity to purchase the funeral home arose in February 2021, so Ellis jumped at the
chance to buy the business from her boss and become sole owner, she explained.
“The Funeral Home has always been locally owned. This is very important to me and that has not changed with the new ownership. We are still locally owned and operated.” she said. Ellis hasn’t made any big changes to Moose
Jaw Funeral Home and doesn’t plan to either. Instead, she will ensure that the business continues to serve families as it has always done. Being community owned means it’s possible to offer services that are more personal to people.
The business contains a crematorium that allows families to choose a different way to bury their loved ones. However, cremation numbers have remained roughly the same for a while, she continued.
Besides a crematorium, Moose Jaw Funeral Home also has an indoor columbarium. Ellis noted that this option is popular with families, and the business plans on expanding the facility in the next few years.
“Myself and my team of professionals will continue to serve the families we have the honour of assisting,” she added. “And being a locally owned business is important to the community itself.”
Moose Jaw Funeral Home is located at 268 Mulberry Lane and can be contacted at 306.693.4550. For more information, you can visit their website at https://www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
Cara Ashworth
Andrew Pratt Terri Lamb
Michelle Ellis Gary McDowell
Seniors in search of casual work can apply to ‘Moose Jobs’ pilot job program
Seniors looking to return to the workforce in a part-time or casual capacity now have an opportunity to find tailored, senior-friendly job opportunities thanks to a new pilot project launched by the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce earlier this year.
‘Senior Moose Jobs’ is a new program within the community, although the concept has been similarly applied in limited capacities through digital job search websites with proven success in the past.
“What we’re trying to do is pull from the retirees that are looking for a second career,” said Barry Watson, the program co-ordinator for the Senior Moose Jobs initiative.
The program, Watson explained, is intended for adults over the age of 55 who are looking for a little social engagement, a means to keep their mental and physical health in peak shape, and who are seeking a boost to their financial well-being.
The program is also a great opportunity to build inter-generational friendships along the way.
To apply for the program, those interested can visit the Chamber’s website to fill out an application form that will serve as their resume.
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The process is simply laid out and easy to follow.
On the application form, applicants can share a few words about their areas of expertise and list a few of their interests relevant to finding local work.
“I try to find them something in the marketplace… that would match up (with these interests),” Watson explained.
“Then, I will introduce them to the employer, and they will have the interview to discuss the training or (other job requirements).”
There is no funding available through the pilot project, however, so any expenses related to criminal record checks, job-specific training, or other requirements will be the responsibility of either the employer (where applicable) or the applicant in question.
To provide a glimpse into the nature of jobs offered through the program, the Par 3 golf course is currently seeking a senior applicant who can work as a part-time mechanic, as well as greens keepers and food preparation assistants.
As he explained the program’s key objectives, Watson made mention of a recent example that helped support the Chamber’s decision to
proceed with the idea.
“Looking at the business environment,” he began, “Moose Jaw had one of the highest unemployment vacancy rates after COVID-19 in the province. And, a lot of the opportunities that were thrown out there were part-time, short-term, (and) casual (employment).”
He also noted that seniors have proven more likely to stick around and continue with a casual job than a younger demographic, who is now at the stage where finding a career and their place in the workforce are leading factors in a shorter tendency to commit to a part-time role.
“We’re trying to enhance business – that’s what the Chamber (of Commerce) is all about: helping our businesses and at the same time, helping the seniors give back to the community.”
To apply for the Senior Moose Jobs pilot program, simply visit MJChamber.com and fill out the application form. The program will run until February 28, 2025.
If you’re an employer looking to hire parttime assistants with job roles suitable to a senior demographic, MJChamber.com has a similar form specific to employers.
Moose Jaw Fire Department Fire Safety Tips for Older Adults
Knowing what to do in the event of a fire is particularly important for older adults. At age 65 and older, people are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires compared to the population at large and with our numbers growing every year it's essential to take the necessary steps to stay safe.
Make sure a fire never starts by following these simple tips:
✓ Don’t reach for danger! Wear tight-fitting or rolled-up sleeves when cooking and don’t reach over a hot burner. Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking, never leave cooking food unattended. Cooking fires are the number one cause of fire injuries among older adults. If you need to step away, you should turn off the stove.
✓ Always blow out candles before leaving the room.
✓ Ensure items that can burn are one metre (3 feet) away from space heaters.
✓ Avoid overloading the electrical outlets. Extension cords should be used only as a temporary connection.
✓ Avoid running cords under rugs, which can damage the cord and cause a fire.
✓ Install a smoke alarm on every storey of your home, outside and inside all sleeping areas. Test smoke alarms once a month and replace the battery once a year Smoke Alarms should be replaced at least every 10 years even if they are still working.
✓ Know exactly what to do and where to go if there is a fire. Plan and practice your escape! Develop a home fire escape plan or refer to your building’s fire safety plan.
✓ Know your local emergency number 9-1-1
✓ If you smoke, do it outside and use large deep ashtrays. Don’t extinguish smoking materials in a potted plant The soil used for potted plants can burn. Never smoke in bed.
You can make a difference in the life of a patient.
The Moose Jaw Health Foundation needs the support of donors to help us equip the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital with the best medical equipment in Canada. With your help we can save and enhance the lives of patients.
With the help of our donors, Moose Jaw is home to a modern, state-of-the-art hospital. Individuals, businesses and organizations make generous donations to purchase new medical equipment that will assist our dedicated health care professionals. Only through the generosity of donors the Foundation has been able to provide funding for:
• MRI - a first for rural Saskatchewan
• Orthopedic surgical equipment
• Labour and delivery equipment
• CT Scanner
• Digital Mammography
• Medical & Nursing scholarships for local students
Every dollar raised will stay in our community. Your gift will make a difference. Please help us equip your hospital today for a healthier tomorrow.
For more information on the Moose Jaw Health Foundation, please visit MJHF.ORG.
Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan.
Equip your hospital today for a healthier tomorrow
Province praises Moose Jaw chamber’s efforts to increase seniors’ employment
The provincial government is highlighting the success of a seniors-focused pilot project in Moose Jaw as part of its efforts to have Ottawa reverse cuts to a national employment funding program.
