www.northwood.care
A Community Paper sharing the stories of the largest not-for-profit continuing care organization in Atlantic Canada Winter 2018
Volume 1, Issue 3
Virtual Reality Program for Residents & Community Members Now at Northwood Northwood is now home to six virtual reality headsets, each loaded up with 360 degree videos of 16 different Nova Scotia landmarks and places of cultural significance. The headsets are currently being used to offer a VR service through Community Recreation & Wellness, but with the potential for use in reminiscence, pain management, leisure and beyond, we can’t wait to see where else this project will take us. The collection of 360 degree videos were produced especially for Northwood by Edward Mowbray of Quirk360. The videos include a Mi'kmaq smudging ceremony, a tour through a cave in the Ovens Natural Park, a Catholic Church service, a Baptist choir practice, a musical performance inside the Red Shoe Pub in Cape Breton Minister of Seniors Leo Glavine, Janet Simm, Margaret Szabo, Natasha Handspiker, Gloria MacContinued on page 3 Millan and Maxine McDonough at the VR program announcement.
Recreation Therapy at Northwood Page 4
Live More Walk Raises Funds for Dignified Page 8 Living Fund
Fine-Dining Restaurant Experience for Residents Page 13 & Families
Northwood Encores Take the Stage Page 14
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Message from Peter Wilde, Board Chair Welcome to the third issue of Northwood’s community newspaper. Northwood’s mission is rooted in building meaningful relationships and making positive differences in the communities we serve. This paper is a catalyst in achieving this mission. It’s really about the people who work and volunteer at Northwood. They are committed to ensuring our residents and clients Live More and this newspaper provides us with a means to share their stories. Northwood staff are some of the most dedicated people I have ever met. Did you know, Northwood has employees who have worked here for more than forty years? Each November, Northwood holds a special
recognition event to honour those employees who have served ten years or more. And this year an astonishing 127 staff will be celebrated. That is true dedication and I am honoured to be involved with an organization where the staff go above and beyond each day. On behalf of the Board of Governors, thank you to the many staff who have dedicated their careers to helping others. This is an accomplishment to very proud of. You can read the full list of long service award recipients on page 6. It all started with an idea. A desire to do something better, something new for seniors and those who needed our help the most. Northwood now has a more than fifty year legacy of innovat-
ing, introducing and sharing interesting and inspiring new ideas and first-time concepts into the continuing care industry. This time last year, we were preparing to launch Hi-Tech with Heart, an innovative home support program that puts smart tablets in the hands of respite clients to harness the power of the internet to browse faraway places, listen to music or Skype with loved ones. Innovative projects like these are what Northwood is all about, providing the best care possible and enhancing quality of life. That’s why Northwood is always thinking about what’s next. One of the newest projects at Northwood is our Virtual Reality program. Thanks to a grant from the Department
Peter Wilde, Board Chair – Northwood Board of Governors
of Seniors, Northwood was able to have its own virtual reality content created that showcases Nova Scotia landmarks. Now, residents can use this cutting edge technology and travel to places they may not be able to experience otherwise. The team at Northwood is truly extraordinary. They dream big and work hard to achieve those dreams. I hope you enjoy reading this edition of our community paper and learning about the team and their dreams.
Happy Holidays from Janet Simm The holiday season is upon us. The weather is changing, holiday music is filling the air and we are beginning to cross many things off our to-do lists as we move in to the last phase of our current Strategy to Action Plan - living one of our values: We Can Always Do Better. There is still much to do but it is so exciting to see tangible evidence of our months and years of planning. Thank you to all of our staff and volunteers who assist us in living this value. This is a busy time of year for us here at Northwood but it’s also one of our most
exciting times. Our staff are busy planning numerous festive events and programming, all with the goal of empowering our clients and residents to Live More! Northwood has a longstanding tradition of not only caring for people, but caring about people. It started in the early 1960s when our founder, Edward L. Roach, envisioned a community where individuals would live with dignity, belonging and choice. This was the beginning of Northwood’s person-centred care philosophy and this is the cornerstone of the way we operate today.
We believe everyone has unique values, personal history and personality. We believe that each person has an equal right to dignity, respect and to participate fully in life. At this special time of year we are reminded of the importance of these values. From our beloved neighbourhood parties in long term care, to a special delivery of holiday cards to our home care clients, we are committed to making sure everyone entrusted to our care feels the warmth of the season. Once again this year we are continuing the tradition of our Christmas Card
Janet Simm, Northwood President & CEO
Campaign. Thanks to our Northwood Foundation and Jack 92.9, residents and clients will receive very special holiday cards created by local children and community members. These cards will be delivered to our residents and Continued on page 3
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Virtual Reality Program for Residents & Community Members Now at Northwood adults with cognitive and mobility challenges. An accessiand more. Northwood was ble VR service at Northwood able to purchase the headsets has the potential to support and have the videos produced our community in reaching thanks to a grant from the a variety of health-related Department of Seniors. outcomes while providing an This is an exciting opporopportunity for leisure.” tunity for people who may Gloria MacMillan and not have the ability to visit Maxine McDonough were the these places. first Northwood residents to “Our community can now try out the headsets at an anexperience different parts of nouncement event in October, along with the Minister Nova Scotia without leaving of Seniors, Leo Glavine. Northwood,” says Natasha Maxine and Gloria both Handspiker, Manager of had very positive experiencCommunity Engagement. “This is especially beneficial es. “I love it, it’s relaxing,” says Maxine. “When I looked for the elderly and for older Continued from page 1
Happy Holidays from Janet Simm Continued from page 2 shared with our home care clients. You can read more about this initiative on the front page. Special community partnerships like this one are important to us all year round but they are especially cherished at this time of year. It’s because of the generous donations to the Northwood Foundation, that we are able to improve the quality of life for our community. I’d like to personally thank everyone who has donated to the Northwood Foundation over the last year. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated and you play a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of the Northwood community. It is the power of love!
From all of us here at Northwood, we wish you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!
Northwood’s Giving Tree Men’s Socks
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
down and saw the ocean floor I thought, ‘woah!’ and it just felt like I was there.” To better understand how this VR service will help with reaching health-related outcomes, Northwood plans to partner with interested researchers and entrepreneurs to learn more about how VR & 360 degree video can improve the lives of older adults and those living with cognitive and physical challenges.
The VR service is available at both the Halifax and Bedford Campuses, and plans are being made to expand the service to our Homecare clients. Sessions will be by appointment, and each appointment will be a half hour long. Contact Community Recreation & Wellness at 902-454-3351 or crec@nwood.ns.ca if you’d like to book an appointment.
