5 Avoidable Reasons Seniors Are Put In Long Term Care Against Their Will

The Message Is Loud and Clear: Seniors Want to Age in Place, in the Comfort and Security of Their Own Home

Sadly, too many seniors are taken out of their homes and placed in Residential Care facilities against their will when a few basic steps could have prevented this. Read more to learn how you or a loved one can safely remain in your own home for as long as you choose.

1: Falling at Home

Falls cause 85% of seniors' injury-related hospitalisations, 95% of all hip fractures, and over one third of seniors are admitted to Long-Term Care following hospitalisation for a fall.1

The good news is that the risk of falling can be significantly reduced by making some simple modifications around your home. A Geriatric Nurse Specialist can help assess your home for dangers and suggest a few simple steps to reduce your risk of falls and injury in your home. Shylo's Registered Nurses, with decades of experience supporting seniors in the community, can quickly identify factors that can increase a senior's risk to fall such as reduced eyesight and issues with balance and gait. Age-related loss of muscle mass or Sarcopenia,  and blood pressure that drops too much when you get up from lying down or sitting or Postural Hypotension, are additional risk factors for falling.

According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, home modifications can significantly reduce the risk of falls and accidents.2 Evidence shows that preventing falls requires interventions that target more than one risk factor.2 Slippery floors, area rugs, clutter, poor lighting, and lack of handrails can contribute to falls. Falls caused by detached throw rugs or loose carpets are a major cause of injury in older adults. The danger of these unsecure rugs is due to their tendency to bunch up, making them easy to trip over.

Seniors can benefit from simple and affordable home modifications, such as installing grab bars in bathrooms, having low-impact underlay and anti-slip flooring installed. Some seniors may also consider more advanced modifications if they intend to be in their homes for many years and have mobility issues. They may consider ramps for wheelchair accessibility, or adding a stairlift or home elevator. Home elevators have evolved significantly in the past decade and now take up minimal space and can be quite affordable.

Of course, moving to a one-level townhouse or condo can also be a sensible choice for individuals with chronic mobility challenges. We encourage adults considering downsizing to have a moving concierge help to plan your move, and use a reliable local mover to execute the move. 

2: Medication Errors

Seniors often take multiple medications, which can be confusing and potentially dangerous if not managed properly. The Canadian Institute for Health Information reported that in 2019, about 65% of seniors aged 65 and older were taking five or more prescription medications.3

In 2021, seniors living in residential care settings were 3 times more likely to be prescribed an antidepressant or benzodiazepine, and 8 times more likely to be prescribed an antipsychotic, compared with seniors living in the community.4 Residents of congregate  care facilities are increasingly being placed on antipsychotic medications despite having no proper diagnosis to warrant their use. In 2016, 16.1% of nursing home residents were given antipsychotic medications.6 Use is much higher among residents with dementia - the very individuals that the FDA warns are at serious risk of medical complications and death from taking antipsychotics.5

Although it may be appropriate for some seniors to take several drugs, the use of multiple medications, known as polypharmacy, increases the risks of drug interactions and side effects. The number of seniors taking five or more drugs was more than double those taking less than five drugs. Roughly 69%, or 1.8 million of all seniors in Canada, were taking five or more drugs from different drug classes, with nearly 10% (293,441 seniors) taking 15 or more. This increased with age, with those who were 85+ being twice as likely to take at least 15 drug classes compared with those in the 65–74 age group.5

Medication organizers and reminders can help seniors manage their medications effectively. Pharmacists can also provide medication reviews to ensure safe usage. Home Care RNs and Home Support Workers can also assist with medication administration and oversee that seniors take their medications as prescribed and watch for complications related to the over or under use of medications. 

3: Poor Nutrition

Poor nutrition can trigger additional health problems. A lack of essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals can compromise the immune system, making seniors more susceptible to infections and illnesses. It can also exacerbate chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

The most important factor in improving nutrition for seniors is having them actually eat the food served to them. There's no benefit moving a senior into a residence or facility that offers bland food, or one that cannot accommodate the individual's taste preferences. Congregate care homes must prepare meals that are safe for all their residents, meaning meals will be low-sodium, low-fat and no added sugar. This race to the bottom of nutritional risk factors can lead to bland and unappealing meals being served. 