The Sask. Party government held five news conferences simultaneously across the province on Aug. 21 — the Moose Jaw event was held at Deer Valley Golf Course — to announce that it was providing $17.6 million to cover a shortfall in federal funding for employment and skills training for 2024-25 and to help maintain programs and services in the province. These programs and services prepare residents for jobs that the province’s growing economy is creating, the government said. If it hadn’t stepped in with additional funding, roughly 250 employers and 7,000 clients would have been affected.
During its spring budget, as part of cost savings, the federal government cut $625 million from the Labour Market Transfer Agreements (LMTAs), which provinces and territories use to support job training.
Saskatchewan’s share was $17.6 million. This situation “is a really, really critical issue” because it affects workers, job seekers, employers, post-secondary institutions and training providers and puts training programs at risk, said Lumsden-Morse MLA Blaine McLeod. Ottawa’s funding cuts come when employers everywhere are citing labour shortages as their main growth challenges and when more people are calling Saskatchewan home.
“Training Saskatchewan residents so they can take advantage of the jobs created in our rapidly growing economy … may not be a priority for the federal government, but it certainly, certainly is a priority for the Government of Saskatchewan … ,” he continued.
“If our government had not stepped in, this very poor (and reckless) policy decision by the federal government would have had harmful impacts on the province’s labour market and growing economy.”
McLeod then highlighted the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to grow the workforce by connecting older skilled workers with companies experiencing vacancies through a program called Senior Moose Jobs.
He noted that workers over age 55 are looking for extra income and can reliably fill positions.
“Growth requires labour, labour requires training, and workforce employers require trained individuals. It’s not rocket science … ,” he added. “When everybody is employed, you get strong and vibrant communities.”
Rob Clark, chamber CEO, expressed his appreciation for the province’s support, giving a hearty “hell yeah!” after stepping to the podium.
He explained that he and Heather Bergdahl, the chamber’s office administrator, began thinking of ways to increase seniors’ participation in the workforce following the pandemic’s conclusion. They conducted research and talked with other organizations before landing on the idea of Senior Moose Jobs.
While the chamber launched the seniors-focused pilot program in April — it ends Feb. 28, 2025 — the initiative really began seeing success in May, Clark said. The initial goal was to match 35 seniors with employers, but the chamber increased that goal to 100 people to prove that the project was worthwhile. So far, there have been 89 applicants, with businesses — 54 are participating — interviewing 69 people and hiring 22.
Older workers are reliable and usually require less training because they’ve been in
the workforce for 30 to 40 years, which means employers don’t have to worry too much about them because of that experience, said Clark.
The chamber CEO noted that Senior Moose Jobs — which receives $100,000 from the province — has received plenty of positive reviews and is continuing to grow. He noted that Saskatchewan residents over age 55 comprise the largest labour cohort in the province.
Clark added that this has been a long, fun and rewarding process for the chamber, the community, the province and the labour market overall.
For more information, visit www.mjchamber.com or contact barry@seniormoosejobs.ca.
Rob Clark, CEO of the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce.
Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Lumsden-Morse MLA Blaine McLeod.
Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Patients needing bloodwork can skip the waiting room thanks to new mobile service
Patients in need of bloodwork no longer have to see the inside of a health care centre’s waiting room thanks to a new mobile service offered by Misty Shropshire.
Moose Jaw Mobile Lab Services was officially launched on April 19. Shropshire now operates in and around Moose Jaw between Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and charges only $25 per patient.
“What I’m doing is I’m offering a home visit collection for lab work that your doctor would order,” she explained.
“I take (the sample) to the hospital, the hospital processes it, and all the testing is still covered under the Sask. Health Authority.”
Shropshire started the mobile blood service as a natural extension of her career as a medical lab specialist and after seeing plenty of demand within the community.
“I do (still) work for the Health Authority part-time as a medical lab assistant, so I do (the mobile service) around my work hours for now,” she said. “Maybe one day
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
I’ll be able to go full-time.”
To make the idea work, Shropshire runs the mobile service in her downtime, and her program ends at 3 p.m. to allow enough time to drop the samples off dur-
ing the lab’s outpatient hours.
When the samples arrive, a member of the hospital’s staff will accession and register the patient’s sample, perform any required pre-analytical handling, and then proceed as required from there.
“A lot of samples need to be centrifuged, sometimes they need to be aliquoted off or frozen, and then they will be processed
ACCESS CENTRE
and analyzed in the hospital here or… sent to Regina, depending on which test is ordered.”
Before a sample can be attained, each patient must provide proof of a doctor’s requisition.
Shropshire is accepting blood, urine, stool, and sputum samples, and she provides her own containers so patients don’t have to worry about logistics.
Shropshire can operate in Moose Jaw and within a radius of approximately 60 to 100 kilometres, she said, simply due to the need for samples to be processed within two hours of collection. As an added bonus, the service is tax-deductible. Advanced notice isn’t typically required, but she recommends giving as much notice as possible and said this depends on special handling requirements and how quickly the samples are required.
Misty Shropshire at Moose Jaw Mobile Lab Services can be reached by phone or text message at 306-690-6993.
Photo by Misty Shropshire
Aspira West Park Crossing is a home where residents over the age of 55 can discover peace of mind while being surrounded by a compassionate and engaging community designed to enhance their quality of life.
What sets West Park Crossing apart from other retirement homes is the on-site provision of nursing and assisted living services.
Residents can apply to the retirement home while still living independently, and if their health condition changes over time, a complete care package is offered without the need to move to other facilities.
Charlene Rivard, the home’s sales ad
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
One-bedroom suite options feature a square footage that ranges from 432 square feet up to 648 square feet, and all available suites come with an attached private bathroom featuring the basic amenities.
The home’s memory care program focuses on older adults who live with memory issues ranging from dementia to Alzheimer’s disease. Due to the possible risks of life with memory issues, residents enrolled in the memory care program will have additional staff to provide greater care.
This provision of care enables residents to continue living as independently as possible, all while surrounded by people who genuinely care about their story and
West Park Crossing’s memory wing and sensory gardens feature a secure, relaxed environment, and brings all the comforts
of home including homemade meals, living at your own pace, and the encouragement of warm, meaningful relationships. The respite program offers a place to stay for patients who may need close supervision following a medical procedure and terms are available anywhere from two weeks to two months. These temporary residents receive the same benefits as permanent residents at West Park Crossing, and the offer includes three meals per day, laundry services, and an independent living option that’s outside of a hospital. This program offers a place to stay for patients who may need close supervision following a medical procedure and terms are available anywhere from two weeks to two months.