Staff Holiday Dinner & dance Do you have your tickets yet? It’s not too late! Get your tickets from the Business Office in Halifax & Bedford or from Gillian Norton-Byce in Dartmouth When: Friday, November 30th 6:30 p.m. - Reception & Cash Bar 7:00 p.m. - Buffet Dinner 9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. - Dance Where: DoubleTree by Hilton, Dartmouth Tickets: $15 for staff, $20 for a guest (one guest per staff member)
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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 & MARKETING SPECIALIST Ashley Gallant 902-454-3377 ashley.gallant@nwood.ns.ca COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANTS Stephanie McDougall 902-493-3016 smcdougall@nwood.ns.ca Jenna Farrell jenna.farrell@nwood.ns.ca 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.ca www.northwood.care
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Residents are at the Core of Recreation Therapy The most common remark we hear from the community is how there is always something happening at Northwood for residents living in long term care. And it’s true – take a look at our recreation calendars (online or posted on the floors) and you’ll see a thoughtfully planned calendar of activities and social gatherings. “It doesn’t happen by accident – it’s the result of intentional planning through individualized assessments,” says Rhonda MacLean, a Recreation Therapist at the Bedford Campus, “at our core, our department values autonomy, choice and the person centered approach.” Rhonda explains that even in a facility wide event with 75+ people, the experience is individualized for each participant. “Members of our Recreation Therapy department are highly skilled and in tune with our residents. We are always observing and assessing – even in a larger program.” The events that you see on the calendars for each of the neighbourhoods within Northwood’s long term care program are only a sampling for the programming Recreation Therapy offers. “We create authentic experiences for our residents with their input and ideas,” says Amanda Hatcher, Recreation Therapist at the Halifax Campus, “We have a lot of club based groups which are not usually on the calendars. These groups are specialized and targeting resi-
Recreation Therapy is the driving force behind getting Northwood residents involved, however that may look for each individual. Seen here: Melanie Gaunt riding in the Duet Bike A group dance class and sock with Recreation Therapy team hop were planned for residents member Rebecca Boucher. during National Dance Week.
dents based on their needs and strengths.” When it comes down to it, Northwood’s Recreation Therapy department exists to ensure the dignity of residents while providing freedom from illness.
“In the process, we get to witness moments of rich goodness,” says Rhonda, “we leave at the end of the day absolutely exhausted, but there is pure joy in the exhaustion.”
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Northwood Staff Graduate from Dalhousie Executive Leadership Program The first cohort of Northwood staff have graduated from Dalhousie’s Executive Leadership Development Program. Leaders from across the organization applied and were selected to participate in this program which was modular in design, customized to our organizational needs and contextualized for our industry. This significant investment in our Northwood leaders is an example of how we are living our core value: People Come First. Northwood and its Board of Governors are committed to fostering the talent and potential from within the
Dalhousie Executive Leadership 2018 Graduates.
organization. As part of our commitment to be an employer of choice we are supporting our people in reaching their full potential.
The goal of this program is for staff to return to work prepared to implement change, make an impact through the application of
President and CEO Janet Simm expresses thanks to graduating class.
strategies, and to lead Northwood to success in the years to come. A second cohort has been selected and began this fall.
Protect Each Other – Get Your Flu Vaccine Flu season is now in full swing! Did you know that many of the people who live at Northwood or depend on us for services are considered high-risk when it comes to the flu? Adults over 65, people with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, pregnant women, Indigenous people, people who are obese and residents of nursing homes and other health care facilities are all high-risk groups that need extra protection from the flu. For these vulnerable groups, the flu can cause complications requiring hospitalization or even death. Getting an annual flu shot is key in reducing the impact and spread of the flu. The influenza virus can be transmitted before you show any symptoms, a reason why
it is so important to get your yearly flu shot. This is especially important for those who fall into a high-risk group, and for healthcare workers who provide care to these more vulnerable people. New for the 201819 flu season, the provincial government is making a high-dose flu vaccine available to all long term care residents. This high-dose vaccine was developed specifically for those over the age of 65. Older adults and people living in long term care facilities have the highest rates of severe illness and hospitalization due to the flu. Only 15% of the Canadian population are
over the age of 65, but they experience 67% of flu related complications and 88% of flu related deaths. Research shows that administering this high-dose vaccine to all long term care residents could result in 100 fewer hospital stays. The best time to get vac-
cinated is from October through December, but it’s never too late! Let’s protect each other talk to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist or public health office about getting vaccinated. And remember, hand hygiene also plays an important role in limiting the spread of illness, so wash your hands thoroughly and often. Upcoming flu vaccine clinics for Northwood staff & volunteers: Halifax Campus: November 24 from 1-3pm in the main floor market space Bedford Campus: December 1 from 2-4pm in the classroom
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2018 Northwood Long Service Award Recipients LONG TERM CARE BEDFORD CAMPUS
35 YEARS Karen Landry
40 YEARS RECREATION THERAPY Jean Upshaw 10 YEARS Penny Williams Rhonda MacLean Connie Doucette Elizabeth LeBlanc NURSING SERVICES Glenda Bartkow 10 YEARS CLIENT SERVICES Shelley Eisenhauer 10 YEARS Heidi Murphy Melodie Quigley Ziporah Ogora
CLINICAL SUPPORT
HOSPICE
20 YEARS Tamara Wilson
20 YEARS Pamela Slobodesky
HALIFAX CAMPUS
RECREATION THERAPY
NURSING SERVICES
10 YEARS Vanessa Oliver-Dares Sheila Caldwell Patricia Madut Jessica Smith Joanna Kavanagh Shirley Blair Melissa Stewart Chester Long 15 YEARS Kayla-Ann Loveless Pamela Straughan Claudette Provo Jennifer Roberts Wanda Cooper Joanne MacPhee-Fancy Mark Newell 20 YEARS Adell Downey Rolenda Beals Lauri-Leigh Fancy Marie DeWolfe 25 YEARS Heather Euloth Nancy Humphries Diane Kutchera 30 YEARS Bolivia Czernon Kelly Morris Kathy L. Comeau
