block party 2014 block party 2014

September 2014 I The Monthly Magazine of Northwood
BLOCK
PARTY
2014
September 2014
Northwood Life
1
Northwood Life
We’re Building Community.
Northwood’s Life magazine is
published 10 times per year by
Northwood’s
Communications
Office. Life magazine is distributed
to the staff, residents, families,
clients, tenants, volunteers, and
visitors of Northwood. If you have
story ideas, photos or suggestions for
the November issue, please call Tara
at 454-3342 or send them to
tdunn@nwood.ns.ca by September 26.
Tara Dunn
Editor
tdunn@nwood.ns.ca
Tel: (902) 454-3342
www.nwood.ns.ca
information@nwood.ns.ca
Northwood is a not-for-profit,
community based organization.
Bringing Our Community Together. The 2014
Northwood Block Party was another huge success!
There were carnival games, a roving Minion, food vendors,
various entertainers and a team of volunteers from the
neighbourhood repainting the intersection at Northwood
Terrace and Black Street. It was a fabulous opportunity for
residents, staff, tenants, families and volunteers to come
together and celebrate our sense of community.
A special thank you to the organizing committee and
volunteers, as well as the SMART Committee and EAP for
sponsoring the carnival events.
Saturday, September 20
Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.
Halifax Forum
Register now at
www.northwoodfoundation.ca
or call Faye at 454-3378.
Northwoodcare Halifax
2615 Northwood Terrace
Halifax, NS B3K 3S5
Tel: (902) 454-8311
Fax: (902) 455- 6408
Northwood Homecare
Suite 1 South
130 Eileen Stubbs Avenue
Dartmouth, NS B3B 2C4
Tel: (902) 425-2273
Fax: (902) 421-6313
Northwoodcare Bedford
123 Gary Martin Drive
Bedford, NS B4B 0G7
Tel: (902) 407-8500
Fax: (902) 407-8501
Walk for Dignity and support
Northwood’s Dignified Living Fund
with a 2km or 5km walk.
Free BBQ and prize draws for all
participants after the Walk.
Northwood - live more
For Advertising Opportunities
call 454-3377
September 2014
Sharing a Moment with
Janet Simm, CEO
In my first four months as
President and CEO, we have already
faced many challenges. Some of these
challenges are new territory for the
organization. Unfortunately, these
will not be the last challenges that
we face. The needs of our customers
are becoming more complex. The
province continues to face economic
challenges thus the resources that
are available to us to meet our
mandate will become scarcer; All at
a time when the expectations of our
customers continue to grow – and so
they should.
The overall health status of the province continues to decline. We want to
be a part of the solution. We are here to change things; not to maintain the
status quo.
The tough decisions we have made and will continue to make are essential
for Northwood as we strengthen our focus on those that we serve, ensure
the quality of all we do, use our resources wisely, continue to grow our
services to respond to needs in the communities we serve, and maintain and
enhance the services we provide, enabling us to advocate for a stronger,
more responsive health system. This will require that we continue to be a
workplace of choice for dedicated and committed people who accept and
are prepared to work hard to respond to these challenges.
This is reflected in our value: We can always do better. We believe that
achieving excellence in all our programs and services is based on learning
from our mistakes, applying the best evidence and setting the highest
standards. We value our ability to challenge the status quo in pursing new
opportunities.
We are rising to this challenge. Our Strategic Plan provides
us the guidance we need to develop operational plans for
each program and service. These plans will serve as our
roadmap to navigating the future. As we pull together
as a team and maximize the contributions of all staff,
volunteers and our supporters, I am confident we will
not only survive but will thrive as we endeavor to achieve
our vision: People living life to the fullest, flourishing in a
community of belonging, dignity and choice.
September 2014
2
Northwood Life
Northwood Life
Petting Zoo 2014
I would like to say a huge thank you to Janet Egli, Willow Shore’s nurse
manager for assisting with care while on the unit. Two days ago while on
the unit she saw myself walking with gloves and linen and grabbed a pair of
gloves and jumped right in. Today she took the time to come up and assist
with a resident’s care to better assess the resident’s pain level so that we
may address this concern. Janet is a true team player as a nurse manager!
To: Trecia Cain-Harriot
From: Sandra O’Brien
Willow Shore had a get together to show our appreciation for Kaleigh,
an LPN student who worked alongside us during her training here at
Northwood. Trecia gave a very heartfelt speech and best wishes for Kaleigh.
