www.northwood.care
A community paper sharing the stories of the largest not-for-profit continuing care organization in Atlantic Canada Summer 2018
Volume 01, Issue 01
20th Anniversary Fundraising Gala Raises $189K to Help the Northwood Community Live More The Northwood Foundation’s 20th anniversary Live More Awards took place on May 4th, raising $188,000 to help support programs and initiatives here at Northwood that aren’t funded by the government. In the past, the funds from this gala have been used to make the William E. Frank Live More Park, Kaye’s Place, the Marjorie Lindsay Centre and the Pauline Potter Fitness Centre possible. “Northwood is committed to providing our residents and clients with opportunities to live more,” says Janet Simm, President and CEO of Northwood. “Being a not-for-profit, we use the funds raised at the Live More Awards to support initiatives that improve the quality of life for our community.” This year’s event saw more than 600 guests, supporting
National Dance Page 5 Week
Mayor Mike Savage makes toast via video message.
the Northwood Foundation through sponsorships, donations, purchasing tickets and participating in a live and silent auction. There was also raffle and a UPICK game. The grand prize of the UPICK
Kaye's Place Opens Page 6
game, two tickets anywhere WestJet flies (generously donated by WestJet), was won by Dave Power. We also received 17 donations to the event’s funda-need, “Power of Music”
Pauline Potter Fitness Centre 'One Big Family' Page 11
packages that include an iPad and case, a year subscription to Apple Music, a Bluetooth speaker and five sets of headphones. The Foundation is excited about the results of the event, and appreciates the generosity and effort of everyone that was involved. “An event of this caliber is not possible without the support of our donors, volunteers and community,” says Faye LeBlanc, Managing Director of the Northwood Foundation. “A very special thank you to all of our corporate sponsors, including the presenting sponsors, IMP Group & CAN-Med Healthcare. Your commitment to Northwood is inspiring and it’s because of support like yours that we can improve the lives of our residents and clients.” Continued on page 2
Northwood Intouch Gives Back to Your Community Page 15
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Message from Peter Wilde, Board Chair Northwood is Nova Scotia’s original senior citizen advocate dating back to 1962. We have a rich history of identifying a need and being the first to raise our hands with a solution. We recognize that we serve a very diverse group of Nova Scotians who access all kinds of services in all corners of our province. Northwood's Board of Governors sets out the strategic directions of the organization and monitor progress. One of Northwood’s strategic directions is brand aware-
ness, with the goal of integrating our communications and marketing efforts to promote a better understanding of the full range of services offered by Northwood. To help us achieve this strategic direction, we recently asked ourselves: how can we bring all the people we serve together as one community and share all our Northwood stories? Our answer was this newspaper, the one you are holding in your hands. Whether you have our Northwood Intouch assistive technology service
in Cape Breton, you receive respite care in St. Margaret’s Bay, you attend our art classes through our Community Recreation and Wellness programs or have a loved one who attends our Adult Day program, we all have something in common and are all a very special and important part of our Northwood community. This paper is Northwood’s way of bringing us all together and igniting that sense of community and togetherness, no matter where you access our services. Northwood
isn’t just a place. Northwood is the power of love. We welcome story ideas and would love to hear from you. This paper belongs to all of us and we want it to serve you, the reader, as a resource for valuable information. As a not-for-profit organization, we re-invest our surpluses back into a system of care that helps our entire community live more, and this newspaper is just one of the ways we are able to focus on better serving our population and sharing information that matters to you.
The Northwood Foundation 20th Anniversary Fundraising Gala Continued from page 1 This year’s Live More Awards was a huge success, but the event is more than a fundraiser. The gala also recognized community members who embody the spirit of Northwood. Well-known local philanthropists, Ken and Dorothy Rowe, were this year’s featured honourees, receiving the Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award. Six other individuals were presented with distinction awards, being recognized for their contributions to research, innovation, advocacy, diversity, community and loving care – the six pillars of Northwood. This year’s distinction award recipients were: Bill VanGorder for
Volunteers preparing for the Live Auction.
advocacy, Pamela Fancey for research, John Bonnell for innovation, Sharon Murphy for diversity, Claire Pottie for community and Nicole Martelle for loving care.
The foundation staff would like to extend a special thanks to all the volunteers who made this event possible. Be on the lookout for new initiatives coming this
Sharon Murphy receives the distinction award for Diversity.
year as a result of the funds raised at this year’s Live More Awards.
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Summer 2018 | Northwood | 3
The Northwood Foundation From left to right: Faye LeBlanc, Managing Director of Northwood Foundation, Bill VanGorder, Pamela Fancey, Claire Pottie, Sharon Murphy, Nicole Martelle, John Bonnell and Janet Simm, President & CEO of Northwood.
Northwood board member, Linda Carvery, Mike Cowie and The Vibe Quartet perform "I Believe I Can Fly."
Live More Awards guests at dinner.
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The Northwood Foundation No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the publisher.