Earle Bosch Cyril Savoury 15 YEARS Mary Delorey
25 YEARS Terri Sarty Theresa Riou Scott Stone
ADMINISTRATION
30 YEARS Roberta Sparks-Cross Gary Julian
30 YEARS Cecylia Gorska Shelley O’Toole 40 YEARS Deborah Somers Mary Janice Bayers
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
10 YEARS Doug Gillis Robert MacPhee Amanda Asprey Alicia Paul Marcus Hanrahan Jordan Johnson Debbie Evans
10 YEARS Reinhard Jerabek
HOMECARE ADULT DAY PROGRAM
10 YEARS Connie Lennon Jean Goodwin Janice Whalen 15 YEARS Erin Stevens
10 YEARS Kathleen Renner
10 YEARS Sherry Slaunwhite Catherine Johnson Geoffrey Croucher Louise Skinner Shannon Sampson
FINANCIAL SERVICES
10 YEARS Tanya Guilderson Debra Rines
RESTORATIVE CARE
FOOD & NUTRITION SERVICES
10 YEARS Chris Malpage
20 YEARS Kimberley Hatcher Lisette Morrissey
10 YEARS Tracey Hawthorne
40 YEARS Linda Asprey
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
ADMINISTRATION
20 YEARS Josie Ryan
PROGRAM SUPPORT HUMAN RESOURCES
10 YEARS Theresa MacFadyen 25 YEARS Robyn Bentley
ORGANIZATIONAL HEALTH
20 YEARS Eileen Paddon
MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
20 YEARS Neil Allard Jason Howard
PHYSICAL PLANT
10 YEARS Kelly Ross
45 YEARS Kevin Banfield
20 YEARS Marlene Price
HOME SUPPORT
10 YEARS Catherine Boutilier Donna Miller Kimberley Matheson Beverley Redden Amanda Thornhill Marley Smith Kara Logan Ellen Smith Lucyanne Gerrard 15 YEARS Karen Plume Irene Sanford Pam McCullough Hollie Riggs Tracey Preston 20 YEARS Angela Williams Denise Burns Susan Higgins Bonita Theakston Jodi-Rae MacPhee Andrea Dempsey Ferenda Colley
Roxane Roach Martina Briand Sara Matthews Klaus Heinrich Eleanor Langston Melissa Antle Susan Webber Denise Seaward Wanda LeaFloor Jo-Anne Bush 25 YEARS Susan Wickens Lola May Ryan 30 YEARS Darlene Crittenden 45 YEARS Beverly Dixon-David
STAFFING & ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
10 YEARS Beverly Alchorn
20 YEARS Kim McNeill-Forand 25 YEARS Irene Durnford
ADMINISTRATION QUALITY
10 YEARS Natasha Ross
CLIENT ADVOCACY
15 YEARS Linda Verlinden
RETIRED NURSING SERVICES
10 YEARS Beverley Robar
HOME SUPPORT
15 YEARS Mary Lynn McCool 30 YEARS Sharon L. Cameron
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New Smoking Policy Reminder The amendment to Halifax’s By-Law N-303 Respecting Nuisances that bans the smoking and vaping of tobacco or cannabis products on all municipal property is now in effect, as is the federal legalization of cannabis. Northwood has updated our smoking policy to address these changes. Smoking or vaping cannabis products is prohibited on all Northwood property. Smoking or vaping tobacco products is permitted only in the designated smoking areas outside of Northwood’s buildings. The designated smoking areas are: Halifax: the smoking hut
at the north end of the Towers building or the glass enclosure in front of the Manor building. Bedford: the smoking hut at the west end of the parking lot. Dartmouth Corporate Office: in the designated smoking huts outside of the office building. Homecare Staff: must use the municipal designated smoking areas. Homecare staff are not permitted to smoke in a client’s home or on their property under any circumstances.
This policy applies to everyone on Northwood property – including residents, tenants and visitors. The resident smoking rooms inside the Halifax and Bedford Campuses will still be available, but staff, volunteers, tenants and visitors will have to use the designated smoking areas outside. We encourage everyone to use the designated smoking areas and to refrain from smoking on the sidewalks or roadways surrounding Northwood property to avoid being ticketed.
Remembrance Day: In Flanders Fields By John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
Blue Christmas Service Offered by Spiritual Care at Northwood but as looming and difficult. Dealing with the death of a Spiritual Care Liaison Blue Christmas? As in loved one - whether the loss Elvis Presley? This is the is fresh or decades in the question asked every year past, facing life after divorce when the Blue Christmas or separation, coping with services appear in the North- changes in work or living wood calendars, and there is situation, receiving a life lima sense in which it isn’t far iting medical diagnosis, and any number of other chaloff. The opening line of the lenging yet entirely human classic song written by Billy situations make the festiviHayes and Jay W. Johnson ties and fa la la painful for and made a classic by Elvis many people. Presley is a song about loss While we in Spiritual Care and feeling the absence of seek to share the joy of the loved ones. “I’ll have a blue season, it is a privilege to Christmas without you…” be attentive to the needs of We know that there are those amongst us in painful those in our community, whether residents, staff, fam- situations as well, recognizily, or volunteers, who experi- ing the need for sacred space ence the holiday season not for people living through with excited anticipation, dark times. Blue Christmas Submitted by: Rev. Renée E. Clark,
and Longest Night services are increasingly offered in the community at large. Such services are reflective, accepting where we really are, and holding out healing and hope. These services are particularly appropriate as we approach the longest night of the year, which falls on or about December 21st, the Winter Solstice. Once again this year, Northwood’s Bedford and Halifax Campuses will each offer a Blue Christmas service: Bedford on December 19th in the Spiritual Reflection Space and Halifax on December 20th in the Shirley Burnstein Hall. Both services begin at 6:30 pm and run about 40 min-
utes. Everyone, regardless of the struggle, is welcome to come, to pause, and to share space with others who understand.
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The Northwood Foundation
The Live More Walk Raises Over $40k for the Dignified Living Fund
Mayor Mike Savage and Northwood resident Melanie Gaunt on the Duet Wheelchair Bicycle Tandem. PHOTO BY: GIACOMO BRUNO, SNAPD HALIFAX.
The 8th annual Live More Walk took place on September 29, raising over $40,000 for Northwood’s Dignified Living Fund. This is a fund unique to Northwood that exists to help members of our community live with dignity. It’s used to fund things like hearing aid batteries, eyeglasses, transportation to and from medical appointments, mobility aids, personal hygiene products, and more. The Dignified Living Fund really shows how much Northwood staff care for our residents. “The Dignified Living Fund was first started by members of our staff, and now the Live More walk is its Doug Ross, Santosh Malik, our 2018 Live More Walk top fundraiser (centre) and Faye LeBlanc.