These temporary residents receive the same benefits as permanent residents at West Park Crossing, and the offer in-
vices, and an independent living option that’s outside of a hospital.
“Instead of keeping a hospital bed occupied because they had hip surgery or a knee replacement, they can come here (to stay) until they get better,” Rivard said.
A bus is available so residents can get to and from appointments, shopping excursions, or social visits, and transportation is covered with the cost of rent. Recreational outings are also regularly planned by the home’s staff.
Patients requiring any rehabilitation services not offered in-house will be bused by the home to and from any required destination such as Providence Place.
“We are the ideal retirement option because we have aging in place,” she added.
“This means you can come in as an independent, and if your health needs ever change… we can still provide services for you (without the need to move).”
Aspira is a division of Sienna Senior Living which is prominent in parts of British Columbia and Ontario and claims to have the largest retirement communities in those areas.
Aspira’s parent company, Sienna Senior Living, is now looking to expand into the Canadian prairies with five locations now in Saskatchewan and one in Alberta.
To inquire about available suites or to ap-
ply for residency, call Charlene Rivard at 306-694-4744.
Aspira West Park Crossing is located at 1801 Meier Drive. For more information, visit AspiraLife.ca.
Customized
Gary Thronberg Director of Care
At the Chateau, we offer a wide range of services so couples can age in place. One spouse can live independently in a one bedroom suite while the other receives more advanced care. Even when needs are vastly different, couples can still live under the same roof and see each other every day.
to us about making the Chateau your new place to call home. 306-693-2323
Photo by Aaron Walker
Anyone who loves a good book should consider visiting Moose Jaw’s public library
For older adults who love a good book, the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) is a great place to consider visiting and an assortment of programs are also available for those looking to add something new to their day.
The library is situated in Moose Jaw’s beautiful and historic Crescent Park. Built in 1963, the library showcases a marble rotunda with stained glass skylight and an imposing brick façade. Within the library, a wide variety of books and other materials provide something for everyone.
The library’s top programs for older adults include Tech Time classes offered by library staff member James and the Outreach Service.
Tech Time is an adult learning course that focuses on learning to use new technology. Participants are given instructions on the use of mobile phones, online search engines, and other devices such as tablets or iPads to stay connected in today’s digital age. These courses are meant to be on a one-on-one basis, but due to high demand, they are routinely organized in a classroom setting. To keep the same direct approach to learning, classes are kept under 10 adult students at a time.
As demand for Tech Time is high, patrons are asked to book ahead.
If you’re unable to visit the library in person, the
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
MJPL offers a program with you in mind. Their Outreach Service will deliver books and any other materials — from audiobooks to DVDs to largeprint books — right to your door. Delivery and pickup services are offered twice a week, and the borrowing period is extended for patrons using the service.
For seniors who love needlework, knitting, sewing, crocheting, or embroidery, the library’s Needlework Night is a great opportunity for a monthly outing. Meeting take place once a month at the library, Needlework Night focuses more on socializing and mingling rather than guided instruction. This is a great opportunity to show off your needlework skills, learn a few new tricks, and even teach a few tricks to a new friend.
The Needlework Night is hosted on every fourth Tuesday of each month, but it’s best to call the library and confirm the next meeting date.
Do you remember the good old days? With the library’s archives program, you can peer back in time and find newspaper articles, stories, magazines, and photos from Moose Jaw’s past. This is an excellent program for scrapbooking, doing family research, and even just recalling fond memories.
The archives department is one of the busiest at the library, so it is best to call ahead and book an ap-
pointment.
Every second weekend of each month, the Moose Jaw Chess Club runs its chess night at the library. These events are open to all ages, and everyone’s welcome to attend. If chess is your game, this is the place to be. On some nights, attendance has reportedly been around 25 or 30 guests so this can be a great opportunity to meet other chess players in the community.
The library is open to program suggestions and any feedback you have is always appreciated. To contact the front desk, call 306-692-2787 or visit MooseJawLibrary.ca for more information.
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent.
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent.
Photo by Aaron Walker
Mulberry Estates offers an all-inclusive, short-term stay program for older adults
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Atria Mulberry Estates is an all-inclusive long term residence for adults over the age of 55, but individuals looking to simply hang their hat for a few weeks or months can also find welcoming accommodation in the home’s short-term stay program.
“If somebody needs a shortterm stay because of medical reasons, (or) maybe they just need a break from life (or) had a household emergency that they can’t stay at their house for, they’re welcome to stay here for whatever amount of time they need,” explained Tricia Oblander, the marketing manager at Mulberry Estates. The short-term stay can run for any duration of time, and guests who aren’t certain of stay will easily be accommodated on a day-to-day basis. If the stay is intended to be less than one month, the home will
no penalty for checking out early.
“This also includes all the food, housekeeping, basic cable TV, Wi-Fi in our common areas, activities, shuttle services – all of it is included as though you were a regular resident,” Oblander confirmed. As well, all suites in the temporary program come fully furnished so all you’ll need is clothing, a toothbrush, and any other personal effects.
The longest anyone has temporarily stayed in Mulberry’s Moose Jaw location has been less than a year so far, and Oblander said a few people prefer at a warmer venue down south during the winter and reside at the home for up to six months when they return.
Prospective short-term residents still need to be over the age of 55, as per the home’s guidelines. That said, Oblander noted that adjustments are possible for younger individuals looking to join the program and the best advice is to call ahead to confirm your eligibility.
“I know there’s lots of younger, single people that live on their own and maybe they’ve had surgery and can’t do the cooking and cleaning. They can come and stay for that temporary time as well,” she said.
A temporary stay at Mulberry Estates could be a good option when personal safety, good meals, and a necessary break from household chores is an important consideration.
“It’s better for people to have that communication with people instead of just being lonely at home, (and) nutritious meals are better for their mental and physical self as well. We’re just here to help in any way we can.”
For more information or to apply for the short-term stay program at Mulberry Estates, simply give Oblander a call at 306-694-5020.