Publisher Northwood Communications Editor Stephanie McDougall Communications Specialist Ashley Gallant 902-454-3377 ashley.gallant@nwood.ns.ca Communications Assistant Stephanie McDougall 902-493-3016 smcdougall@nwood.ns.ca Public Relations Assistant - Student Jenna Farrell Graphic Designer Erin Gidney Production Manager Vicki Hines Printing Advocate Printing & Publishing
FOR ADVERTISING SALES CONTACT: publishers@metroguide.ca Tel. 902-420-9943 For more information, please contact Northwood Corporate Office, Suite 1 South, 130 Eileen Stubbs Ave., Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4 902-425-2273 information@nwood.ns.com www.northwood.care
2018 Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award Recipients Ken & Dorothy Rowe In 1956, Ken Rowe joined The Great Grimsby Coal Salt & Tanning Co. Ltd. which, at that time, was Europe’s largest manufacturer of commercial fishing equipment. In 1964, he brought his wife, Dorothy, and young family to Halifax as the managing director of the company’s North American interests. In 1967, with his family’s support, he started IMP. As Executive Chairman, he remains active in guiding and setting policy/vision for the Group. Ken is past director of a number of public companies, including the Royal Bank of Canada, Crombie REIT, Nova Scotia Power Corporation and the Shaw Group. He has received numerous awards including the Order of Canada. He has been recognized as one of the top 50 CEO’s in Atlantic Canada and as one of Canada’s Outstanding Aerospace Visionaries. He has also been inducted into the Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame as well as the
Ken & Dorothy taking the stage to receive the Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award.
Canadian Business Hall of Fame. Ken has been named the Atlantic Region’s Outstanding Individual Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals and is well known for supporting organizations in the community such as Dalhousie University, the Red Cross, the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia as well as all of the local hospitals.
Dorothy Rowe exemplifies someone that cares for others and has spent many years supporting several charities. She served on the Board of the Grace Maternity Hospital and worked to have the new IWK/Grace Hospital built. She is now Honorary Trustee for the IWK Health Centre Foundation. Dorothy was also Honorary Chair for the Opening Minds Capital Campaign of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia and has served as Co-Chair for the Festival of Trees event. Dorothy has been a fundraiser for many years and has dedicated her efforts to women, children and mental health causes.
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The Northwood Foundation
Live More Walk 2018 – Save the Date Get your walking shoes ready! The Northwood Foundation’s Live More Walk will be taking place on Saturday, September 29th, 2018. The Live More Walk raises funds to support Northwood’s Dignified Living Fund. The Dignified Living Fund was created to support Northwood residents and clients who may not be able to afford items like, face cloths, hearing aid
batteries or having their dentures fixed. Everyone deserves to live with dignity, no matter their age or stage in life. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/northwoodcare to get the latest information on how you can sign up and be a part of this annual fundraiser. You can also check the Northwood Foundation’s website for information: www.northwoodParticipants, staff and volunteers at last year's Live More Walk. foundation.ca.
Halifax Campus
National Dance Week at Northwood This spring, Northwood played host to several community events during National Dance Week. Recreation Therapy programmers and Community Recreation & Wellness programmers joined forces to teach residents and tenants several types of dances ahead of the festivities. On April 19th, participants
got together and learned Pina Bausch's “Nelkin Line” as part of an international dance video project. The project saw groups of dancers from all around the world learning and dancing the same dance on the same day. Dance teachers from Dance Nova Scotia visited the Halifax Campus and taught the moves to the “Nelkin Line.”
It didn’t take long for everyone to catch on. You can see Northwood’s video submission at www.pinabausch.org The National Dance Sock Hop in the Shirley Burnstein Hall also drew a crowd of dancers. A live band played familiar tunes and medleys from decades past. Tunes by Elvis, The Beach Boys, and so many others got resi-
dents, tenants and community members up out of their seats to dance. A big thank you to the Northwood staff who planned this week of toe-tapping good times.
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Halifax Campus
Kaye's Place Provides the Comforts of Home If you’ve recently taken a stroll down “Main Street” at our Halifax Campus, you’ve likely seen “Kaye’s Place,” or at the very least the sign hanging on the wall. “Kaye’s Place,” which opened its doors in the spring of 2018, provides a haven for residents who struggle with the challenges of dementia while providing a homelike setting and special place to reconnect. This new space, which will be used for special programming and scheduled family visits, is named in honour of Katherine (MacDermid) Dickson. Also referred to as “Kaye” by her many friends, she has lived an extraordinary life filled with happy memories of days spent with those she cared about. Kaye grew up in Cape Dauphin and was the eldest of five children. She headed off to college in Truro where she
The front door of Kaye's Place.
studied to become a teacher, but she longed for home. Luckily, her first teaching job was close to Cape Dauphin – she taught at a one-room schoolhouse in Ross Ferry. She married a handsome miner named James “Buddy” Dickson in 1955 and moved to New Waterford where she taught at Central School. Buddy and Kaye soon welcomed two little children,
Kaye and Buddy on their wedding day, 1955.
Kaye's family pouring the first cup of tea at Kaye's Place.
Bonnie (Bonnie Salsman) and James (Jim Dickson) who were their pride and joy. Helping others was at the root of everything Kaye did in her life, which is why it made so much sense when she eventually went back to university to become a special education teacher. Kaye also dedicated many hours to vol-
Kaye with grandchildren in 2006.
unteer activities to give back to her community. She was an active member of Calvin United Church and a member of the board of the Bairncroft Foundation. Kaye was proud to offer a haven within her classroom and she created a caring and supportive setting Continued on page 7
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Halifax Campus Kaye's Place Provides the Comforts of Home for her students, a setting not un-like “Kaye’s Place” at Northwood. “Kaye’s Place” features all the comforts of home with special little touches like cozy hand-knit blankets, teacups and saucers, and soft lighting that you wouldn’t expect to see in a long-term care setting. The room is outfitted with memory boxes (a tool used in dementia care),
robotic cats and dogs, Google Home, and so much more. The space was carefully planned out by Northwood’s Resident Programs and Services department. Sarah Cluett, a Recreation Therapist at Northwood, says she’s witnessed countless successes since the doors of “Kaye’s Place” opened earlier this year. One of those successes was seeing a gentleman who had been described as non-verbal by those who work closely with
Kaye and Buddy, 1993.