Providing nutritious meals or meal delivery services can ensure that seniors maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Regular visits from Home Care Nurses can assess their nutritional needs, consider health concerns such as heart disease or diabetes, and help Caregivers plan meals that are well-balanced and nutritional while incorporating the client's food preferences. 

We work hard all our lives and should not be deprived of our favourite treats just because we're over 65. While no one will thrive on a diet of chocolate bars and soda pop, we can all enjoy tasty desserts when served as part of a sensible meal plan. 

4: Safety and Security Concerns

Friends and family sometimes worry that a senior living alone may not know what to do in the event of an emergency, but a little preparation can kept adults safe as they age in place. 

Emergency contact numbers should be handy and copies kept near the phone in rooms the senior frequents such as the kitchen, bedroom, living room, office, garage and basement if there is one. Seniors should have smoke and CO2 detectors and fire extinguishers in their homes. Fire safety education and regular fire drills can help seniors respond effectively to emergencies. Having a monitored security system helps both seniors and their loved one feel more secure in the event of an actual emergency. 

Call Alert Buttons are great for any ageing adult who has any mobility issues that increase their risk for falls and injuries. Many options are available today, but be sure to chose a style the senior will actually wear. There is nothing more useless than an emergency call button on the bedside table when the most common place for a senior to slip and fall is in the bathroom.

On top of the common safety concerns for seniors like trips and falls, fire, and medication errors, sadly there is another abuse not uncommon with seniors, and that's abuse. Around 1 in 6 people 60 years and older experienced some form of abuse in community settings during the past year. Rates of abuse of older people are high in institutions such as nursing homes and long-term care facilities, with 2 in 3 staff reporting that they have committed abuse in the past year.7

This abuse of seniors constitutes a violation of human rights and includes physical, sexual, psychological and emotional abuse; financial and material abuse; abandonment; neglect; and serious loss of dignity and respect. Regular visits by a Geriatric Nurse Specialist can watch for signs of abuse and assist the senior to get the proper support they need. 

To report suspected Senior Abuse call SAIL at 1-866-437-1940 [Toll Free] or 604-437-1940 in the Vancouver Lower Mainland.

5: Isolation

Seniors can experience social isolation and loneliness, regardless of where they live. Seniors who tend to be introverted and spend a lot of time alone are not going to change their stripes just because they move into a congregate living facility. Loners will still be loners and will shy away from group activities. Loneliness is even more common in congregate living residences. The prevalence of severe loneliness among older people living in care homes is at least double that of community-dwelling populations: 22% to 42% for the resident population compared with 10% for the community population.8

Seniors who are active in their community should be supported to remain in their home, if that is their wish. Staying in their home will provide a sense of security knowing the neighbours and neighbourhood. Being able to shop at familiar shops, go to their longtime hairdresser or barber, will maintain familiar relationships and support a stronger sense of autonomy. 

Residents living in congregate care residences can experience significant social isolation and grief that results in loneliness and other negative health consequences. Just like in high school, assisted living facilities and nursing homes have their share of mean girls and bullies. 

Seniors who live alone, whether it be in a family home, a condo, or a senior's residence, will benefit from a regular Companion who can spend invaluable one-on-one time with them, and safely escort them shopping and to appointments.  


Book a complementary Home Safety Assessment today with one of Shylo's Registered Geriatric Nurse Specialists to identify risk factors in your home. Together we can discuss simple home modifications to allow you to safely age in place. We can also discuss care options so you can maintain control of how and where you chose to Age in Place. Seniors have worked hard their entire lives and should not lose their autonomy just because they experience a health issue. 