Mulberry Estates is located at 220 Mulberry Lane and visitor’s parking is available in the south-facing lot.
Photo by Aaron Walker
The senior symposium hosted by the Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizen’s Association will take place at the Timothy Eaton Gardens at 510 Main Street North. On Oct. 1, the United Nations (UN) will universally observe what it calls the International Day of Older Persons with the goal of recognizing the many contributions made by older adults worldwide. The occasion also aims to highlight and explore the issues that affect this demographic. To honour the occasion, a senior symposium is being planned for Tuesday, Oct. 1 at the Timothy Eaton Gardens’ XYZ Auditorium with a starting time yet to be determined.
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Attendance is free of charge and the event will be organized on a come-and-go basis.
The symposium will also take place during Senior’s Week in Saskatchewan, which is a week dedicated to the recognition of roles played by older adults every day and in every community. This year’s week of recognition will run from Tuesday, Oct. 1 to Monday, Oct. 7.
“Everybody can get a table and then it’s kind of like one of our craft shows… where tables are set up and anybody is welcome to come in, sit down, and talk to see if they can get any information from any of these tables,” explained Tanya Legare, administrator of
the Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizen’s Association (MJDSCA). The MJDSCA is involved in the planning for the senior’s symposium and is based out of the Timothy Eaton Gardens.
The symposium is meant to help provide older adults with a wide range of practical and helpful information relevant to their current circumstances. Although vendors are still confirming their attendance as of Aug. 28, Legare said she’s looking to see several retirement homes, assisted living facilities, mobility services, health care providers, and similar service providers in attendance.
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“(The symposium is offered) in case you need a future reference for a senior or if you’re looking towards the future (and exploring) all your options,” she explained. This year’s celebration of Senior’s Week will open at the Timothy Eaton Gardens with a return of the association’s annual $5 pancake breakfast provided onsite at the venue.
“And then throughout the week we’re hoping to have other (subjects, speakers, program options) and stuff like that,” Legare added. Some of these topics are set to include a presentation by the Moose Jaw Police Service covering fraud cases and scams that specifically target seniors, and Legare hopes to have another speaker to follow the lead of last year’s senior gentleman who spoke about his journey through life with a disability. To learn more about seniors’ ser-
Church of Our Lady
vices offered by the provincial government, visit Saskatchewan. ca and search for “Seniors Services.” To learn about the UN’s International Day of Older Persons, visit UN.org/En/Observances/ Older-Persons-Day.
For more information about the MJDSCA and its role in helping adults over the age of 55 remain social and active, visit MooseJawSeniors.ca or call the association at 306-694-4223.
The senior symposium will take place at the Timothy Eaton Gardens at 510 Main Street North.
When a soldier came to the clinic where I work for an MRI, he was put into the machine by an attractive, young technician. Sometime later, when the examination was over, he was helped out of the machine by a far older woman. The soldier remarked, “How long was I in there for?”
SENIOR LAUGH!
Joanne Korman, Bedford, Nova Scotia
Dance lessons may be right for older adults looking to stay fit and connected
One of the best ways for older adults to stay fit and connected is through a variety of dance lessons offered on a regular and affordable basis.
Square Dance
For novice dancers, one of the best places to start is with square dancing offered by the Town and Country Square Dance Association in Moose Jaw.
“It’s like walking to music. If you can tap your toe, then you can square dance,” explained Valerie Wright, the association’s caller since 2003. She said square dance is a better starting point for a novice dancer than other, more routine styles of dance or even freestyle.
To participate, dancers simply learn the basic moves and then follow the lead of the caller, who directs the
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
movement on the dance floor. Participants are organized into groups of eight, and couples stand by for the caller’s next instruction. From there, it’s a matter of good listening skills. Wright said the focus is on “social square dance,” meaning it’s about enjoyment rather than competing. There’s no competition to train for, and dancers looking to take it a step further can contact Wright for more advanced options.
If you’re interested in attending the next dance lesson or would like to ask a few questions, Marcia Wiman can be reached at 306-681-8648. St. Mary School is located at 720 Fifth Avenue Southwest.
Line Dance
Alternatively, line dance classes are available through the Cosmo Centre’s
Line Dance Workshop.
Line dance is a choreographed dance where a group of people dance together in a repeating series of steps. During the dance, participants are arranged in lines that usually face the same direction and act in unison on the dance floor.
The ladies who instruct the classes are Vel Smith and Brenda Winter, with Cheryl Chow covering lessons during the winter months.
Classes at the Cosmo Centre are meant for an advanced-beginner level. Beginners should start at either the Timothy Eaton’s Centre or South Lake, where Winter teaches beginner-level classes. Classes at the Timothy Eaton’s Centre are held at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays, and introductory classes are held on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. To
contact the Moose Jaw and District
Senior’s Association for more details, the number is 306-694-4223. For confident beginners, Smith and Winter host classes every Thursday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. An intermediate-level class is also available between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. on those days. The fee is $5.00, and this covers two-and-a-half hours with free parking available.
Winter said line dance is a great physical activity with many health benefits, from mental health to improving balance and coordination.
“It’s really good for memory because you’re counting all the time. Line dances will go from 32 up to 72 (steps) that you have to remember,” Smith explained.
For more information, call or text Brenda Winter at 306-642-0015. The Cosmo Seniors Centre is located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast.
Salsa
New this year is an opportunity to try Salsa, a spicy Latin dance taught locally at the Moose Jaw Salsa Club. When asked why someone should consider Salsa, founder Marcela Borrero Cruz replied by saying everyone needs to have entertainment in their life, and to take a break from work, daily problems, and all of life’s worries to go smile and dance.
“You are going to meet new people, (learn) new languages, new dances, new cultures, and you are going to leave this event full of energy and smiling,” she added.
sa Club regularly meets on Saturdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Against the Grain Studios located at 33 High Street West.
For more information, Cruz can be reached by phone at 639-538-0062 or preferably by email at MarcelaBorreroC.Dancer@gmail.com.
The Moose Jaw Sal-
Medavie Health Services West Moose Jaw TEAM
Moose Jaw Loca on
Participants attend the Town and Country Square Dance Association’s first fall lesson on Sept. 25, 2023, at St. Mary School.