Kaye in her beloved Cape Breton.
Continued from page 6
Halifax Campus Summer Socials We’re kicking off a new up to 2 guests to attend the summer tradition for our Summer Social with them. residents living at our Hali- Admission prices for guests fax Campus this summer: has yet to be determined. Summer Socials! ThroughResidents are free. out the months of July and August, Dates Floors the Socials will kick July 18th 7, 8, 9 Manor off at 2:00pm in the July 25th 2 Centre, 3, 4 Manor Shirley Burnstein 4, 5 Centre Hall and feature mu- August 1st sical entertainment, August 8th 1, 3 Centre ice cream sundaes August 15th 5, 6, 10, 11 Manor and a few more fun August 22nd 6, 7 Centre surprises! Residents 8, 9 Centre will be able to invite August 29th
him sing the words to “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” during a group program. Funding for “Kaye’s Place” was made possible through the Northwood Foundation and donations received at the 2017 Live More Awards. Jim
Dickson was the recipient of the 2017 Hedley G. Ivany Live More Award and he decided to name “Kaye’s Place” in his mother’s honour. Kaye is a member of the Northwood Community and now calls Northwood home.
Messages & memories from those who know Kaye best I must say that Mrs. Dickson was my very favourite teacher and my most memorable memories of school are from grade one with her. She was probably the reason why I liked going to school. My best memory of her is one day we had gone out to play and I fell and cut my knee and ripped my leotards. When I came in I didn't say anything but being very perceptive she asked me what was wrong. I started to cry and showed her my knee. She was so kind and loving that I have truly have never forgotten that day. She was a hero in my eyes from that day on. An Angel that she gave me hangs on my kitchen wall and every time I look at it I think of her and what an angel she is. Xxxooo - Leslie Shaw
My Auntie Kaye, one of the greatest influences in my life. Like a second mother, but willing to let me break some rules. Always there for me in sticky situations and times of joy! Even though I disliked cooking and baking she made it feel fun. She taught me how to tie my shoes the left handed way, because nobody else could. Crocheting didn’t make my list of favorites, even though we spent many left handed hours trying! She never failed to support me and pushed me to be the best I could be. Thank you for a lifetime of advice and your unconditional love. - Bethanne MacVicar
I've learned so much from this lady!! Being the 1st special education teacher in the CBVRSB her skills My sister Katherine was and knowledge about chilan “Educator” in every dren and the developmental sense of that word. As a stages are what make her much younger sister, I real- a teacher for and of life. ized at an early age that she The world is a better place gave of herself, beyond her because of her and now so comfort level, by sharing is Northwood. I hope Kaye's her time, her talents and place brings many smiles her pay cheque to bring oth- to the lives of residents and ers up to their potential. their families. - Connie MacDermid Rogers - Rayanne Rogers
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Bedford Campus
Living Life Forwards insurance agent in Nova Scotia and she had a way with people. They responded positively to her, resulting in rocketing sales. -Submitted By Emily Walker At the New York Insurance Company, Muriel met When she talks about and fell in love with Brad the past, Muriel Amirault Finigan, a fellow colleague. quickly identifies the pivotal They were soon married moments and challenging and, after a brief honeyevents that shaped her life. moon, they both got down She is the kind of person to work in complementary who springs back from adverfields. Muriel had a strong sity and moves forward. Mudesire to continue with the riel grew up in a large family insurance business and dein Havre Boucher, marrying cided to open her own firm— her childhood sweetheart Insurance and Estate Design. in 1951 at 18 years old. She She felt her firsthand expeand her husband, Gerald rience with poverty occurMacDonald, were happy and ring from lack of financial blessed with seven children. planning gave her an insight Life was turning out well for and an edge. She could help them in Aulds Cove. Gerald others avoid the struggles was working as a Canadian she had experienced. The National Railway operator. Finigans were well known He had completed nearly and travelled throughout the twenty years service with the region to offer workshops Muriel Amirault. CNR when tragedy struck. and seminars to the business One day Gerald did not recommunity. Muriel felt strongly about turn home from work — his Halifax. This meant travel to decided to check it out and the plight of women in her body was later recovered and from Halifax and a great arranged to talk to a manworld, knowing how easily ager at the Halifax office from water near the railway. deal of concern each time a woman could be left with of the New York Insurance Muriel’s world turned upJanessa underwent another Company on a day when she nothing. One way that Muriside down. She was suddenly operation. During this difficult time, was travelling (by train, of el chose to highlight the need left with $68 to her name, Muriel attended a series of course) to visit her daughter for women to plan and to no income, no bank account seminars presented by Dr. take charge of their economat the IWK. and no insurance. CNR told She found out she would Rosemary Holten. She was ic future was through a teleher that her husband was need to take some courses surprised when Dr. Holten vision series she produced. six months short of qualifyto be eligible to work in the suggested that the insurThe show, Women are Speing for any sort of pension, insurance business. Not one cial, aired in the late 1980s. although they did supply her ance business would be a to procrastinate, she immedi- She credits Charles Keating, good match for Muriel’s with a pass for travelling on skill set – Muriel was not in- ately enrolled in the courses, a Halifax pioneer telecommuthe train. How would she passed the exams and started nications businessman, with terested in insurance! Soon cope? after, her brother introduced work right away. Finally, she giving her this opportunity. More misfortune came was earning decent money her to a friend who worked The show profiled women along when Muriel’s daughfor the New York Insurance and seizing with both hands who had experienced crises ter, Janessa, was diagnosed the opportunity to build a ca- in their lives and how they Company. He encouraged with a congenital bone disreer. And did that career take her to seriously consider ease requiring a number Continued on page 9 off ! She was the first female a career in insurance. She of surgeries at the IWK in Muriel Amirault lives at Northwood’s Bedford Campus. Every resident has a story and this is just part of Muriel’s…