With Shylo Home Healthcare it's
Your Home - Your Health - Your Choice TM

Resources:
1. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/aging-seniors/publications/publications-general-public/seniors-falls-canada-second-report/seniors-falls-canada-infographic.html
2. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/aging-seniors/publications/publications-general-public/seniors-falls-canada-second-report.html
3. https://www.cihi.ca/en/drug-use-among-seniors-in-canada
4. https://www.cihi.ca/sites/default/files/document/covid-19-rapid-response-long-term-care-snapshot-en.pdf
5. https://www.longwoods.com/content/23192/medication-use-among-canadian-seniors#
6. https://theconsumervoice.org/issues/issue_details/misusing-antipsychotics#

7. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people 

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7205644

Preventing Falls: 6 Safety Tips for a Seniors

Introduction:

As we age, maintaining our independence and quality of life becomes increasingly important. One significant threat to seniors' well-being is the risk of falls. Falls can lead to serious injuries, loss of mobility, and a reduced quality of life. As a Registered Nurse with extensive experience and certification in senior care, I'm here to provide you with essential tips to prevent falls among seniors, backed by current Canadian data.

Stay Physically Active:

Regular physical activity is one of the keys to maintaining strength and balance as we age. According to the Canadian Community Health Survey, only 24% of adults aged 65 and older meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Encourage seniors to engage in activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga, tailored to their abilities and preferences.

Home Safety Assessment:

Performing a home safety assessment is crucial. Data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) shows that falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among seniors. Conducting a thorough assessment of the home environment can identify potential hazards such as loose rugs, cluttered walkways, or poorly lit areas.

Medication Management:

Medication-related falls are a significant concern. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), approximately 33% of seniors are prescribed five or more medications. Encourage seniors to consult their healthcare providers regularly to review their medications for potential side effects or interactions that may increase the risk of falls.

Regular Vision Check-Ups:

Visual impairment is a common factor in falls among seniors. The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) recommends regular eye exams to detect and correct vision issues promptly. Seniors should also ensure that their eyeglasses prescription is up-to-date.

Foot Care:

Proper foot care is often overlooked but essential. Seniors should wear well-fitting, supportive footwear that provides stability. According to Statistics Canada, 55% of seniors aged 65 and older have foot problems. Regular foot check-ups can help address potential issues.

Nutrition and Hydration:

A balanced diet with adequate hydration plays a significant role in maintaining overall health and preventing falls. Data from the Canadian Community Health Survey indicates that over 30% of seniors do not meet the recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake. Encourage seniors to maintain a nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.

Conclusion:

Preventing falls among seniors is a shared responsibility. By following these six crucial tips and making necessary adjustments, seniors can reduce their risk of falls and enjoy a safer, more independent life at home. The data highlights the importance of proactive measures in senior fall prevention. As a Certified Gerontological Nurse, I'm committed to advocating for the well-being of seniors and promoting a better understanding of the challenges they face.

Remember, prevention is key. Regular exercise, home safety assessments, medication management, vision check-ups, foot care, and proper nutrition are all essential components of fall prevention. Let's work together to create a safer environment for our senior loved ones and support them in aging gracefully in the comfort of their own homes. Stay tuned for more informative articles on senior care and well-being in British Columbia and Canada.

Beating the Winter Blues: How to Support Seniors and Prevent Depression

As the winter months approach, it's essential to address a crucial issue facing our senior population: seasonal depression. For many seniors, the colder, darker days can be particularly challenging, often leading to feelings of isolation and depression. 

At Shylo, our Geriatric Nurse Specialists understand the significance of this issue and the need for effective strategies to support our ageing population. We understand the unique challenges seniors can face during the winter season. Our dedicated team of Caregivers is committed to providing personalised, compassionate care to help seniors maintain their emotional well-being and overall health. With Shylo's Home Care services, seniors can receive the support they need to stay active, connected, and resilient throughout the winter.

Understanding the Winter Blues:

Before delving into strategies to prevent seasonal depression, it's essential to grasp the nature of this problem. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, usually in the fall and winter months. While SAD can affect people of all ages, seniors are particularly vulnerable due to various factors such as limited mobility, reduced social interaction, and preexisting health conditions.

The Impact of Winter Depression on Seniors:

Let's examine some recent Canadian data to underscore the significance of this issue:

According to a study conducted by the Canadian Mental Health Association, approximately 15% of Canadian seniors experience symptoms of depression, and this number tends to rise during the winter months. Seniors with depression often face a decline in overall health, making them more susceptible to illnesses and exacerbating existing medical conditions.