Photo by Aaron Walker
Furrows and Faith offers an ideal small-town retirement venue for Mossbank area residents
The Furrows and Faith Retirement Villa is located a short 40 minute drive from Moose Jaw at 406 Main Street in the village of Mossbank.
Furrows and Faith offers an ideal small-town retirement venue for Mossbank area residents
Furrows and Faith Retirement
Co-operative Limited offers an ideal independent living venue in Mossbank, Sask., for older adults who prefer to enjoy the perks of retirement outside of the big city.
Dale Nagel, a long-serving member of the board who was also on the original building committee, said the residence stands apart because of “a little bit more one-on-one with the workers” and a better worker to resident ratio, “a little bit
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
more of a home feeling,” and of course, “a little better cooking” than you might find elsewhere.
Furrows and Faith was established in December 2011 by Beverley Singbeil and Betty Ray with the mission of providing affordable retirement and assisted living options in the Mossbank area.
“The people that got the ball rolling on it saw the need for some housing in the area that would keep people that maybe didn’t need to be in a full retirement home,” Nagel explained. The goal was to also allow older area residents to stay close to friends, family, and their community without having to move to a larger centre.
At the time, Nagel said one
Furrows
and Faith Retirement Villa
Welcome to our Villa...
Independent Senior living available, with spacious single and double rooms, each with large walk-in showers and closets. Enjoy home cooked meals, laundry service, prescription assistance, daily activities. Small town living with a quiet inviting lifestyle, 24 hour fully trained sta for your peace of mind & safety. Nurse Practitioner does in house visits once a week for our convenience, Come have a walk through, and experience the real lifestyle of Mossbank, just 40 minutes from Moose Jaw.
406 Main Street Mossbank 306-354-7799
of the founders had a family member who was contemplating the move to Gravelbourg. To allow them to stay in their home community, the two decided it would be ideal to create a venue that’s somewhere between a full retirement home and an assisted living residence.
According to the home’s website, Mossbank “has always been behind keeping our facility going so our residents can stay in a safe, caring environment, where they could be close to nature and close to their children, grandchildren, and friends.”
Mossbank itself has around 360 residents (2016 Census) and the village features a few amenities including a modern swimming pool, hockey, and curling rink, a nine-hole sand green golf course, a K to 12 school, grocery store and restaurant, and three church denominations.
Mossbank is part of the Five Hills Health Region and a nurse practitioner visits in person three times each week. Weekly prescription orders and pickups are co-ordinated through the home and the Assiniboia Union Hospital is only 25 minutes away.
The home features 12 single, 325 square foot rooms along with three couples’ suites and one studio room. Both single and double room layouts are available, and each unit comes with its own bathroom including a walk-in shower.
If you prefer to bring your own furniture and treasures, there’s ample room to accommodate these personal details for that true home feeling.
Meals are served in the home’s common dining room, and a separate common area is ideal for socializing or playing several available games. Laundry, housecleaning, medication management, and limited personal assistance services are offered, and you can treat yourself to a full onsite spa with a walk-in tub. A hairdresser stops by the home every two weeks.
To help stay active, options include daily guided exercises, weekly group bible studies, regular entertainment including touring musicians, and there’s a yard and garden space where you can enjoy some fresh air.
As the retirement villa is organized as a co-operative, residents can apply for a membership for only $5 and this gives a vote in the operation of the business as well as the opportunity to become a leader on its board of directors.
For more information, call 306-354-7799 or visit FurrowsAndFaith.Wixsite.com/ Furrows-And-Faith. You can also contact the villa by email at FurrowsAndFaith@Sasktel. net.
The Furrows and Faith Retirement Villa is located a short 40 minute drive from Moose Jaw at 406 Main Street in the village of Mossbank.
Photo by Aaron Walker
Civic Centre Dental, Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic, announces grand opening July 27
A bright, new smile is on the horizon for Moose Jaw’s residents as the Civic Centre Dental Clinic which opened earlier this year and has now signed on with and been approved for the optional Canadian Dental Care Plan offered by the federal government. The plan is now open to seniors over the age of 65, children under the age of 18, and adults with a valid disability tax credit certificate. By 2025, the federal plan will extend to all Canadians.
The Civic Centre Dental Clinic offers “everything in general dentistry” from fillings, cleanings, and extractions to wisdom tooth removal and orthodontic treatments. The clinic is also approved by the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan to offer a mild sedation using nitrous oxide for those a little bit less eager to experience dental work with a sharply focused mind.
To help make your next dental visit more affordable, the clinic is regulated by the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan who sets a pre-determined fee that each separate clinic can charge for dental services. Still, Sesan explained, his staff aim to be great communicators and will explain which treatments you need and which are simply optional — but not necessary. This distinction can help lower costs by providing only the services you need and agree on. “We try to tell you everything you need to know, because it’s your mouth, it’s your health, and we just
want to be a partner in giving you that healthy smile and a happy life,” Sesan said. “You’re informed, and then you can make (an)… informed decision in your treatment.”
The clinic features state-of-the-art equipment including a CT (computed tomography) scanner, a CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography system) machine, intraoral cameras to show patients what the problem looks like and can even form non-invasive digital dental impressions.
“Gone are the days when you go to the dentist and you have that goopy stuff in your mouth,” Sesan said.
“Now you can just (do a) scan and they email your records to the lab…
“We’ve invested in (some of) the best equipment in the market,” he added.
The clinic is also the only local dental clinic that’s open on Saturdays.
Sesan acknowledged that many people lead busy lives and may not have time to book during the work week. “A patient comes (to us) with pain… you don’t have to wait until Monday; you can give us a call. We’re going to see you on Saturday.”
Owners Dr. Sesan Banjo and his brother Jomi Banjo plan to establish roots in Moose Jaw and said they’ll remain here for the foreseeable future.
“The goal is to ensure there’s room for expansion,” Jomi said. “Aside from that… this practice is going
SENIORS – KEEP ON SMILIN’!
My husband cooks for me like I’m a goddess—by placing burnt offerings before me.
Bickering with your spouse is like trying to read the Terms of Use for a new service. In the end, you just give up and click “I agree.”
Apparently saying, “Oh, this old thing?” isn’t an appropriate way to introduce my wife.
My company recently gave me an aptitude test, and I found out the work I was best suited for was retirement.