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Volunteers Wanted for Client & Family Advisory Council Northwood wants to increase the involvement of clients and family members in planning and reviewing its programs and services. In order to do this we need clients and families like you to help us understand what the needs and priorities are when it comes to service and care, and to give us your per-
spectives on what we do well, and what we could be doing better. Ways to become involved: •B ecome a member of a committee (either short or long term) •B ecome a member of a project team Continued on page 10
Living Life Forwards Continued from page 8 overcame these challenges. The goal of the series was to inspire, inform and instigate change. At the height of their business success, Brad developed cancer and Muriel suffered a debilitating stroke. Muriel recovered after months of therapy, but Brad succumbed to his illness. Again, Muriel suffered the loss of a beloved husband. Her family once again faced a catastrophe – her 22-year-old son Clifford was lost at sea in a boating accident. Muriel bounced back again, continuing to make a life for herself. Eventually she remarried, this time to Ivan Amirault, the organist at the church she was attending. However, she was left alone when Ivan passed
away a few years later. Once again, she recovered her joie de vivre and took a lively interest in everything around her. She involved herself with her family, her friends and the hobbies she enjoyed. In spite of continuing serious health issues, Muriel remains resilient and optimistic. She says she inherits her positive approach and her high energy level from her mother. Muriel’s life has been a full one, she has survived and overcame many obstacles. Her anchors have been her faith, her family and her firm belief that things will work out for the best. Yes, it is true that events that are devastating at the time can be the catalyst to change the direction and outcome of a life in a positive way. Muriel is proof of that!
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Thank You for your Patience During Cold & Flu Season Northwood puts a great deal of effort into managing outbreaks of illnesses that take place within longterm care, this is especially important during influenza season. Although early detection is key, we also limit the spread and contain the outbreaks. Cancelling or
postponing programs is something you might notice us do. It can be disappointing when this happens, but by doing this, we are able to keep illnesses contained. We recognize the impact this has on our residents, their families, and the entire Northwood community
For up-to-date information for families, please visit https://nwood.ns.ca/ 24-hour-care/infor mation-for-families/
– that’s why we only resort to this when it’s absolutely necessary. Along with your annual flu vaccines, hand hygiene plays one of the most important roles in limiting the spread of illness and protecting both yourself and your loved ones. North-
wood will continue to strive for excellence in both prevention of outbreaks and managing them. We want to thank you for both your assistance and your understanding.
Volunteers Wanted for Client & Family Advisory Council
F
O
• Casual consultation on developing new or changing existing policies and programs that affect the clients. This could be in the form of meetings, focus groups, surveys or phone conversations haring personal stories at •S meetings, conferences or events Advisors will go through
an application and training process, as confidentiality is paramount in healthcare. If you are interested in “So glad you are there. receiving an application I don’t know how I would have package or for more information, please contact Linda gotten through this without you.” Verlinden at 902-454-3018 or – CNS caregiver client lverlinden@nwood.ns.ca. You can also visit www.northwood.care and click on the Caregivers Nova Scotia is a non-profit “About” tab in the top right organization providing FREE programs, Northwood is looking for client and family advisors to share hand corner.
PR O
Continued from page 9
services, and advocacy for their unique perspective and have theirinformation, say. unpaid, friend and family caregivers.
Caregivers Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization providing FREE programs, services, information, and advocacy for unpaid family and friend caregivers.
Phone: 902.421.7390 or 1.877.488.7390 www.CaregiversNS.org
150748
Caregivers Nova Scotia Association
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Community Recreation & Wellness
Halifax Block Party Pauline Potter Join us for our annual Northwood Terrace Block Party – a day to celebrate the Northwood community and our North End neighbours! Bring the family for a day of live entertainment, carnival games, food vendors, and more. When: Saturday, July 14 starting at noon! Where: Northwood Terrace between Black St. and North St.
Fitness Centre “One Big Family”
Couple dancing at last year's block party.
Bedford Days Community Party Join us for our Northwood Bedford Days Community Party – a day to celebrate the Northwood community and our West Bedford Community! Bring the family for a day of live
entertainment, carnival games, food vendors, and more. When: Wednesday, June 27, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm Where: 123 Gary Martin Drive
Participants lined up for Bud the Spud at last year's community party.
The Pauline Potter Fitness Centre reopened in March 2016, featuring a dementia friendly design – the first of its kind in North America. The fitness centre is wheelchair accessible, accessible to those with vision problems, and has safe air resistance weights. Memberships at the fitness centre are open to anyone, and the centre is a hit among the residents and tenants of Northwood. One Northwood tenant in particular, Gloria Purvis, loves having access to the fitness centre because it makes her feel good and is an opportunity to socialize. She gets there three times a week, and has been doing so since September. At 88 years old, Gloria is proof that it’s never too late to get into an exercise routine! Gloria moved into Northwood this past August. She was born in East Chester and grew up there on her family’s farm. She’s spent most of her life in Halifax, moving here in 1959, where she worked at the Moirs candy factory for 18 years. She was married to her husband for 56 years before he passed away almost three years ago. Her doctors suggested that she start doing exercises in the fitness centre to help with leg and shoulder problems, and she’s glad they did. She likes getting out to the fitness centre not just for the
Gloria Purvis works out at the Pauline Potter Fitness Centre.
exercise, but also to get to see all the friendly faces. “We’re like one big family down there,” she says. Going to the fitness centre has made Gloria feel a lot better than she did before. It’s helped with her leg problems and her arm movements. “When I came here I couldn’t put my arm behind me, but now I can even take a top off a bottle and turn my can opener and everything,” she says with a laugh. Gloria plans to keep going to the fitness centre for as long as she’s able to, even if it’s just to chat with the people she’s made friends with there.