Isolation and loneliness are significant contributors to senior depression. In a recent survey by Statistics Canada, 30% of seniors reported feeling lonely or socially isolated during the winter.

Practical Strategies to Support Seniors:

Encourage Physical Activity: Research has shown that regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of depression. Encourage seniors to engage in indoor exercises, like chair yoga or gentle stretching routines, to keep their bodies and minds active.

In a recent survey of seniors in British Columbia, it was found that seniors who engaged in regular physical activity during the winter months reported a 25% decrease in depressive symptoms compared to those who did not. Furthermore, exposure to natural light or light therapy was associated with improved mood and reduced feelings of sadness.

Increase Sunlight Exposure: Lack of sunlight is a major contributor to winter depression. Ensure that seniors have access to well-lit spaces and consider investing in light therapy lamps that mimic natural sunlight for individuals who might live in darker environment.

Maintain Social Connections: Loneliness is a silent enemy during the winter months. Encourage seniors to stay connected with loved ones through virtual meetings, phone calls, or socially distanced visits when possible. Shylo Caregivers are always available to supplement family visits and fill in during the week when family members are busy with work and children, or away skiing for the weekend. 

Nutrition and Hydration: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can have a positive impact on mood. Ensure that seniors have access to nutritious meals and stay well-hydrated.

Access to Mental Health Resources: Provide information on local mental health resources and support services. Many seniors may not be aware of the help available to them.

Tips for Seniors to Stay Safe in the Summer Heat 

Part 1: The Significance of Senior Safety During Hot Spells

As the summer sun casts its warm glow, it brings with it the potential risks of heat-related illnesses, especially for our beloved seniors. Ms. Ware, a seasoned Registered Nurse and Certified Gerontological Nurse, and the visionary behind Shylo Home Healthcare, understands the critical role that comprehensive Home Care plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors during the warmer months. In this informative series, we delve into the significance of senior safety in the heat and how dedicated Home Care services can make a tangible difference.

Part 2: Recognising Heat-Related Hazards for Seniors

Seniors are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of heat due to various factors, including a reduced ability to regulate body temperature, certain medical conditions, and medications that affect hydration. According to recent Canadian data, a significant number of heat-related illnesses and fatalities involve individuals aged 65 and older. These statistics underscore the need for a proactive approach to safeguarding seniors during the heatwaves.

Part 3: The Comprehensive Approach of Quality Home Care

At Shylo Home Healthcare, Ms. Ware and her team prioritise a holistic approach to senior care, especially during the summer heat. Their expert Caregivers are equipped to address the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of seniors, ensuring a comprehensive safety net. A comprehensive care plan includes:

Hydration Management: Seniors may not feel as thirsty as younger individuals, making them more susceptible to dehydration. Caregivers ensure that seniors have access to fluids and monitor their hydration, helping prevent heat-related complications.

Temperature Control: Elderly individuals often struggle with regulating body temperature. Caregivers maintain a comfortable indoor environment, implement cooling strategies, and monitor seniors for signs of overheating.

Medication Management: Certain medications can exacerbate heat-related risks. Skilled caregivers from Shylo Home Healthcare ensure that seniors take their medications as prescribed and report any signs of potential interactions with heat to their Nursing Supervisors for assessment and appropriate action. 

Nutrition Support: A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining overall health. Shylo Caregivers help seniors make nutritious food choices that contribute to their well-being, energy levels, and resilience against heat-related stress. Our Caregivers can assist with meal planning, shopping and meal preparation; they can also prepare and leave refreshing and nutritious snacks for the seniors when we're not in the home.

Social Interaction: Combating isolation is a key aspect of quality Home Care. Regular interaction with Caregivers not only provides companionship, but also allows for the early detection of health issues exacerbated by the heat.

Part 4: Empowering Seniors to Age in Place

A central tenet of Shylo Home Healthcare's philosophy is enabling seniors to age in place. Current research underscores the emotional and psychological benefits of seniors remaining in their familiar homes, surrounded by cherished memories and a sense of independence. Ms. Ware's dedication to promoting ageing in place aligns perfectly with this research, and her team's support enables seniors to stay in their homes comfortably and safely, even during the hottest days of summer.

