780-540-8358
www.exquisicare.com
| |
A Subsidiary of SE Health | |
Monthly Newsletter | June 2024 | |
Fathers are the quiet champions in our lives, offering us strength, guidance, and unwavering support. As they grow older, it's crucial to make sure they feel the love and respect they've always given us, especially when they're in long-term care. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of honoring our fathers in these settings and share meaningful ways to celebrate and cherish their presence. | |
|
National Men's Health Month | |
June is National Men’s Health Month, an ideal time to prioritize your health and well-being.
Investing in your health brings long-term benefits, and even small changes can have a significant impact. Here are some tips to help you get started:
-
Regular check-ups - Make it a habit to schedule health screenings.
-
Stay active - Regular exercise keeps your muscles strong, flexible, and supports bone health.
-
Eat well - A balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health.
-
Get quality sleep - Ensure you're getting enough restful sleep each night.
-
Take care of your mental health - Open up to friends, family, or a healthcare professional to manage stress and anxiety.
-
Stay connected - Building and maintaining strong social connections supports mental and emotional well-being.
For more detailed information, visit the McMaster University Optimal Aging Portal and the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation.
| |
|
Our residents are preparing for summer by spending time outdoors and tending to the raised garden beds. This activity not only brings joy and a sense of accomplishment but also fosters a strong connection with nature and promotes physical well-being. Gardening allows our residents to engage in a meaningful and therapeutic activity, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Ensuring our elders have a good quality of life while living in our homes is a top priority for us. We are committed to creating an environment where they feel valued, supported, and active. Our community is dedicated to providing opportunities that promote health, happiness, and social interaction, ensuring that every day is fulfilling and enjoyable for our elders. Through activities like gardening, we strive to enrich their lives and maintain their independence and vitality.
| |
We have immediate availability in one of our homes,
if you know someone who would benefit from the ExquisiCare model, contact us now at
780-722-3455 to secure this opportunity!
| |
In addition to providing exemplary care, we look for opportunities to go above and beyond for our elders and their loved ones. Even small gestures can have a large impact. |
Trish, an Elder Guide at Cameron Heights, spent personal time with her mother planting new flowers outside the Cameron Heights home.
Her thoughtfulness and kindness brought joy not only to the residents but also to her mother and herself.
| | |
A Heartfelt Message from a Family Member |
It’s Monday morning, beginning of another new week for everyone. But, not for Mom.
For the first time in my 63 years, she simply isn’t here. It’s such a complicated sadness. As my brother said, it’s like a planet and its gravitational pull is just…gone. It leaves me feeling yes, relief, but also adrift.
I was prompted to write because when I think about my mom the ExquisiCare Cameron Heights team is a part of the picture in my head.
To say ‘thank you’ for caring for her seems so wholly inadequate. I struggle with how limited our language is. I’m reminded of the fifty ways the Inuit speak of snow.
I think in the days and weeks to come, I’ll work on finding my own ‘fifty ways’ to give you my thanks for the extraordinary thing you have done, and continue to do.
| | |
Celebrate this June as we honor the rich history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. This is a time to reflect on the significant contributions and enduring spirit of these Indigenous peoples. We encourage you to take a moment to explore the link provided to deepen your understanding and appreciation of their rich cultural legacy. Learn about their unique traditions, stories, and the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote their vibrant heritage. | |
Honouring our Residents at ExquisiCare | |
At the entrance of each home, you will find a very special book. In this book there is a highlight of our residents, both past and present.
Our elders have given so much to the communities and they deserve to be honoured and commended for their years of hard work.
These books of highlights lets us do just that. As we get to know them a little bit better we also grow to love them more.
| |
Myrna was born to Herman and Olive in the early 40s in Saskatchewan, where she spent her childhood on a farm with her four siblings. Fond memories include traveling to school by horse and buggy.
Myrna moved to Cold Lake to pursue a career as a hairdresser, where she met her first husband, John, and experienced the Cold War's tension with fighter jets on standby during the Cuban Missile Crisis. They had four children together. She later married Allan, blending their families to raise six children, now spread across Alberta, British Columbia, and New York. Her children fondly recall her as a loving mother.
Blessed with 16 grandchildren, Myrna's love for her family is evident despite some losses. She cherished her career, owning a successful hair salon, and was known for her engaging conversations. Myrna also championed seniors' rights and community welfare, earning the honor of being named the Governor General of her town. Myrna had a thirst for knowledge. This was evident when she attended a university lecture with her son, where the professor was captivated by her enthusiasm and focus, noting her as the only one on the edge of her seat, absorbing every detail.
At Cameron Heights, Myrna enjoys pet therapy and murder mysteries. You can often find Myrna watering the plants at Cameron Heights, keeping strong and independent by maneuvering herself around the home, participating in recreation and generally being social and kind to all that meet her. A member of the United Church with a strong Christian faith, Myrna's resilience has seen her through many challenges. Despite a stroke affecting her speech, her personality and warmth continue to shine. Acknowledgement through smiles, laughs and nonverbal communication is important for engagement with Myrna. The value in a kind touch of the hand, simple use of words and joy is immeasurable to her.
It is a privilege to walk this journey with both Myrna and her wonderful family.
| |
Enhancing Elderly Care Through Music Therapy | |
We understand the profound impact music can have on well-being. Music therapy, in particular, is proven to have numerous benefits for the elderly, especially those with dementia. It can improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance mood, and provide a sense of comfort and familiarity. Through musical activities, our residents can express themselves creatively, recall cherished memories, and connect with others in a meaningful way.
By incorporating music into daily life, we aim to create a vibrant and uplifting environment. Whether it’s residents playing the piano, enjoying performances by visiting musicians, or attending concerts, these experiences enrich their lives and foster a sense of community. Our commitment to music therapy is just one of the many ways we strive to enhance the quality of life for our elders, ensuring they remain active, engaged, and happy.
To learn more about the importance of music therapy for those with dementia, visit the
Canadian Association for Music Therapy and the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
| |
|
Care at Home by ExquisiCare
Our sister company, Care At Home, provides the same high level of care and respect to seniors, in their own homes.
Visit the Care At Home website to learn how we can help you stay safe at home.
| | | | |