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Crossword CLUES ACROSS
1. Absence of difficulty 5. Preserve a dead body 11. Gratitude 14. Grads may attend one 15. Less difficult 18. Visionaries 19. Fish-eating bird 21. Indicates near 23. ‘69 World Series hero 24. Scandinavian mythology source 28. Pop 29. Rapper __ Hammer 30. Senses of self-esteem 32. Hormone that stimulates the thyroid
33. __ Farrow, actress 35. Electronic data processing 36. Baby talk (abbr.) 39. Slender, snake-like fish 41. Air Force 42. Computers 44. Ecological stage 46. Wings 47. In the course of 49. Laid back 52. Jewelled headdress 56. In slow tempo 58. __ Falls 60. Corrections 62. Periods in one’s life 63. Hyphen
adult day
Coming soon to dartmouth Purposeful day programs that help adults with memory loss live more. For more information please call 902.454.9706
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CLUES DOWN
1. Body part 2. Large primates 3. Retch (archaic) 4. Sea eagle 5. Genetically distinct geographic variety 6. Category of spoken Chinese 7. Barium 8. Consumed 9. Chinese dynasty 10. NFL great Randy 12. Ireland 13. Palm trees 16. Fungal disease 17. Tall plants with slender leaves 20. Affirmative! (slang) 22. Potato state 25. Delaware 26. A way to develop
27. Associations 29. Woman (French) 31. Sunscreen rating 34. Brew 36. One who leads prayers 37. Indigo bush 38. Burn with a hot liquid 40. Citizen (senior) 43. Scads 45. Morning 48. Straight line passing from side to side (abbr.) 50. S-shaped line 51. Small, thin bunch 53. Worn by exposure to the weather 54. Mars crater 55. Humanities 57. Of the ears 58. “The __ Degree” 59. Type of residue 61. Keeps you cool
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Community Recreation & Wellness
Upcoming Day Trips Uniacke Estate Trip
Uniacke Estate Museum Park is a rare example of an early 1800s house and landscape that have changed little since they were developed. Stroll the beautiful estate grounds overlooking Lake Martha or adventure down one of the eight wooded walking trails on the 930-hectare estate. Walks range from easy to challenging. Enter the doors of the grand old house and discover a place untouched by time. Bring your own picnic or order off the menu at the Post Road Tea Room located in the old basement kitchen of the Uniacke House. A perfect trip to bring a book and relax or have a rewarding hike in the splendid forest. Finish the day off with a stop at Withrow’s Farm market for fresh produce and ice cream. When: Wednesday, August 22 Depart: Halifax Campus 9:30 am, Bedford Campus at 10:00 am Return: Bedford Campus at 3:00 pm, Halifax Campus at 3:45 pm Cost: $16.00 members, $26.00 non-members (does not include optional museum entrance fee of $2.80). Cost of lunch is at participant’s expense.
Rising Tides Day Trip:
Wolfville to Halls Harbour. The tides are calling us to the Bay of Fundy for this full day bus trip. We head
for Wolfville first to enjoy a nice coffee break at the unique Just Us Coffee and Fair Trade Museum. Then it’s on to Prescott House Museum, a beautiful home of the horticulturist who introduced over 25 varieties of apples. Onward we go in search of the Bay of Fundy’s famous rising tides at Halls Harbour where we enjoy a beautiful lobster meal (with a view of the tides) at Halls Harbour Restaurant and Lobster Pound. Don’t like lobster – no problem – there are other delicious options to choose from. Our trip is not complete without a market stop at Hennigars to bring back some fresh finds from our journey. Seating is limited so book early for this great summer day out. When: Wednesday, July 25 Depart: From Halifax Campus 9:00 am, Bedford Campus 9:30 am Return: To Bedford Campus 4:00 pm, Halifax Campus 4:30 pm Cost: $40 Members, $60 non-members (includes museum fee) Cost of lunch is at participant’s expense Registration is required by July 11
pick up locations is included. Guests are responsible for individual dinner fees. You must be registered to attend. Registration for each event closes the three days prior to the trip day. Trip 1: When: Thursday, July 19 Where: True North Diner Pick Up: Halifax Campus pick up 5:00 pm, Bedford Campus pick up at 5:30 pm Cost: $12.00 for members and, $15.00 for non-members Trip 2: When: Thursday, August 23
Where: Vernon’s Diner Pick Up: Halifax Campus pick up 5:00 pm, Bedford Campus pick up at 5:30 pm Cost: $12.00 for members and, $15.00 for non-members Trip 3: When: Thursday, September 27 Where: Esquire Pick Up: Halifax Campus pick up 5:00 pm, Bedford Campus pick up at 5:30 pm Cost: $12.00 for members and, $15.00 for non-members
Pauline Potter Health Centre
Serving The Healthcare Needs of Northwood and The North End Community
CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE
WE OFFER:
For over 54 years, Northwood has worked with the community to deliver services that respond to the needs of older adults. At the Pauline Potter Community Health Centre, we have brought together a team of skilled practitioners who’ve developed expertise in providing services focused on the unique needs of an aging population. Stay healthy and feel confident in the care you receive at Northwood!