Money isn’t everything, but it sure keeps you in touch with your children.
You know you’re getting old when your doctor refers you to an archaeologist.
I’m getting older and wider instead of older and wiser!
Stop thinking of them as “hot flashes.” Think of them as your inner child playing with matches.
Now that I’ve gotten older, everything’s finally starting to click for me. My knees, my back, my neck …
to outlive our career.”
To book your next appointment, you can call the clinic, book through the easy-to-use booking platform on the clinic’s website, or reach out through Facebook Messenger.
For more information about Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic, visit CivicCentreDental.com.
The Civic Centre Dental Clinic is located at 1251 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-693-7070.
State of the art facility
State of the facility
Kiddies corner with a learning tablet
Kiddies corner with a tablet
We o er Nitrous sedation (laughing gas) for anxious adult patients and children. Open Saturdays
We o er Nitrous sedation (laughing gas) for anxious adult patients children. Open Saturdays
Back row, from left to right: Juliana Gerapusco, Dr. Sesan Banjo, and Dr. Jomi Banjo. Front row, from left to right: Janice Canilog, Czarina Marquez, and Janki Patel.
Civic Centre Dental, Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic, serving seniors
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Senior’s Association will see a refreshed XYZ Auditorium early this September
On Aug. 19, the Timothy Eaton Gardens, home of the Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizen’s Association (MJDSCA) announced a temporary closure with the venue focused on adults over the age of 55 and was set to reopen its doors on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
The reason for this closure is to allow some time for a few renovations that include the floor of the XYZ Auditorium, some painting, and a few bathroom upgrades as well. “We are replacing the floor (in the XYZ Auditorium),” explained Tanya Legare, administrator of the MJDSCA. “That floor is 30-some years old. From my understanding, (we’ve) been wanting to get that floor done for a few years now.”
The XYZ Auditorium serves a pivotal role for the MJDSCA as it strives to provide a venue to serve
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
its mission of keeping Moose Jaw’s adults over the age of 55 healthy and active. The space has been used for programs that range from quilting shows to concerts to the ever popular pickleball matches held eight times a week at the location.
These renovations are made possible thanks to a $25,000 New Horizons grant that the senior’s centre applied to and received approval for this year. The New Horizons for Seniors Program is a federally funded initiative intended to fund projects that help improve the lives of seniors by offering up to $25,000 to promote volunteerism, senior inclusion and engagement, and to assist with new and existing senior-focused programs.
As the floor didn’t require the full $25,000 to complete, Legare said the difference was spent on further
improvements to the popular 55plus venue.
“We had a few bucks left over, so we got paint,” Legare explained. “So, we painted the walls… (added) new baseboards, (and)… We’ve painted the front of the stage to match the walls.”
Although there’s no budget to add upgraded sound, light, or other equipment to the space, Legare did point out that the pickleball court will now be expanded to a regulation size enabling more sporting options at the centre. Previously, she said, it was around one foot shy of regulation size.
These renovations are complemented by the Moose Jaw Non-Profit Housing Corporation, who themselves received a grant this year and are now improving two upstairs bathrooms and upgrading one in
the basement at the Timothy Eaton Gardens. The basement bathroom, which was previously accessed by steps, will now be at ground level and more accessible for everyone. Once the auditorium and bathrooms have been completed, the association will focus on upgrading the onsite kitchen next. No timeframe has been given for this next phase as the focus remains on the current project for now.
“We’re going to look into grants and see what kind of (funding) we can get for the kitchen, and any money that we get (through) fundraising will most likely all go to the kitchen,” Legare said.
The association’s cook, Tina, has requested a new floor as the first consideration for the kitchen project, but for now it’s one project at a time and everyone is eager to resume operations as per normal.
“We’re just excited to see everybody (return on) Sept. 3,” Legare
announced. “It’s just not the same around here without seeing everybody and we can’t wait to see them again.”
Renovations are ongoing at the Timothy Eaton Gardens’ XYZ Auditorium with most of the flooring installed as of late Aug. 27.
The MJDSCA operates out of the Timothy Eaton Gardens building located at 510 Main Street North. For any questions during its ongoing renovations, the front desk can be reached at 306-694-4223 or you can visit MooseJawSeniors.ca.
TRANSIT SERVICE
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Moose Jaw has been called one of the most volunteer-rich communities in the province, and many of the local organizations vying to make the city a better place can only operate thanks to the countless hours contributed by dedicated volunteers. Here’s a look at some volunteering opportunities in the city:
Western Development Museum: The Western Development Museum is a great venue for older adults to volunteer and help contribute to the museum’s archives by sharing first-hand accounts from their experiences growing up in the province. For volunteer information, contact Alexis Jones at 306-693-5989.
Moose Jaw & District Food Bank: The food bank consistently needs volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including the sorting of food donations and assembling food hampers. The food bank can be reached at 306-692-2911.
Humane Society: The Moose Jaw Hu-
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
unteers who love the cute, cuddly animals that call the shelter their temporary home. Volunteer hours run from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday, and duties include socializing with dogs and cats, selling books at the on-site bookstore, and attending special events throughout the year. To inquire, call 306-692-1517.
Churches: Moose Jaw has around 40 churches and most require some occasional help with programs. One example is the lunch program run by St. Aidan Anglican Church, which is now in critical need of support following the Riverside Mission’s closure and the cancellation of the proposed downtown Souls Harbour shelter. Events such as the Better Together Food Drive happen with the support of the Hillcrest Apostolic Church. You can reach out by calling any of the local churches. St. Aidan can be reached at 306-694-5445 and the Hillcrest Church can be reached at 306-692-5600.
Jaw Music Festival takes place each year and is long-standing tradition. Each year, the festival is made possible only through the help of volunteers. The festival requires over 250 man-hours just to get organized, and if sufficient help is unavailable, the upcoming festival may not be possible. To volunteer, email MooseJawMusicFestival@hotmail.com.
Newcomer Welcome Centre: Both the Newcomer Welcome Centre and its parent organization, The Moose Jaw Multicultural Council are greatly supported by volunteers. Many volunteer options are available in areas that include group facilitators, English language tutors, putting together welcome packages, and more. Contact Gaby Carmona at 306-693-4677 for more details.