Not only was it nice to hear the positive pat on the back but the fact that
it was so heartfelt makes Trecia the kind of caring person that she is. It is a
pleasure to have Trecia on our team.
To: Juanita Johnson
From: Sandra O’Brien
Juanita gave a very heartfelt speech and wish of good luck to Kaleigh, an
LPN that trained with us on Willow Shore. When it comes from the heart
it means so much more than just a wish of good luck. This is one of the
reasons that I am proud to have Juanita as part of our team.
To: Lisa Oderkirk
From: Paul Carey
On June 12 Lisa approached Mike Spencer, Security Coordinator and
passed him $40.00. Lisa advised Mike that she had found the money, on
the floor, by the kitchen area in the basement. Mike thanked her for the
money and approximately one hour later, tracked down and gave the
money back to its rightful, and appreciative owner. Lisa is recognized for
her incredible display of integrity in this matter. Lisa knew the money did
not belong to her and she immediately turned it in to Security. Lisa’s action
in this matter is reflective of the core values for employees at Northwood
and can serve as a shining example of how one staff member can make a
positive difference. Bravo Lisa.
To: Mary Agnew
From: Janet Egli
Mary was assigned to 9C. She knew that 6C was down one CCA during the
day shift. She came down to 6C to help out her coworkers by making beds.
She was not asked and did this of her own accord.
September 2014
Knowledge Corner
Hatfield Farms visits Northwood at the Harbour for
the third time.
To: Janet Egli
From: Sandra O’Brien
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Submitted by Janice Chalmers, Staff Educator, Northwood Homecare
Prescribed Disengagement
I first heard this term in a blog written
by Kate Swaffer, a 56-year-old woman
who was diagnosed with dementia
in 2008. Despite her diagnosis, Kate
managed to complete two bachelor
degrees in 2008 and 2009. She quotes
the following based on her experiences,
“Following a diagnosis of dementia,
most people are told to go home, give
up work, in my case, give up study, and
put all the planning in place for their
demise.” Something she calls ‘Prescribed
Disengagement’. Kate also describes
how continuing to study in the pursuit
of her academic goals, writing creative
nonfiction stories and poetry, and
volunteering for others has sustained
her motivation and sense of wellbeing.
She is about to publish a book of poems,
and is working on a second volume. It
has given her a sense of purpose, and
enabled her to define herself in positive
ways, rather than by illness.
unless we can provide them with the
support they require.
People like Kate Swaffer are great role
models, but she and others like her who
present at worldwide conferences have
reported being accused of not actually
having dementia. They do not fit the
picture that the mainstream public has
of what this disease means and what
the possibilities are. It is hard for some
people to believe that someone living
with dementia can produce volumes of
poetry six years after being diagnosed.
People with dementia told us that oneto-one informal support was the key
to helping them do these things. After
diagnosis, dementia becomes a social
issue rather than a health issue.
We know from research that decline
is faster when meaningful activity is
lost and Kate is an example of what is
possible. There are many others living
positively with dementia here in Nova
Scotia but they may be the exception
As part of a dementia friendly initiative
currently taking place in many
countries, people living with dementia
are asked about staying engaged with
their communities and in meaningful
occupation. When asked what was
important to them, they listed the
physical environment, local facilities,
support services, social networks and
local groups. When asked why they stop
doing things in their community they
said their dementia had progressed and
they were worried about their ability to
cope, and that people don’t understand
or know about dementia. When asked
what they would like to do they stated
pursue hobbies and interests, simply
go out more, make more use of local
facilities and help others in their
community by volunteering.
As a society, we prepare for and talk
about the inevitable decline rather
than talking about what we can do to
support people to live well. Overseas
much of this support comes through
volunteers. In the UK and Japan for
instance, the challenge is to train one
million people as dementia friends. They
operate on the premise that people with
dementia get by with a little help from
their friends. And anybody can become
a dementia friend. It’s understanding a
bit more about dementia and the small
things you can do to help. People with
dementia want to carry on going about
their daily lives and feel included in their
local community, but they sometimes
need a helping hand to do so. Dementia
friends learn a little bit about what it’s
like to live with dementia and turn that
understanding into action. This could
be helping someone find the right bus
or being patient in a checkout line if
someone with dementia is taking longer
to pay. Every action counts.
Here in Nova Scotia, I believe the
opportunity for this kind of initiative is
available as we are a society based on
volunteering and kindness.