• Primary Health Care
• Ophthalmologist
• Podiatrist
• Chiropractor
• Audiology
• Optometry
• Esthetics
• Dental Hygienist
• Registered Therapist
• Massage Therapy
• Foot care
• Physio Therapist
• Nurse practitioner • Dentist
Supper Club
Looking to try new foods in local, surrounding restaurants? Want to share a meal with a new friend? We’ve got just the club for you! Join us for our retrothemed Supper Club. Transportation to and from our
Call for more information or to schedule your appointment: Call: 902-454-3316 Email: hcenter@nwood.ns.ca 2641 Northwood Terrace, Halifax
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Community Recreation & Wellness
Mobile Food Market to Stop at Northwood The Mobile Food Market has been up and running in HRM since 2016, serving 10 locations across 6 communities. The program aims to bring affordable food to Halifax neighborhoods that need it most. The program visits Spryfield, Harrietsfield, Fairview, North End Halifax, North Preston and East Preston. After much success, the Mobile Food Market has expanded and will be offer-
ing additional locations for grocery shopping with one of those new locations being Northwood’s Halifax Campus. Northwood has teamed up with Partners for Care to offer the mobile food market. It all kicks off on July
13th when we invite you to visit Main Street, located on the ground floor of the Edward L. Roach Centre for Living at the Northwood Halifax Campus, between 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm and browse the fresh, highquality, affordable food. The items will be priced individually, allowing you to choose the quantity you require. Mark your calendars! The Mobile Food Market will be visiting Northwood on July
13th, August 24th, September 7th and September 21st. Things to remember when planning your visit to the Mobile Food Market: nly fruits, vegetables and •O bread are available. •B oth cash and debit are accepted at the Markets. •Y ou are encouraged to bring your own bags, although staff will have some on hand. For more information call 902-454-3351.
Volunteering at Northwood
Northwood’s Favourite Volunteer Bunny There’s been a bunny roaming the halls of our Halifax Campus, and his name is Toaster. He’s everyone’s favourite Northwood volunteer, and he visits the Halifax Campus every Tuesday and Thursday. Angela Smyth, a physiotherapy assistant at the Halifax Campus, is Toaster’s owner. She brings him along to work with her to visit with the residents to brighten their day. “Just seeing him brings joy to people, and that’s the goal for me, to provide people with happiness,” says Angela. Residents love running
into Toaster in the halls. “It made my day. When I went back to my room, I felt happy because I had met Toaster,” says Ann Hicks, a resident at the Halifax Campus. Toaster even has his own volunteer badge, so he’s officially a member of the Northwood community. When Toaster is there, Angela still has her regular day-to-day work to do, so volunteers are needed to take Toaster around the building. He’s only there two days a week, but the hope is that there will eventually be enough regular daytime
volunteers that Toaster can come to Northwood every day. Both Northwood campuses can always use more volunteers. We’re currently looking for volunteers for Community Bingo, Monday or Saturday evenings from 5:30-9:30 pm (2-4 shifts per month). If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, in these or in any of our other volunteer positions, you can visit https://nwood.ns.ca/ become-involved/ to apply, or contact volunteer engagement at 902-454-3353 or volunteers@nwood.ns.ca for more Northwood resident Bill with Toaster. information.
Summer 2018 | Northwood | 15
www.northwood.care
Northwood Intouch
Northwood Intouch Sponsors Outstanding Senior Award at Let’s Keep Talking 2018 Northwood Intouch was an award sponsor at the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia’s Let’s Keep Talking Awards on May 8th. Clark Paul was presented with the Outstanding Senior Award by Northwood President and CEO, Janet Simm. Paul was put in a residential school as a young child, leading to his own issues with mental health. As an
adult, he’s become a huge advocate for mental health awareness, particularly for First Nations people. We’re proud to have been able to present such an exceptional man with this award. The night’s keynote speaker, Steven Page (formally of the Barenaked Ladies), shared his story of his own struggle with bipolar disorder and performed a couple songs.
Here at Northwood, we know how important it is to speak up about mental health issues and we’re happy to have partnered with the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia on this initiative. Janet Simm presents Clark Paul with the Outstanding Senior Award at LKT 2018. Credit Ian Selig Photography
Northwood Intouch Gives Back to Your Community This spring, Northwood Intouch brought its volunteers together from across Nova Scotia for a day of learning, sharing, networking and recognition. Northwood Intouch has over 100 volunteers who belong to 43 service clubs across Nova Scotia. It’s these volunteers that make the pro-
gram the success it is! One of the things that make Northwood Intouch unique is its connection with local volunteer services clubs. For instance, when a client in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia comes on to the service, a volunteer from the local Bridgewater Lions Club calls the client and schedules the install at a time that’s convenient for the client and the family. Our volunteers are
very accommodating, often doing installs on evenings and weekends. They schedule a specific time, rather than giving a window of time to wait. Our client’s time is valued. When the volunteer comes to install the service, the client and the caregiver get a chance to ask questions and really learn about this new piece of technology. The volunteer is able to take the time with the client and make sure they’re comfortable with the device. The install fee of $25 stays with each service club and is
used to support local senior focused initiatives in communities throughout the province. A great example is the Halifax Telephone Pioneers who use their install fees to install sound loops in churches for those who are hard of hearing, as well as talking books for the blind and heart pillows for those coming out of heart surgery. When you choose Northwood Intouch, your money is not just giving you a service, it is helping the whole community!
Intouch Testimonial
A group of community volunteers that install Northwood Intouch's services.