Part 5: Taking the First Step Towards Safety

The journey to ensuring seniors' safety in the heat begins with awareness and preparedness. As the President of Shylo Home Healthcare, Ms. Ware encourages families, caregivers, and seniors themselves to take proactive steps. This includes understanding the signs of heat-related illnesses, staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and seeking assistance when needed.

In the next segment of this series, we will explore Ms. Ware's invaluable insights into the role of Home Care in preventing heat-related illnesses among seniors, backed by scientific research and real-life anecdotes. Stay tuned as we uncover more about her mission to effect positive change in the senior care industry and empower seniors to enjoy their golden years with comfort and security. 

The Detrimental Effects of Premature Admission to Congregate Living or Long Term Care for Seniors

Premature admission to residential care, whether it be Assisted Living or Long Term Care, can have several negative consequences for individuals. Here are some of the main reasons it can be detrimental, especially for seniors.

Quality of Care: Long-term care facilities are usually designed to cater to individuals with higher care needs. Premature admission can mean that individuals are surrounded by others with more advanced health conditions or cognitive impairments, which may not align with their current needs. This mismatch in care levels may result in suboptimal care and limited resources being allocated to individuals who may not require them yet, or ever.

 

It's important to note that there are situations such as an aggressive dementia patient with a history of physically assaulting their spouse or care providers, where admission to residential care may be appropriate, particularly when a senior or their caregiver’s safety is at risk. However, when admission is premature and not based on actual current needs, or alternative therapies have not been explored, the above-mentioned factors can negatively impact a senior's overall well-being. It's crucial to carefully assess and consider the individual's physical and mental health, social support system, and other available alternatives such as Home Care, before deciding on congregate housing placement.

1. Loss of Independence: Moving into a congregate living residence often means giving up a significant amount of independence. Residents have less control over their daily routines, decision-making, and personal preferences. This loss of independence can lead to decreased self-esteem, a diminished sense of autonomy and loss of interest in the individual’s normal activities such as attending their community church, mosque or synagogue.
   
   
2. Social Isolation: Being prematurely admitted to a senior care facility can result in social isolation, especially if the individual is still capable of living independently or maintaining social connections outside of the facility. Social interaction and engagement are crucial for mental and emotional well-being, and the absence of these familiar community connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
   
   
   
   
3. Decreased Physical Function: Entering congregate care prematurely may result in a decline in physical function. When individuals are capable of living independently but are placed in an environment where assistance is readily available, they may become reliant on others for activities they could otherwise perform themselves. This lack of physical activity and dependence on others can lead to muscle atrophy, reduced mobility, and a decline in overall physical and mental health.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Loss of Familiar Environment: Moving into a care residence often means leaving behind a familiar home, neighbourhood, and community. These familiar surroundings provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, which can be disrupted by a premature transition to a senior care facility. The loss of a familiar environment can be disorienting and may lead to increased stress and emotional strain.
   
   
5. Financial Considerations: Assisted Living and Long-term care facilities can be expensive, and premature admission can result in unnecessary financial strain. If individuals enter a care facility before it is truly necessary, they may incur significant costs that could have been avoided if they had continued to live independently or received appropriate Home Care services. For many seniors, as little as four hours, twice a week, makes the difference in living at risk and ageing safely and comfortably in their own home.
   
   

Home Care is Cost-Effective and Associated with a Higher Quality of Life According to The World Health Organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that Home Care services can prevent the need for acute care or long-term care services by helping clients meet their health care and support needs while remaining in their home and community. Research has consecutively shown Home Care services to be cost-effective and associated with a higher-quality of life for clients.

On average, people with dementia live 8 years after diagnosis—the first 6 are usually spent at home and the last 2 are often spent in care facilities. Coordinating that transition for people with dementia and their families is not always smooth in our current system.

Jacqueline J.M. Hoogendam, dementia specialist with the Netherlands' Ministry of Health says “People with dementia benefit from clear pathways of care, and ideally, a one-stop shop for all their care needs and wishes.”