Providence Place: The Spiritual Care & Volunteer Team Lead at Providence Place co-ordinate the efforts of volunteers who help in a wide range of roles including gift shop services, socializing with residents in
the Maguire Centre, assisting the Spiritual Care Team, and accompanying residents off-site to valuable social outings. For more information, contact Cheryl Thul at 306-694-8836. More information can be found at ProvPlace.ca/Ways-To-Give.
Hunger in Moose Jaw: Among the programs open to volunteers at Hunger in Moose Jaw are the child nutrition program and The Good Food Box. The child nutrition program is designed to enhance children’s capacity to learn and develop, and around 300 lunches are provided daily to children across 18 local schools. To volunteer, call 306-692-1916.
Alternatively, The Good Food Box provides fresh fruit and vegetables to the public through a bulk buying program. Volunteers are needed to pack the boxes. For more information, call 306-693-0754.
Heartland Hospice: At Heartland Hospice, volunteers play a significant role in the lives of patients they serve, including the friends and families of the terminally ill. Volunteer opportunities include a Serenity Garden beautification team to maintain the garden at Pioneer Lodge, a Supportive Care Committee, and help with public engagement and fundraising. For
more information call 306690-8699.
Volunteers are also sought for palliative care through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. This care includes physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. Training may be required prior to volunteering. For more information, visit SaskHealthAuthority.ca.
Free to be Me Animal
Sanctuary: In a world where sick, elderly, and abandoned animals often face an uncertain future, one local woman — Louanne Shropshire — has dedicated her life to providing a sense of normalcy to her ever-expanding family. Shropshire is severely limited in her outreach by the number of available volunteers and would gladly welcome a helping hand to assist her flock from ostriches to ducks to the world’s (unofficially) oldest donkey. To learn more, call 306-684-2231.
Volunteers with Heartland Hospice’s beautification team take a short break during their work on the Pioneer Lodge Serenity Garden earlier this summer. The role played by volunteers such as these was instrumental in the improvement of palliative care options for Moose Jaw’s older residents.
Sidewalk Days: The iconic Moose Jaw Sidewalk Days Festival is run entirely by volunteers, and there are many ways an
individual can help. Volunteers work in two-hour shifts, and for each shift they’re typically entered to win gift cards to several local businesses. For more information, contact Tourism Moose Jaw at 306-6938097 or email
Volunteer@TourismMooseJaw.ca.
Photo by: Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw
older adults looking to add a new hobby
Photography is a timeless hobby and a great activity for older adults. Whether you’re a novice at the art or an experienced photographer, the Moose Jaw Camera Club is a great place to meet new friends and like-minded individuals as you either learn the basics or share some of your finest captures to people who truly appreciate your efforts.
The Moose Jaw Camera Club currently has around 35 active members and meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre on the second Monday of each month from September to June at 7 p.m.
The club operates with the mission of fostering an appreciation for photography as an art form.
“You’re capturing a moment in time
By Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
when you take a photo. There’s a great satisfaction (in that) – at least for me there is,” said Wanda Hudson, the club’s membership manager and assistant programming committee member. At the camera club, members come together to exchange information and share in a mutual learning activity. Newer photographers are given an opportunity to learn from seasoned and experienced members, and a range of optional outings help give focus to the learning experience.
Several members may even receive the opportunity to have their works showcased on the permanently rotating east wall gallery at Carol’s Catering, located along the North Service Road. When members of the camera club were asked about their reasons for join-
ing, the most common response was to interact with like-minded people. This included a frequent mention of the social aspect of the club, as well as the shared sense of camaraderie.
Other members were simply interested in photography, and many wanted to learn new camera techniques or methods.
Two members said they enjoyed the guest speakers who regularly attend meetings, and others mentioned the club’s activities. In one earlier activity, balloons were inflated and then popped, while members who had a camera set up on a tripod took a shot at capturing the exact moment the balloon exploded.
“There are all kinds of fun things we try. That’s where (members) get the
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hands-on (experience) and (try) new things they haven’t done,” Hudson said.
“The last two (members) that signed up at our last meeting as a new couple that moved to town (were) anxious to perfect their cameras, take pictures and learn things,” she said in an earlier interview. “I think they are retiring here, so it’s going to be a fun past-time for them.”
More information can be found online at TheMooseJawCameraClub.com or by visiting ‘Moose Jaw Camera Club’ on Facebook.
To inquire about upcoming events or to apply as a member, contact either Wanda Hudson at 306-631-7440 or Leonard Ber at 306-693-7865.
The Cosmo Centre is located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast.
For a little inspiration, here’s a photo taken by local photographer Michael St. Laurent on Aug. 19.