“I just want to say a big THANK YOU for helping my mom and probably saving her life. My mom fell when going to her shed... and thanks to the Intouch program, she was able to press her help button and people came to the
rescue. Your quick reaction to her “call for help” saved her. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” -Glenda Colp, Port Felix, NS
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www.northwood.care
Home Care
Nuriya Shamsuddin Shares Her Northwood Career Path Nuriya Shamsuddin and her young family moved to Canada from Afghanistan in 2003 for a life of opportunity. Although English wasn’t Nuriya’s first language, she persevered and studied hard. She enrolled in English for Academic Purposes at Dalhousie University while she waited for her RN papers to arrive in Canada. She began applying for PCW (Personal Care Worker) jobs while she was studying to write her LPN exam. That’s when she saw an advertisement for Health Services, Northwood’s answer to flexible private-care, either in the home or in the longterm care setting. Nuriya was nervous at first about the idea of going into someone’s home to deliver care, as she’d only worked in a facility setting. But her fears were washed away when she met with the team at Northwood and learned about the program. “They believed in me! Northwood believes in its people. I felt supported and welcomed to the team. Northwood is very multicultural – you can see that and you can feel it. This make a huge difference,” explains Nuriya. Nuriya signed her contract with Health Services
and received her orientation and training that she needed to feel ready to do her job. She says even when she was nervous, her supervisors and the members of the staffing department at Northwood were always available to support her. Her work with Health Services helped her to study for her LPN exam. Her Nursing background gave her the confidence to be able to support her clients while providing incredible respite care, personal care, and accompanying clients on outings. She says the flexibility of the job has been a great perk. “I get to choose my shifts and work in my community. Nuriya Shamsuddin. I have four children to licence. Her next phone call support, so this is imporwas to Penelope Rennie, tant!” In February of this year, the Manager of Health SerNuriya received her LPN vices at Northwood, to see
what her options were. “Penelope explained because I was already employed at Northwood through Health Services, I was eligible to apply for internal LPN job openings at Northwood.” This allowed her to quickly move from CCA to LPN once she had her License. Nuriya is now employed as an LPN at our Bedford Campus. But she says she won’t stop there, “I’ll take the year off from studying, but eventually I will be an RN here in Canada! As long as you love your work and care about your work, you will succeed. You have to believe in yourself.” To learn more about Health Services, please contact Penelope Rennie at 902406-3385.
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www.northwood.care
Home Care Home Care Staff Create Meaningful Relationships With more than 1,700 clients across Nova Scotia receiving Home Care from Northwood Continuing Care Assistants, our dynamic team of caregivers are always on the go providing quality care that allows Nova Scotians to stay right where they want to – in their home and in their communities. Our staff are passionate about what they do, and it shows.
For Tanya Barker, becoming a Continuing Care Assistant at Northwood was the best career choice for her. “The job was made for me! I love people and I love helping people,” she says. Tanya began her career as a teaching assistant but knew she could offer even more. That’s when she discovered the CCA program and began her education.
She’s been working with Northwood for more than 10 years and has been caring for Paul Giles for as many years. Tanya is part of the team that helps keep Paul living independently and in his own home, the same home he raised his children in. Paul first started having symptoms of MS when he was in his mid-twenties, only a year after he moved in to the
family home. His symptoms began slowly and with some tingling in his limbs, he explains. “It was a slow progression. It was like trying to go up a hill. One step forward and two steps back,” Paul says. Paul requires a wheelchair to get around his home. His home is outfitted with some smart technology to help him Continued on page 18
New Home Care Program to Enhance Respite A unique program created by Northwood was launched earlier this year and has been receiving great feedback from its participants, their caregivers, and our Northwood staff. Hi-Tech with Heart puts smart tablets in the hands of respite clients. The project was made possible through a generous grant from the TELUS Community Grant Program. Twenty new tablets were purchased and loaded with apps that allow home support staff and clients to relax and enjoy respite in new ways. “We are often task-oriented, but there’s a whole other side to it and that’s personcentred care,” says Margaret Caldwell, a Northwood Home Care Continuing Care Assistant involved in the implementation of Hi-Tech with Heart. On Margaret’s visits with Jim MacEachern, they use the tablet as a tool to engage and connect. Jim has Multiple Sclerosis, so using the
Margaret (CCA), Jim (Client), Nicole (student) participating in Hi-Tech with Heart.
tablet and swiping on the screen has great therapeutic benefits for him. Further, becoming familiar with the technology has given Jim the confidence to use his tablet
to connect with his kids and grand-children in Alberta on a daily basis. “We are always looking for ways to add value to the services we offer,” says
Janet Simm, President and CEO of Northwood. “We know respite is a service that’s truly beneficial for the client and caregivers, but we wanted to explore how we could make it more meaningful, more stimulating and ultimately, more enjoyable for each client. The client is at the heart of everything that we do, so we strive to ensure care is personalized to each person’s interests and experience.” In partnership with local colleges, experienced Northwood home care staff will also use the tablets to mentor students from Continuing Care programs on ways to foster a more personalized approach. As these students move on to the workplace, the Hi-tech with Heart experience will leave a lasting impression with a big ripple effect, promoting the power of intergenerational connections for years to come, across Nova Scotia and beyond.
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www.northwood.care
Home Care Home Care Staff Create Meaningful Relationships Continued from page 17
Paul Giles and Tanya Barker.
with his day to day activities, like a timer for the TV, so he doesn’t need to worry about picking up the remote and trying to turn it off with the button. Paul says he’d love to have a way to open his front door on his own, so he can go
onto his deck and enjoy the view of the lake he lives on. Tanya and Paul are just one of example of the extraordinary bond that develops between a caregiver and a client. Over time, a trust is built that’s unlike any other. “With some clients, you see them more than they see
their own kids and family,” Tanya says. “I look forward to seeing Paul. We laugh, we dance around, Paul sings!” Near the end of the visit, Paul said to Tanya, “You’re simply the best,” and with that, Paul and Tanya burst into song singing Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best.”