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September 2014
Northwood Life
Introducing Patricia Bone
Tenant, Northwood Halifax
Shortly thereafter, she went to a job
agency and was offered the job of Chief
Publicist for 20th Century Fox, a job she
quite enjoyed. She was responsible for
publicity and media attention for such
stars as Richard Burton, Joan Collins,
Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman. She
also did publicity on “Anastasia” and
“23 Paces to Baker Street”.
Patricia Bone is a very smart
lady with a friendly disposition
and lifetime of fascinating stories.
She’s travelled the world, met many
interesting people and loved her family
with her whole heart.
While working there, she met her
future husband, Peter Bone. They
were married in November 1956 at
the Register’s office, and then hosted
a small reception with friends. With so
much unrest still in Britain, the couple
decided to move to Canada. In April
1957, they landed in Toronto and
drove by bus to Calgary, where they
settled for the next three years. “We
found a place to live with an older
couple and began looking for jobs,”
says Patricia. “I was hired by a local
radio station to write commercials.”
Patricia says she didn’t have the
slightest clue what she was doing, but
managed okay. She eventually moved
on to television commercials and even
won a Press Club Award for her work.
In 1960, Peter got a job offer in
Toronto as Director of Public Relations
with Rothmans of Canada. Patricia was
pregnant during the move and admits
she knew nothing about babies! Her
daughter Vanessa was born in July
1960. Over the next several years, as
Peter slowly moved up the ladder, he
took on more and more responsibility
and was travelling a lot. The couple
hosted dignitaries and travelled to
South Africa and extensively in Europe
and the United States.
Between 1972 and 1974, Patricia
produced and wrote scripts for two
vintage car videos – “Monte Carlo
Rally for Vintage Cars” and “The
London to Brighton Run”. In 1976,
she started her own company and
did publicity and other projects for
companies like Porsche; Rothmans,
Benson & Hedges; the Toronto Sugar
Exchange; and Sutton Place Hotel.
One memorable assignment was a trip
to Italy (22 cities in 14 days) as part
of Ontario Premier, William Grenville
Davis’ official advisory party! She also
worked in administration for CARP
(Canadian Association of Retired
Persons) for two years in Toronto.
In February 2002, Patricia and Peter
moved to Nova Scotia after Vanessa
came to live here. She had continued
her career in acting in Halifax,
appearing in films and on stage at
Neptune Theatre, The Bus Stop and
other local theatres. “We wanted to be
near Vanessa and the sea,” says Patricia.
“We both loved the sea and thought,
why not.” They settled in a Dartmouth
apartment overlooking the water.
But when a fire nearly destroyed the
building, they moved to Northwood in
early 2012.
5
September 2014
Pride Parade 2014
This is the fourth year Northwood has proudly participated in the Halifax
Pride Parade. A dedicated group of staff and volunteers walked alongside the
Northwood bus at this year’s event held July 26.
“Everyone here is so friendly and
supportive,” says Patricia. “I have
made so many friends.” She keeps
busy by taking computer classes,
long lunches at Le Bistro, reading and
doing crossword puzzles. She goes to
Reboom events and is also the Chair of
The Northwood Tenant Social Club.
Born and raised in Sunbury, England,
Patricia grew up during WWII. Being
just 25 miles outside London, she
remembers her city being bombed
and being without a roof the whole
time. Although she says she was never
frightened, they never knew quite what
would happen the next day. When the
war was over, she recalls conditions
remaining quite bad, with food and
clothing still being rationed.
Not really wanting to attend university,
Patricia landed her first job with an
insurance company in the middle of
London, where she learned to type.
Northwood Life
Last year, Patricia lost both her husband
and her daughter. “It was not a good
year,” she says. But she keeps in contact
with her step-daughter Beverly, who
lives in Glasgow, Scotland and her sonin-law Ralph, here in Halifax. “No good
comes of complaining,” says Patricia.
“It helps to have a sense of humour and
always see the good side of things.”
Patricia and Peter, November 1972 at Hyde Park
Northwood Alumni Gather
On Saturday, June 7, a group of 30 Northwood Alumni members gathered
for breakfast, at the first official event for this newly formed group. They
watched a special photo presentation, listened to the results of a survey that
was sent to about 100 retirees back in February, and had an opportunity for
general conversation and socializing. It was a great day, with a lot of positive
feedback and discussion around future opportunities for Northwood retirees,
including volunteer engagement, special events and discounts. Stay tuned for
more information in the coming months.