Continued on page 9
Marlyn Griffin, Beth Tshabalala, Ryan Warner, Chelsea MacIntosh, Carla Bunch and Hailey Robar – our group of Scotiabank volunteers. PHOTO BY: GIACOMO BRUNO, SNAPD HALIFAX.
www.northwood.care
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The Northwood Foundation The Live More Walk Raises Over $40k for the Dignified Living Fund out that want to participate withmain fundraiser,” says out their help.” Faye LeBlanc, ManagTo add to the ing Director of the fun, this was Northwood Foundathe first year tion. “We raise money we offered fundraising incento provide our resitives, giving dents and clients with out Northwood the things they need swag for differin order to live with dignity. When you have ent fundraisdignity, you can truly ing levels. Four Faye LeBlanc, Trudy Helmke and Doug Ross kickLive More.” participants walked away Mayor Mike Savage ing off the 2018 Live More Walk. with Northand MLA Lisa Roberts football team at the walk has wood jackets for raising were in attendance at this over $1,500: Santosh Malik, year’s walk, along with Griff become a tradition that all Michael Smith, Paula Gates participants love to see. and Caroline from Jack 92.9 and Sharon Murphy – each a “We’re so grateful to the Halifax. This year, 33 residents joined us on the walk – Sir John A football team,” Northwood resident or tenant! Santosh was our top funthe most ever to date. The Sir says Janet Simm, President draiser, raising over $2,200. John A Flames football team and CEO of Northwood. To date, the Live More made this possible by vol“This is the third year they Walk has raised over $275,000 unteering their morning to have volunteered with us, for the Dignified Living guide our residents through and it truly wouldn’t be posthe walk route. Having the sible to have all the residents Fund. Continued from page 8
The Giving Tree Every holiday season, the Northwood Foundation collects donations of small gifts from the community and gives those items to the residents of Northwood to help make their holidays a little brighter. We collect items like cozy socks, bus tickets, and gift cards for Lawtons. Keep an eye out for the Giving Trees that will pop up soon! If you’d like to donate a gift, come and grab a tag off of one of the trees or cut out one of the tags scattered throughout this paper! We’ll be collecting donations at the Halifax and Bedford Campuses and the Corporate Office in Dartmouth.
Northwood’s Giving Tree Lawtons Gift Cards
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
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Halifax Campus
Halloween Fun
Retirement Living Team.
Halifax Campus Recreation Therapy Team.
The Witches of Northwood
The Shirley Burnstein Hall was full for the Halloween Hop.
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Halifax Campus
Seeds of Success Fall is a busy time for the Seeds program at Northwood’s Halifax Campus. After a bountiful summer, the garden is being ‘put to bed,’ with plans underway for a new & improved gardening program for 2019. In September, Seeds participated in the Mosaics for Mental Health exhibition, submitting a fine collection of unique paintings: 6x6 inch mosaic tiles. On November 6, Models for Mental Health fashion show raised much needed funds in support of Seeds of Success. The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is a proud supporter of Seeds of Success and understands
Seeds of Success submission to Mosaics for Mental Health exhibition.
its value to the entire Northwood community. The program is also supported by the Northwood Foundation and Halifax philanthropist Marjorie Lindsay. The inaugural Models for Mental Health presented by Bell Let's Talk, took place at
Helen DeWolfe, David DeWolfe, Starr Cunningham, Janet Simm, Faye LeBlanc, & Jennifer Saulnier, at Models for Mental Health.
the Halifax Forum. The event designer outfits from some of Nova Scotia’s leading confeatured 20 local models signment boutiques. (including a few Seeds participants) who wore beautiful
A New Seeds Program has Begun “New Positive Steps” will be offered to Northwood Residents and Tenants this fall (November 5 – December 10). “New Positive Steps” is a six week support group,
focusing on mental health and wellness. This closed group will provide a safe and supportive environment where participants will learn personal self-care
Tree Trimming Parties Each of our floors will be hosting a tree trimming party during the first week of December. Not all tree
trimming party dates have been finalized so please watch for posters on the floors.
strategies designed to foster a greater sense of personal & emotional wellbeing. Participants will be presented with strategies that may help them manage and cope with
personal stress, anxiety & low mood. The group will meet Mondays from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm in the Marjorie Lindsay Centre.
Halifax Campus Family Kitchen – Available for Bookings The Recreation Therapy department has a fully equipped kitchen made possible by the Northwood Foundation. This kitchen is available to provide space for residents to enjoy time
with family and friends while sharing a meal or celebrating a special event. For more information or to make a booking, please contact the Recreation Therapy Programmer assigned to your floor.
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Halifax Campus
Neighbourhood Parties Don’t Miss Northwood’s Holiday Neighbourhood Parties! All events are being held in the Shirley Burnstein Hall & the Harbourview Lounge: The Lakes (1, 2 ,3 Centre) Wed. Dec. 12 – 6:30-8:00pm The Shores (4, 5, 6 Centre) Thurs. Dec. 13 - 6:30-8:00pm Havens, Oceans & Rivers (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 Manor) Fri. Dec. 14 - 6:30-8:00pm The Bays (7, 8, 9 Centre) Sat. Dec. 15 - 2:00-3:30pm Residents - Free Guests – Tickets can be
purchased at the door 2 guests max, please. Come enjoy sweets & treats, a photo booth, crafts, cookie decorating and music. This year, Northwood is giving residents, staff and families the opportunity to give back! We are supporting the Bayers Westwood Food Bank by collecting non-perishable food items to help families get through the Holiday Season. Between December 12th – 20th, there will be drop-off boxes in both the Centre and Manor lobbies.
Additional Holiday Events We have many other Holiday events happening in December. Confirmed events are listed below. More events may be added. For additional events, please check the December facility wide cal-
Northwood’s Giving Tree Adult Bus Tickets
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
endar when it becomes available at the end of November. December 1st @ 2:00 p.m. – Suzuki School Concert December 4th @ 7:00 p.m. The Paul & Bill Show - SBH December 8th @ 2:00 p.m. Maritime Conservatory Concert - SBH December 11th afternoon (time to be announced) The Northwood Encores – SBH December 20th @ 6:30 pm Blue Christmas Service SBH December 24th @ 10:15 a.m. Ecumenical Christmas Eve Service - SBH December 24th @ 6:00 p.m. RC Mass - SBH December 25th @ 1:30 p.m. Egg Nog by the Fire - Harbourview Lounge December 27th @ 2:00 p.m. Holiday Tea – SBH Dec 28th @ 2:00 p.m. Holiday Movie Matinee – 2:00 p.m. SBH
Handmade gifts for sale just in time for the holidays.
Seeds of Success Annual Holiday Sale Our annual holiday sale will take place on Thursday, December 6, from 11 to 2pm (Centre Lobby). Please support on-going Seeds programing by purchasing handmade greeting cards,
Christmas decorations, ‘Everlasting’ floral arrangements and an assortment of houseplants! All items have been lovingly made by Northwood’s creative Seeds participants.