5 Ways to Keep Northwood Home Care Continuing Care Assistants Safe in Your Home Northwood Home Care CCAs are entitled to a safe workplace and we want to do everything we can to make sure they are safe on the job. It’s up to you to ensure that your home provides a safe and healthy place where your CCAs can work and assist you. 1. Keep kitchen knives out of the sink. Helping out with the dishes is one of those tasks that Northwood Home Care CCAs are there to assist with. Help us out by making sure knives are kept safely to the side of sink instead of in the hot soapy water where the staff member can’t see it and could be injured. 2. Pets need to be safely secured in another space when staff are in your home and providing care. 3. Make sure entrances and walkways to your home are safe and free from debris. Making sure the area is well lit, will help our staff on those early morning and late night visits.
4. Make sure your hallways, stairs and other walking areas are clear of clutter. It’s also important that your Home Care worker can walk around both sides of your bed to assist you. 5. If you require assistance with personal care, you may need to get equipment and/or clothing that will help your CCA assist you without hurting you or themselves. Examples of equipment: • Overhead lift for the bed • Grab bars in the bathroom • Raised toilet seat • Bath transfer bench/hand held shower head Examples of adaptive clothing: • Back-opening nightgowns, shirts, and dresses • Side-opening pants Sometimes you may not agree with your CCA. Please do not yell or swear, threaten, hit, or grab them. If your CCA feels threatened or unsafe, they can refuse to provide your care
and have been instructed to leave your home. Let’s work together to make sure your Northwood Home Care CCA is safe, so they can continue to help you remain in your home. If you are a North-
wood Home Care client and have concerns related to your service or questions on what you can to do to make your home safer for your CCAs, please call your supervisor.
Crossword Solution
www.northwood.care
Volunteers Needed for a Research Study Volunteers are needed for a nursing research study exploring the needs of older people wishing to remain at home when they experience health or functional decline. We are seeking people over the age of 60 or their family members to participate in a research study. We would ask you a series of questions to see if you’re eligible to participate. As a participant, you would be asked to be interviewed for approximately 60-90 minutes in a location convenient for you. For more information about this study, or to volunteer for this study, please contact: Elaine Moody, RN, PhD Phone: 902-580-4432 Email: elaine.moody@dal.ca Examining the Needs of Frail Older People for Aging in Place
PARTICIPANTS NEEDED Are You or any of Your Family Members Diagnosed With “Mild Cognitive Impairment” We are looking for volunteers to take part in a Brain Imaging study on Mild Cognitive Impairment
WHO CAN PARTICPATE? You may be eligible to participate if:
You are between the ages of 45-75 You have a diagnosis of “Mild Cognitive Impairment” You have not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease You are otherwise in good physical health? Compensation for your participation provided.
If would like to participate in this study or for more information, please contact: pdadstudy@gmail.com or call 902-473-3147
Please provide your name, phone number, and the best time for us to reach you.
Save the Date Northwood’s 8th Annual Research Symposium Friday, June 15, 2018 Best Western Plus Dartmouth Hotel & Suites 15 Spectacle Lake Dr. Burnside, NS To register, visit www.northwood.care information@nwood.ns.ca
Summer 2018 | Northwood | 19
Local Research Opportunities
The Smart Home
Pilot Project
Do you (or someone you know) enjoy technology and are over the age of 65?
If so, you could receive (for FREE!) some of the latest smart home technology while participating in Startup Halifax’s exciting new project called, “The Smart Home Pilot.” The project is giving selected seniors an opportunity to have their voice heard when it comes to technology. Are you: • 6 5+ living independently (alone or with a senior partner). • S eniors who have home wifi and a smart phone. • S eniors who have a least one family member/ friend/caregiver who lives elsewhere who will use the system to communicate on a daily basis with the participant. • S eniors who are truly interested in both using, evaluating and influencing future development of smart home technology aimed at making a positive difference in the lives of seniors.
To participate please contact John Hamblin (Startup Halifax) Hamblin.john@gmail.com or 902-880-0172
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Why choose NORTHWOOD • A Nova Scotia based not-for-profit • Profits go back into community programming • No minimum contracts • Installed and serviced by local Volunteers • Funding assistance available
Falls are the leading cause of injuries to seniors in Nova Scotia. Fall alert and other sensors give you the confidence to live in your own home. Enjoy your independence knowing help is on its way when you need it! FREE INSTALLATION WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD
www.northwood.care
Retirement Living APARTMENTS Live life to the fullest in a community of belonging, dignity and choice. Enjoy affordable retirement living with the benefits of leisure activities, an on-site Health Centre, Fitness Centre and much more. We offer Independent Living, Supportive Living and Assisted Living including meals, light housekeeping and laundry.
Call (902) 440-2574 to book a tour and find out what live more can mean for you or your loved ones.
(902) 492-3346 1-800-461-3346 www.northwoodintouch.ca
Apartments available at Northwood Halifax Campus and Almon Place in Halifax
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Here is the future of stroke recovery. The world’s first video game was invented by William Higinbothom, a physicist from Bridgeport, Connecticut. - laying the groundwork for a 91.5 billion dollar industry. Little did Higinbothom know, back then, that video games would one day be used to help stroke patients retrain their brain. And yet, Dr. Gail Eskes and her team are doing just that - spending countless days, nights, weeks, and years making the seemingly impossible, quite probable. This study, and others like it, are proudly supported by the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation. watch the video at DMRF.ca
WHERE BREAKTHROUGHS BEGIN
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