Enriching Seniors' Quality of Life!

Too much heat can be dangerous for anyone. Extreme heat affects seniors 65+ much more than the younger population, especially ones who suffer from chronic illnesses and medical conditions, s uch as: Diabetes, heart or respiratory disease High blood pressure  Anxiety or  depression  Limited mobility  Being over or underweight The ageing process affects circulation, skin and sweat glands . Seniors are unable to adjust to temperature changes as quickly as younger people. Deaths due to hyperthermia mostly occur in seniors 50+ years old under extreme heat conditions.  Select a cooling centre nearby your home such as a seniors centre, library, movie theatre, mall, or a friend or family member’s home that is air-conditioned to keep your body temperature cool. Sweating is dehydrating so keep in mind that you also have to drink more if you sweat in hot weather.  It's recommended that seniors take extra precautions to prepare for heat waves and have an action plan they can follow to keep t

Unfortunately, there is still no cure for Dementia and Alzheimer's disease globally. As per more current research, there is hope for the development of a cure at some time in the future. As per BC Alzheimer's Society, there are over 500, 0000 Canadians currently suffering from Dementia and this number will rise much higher in the coming years. The number of seniors with Dementia ages 85+ is rising in BC, currently estimated between 60,000 & 70,00 as per Government Canada statistics. There is no way to prevent dementia. We need to learn to understand the disease better by educating ourselves and learning to look recognize any symptoms. There are some approved medications that can possibly slow down early on-stage dementia. Speak to your Family Physician. We know that aging affects our brain and our thinking which is a normal development. Keep in mind that it is never too early or too late to consider a healthier lifestyle & diet to help reduce dement ia risks. Re

BC is the most ethnically diverse Canadian province with over 30% of the population originating from another country. Our cultural backgrounds impact our beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors. The aging population is growing more culturally diverse every year.  All communication in healthcare is influenced by language, behaviors, traditions, beliefs, and perspectives. Therefore, a basic knowledge of the patient's cultural background is required for health care providers & workers to be able to practice cultural sensitivity, also referred to as cultural competence. In caregiving & nursing, a culturally competent health care professional is able to more effectively relate to each individual patient’s needs and emphasize.  Such is reflected in an open attitude & important cultural awareness & knowledge. The majority of care staff are culturally competent as they come from diverse cultures and backgrounds themselves. Cultural skills can be learned, developed, and sh

We all want to stay independent as long as our health allows, especially seniors. The aging process affects us all in different ways. Some aging adults might require minimal help, some do more due to declining health issues, an illness, a condition and or a disease. In most cases, seniors will not communicate to admit that they need outside help to continue living in their own homes, or their place of living.  If you have an aging parent or know a senior you are concerned about that this  person has become unable to manage to live independently, ensure to keep an eye on the below main warning signs: Struggling to maintain the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) Changes in physical health & appearance  Cognitive decline - forgetfulness, ability to concentrate & memory loss A lack of communication with family members and or loved ones Trust issues & decline in healthy judgement Self-isolation & Depression The Activities of Daily Living refer to our basic skills and ability

  An Advance Care Plan (ACP) is a written summary of your wishes and instructions to confirm and guide your substitute decision-maker(s) (SDMs) to conduct any future health care decisions on your behalf in case you become incapable of communicating your decisions due to lack of mental capability.  Who Determines Mental Capacity? Healthcare providers are often asked to make Mental Capacity Assessments for patients.  How do you communicate with Advanced Care plans? Provide a copy of your written ACP to your substitute decision-maker(s). If the person or persons chosen to consent to be assigned,  ensure your ACP  is shared with all parties involved in the process.  The BC Ministry of Health encourages all capable adults to do advance care planning . I t is designed for everyone, not only seniors. Your health can change at any time.  During these uncertain times, we are all concerned about our health and well-being. Be ready with Advance Care Planning which helps you to decide and com