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Bedford Campus
Memories of Thyme A new pilot project was launched at the Bedford Campus in September called Memories of Thyme, bringing a fine-dining restaurant experience to our residents. Memories of Thyme was developed to provide residents who may not be able to leave Northwood with the opportunity to have a night out with their family and friends. The Adult Day dining room was transformed into a fine-dining restaurant, with white linen and real silver and china. Residents and their guests were served a pan seared pork tenderloin with red skinned mashed potato and oven roasted carrots and parsnips, along with an appetizer and dessert. The event was catered by our Northwood chefs. This first Memories of Thyme event was a huge success. Some of the comments we received included: “Food was excellent…Service was excellent and beyond stellar. Looking forward to the next dining event. Great job! Tremendous value – far
Residents Rolande and Zita at Memories of Thyme.
beyond the cost of tickets.” “This is a great idea! Made us feel like we were out at a restaurant. Food was delicious & service was great!” “Excellent food, wonderful service! What a nice idea – will definitely come back!” With the pilot event being so well received, Memories of Thyme will be coming back. The next event will be on November 19, and keep an eye out for display boards with more future dates. Due to limited seating, these events will be by reservation only. For more information or to purchase tickets please contact the Business Office at 902- 407-8531.
Additional Holiday Events December 6th - Halifax Harmonizer Barbershop Chorus - evening December 17th - Annual Bedford Baptist Carol Sing evening December 19th: Blue Christmas - Chapel – 6:30 pm December 24th: Roman Catholic Mass – 11am, Protestant Service – 2pm December 31st: New Year’s Eve Social with Andy – 2pm
These events compliment the house-based recreation therapy programming that occurs every December which include but are not limited to: • Tree Decorating on each house around December 1st • On house craft program • Community support through Roving Carol Sings and Community group visits Watch for the times on the resident December calendars!
Resident Family Annual Dessert Socials Delicious desserts, coffee & tea, good company and Holiday music! All socials are being held in the Great Room from 6:30 – 8 pm. The Hills Neighborhood: Monday, December 10th. The Landings and Points: Tuesday, December 11th.
The Coves Neighborhood: Wednesday, December 12th. Watch for Posters in the houses after Nov 20. Tickets will be available at reception from November 22nd to December 9th. Two guests per resident please.
Bedford Campus Kitchen Available for Bookings The Ivany Place family kitchen is available for private parties for residents and families. Please call the recreation therapy team at 407-8526 or 407-8545 to reserve the kitchen. The more advance notice you give, the better chance of securing your date. Note that weekdays tend to be quieter. At the time of your booking, please let us know if you need the stove turned on. Families often book holidays up to three months in advance, so book sooner than later if you are
thinking about booking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, etc. Kitchen Resources: coffee, tea, sugar and sweetener are available in the family kitchen. Other resources include a teapot, electric kettle, coffee-maker, stove, oven, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, dish liquid, dishwasher soap and wash cloths. We have place settings for approximately six people. Also on hand, we have additional glasses, coffee mugs, tea cups and a few serving spoons.
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Retirement Living
Vacancies Looking to move to the Northwood community? We have bachelor apartments available in our Supportive Living Program. Call Lynn today to book a tour and see what moving to our community could do for you.
Community Recreation & Wellness
Northwood’s New Performing Arts Program Community Recreation & Wellness has launched a new performing arts program, the Northwood Encores. This new program is led by acclaimed, international musical theatre director, Patrick Maubert. It includes a combination of acting, singing and Broadway movement training exercises. Participants are encouraged to hone existing talents or to develop new skills while gaining confidence and passion. “My teaching philosophy stays true whether teaching at the university, high school or encore-years level,” says Maubert. “It’s to cultivate technique, passion and confidence through nurturing and enhancing the special individual qualities that make you, you!” Encores is a 10 week program that has been running since the end of September and will go until the beginning of Decem-
ber, culminating in a final performance at Northwood. Participants take part in weekly training sessions led by Maubert and other industry professionals. Participants are really enjoying the program so far. “I got interested in singing late in life. Sang a bit as a young girl, but was in my sixties when I rediscovered singing. I’ve never taken lessons, just love to sing,” says Encores participant Sharon Haycock. “Joining the choir at Northwood was the best thing ever. Enriched my life. Now with the new Encores program, I get to go one step further and explore the whole realm of voice, song and movement. Encores has given me something new, interesting and stimulating to broaden my horizons.” In addition to the 10 week program, Maubert will facilitate monthly cabaret nights in the Harbourview
Encores session led by Patrick Maubert.
Lounge at the Halifax Campus. The cabaret nights are intended to encourage the Encore participants and the rest of the Northwood community to take part and practice their skills in a social setting. Everyone is welcome at the cabaret nights, with an upcoming date on December 6th. Interested in becoming an Encores participant? The program will be starting up again in January. Contact Community Recreation & Wellness for information about how to register at 902-454-3351 or crec@ nwood.ns.ca.
Northwood’s Giving Tree Senior Bus Tickets
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
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Community Recreation & Wellness Live More Park: What’s New
Newly built gazebo and bridge at the Live More Park.
Newly installed fountain.
Volunteers from Tree Canada, Northbridge Insurance and Northwood Community Recreation staff helped plant trees in the Live More Park.
We are excited to share a few updates from the Live More Park. Thanks to donations from Cherubini Metal Works Limited and Halifax City Councillors Steve Craig, Tim Outhit, Lisa Blackburn, Russell Walker and Richard Zurawski, to the Northwood Foundation, we’ve been able to fund the building of a new gazebo, fountain and bridge. Our community will be able to relax in the gazebo and take in the view, sit by the fountain and enjoy the sooth-
ing sounds and use the bridge that completes the walking path for years to come. Another addition this fall were fruit trees from Tree Canada and Northbridge Insurance. Several fruit trees have been planted in the Live More Park and around the back of the campus as the beginnings of an orchard we are hoping to grow in the future. A white spruce tree was also planted in the park, to be used in this year's Holiday Tree Lighting and many more.