Prior to the Netherlands National Senior Health Care Programme, options for care included living at home and travelling to services or living in large residential care facilities, that varied widely in quality and service. This left seniors and their families looking for other options.

Now the Netherlands is working to keep seniors and people living with dementia in their homes as long as possible by bringing more care into their homes. 

“We want to enable people to stay at their own homes as long as possible,” says Hoogendam. “The Netherlands National Programme is working to provide more organized care closer to home so that people living with dementia today and in the future are fully integrated into their local communities.” Home Care is a cost-effective compared to other forms of care such as hospital stays or senior care homes. 

Here are a Few Reasons why Home Care is a Cost-effective Option:

Reduced Healthcare Costs: Home Care allows individuals to receive necessary care in the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for expensive hospital stays or premature admission to residential care facilities. The cost of Home Care services is often lower compared to the high costs associated with institutional care whether it be Assisted Living, Residential Care, or specialized Memory Care units.

*We will discuss the detrimental effects of premature admission to residential care for seniors in a future blog.

Personalized Care: Home Care provides personalized one-on-one attention to individuals based on their specific needs. This individualized approach can help prevent unnecessary hospitalizations or medical emergencies, reducing healthcare costs in our over-burdened provincial healthcare system and freeing up much-needed beds in acute care hospitals. 

Preventing unnecessary hospitalizations is important to avoid picking up a Nosocomial Infection, also referred to as Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI). HAIs are infections acquired during the process of receiving health care that was not present during the time of admission. They may occur in different areas of healthcare delivery, most commonly in hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Increasing infection rates are causing unnecessary suffering and death and are taxing the healthcare system as well as patients and families.

• Each year in Canada, more than 220,000 healthcare associated infections result in 8,500-12,000 deaths, and the rates are rising.
  
  
• One in nine hospital patients in Canada get a healthcare associated infection. These can prolong hospital stays and lead to serious long-term health complications. 
  
  
• Infections are the fourth leading cause of death in Canada.

Avoidance of Facility Expenses: By receiving care at home, individuals can avoid the higher costs associated with residing in a nursing home or assisted living facility. These facilities often have high monthly fees, many costing $10,000-$25,000 per month, which can quickly add up over time.

Home Care is often subsidized by the provincial government, but even 100% private Home Care only costs a fraction of the typical Assisted Living fees. You can have Caregivers come to your home 3-4 days a week and do the shopping, prepare your meals, clean the home and organise social events for you and your friends for only $2,500 to $3,000 per month. Far more personalised service for a fraction of the cost. 

Greater Independence: Home Care allows individuals to maintain a higher level of independence and continue living in familiar surroundings. This can contribute to their overall physical and emotional well-being and quality of life, potentially reducing the need for more extensive care or medical interventions.

Prevention of Complications: Home Care providers can assist with medication management, mobility support, and other preventive measures to reduce the risk of complications or preventable hospital readmissions. By addressing health issues promptly and effectively, Home Care can help prevent costly medical interventions.

Flexibility of services: Home Care services can be tailored to the individual's needs, allowing for flexibility in terms of scheduling and the types of assistance required. This personalized approach can help optimize the utilization of resources and reduce unnecessary expenses.

5 Health Tips for Seniors in the Springtime

Seniors can face a range of challenges in the spring, however, with awareness and planning, seniors can navigate these challenges and enjoy the many benefits of the season.

1) Physical Health Challenges: With spring comes warmer weather, which can be a relief for some people who may have mobility or chronic health issues that are worsened by cold temperatures. However, seniors still need to be cautious about excessive heat, dehydration, and pollen allergies. Spring weather changes can also trigger joint pain or other health problems, so seniors need to be aware of these risks and take steps to manage their health accordingly.

2) Social Isolation: Spring is a time for renewal and rejuvenation, but it can also be a lonely time for seniors who may feel disconnected from friends and family, especially those who live in residential care facilities. Many seniors may still be at risk of social isolation due to restrictions on gatherings and visits implemented during the COVID pandemic. Seniors need to find ways to stay connected with loved ones and maintain their social support networks. Home Care and Senior Rides services can help support seniors to stay in touch and maintain their connections to their familiar community, such as:

    Going to their regular hairdresser in their familiar community.

