Last week, my dear friend Melissa from Toronto called me with some distressing news about her parents. Her Mom, who is but 70 years old, is showing early signs of dementia. Her Dad, who is 10 years older, is facing some major mobility issues due to chronic back pain. Needless to say, Melissa is, as… Read more…
There is an undeniable excitement in the air at the Johnstone-Ram household. It starts first thing in the morning when my six-year-old, upon waking, flies to the living room with two things on her mind. One is the Lego Advent Calendar, which shamelessly I purchased primarily for my inner child. My daughter picked up… Read more…
I was in a little gift shop on Fifth Street this weekend and, as I am often noted for, was speaking out loud to no one in particular and said, “Wow, this holiday season has really snuck up on me this year.” In a shocking turn of events, someone actually answered, “I wish I could… Read more…
It never ceases to amaze me the number of community resources and programs that are available in an area of interest. Falls prevention programs are no exception! Although not comprehensive, the following list is a good starting point for seniors and family caregivers on what’s available in the Comox Valley and other resources online. Fall-proof… Read more…
A big thanks to BC Housing for responding to my column on falls and the elderly by providing details on a new program for low-income seniors to make home modifications for continued independence. Would a new ramp, handrails or walk-in shower help you maintain your independence at home? BC Housing’s new Home Adaptations for Independence… Read more…
A big thanks to BC Housing for responding to my column on falls and the elderly by providing details on a new program for low-income seniors to make home modifications for continued independence. Would a new ramp, handrails or walk-in shower help you maintain your independence at home? BC Housing’s new Home Adaptations for Independence… Read more…
Elaine hasn’t slept well for the past week, so when the phone rings at 5:30 a.m., she doesn’t wake with a start. She’s not surprised when the person on the other end is the night care support worker at the assisted living facility where her Mom lives. This is the fourth call from the facility… Read more…
I woke up today and realized we are into August! Many of our clients and their families are enjoying summer holidays and I’d be remiss if I didn’t re-run a column on planning a vacation and ensuring your loved one’s care is also being planned and looked after. It isn’t particularly easy for caregivers to… Read more…
I’m delighted to have Frances Ferguson, a registered clinical counsellor in the Comox Valley, offer strategies for siblings to work together in caring for aging parents. Frances brings over 15 years of experience helping individuals and couples to solve problems and make decisions, improve communication and set and reach personal goals. Fifteen years ago, Cheryl,… Read more…
I have a wonderful brother. Mind you, he wasn’t always wonderful. In fact, I didn’t put him in the “wonderful” category until he was married and had a few kids under his belt. Up until that time and depending on the circumstances, he was either in the “awful,” “overprotective” or “suspiciously being kind for… Read more…
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– Mike G., Nanaimo, BC
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