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Puzzles & Comics
CLUES ACROSS
49. O ne of the six noble gases 1. Type of toast Lynn Eyland studied art in Ed51. M arried woman monton and then went on to enjoy a 6. Peter Griffin’s daughter 52. R egister formally (Brit.) successful artistic career. She was 17 9. A group 54. G reek sorceress years old when she was diagnosed 13. A ncient Greek unit of 56. D epository library with Multiple Sclerosis. Despite the weight 60. A tightknit group difficulties and limitations this dis14. S mall amounts 61. A ncient units of measureease has imposed on Lynn, her enment eady and __ 15. R joyment and desire to share her art 62. He was Batman 16. Right continues. Lynn lives in Northwood 63. Dry or withered sian antelope 17. A Manor, and we’re proud to display her art to our community. 18. Cambodian monetary unit 64. Margosa tree 19. Type of leather 65. Tables (Span.) 21. S ecret clique 66. Large jug 12. F ightin’ Irish football 22. C abbage and cole are two 67. Make a mistake 40. C onfederate soldier coach 23. B urmese ethnic group 42. F emale sibling 68. Puerto Rican genre of 14. P eople from Taiwan 24. E mpire State 43. B elgian city music “La __” 17. Harry Belafonte’s daughter 47. A 25. B e in debt n electrically charged CLUES DOWN 20. Santa’s helper 28. I talian monk’s title atom 1. Insect drawn to flame 21. C ereal plants 29. A sian plants 49. A way to entertain 2. A Spanish river 23. R espectful address 31. E veryone has one 50. Regenerate 3. R educe (Brit. sp.) 25. U nit of electrical resis33. O ne who can’t sleep 52. H ighly flammable liquid 4. W ish well tance 36. “ Glengarry, Glen Ross” 53. Mark 5. R obots are an example 26. Used to managing without 55. N playwright ot good 27. Type of chair 6. Y oung women 38. S hock therapy 56. E loquent Roman orator 29. London footballers 7. T he tip 39. C avalry sword 57. A bsence of difficulty 30. Vaccine developer 8. Y oung women’s associa41. A must-have 58. K azakhstan district tion 32. 10 meters 44. T ype of fabric 59. Plateau 9. One who is suspicious 34. Type of story: __ fi rench composer 45. F 61. M idway between northeast and east 10. A child’s apron 35. Covering on birds’ beaks 46. A type of pen 65. Military policeman 11. N ot dirty 37. Small freshwater fish 48. Snout
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Submissions Submissions can be sent to communications@nwood.ns.ca for consideration. Please note: not all submissions can be printed. Submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Faith
"do" and asked my surgeon "Could I see my hair?" and jokingly my surgeon reSubmitted by Lynn Eyland sponded, "Oh sure it's in that yellow bucket!" Martin Luther King once I had to get an incision said..."Take the first step in right above my heart to have faith. You don't have to see a neurotransmitter (or brain the whole staircase, just take pacemaker) implanted. The the first step." wire went from my brain to I was diagnosed with Multhe pacemaker in my chest. tiple Sclerosis at 17 while at I was awake during the opcollege. eration and was asked to draw My symptoms included something, to demonstrate A copy of the drawing Lynn the extent of the tremors as numbness in fingers and did of the doctor during her they stimulated my brain. So I toes, double vision at 16. I deep-brain simulation surgery. drew a picture of the doctor! had braces on both legs in But the real proof to me of the early years of the disease, but “graduated” to a the success of the operation because he thought it would wheelchair soon after when I help my drawing. My surhappened a month later, at was about 32. Christmas, when I enjoyed a geon, Dr. Brownstone, told I am right-handed, but at the me there was a 3 percent glass of wine, with no straw time, my right hand and arm chance of a stroke during the and no tremors! I had to have regular aphad uncontrollable tremors. procedure. So I asked, "When I had to drink using a straw do I start?" I had faith that he pointments with the clinic to check to make sure the battery at all times and my drawing knew what he was doing. was still working in my chest. became more difficult. The procedure began My neurologist suggested I was surprised at my last apwith my head being shaved. that I get "Deep-Brain Stimu- I watched as my beautiful pointment when the facilitator lation," though it is usually informed me "Your battery is golden locks disappeared. I dead, Lynn, your system must for Parkinson’s patients, was curious to see my new
be working on its own." In 2012, an exciting operation was being performed in many places in the world but not in Canada. It was called CCSVI and it had the potential to improve the lives of MS patients. It involved the clearing the veins in the neck. I wanted the operation but it was very expensive, so my church helped me to accept donations. I went to Albany, New York for the procedure. The improvement was immediate for me. I travelled with my younger sister and instead of having a nap afterwards, I had more energy than ever. When I got back home, my usual nap I needed every day was no longer necessary. So though many people who got the operation had either no change or very little, I feel that it changed my life. I love my life, and I'm optimistic about my future but I have taken many leaps of faith up that staircase, and I expect to take many more.
Dear Northwood Community faces when they receive a gift (big or small) is priceless. Dear Northwood CommuWhen you think of Christnity, mas, you are probably filled Let me introduce myself. My with happiness. But it isn't name is Nicole Martelle and that way for everyone. Dechances are, you have probably cember can be a lonely time seen me wandering around the for seniors, especially those living in care. Last year, I Halifax Campus. I have been came up with a plan of aca volunteer on 4 Centre for almost two years, but I also work tion to help curb loneliness at in Health Services. Christmas time. I went on a Christmas is a special time mission and began recruiting for me. I really enjoy giving to the public to make handmade others. The smile on people's blankets. To my surprise, the Submitted by Nicole Martelle
public came to me in droves. Within two months I was able to collect 66 knitted blankets to hand out on Christmas Eve to the residents at Northwood’s Halifax Campus. I am hoping to increase the number of donations this year. My goal is a minimum of 99 blankets so I can reach 3 long term care floors. I am challenging you, the reader, to help me achieve this. Can you knit, crochet, or sew? Do you know some-
one who can? Spread the word! The only rules are the blanket must be handmade and smoke free. Size doesn't matter! Let's do this Halifax! Let's put a smile on someone's face at Christmas time. To donate, contact me at nicole.martelle@nwood.ns.ca or 902-237-7837.
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Volunteering at Northwood Patti: One of Northwood’s Most Dedicated Volunteers If you’ve spent any time at our Halifax Campus, you’ve likely met Patti. Patti is one of Northwood’s most dedicated volunteers, having been with us for 21 years. In that time, she has put in over 19,000 volunteer hours at Northwood! Patti is at the Halifax Campus from Tuesday through Friday every week, helping to porter residents to their appointments at the beauty salon and to church on Fridays, sometimes keeping them company through the service. While she’s at the beauty salon, she also helps staff by bringing them towels when they need them and by helping to re-
move rollers from customers’ hair. She has gotten to know many of our residents over the years, chatting with them on their way downstairs. By now, she knows the majority of our residents, tenants and staff by name. Patti often colours pictures to bring to Northwood to give to staff and residents, and she likes to participate in events and programs with residents, like our sock hops in the Shirley Burnstein Hall. Most recently, Patti has started learning to knit with a group led by Recreation Therapy. Patti says she volunteers at Northwood because being here makes her happy. That
happiness rubs off on our staff and residents, and they all love having her around. Here are just a few of the nice things our staff have had to say about her: “Good job Patti! You are a great lunch buddy and I love working with you.” – Suzanne Bright “Patti is the most cheerful person! And the best hugger!!” – Faye LeBlanc “Patti! Always a smile and such a great helper! Thank you for everything you do.” – Tisha White “You never see Patti without a smile on her face!” – Nicole Martelle Patti is an excellent ex-
ample of Northwood’s values at work. We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Patti for her years of dedication and hard work, from everyone here at Northwood.