Photo by: Michael St. Laurent (cropped)
Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association keeps
The Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association Inc, commonly known as the Eaton Centre, provides a welcoming and vibrant space for local adults aged 50 and over. This community hub offers an excellent venue for seniors to socialize, meet new friends, and engage in a variety of activities at their own pace. Whether you’re looking to participate in organized events, explore new hobbies, or simply enjoy the company of others, the Eaton Centre is a place where older adults can connect, relax, and feel right at home. Founded in 1989, the Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association Inc. (Eaton Centre) has been steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors in the community for over three decades. With a clear mission to promote the mental, social, and physical
well-being of its members and guests, the Centre has become a cornerstone of support and engagement for local seniors. Through a diverse range of programs, activities, and events, the Eaton Centre fosters a strong sense of community, improving the overall quality of life for those who participate. Research highlights that regular social interaction and involvement in group settings can significantly boost both physical and mental health, serving as an effective remedy for depression, anxiety, and various chronic conditions. The Eaton Centre is actively working to reshape its image, moving away from the perception of being a seniors’ home or an exclusive venue closed to the public. Instead, the Centre is dedicated to offering a wide range of activities designed to enrich the lives of older
adults in the community. According to Centre Administrator Tanya Legare, the primary goal is to keep members engaged and active, ensuring that they have access to opportunities that promote their well-being and foster a vibrant community atmosphere. The Eaton Centre is always open to fresh ideas and values every suggestion from its members. The Centre actively encourages members to voice their suggestions for new activities, many of which are frequently implemented. A visit to the Eaton Centre on Main Street will reveal a long list of activities available for participation. These activities are scheduled Monday to Friday each week, with consistent time slots for each event. Morning and afternoon sessions are regularly held, with extended hours on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Eaton Centre offers a wide array of activities for its members, ensuring there’s something for everyone. A small sample includes line dancing, arts and crafts, pickleball, shuffleboard, multiple card games, and so much more. For those focused on fitness, the facility boasts a walking track and gym—perfect for staying active during the winter months when outdoor walking isn’t feasible. Fitness enthusiasts can also join the “Forever in Motion” guided class in the XYZ Hall. Shuffleboard sessions are held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m., and have been gaining popularity, leading to two major tournaments a year and monthly mini-tournaments. Billiards is available throughout the day at a modest $0.65 per game, and the Centre also hosts an assortment of card games, including Texas Hold’em, cribbage, and 500, with friendly competitions regularly held
The Eaton Centre features a welcoming restaurant that serves breakfast from 8
a.m. to 10 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily, offering everyone the chance to enjoy home-cooked meals at reasonable prices. With a sizeable lunch hall, the Centre can accommodate a fair crowd, and members benefit from discounted meal rates. The Centre also plays an active role in celebrating Senior Week, hosting a variety of activities. Last year’s event kicked off with a pancake breakfast, and members of the Moose Jaw Police visited to discuss scams and frauds, providing valuable information to the community
For anyone looking to book a hall for their function, the Eaton Centre offers an excellent venue option. By choosing the Eaton Centre, you’re not only securing a great space for your event but also supporting a vital community resource. All proceeds from hall rentals go directly towards helping the Centre continue its mission to improve the lives of seniors in the community. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large event, your booking will contribute to a cause that makes a positive impact locally
The XYZ Hall can accommodate up to
200 people, while the card room can hold up to 40. Becoming a member is easy, with a Basic Membership available for $50 and an Enhanced Membership for $75. The Enhanced Membership includes access to the indoor walking track and gym area. Additionally, members enjoy discounts on hall rentals, catering, and at the café. A small fee of $2 is charged for each activity, except for the walking track and gym area, which are included in the Enhanced Membership.
The Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association Inc. operates out of the Timothy Eaton Gardens building, located at 510 Main Street. For more information on upcoming functions and events, visit their website at moosejawseniors.ca. The Eaton Centre offers tours every weekday, Monday through Friday. Whether you’re interested in exploring membership options or just want to learn more about their programs, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Eaton Centre for a personalized tour or additional details
Helping Raise Money and Food for the Food Bank
Active Adult
Community
you are looking for a new home, short-term stay, or an active place to spend the winter, Points West Living Moose Jaw is here for you.
Lots of updates Happening at the Bentley
Stepping into the Bentley is like finding the cosy corner cafe of town, where everyone feels at home. a warm and comfortable retirement home with host of amenities and services to choose from. Here, every dollar of your hard-earned money translates to exceptional retirement living. enjoy nutritious meals, first-rate care, and countless chances to forge new friendships in a homely atmosphere crafted just for you.
We have been busy updating our suites with new vinyl plank flooring, tiled walk-in showers and new quartz counter tops. Call Rod for more information or your personal tour. 306-692-7161.
Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre
We provide 55+ the opportunity to enhance their well being with social, cultural and physical activities. Some of the activities include pickleball, floor shuffleboard, cards, summer BBQs, Tuesday morning jam sessions, Thursday line dancing, monthly social dances, Military Whist Tournaments, drop in activities throughout the year.
Hall rentals available for everyone for all occasions. Free parking. 235-3rd Ave NE Moose Jaw 306-692-6072
Governments CAN Resolve Pressing Problems
Governments CAN Resolve Pressing Problems
We know that the median age in Saskatchewan is projected to increase from age 37 in 2013 to age 43 by 2038. In same time period the percentage of people 65+ is projected to rise to 23% by 2038. This should not be a surprise to politicians!
For over 3 decades older people have asked governments to plan and invest, not only for a safe, healthy future for older adults, but to determine how their immense knowledge, skills and interests can benefit themselves, their families and communities.
It is time to listen to older adults as they describe what they want and need.
needs, solutions to widespread community problems can be revealed.
Examples:
• Lyle was widowed a year ago. Although he can fix a leaky toilet he has no idea how to plan and prepare nutritious, tasty meals. Frozen grocery meals are tiresome and often are too salty, thus increasing his blood pressure!
• Samir and Nola are barely managing in their 2 story house. Samir has increasing mobility problems and they may need a chair lift to the second floor. Samir fell and spent 2 weeks in hospital. Neither are able to do even minor repairs.
admit it, but he is lonely. He has lived alone all his adult life and loves being independent but since retirement he doesn’t have an easy connection with other people
All these people have skills and interests. Lyle likes woodworking and repairing, Samir and Nola are musicians. George was an accountant. Lyle has family 200 km away. Samir and Nola’s son lives in another country. None really want to move from their community. These examples are repeated again and again in our Saskatchewan communities.
Governments need to change their focus as they look to the future. Older adults are not a “Health Issue” with only medical solutions.
Governments have been focused on planning and investing in facilities for institutional long-term care when only a small percentage of older adults need 24-hour institutional care. Older adults know that the best way to support them and their communities is to make it possible for them to choose where and how they live.
What’s needed is investment in Home Supports programs and services.
The big bonus for politicians is that while this investment is key to supporting older adult well-being, it also goes a long way to address problems associated with over-worked, costly health systems as well as helping communities maintain population and increase their vitality through the contributions of older adults.
The average cost per day for a hospital stay is $1380/day. Long term care costs $8000 to $9000 per month.
Average cost for practical home support is $30 or $40 per hour. Do the math!
Election season is coming. Talk with politicians about their party’s policies. Discuss these ideas with family and friends. VOTE THOUGHTFULLY
Love Where You Live
Li fe a t Ve nv i T he B e n tl ey is mo re than re ti reme n t living , i t ’s a comm un it y filled with w a r m th, cha rac te r and li fe . De signed fo r t h os e who see k a vib ra n t and ca re f re e li fest yl e , ever yt hi n g he re is in pla ce to enj oy the f reedo m to li ve , l ove a n d l au gh. T his is the Ve nvi experien ce . Is T h e Be n tl ey ri g h t fo r you? C all 30 6 -69 2 -716 1 to boo k a p e r sonal tou r to d ay !