    Attending religious services weekly at the church, temple or synagogue where they have old friends.

    Social Activities like lunch with friends, a weekly bridge game, a ladies lunch or a men's poke game.

    Regular Companionship - weekly visits - shopping trips - visit a local park, and much, much, more.

3) Seasonal Depression: Although spring is a time of renewal, it can also be a time of increased stress and anxiety for some seniors. The change in weather, coupled with the ongoing pandemic and other stressors, can lead to feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Seniors need to be aware of the signs of depression and seek professional support if needed.

4) Safety Concerns: With the arrival of spring, seniors may be more active and spend more time outdoors. However, this increased activity can also lead to safety concerns such as falls, sunburn, or dehydration. Seniors need to take steps to protect their safety and well-being, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and being cautious when engaging in physical activity. 

5) Financial Concerns:  Seniors need to be aware of their expenses and plan accordingly to avoid financial stress. We will go into more detail how seniors can avoid financial stressors in our next blog 5 Ways Seniors Can Save Money 

Having a Companion escort seniors on outings can help reduce the risk of isolation, depression and injury. Shylo Companions can drive and eliminate risks associated with seniors with reduced hearing or vision, or slowed reflexes, getting into incidents on the road. We can do the driving, get seniors safely to their appointments, assist with shopping, go for walks in the park, and get them safely back home - all at the senior's speed, never rushed. 

Why It Is Important For Seniors To Remain In Their Communities

Survey after survey consistently show that >90% of Canadians wish to remain in their own home and not move into congregate living residences. It can be extremely beneficial for seniors to stay in their communities where they have established social connections and support systems in place. 

Staying in the same community provides a sense of familiarity and comfort as they can continue to go to their hairdresser of 20+ years, shop in familiar shops where they know where to find their favourite foods, and continue to attend services with friends at their local church, synagogue or temple. Having a network of friends and family nearby can help seniors feel less isolated or lonely, which has repeatedly been shown to improve their mental and emotional well-being.

Seniors are also safer ageing at home because they are able to maintain their independence and autonomy in a familiar environment. They are also able to receive care and support from family and caregivers they know and trust. Uprooting a senior from their home can be devastating for them, especially if they're going against their will. It can be an overwhelming loss for many from which they may never recover.

Ageing at home allows seniors to have greater control over their daily routines and activities. Autonomy, or the ability to make one's own decisions and have control over one's own life, is even more important for older adults because it helps them maintain a sense of self-worth, independence and dignity at an age where they may be experiencing a lot of loss--loss of friends, loss of some vision or hearing, and a diminished sense of self worth.

Allowing seniors to make their own choices helps them feel valued and respected. Autonomy also helps older adults to continue to learn and grow as they age. Providing seniors with opportunities to make their own decisions can help them maintain their cognitive and psychological well-being, which is important for maintaining improved mental health.

Being in familiar surroundings also reduces confusion, anxiety and depression. Living in unfamiliar surroundings can be stressful, but far more stressful for seniors. It also helps seniors avoid the increased risk of infection that occurs more frequently in congregate living settings such as Independent and Assisted Living residences, or Long Term Care facilities. We all saw the horrors when COVID-19 rapidly spread through senior care residences. Aside from the many deaths, the reduced care--in some cases neglect and malnutrition--and months of social isolation was cruel for both the senior residents and their loved-ones who were prevented from visiting in-person for months. 

In many senior living facilities families were banned from entering the building for well-over a year (with the exception of one family member being allowed to visit a terminally-ill senior during their final days, but even then the visit times were often restricted and only the one chosen family member was allowed to visit). It seems like cruel and unusual punishment to make a dying senior chose between seeing their spouse, perhaps a surviving sibling, and their three grown children. 

Some seniors may require support beyond what friends and family can provide, or they may not want to feel like 'a burden'. Older adults can receive home-based care services to support them to live safely and comfortably in their own homes, and to age in place, if they wish to do so.

Next blog we will be discussing the many benefits for the community when seniors are welcomed and supported to remain in their neighbourhoods.