Join Northwood’s Volunteer Team At Northwood, we couldn’t do what we do without our dedicated team of volunteers. Our volunteers provide comfort, entertainment, security and peace of mind. Are you interested in becoming part of our volunteer team? We have a number of positions available. Volunteer Job Board • Friendly Visitors: Skilled caretakers or knowledgeable in healthcare, friendly visitors are matched up 1-on-1 with a resident. A variety of days and times available. • Boccia Ball Referee and Attendant: Help Easter Seals run our weekly Boccia Ball program on Wednesday afternoons. • Bowling Assistant: Help
our residents enjoy a weekly bowling program on Tuesday mornings. • Fitness Buddy: Help our residents work on their fitness! Any time Monday-Friday between 10am and 4pm. • Goody Cart: Bring the Goody Cart around the care floors so our residents can choose a treat, any time Monday-Friday between 10am and 4pm. • Library Delivery Cart: Bring our residents their library selections on the third Friday of every month. For these and other volunteer opportunities at Northwood, please contact our Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at 902-454-3353 or volunteers@nwood.ns.ca.
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Northwood Intouch
Northwood Intouch Fosters Independence Northwood Intouch services are designed to give you the independence and freedom you desire. Gerry and Geneva Raymond are a prime example of how this works. Gerry has been one of our dedicated volunteers through the Windsor Rotary Club since 1993, and he hopes to continue for a while longer. He installs medical alerts, stove sensors and other Intouch products in his community. Now, he is also an Intouch subscriber. Geneva uses a few Intouch devices, one of them being a fall alert pendant. This service gives Gerry, Geneva and their family peace of mind. “Our daughter and our son, they feel comfortable that we have this thing,” says Gerry. “This allows me to go downtown but also if they’re not here it allows me to go down and work in the garden. I do my best thinking when I’m digging in the dirt.” Gerry likes to spend time in his garden, tending to
flowers. He has geraniums that have been carried on for over 60 years, from Geneva’s grandmother. Because of Northwood Intouch, Gerry can do this with his mind at ease, not having to worry about Geneva inside. “I just feel that I can get help if I need it,” says Geneva. “She doesn’t depend on me as much,” Gerry adds. “She knows that if I go outside and she pressed that button then she can get help – she’s had to Gerry and Geneva enjoying their garden. use it, she’s done it before.” Thanks to Northwood Intouch, Gerry and Geneva are able to live in the home they’ve built together for as long as possible. They are able to sit in the dappling light of their sun room and take in the beautiful view of Nova Scotia that they have been taking in for over 50 years. They are able to maintain their independence. “It doesn’t cause you to lose independence,” says Gerry loves to keep busy in his Gerry. “It causes you to be garden. more independent.”
Northwood’s Giving Tree
Centenarians
Chocolate Treats (no nuts)
When Northwood Intouch clients turn 100, they receive their basic service for free. We currently have a total of 32 Intouch clients who are centenarians, or will become one this year. Below is a portion of our centenarians who agreed to have their name published in this edition of the Northwood Live More Community Paper to honour them: Allena Phillips, 100 on December 15 Esther Saunders, 100 Louise Fielding, 100 Donald West, 100 Alice Hendsbee, 100 Daphne Cullen, 100
Shirley Hendricks, 100 Jean Martin, 100 James Aymar, 101 Rev. C. Russell Elliot, 101 Emma Kellough, 101 Evelyn Hubley, 101 Frances Thomson, 101
Rodena Moore, 102 Sadie Kennedy, 102 Thelma Kiely, 102 Elva Powers, 103 Yvonne Comeau, 104 Florence Webber, 110
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
SOCIAL & LEISURE | WINTER 2018 20 | NORTHWOOD
Harbourview Lounge
www.northwood.care
Halifax Block Party Northwood Intouch Join us for our annual Northwood Terrace Block Party – a day to celebrate the Northwood community and our North End neighbors! Bring the family for a day of live entertainment, carnival games, food vendors, and more.
Northwood Intouch Partners with Local Bedford DaysClubs Community Party Service When: Saturday, July 14 starting at noon! Where: Northwood Terrace between Black St. and North St.
Join us for our Northwood Bedford Block party – a day to celebrate the Northwood community and our West Bedford You’ll often see member of Club member Paul Seguin. Community! Bring the family for a day of live entertainment, the Sackville Lions Club in The Sackville Lions Club carnival games, food vendors, and more. our community fundraising receives the $25 installation
for local projects and initiafee in exchange for providing the house call to the new tives. But there’s another When: Wednesday, June 27, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm Northwood Intouch client. very special way they fundWhere: 123 Gary Martin Drivemeans the money stays raise and you won’t see it un- That less you or a loved one signs right in Sackville helping to up for Northwood Intouch fund initiatives in the community as they come up. and gets outfitted with a fall “All the money we make alert pendant or one of our from Northwood Intouch other sensors. When a member of our community signs installations goes into a genCome to the William E Frank LIVEaccount MORE Park up for Northwood Intouch, eral the and clubCommunity uses for of projects,” says we connect with thea Sacka variety Garden to grab bite to eat with your fellow neighbour. Seguin. “We’ve been able to villeWheelz Lions Club to perform in West Bedford will be taking place on Thursday, thepm client’s helppm charities likethe Hope Cotthe installation May 17 fromin 4:00 until 7:00 to kick off upcoming home. tage and Beacon House with summer months. Here, you can learn more about summer “I’ve been doing installs the funds we’ve raised.” programs, our Community for Northwood Intouch since Garden and all the amenities the William E. Frank LIVE MORE Park and Continued Communityon Garden has page 21 1996,” says Sackville Lion’s
Food Truck Rallies!
Enjoy a wide selection of beer, wine, and coolers or ask our talented bartenders to mix your favourite drink. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings at 7 pm
LIVE MUSIC
Every Wednesday evening Visit nwood.ns.ca/calendar or call 902-454-3351 12
to offer. Whether you crave a savoury or sweet treat, we’re sure you’ll find something to eat! There are two dates planned. When: Where: Duration: Cost: When: Where: Duration: Cost:
Thursday, May 17 William E Frank LIVE MORE Park and Community Garden, 123 Gary Martin Drive 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Prices will vary based on Food Truck Thursday, September 20 William E Frank LIVE MORE Park and Community Garden, 123 Gary Martin Drive 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Prices will vary based on Food Truck
John Campbell and Paul Seguin, Sackville Lions Club members and volunteer Northwood Intouch installers.
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www.northwood.care
Northwood Intouch
Northwood Intouch Partners with Local Service Clubs Continued from page 20 “They are our boots on the ground. Sackville Lions Club members give our clients one-on-one support when it comes time to set the equipment up in the home,” says Tisha White, Program Manager for Northwood Intouch. “Often times the volunteer is a familiar face – someone from their community they already know and trust.” Northwood Intouch offers fall pendants (including automatic fall detection), pill dispensers, stove sensors, bed alarms and alarm systems for wander-
ing with 24/7 monitoring at local response centres. As a not-for-profit organization, Northwood reinvests in the community, just like the Sackville Lions Club. Monies raised from Northwood Intouch goes to help support Northwood’s Adult Day program, the William E. Frank Live More Park and Community Garden, the Northwood Bus, and the Northwood Intouch subsidy program. To find out more about Northwood Intouch and what makes the service different, call 1-800-461-3346 or 902-492-3346 or email intouch@nwood.ns.ca.
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Northwood Adult Day
Adult Day Program Coming to Dartmouth in 2019 In its 40th year of operation, Northwood’s Adult Day program is set to expand across the harbour to Dartmouth. Something Program Director Donna MacDonald says is part of their vison for the program. “We are very much a grass roots program. We want to be in the communities to support people to age in place,” says Donna. Northwood’s Adult Day program is currently operating in the Cobequid/Lower Sackville/ Bedford area (Northwood Bedford
Campus) and on the Halifax Peninsula (Northwood Halifax Campus) with the third location set to open in Dartmouth in early 2019. The Adult Day team provides a safe and comforting space for clients to come spend the day. Once the client is feeling safe and secure, the Adult Day team is then able to engage in meaningful activity that truly meets the individual where they are. The program is purposely structured Continued on page 23 Name:
Address:
Charitable # 844795088 RR0001 Cheque Cash Visa
130 Eileen Stubbs Ave, Suite 1 South Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4 Phone: 902-454-3069
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Every donation to the Northwood Foundation helps our Northwood Community Live More. Please use the tear off or visit www.northwoodfoundation.ca to donate.
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Making a difference through the Power of Love.
Mastercard
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Northwood Adult Day Adult Day Program Coming to Dartmouth in 2019 things that need to be switched up in the care plan, we loop the caregiver in and we are able to offer supports if necessary. We are able to offer education for caregivers, advocate on their behalf, refer if necessary and simply just be there for them.” For more information about Northwood’s Adult Day program, call (902) 4549706. Information about the opening of the newest Adult Day location in Dartmouth Participant and staff doing and the fourth location in some painting and enjoying Halifax will be made availeach other’s company. able as plans are finalized.
Get Connected Get Connected provides a regular social call from a Northwood volunteer to an older adult living alone. Get Connected offers: • A free weekly connection with a trained volunteer • A friendly call from someone who knows your name • Pleasant conversation on topics of mutual interest For more information 902-421-6387 or “Socall: glad you are there. email: getconnected@nwood.ns.ca
I don’t know how I would have gotten through this without you.”
*Not intended as a check-in or monitoring service*
F
– CNS caregiver client
O
in a very consistent fashion in order to give the client a sense of comfort. Highly skilled staff engage with clients in an authentic and meaningful way with programming which is selected for participants with thought and care. From baking an old family recipe for tea biscuits to crafts and creative expression or woodworking, the person-centred approach is felt throughout the entire program. “The client might not be able to verbalize that they had a good day but when the caregiver arrives to pick them up and they don’t want to go home, we know they are happy. We think of ourselves as a club! This is their safe place and we are all friends.” That feeling that the staff and participants are all friends is no accident. Donna says her team works hard to ensure it doesn’t feel like a traditional staff-client relationship. She says that’s key to providing an authentic programming experience. “For example, once our clients are served their meal, if there are any leftovers, our staff will sit down and eat with the clients. We socialize over meals and engage with one another. Sure, we can as-
sist with feeding when needed, but we can also spark conversation and share a laugh.” What makes this program truly unique is the collaboration that’s possible between the adult day team and the caregiver. Donna says her team is not only committed to their client but also to the caregiver, because when the caregiver is supported, the client benefits. “When we say goodbye to the client for the day, the next person coming on shift isn’t a nurse, it’s a member of our community. When we see
Caregivers Nova Scotia is a non-profit organization providing FREE programs, services, information, and advocacy for unpaid, friend and family caregivers.
PR O
Continued from page 22
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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Home Care
Homecare Bravos People Come First: We believe that treating each other with respect and dignity builds the trust that is essential to our effective relationships. We foster the talent and potential in everyone. Have one of our staff or volunteers brightened your day, gone above and beyond, or been “caught in the act” of caring? If so, please share your experience with us. We welcome your compliments and feedback. Please help us celebrate one of the best parts of Northwood – the people! Visit the reception desk at any of our three locations: Halifax, Bedford
Northwood’s Giving Tree Ladies Socks
or Corporate Office and fill out a Bravo form. Bravo for taking the time! Here’s a selection of recent Bravos received for employees in Homecare. To: Cindy Haggar From: Supervisor A client called their supervisor to say that Cindy was so great today. "She walked in and read what she needed to do and did everything as if she'd been here 10 times, and she'd never been here before. She was great to talk to and such a nice person. She was a little Dynamo!" The client wanted to make sure we knew what a great job she did today and how much he appreciated the service. Thank you Cindy! To: Sher MacPhee From: Stephen Filek & Jancy Logan A client called in to sing praises about Sher. The client could not say enough in
FOUNDATION
Donations can be dropped off to any Northwood location
157993
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA? We can help.
902-42 2 -7 9 6 1 ALZH E IM ER. C A/NS
is excellent. She can come anytime." The client was in agreement and very happy with the care received from Betelhem. Thank you Betelhem! Great job!
regard to her workmanship and demeanor. The client stated that she just loved her! Great work Sher! Thanks for caring so much about our clients – it makes a HUGE difference in their lives! To: Betelhem Tsegaye From: Allison Slade A Home Support Supervisor and Continuing Care Coordinator were out to a client's home. The client had just received service from Betelhem. During the visit, the client’s daughter mentioned Betelhem and how wonderful she is with her mother. The daughter stated, "She knows exactly what to do. She is a newer staff and
To: Tony Abraham From: Margaret Saulnier During an initial admission visit, a client reported to a supervisor that she came home from the hospital and had a call from a NW Home Support Worker to say that he would be arriving in the evening to help her get ready for bed. The client stated to the supervisor that she wondered to herself, "How am I going to feel having a man come in to my home to shower me before bed?” The client went on to say that as soon as he came to the door she stopped worrying. "Tony came in and smiled and let me know he was there to help. He helped me get washed and was professional, kind and I would have him again anytime."
Note: Bravo submissions have been edited for clarity.