6
September 2014
The Scarlet Men
of the RCMP
You will always be with us,
And also in our prayers,
I am thinking of you,
As I climb my stairs,
The heroes of our nation,
The heroes of our home,
You will always be with us,
Now that you are home.
You are well respected,
Right around the world,
Mounties ride on horseback,
The Canadian flag unfurled,
We pray for all the Police force,
A very dangerous job,
We also pray for their families,
The ones that returned to God.
In Ireland, we call them The Guards,
The Paddy Wagon came from there,
The weapons, a shalalee,
You see one, stop and stare,
May God help our Policemen,
The heroes of the world,
The crosses will mark their gravestones,
The Canadian flag unfurled.
By Mary Bernadette Wallworth,
Northwood Tenant,
Irish background now proud Canadian
Northwood Life
In July, the Northwood Foundation
and the Halifax location of Value
Village hosted a clothing drive.
Northwood staff and volunteers
donated over just over 1,000 lbs of
clothing, earning the Foundation
$106.00.
September 2014
For the past 11 years, Michelle
Mombourquette has been the
Health Navigator for Northwood’s
Retirement Living program. She’s a
licensed practical nurse with many
years of experience in connecting
seniors with programs and services
that promote health, longevity and
independence.
books and housewares to clothing
and footwear. Items that are not
saleable are recycled. Clothing is sent
to Africa. Thanks to their efforts,
over 600 million pounds are kept out
of landfill sites worldwide.
Value Village continues to work
with Northwood in support of our
Dignified Living Fund. On August
24th, the Northwood Foundation
will be in their store to promote the
Dignified Living Fund and our Walk
of Ages fundraiser. From August 24th
until September 20th, Value Village
will be selling Northwood trees for
two dollars each with proceeds going
to our Dignified Living Fund.
Value Village is proud of its support
for charitable groups like Northwood.
It’s part of their business model.
Value Village operates over 300
stores in Canada, the United States
and Australia. At the Halifax store,
over 25,000 items are sorted each
day; 15,000 make it to the floor.
That takes a lot of organization. With
12,500 square feet of warehouse
space, staff sort everything from Thanks Value Village!
Telecare Meet & Greet
Telecare volunteer Marion (centre) with
participants Cecilia, Sheila and Bertha.
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Helping People Live More
Business Partner
The Northwood Foundation
welcomes Value Village as one
of its newest partners. Over the
past number of months, they have
been working with the Foundation
to create opportunities that enable
residents, tenants and staff to enjoy
savings at their stores while making a
tangible contribution to Northwood’s
Dignified Living Fund.
Northwood Life
Northwood’s Telecare program has been
providing a free daily call to people at risk or those
living alone for the past 30 years. On June 22, the
annual Telecare Meet & Greet for volunteers and
participants was held at Northwood at the Harbour.
Each of the volunteers were introduced and given
an opportunity to speak about why they enjoy
volunteering. A couple of participants also spoke
about their experiences with the program.
Michelle works with Northwood’s
230 tenants (Towers, Manor and
Almon Place) by providing:
• Recommendations for supports
that enable independence
Retirement Living’s
• Counseling sessions with
Health Navigator,
tenants and families
Michelle Mombourquette • Health clinics (blood pressure
& glucose readings)
Michelle’s work in action
• Assistance with accessing
“Our mother, Noreen Cooper was a long
time (30+) year tenant at Northwood supports within continuing care
Towers and our family came to know • And much more!
Michelle as a dear friend over our many
years with Northwood. Prior to Mom’s Michelle also coordinates
passing this past May (at age 93) and Northwood’s Enriched Living
really within the last five years, we as a program, Guest Suite bookings
family came to know, love and appreciate and housekeeping services for the
Michelle for the exceptional ‘beyond the Assisted Living tenants. But did you
call’ attention she showed for our Mom know that Michelle is a certified
Elder Planner Counselor? This
and our family.
designation means she:
“Whether it was a desperate call from me • Provides guidance and
because Mom had fallen, not knowing who assistance with an elder’s best
to call and several minutes out before being interest in mind
able to arrive...not to worry, Michelle was by • Respects elders’ circumstances
mom’s side, situation in hand and resolved. and confidentiality
Or to her open office door welcoming us • Recognizes the issues that are
each time with a hug, an open ear and unique to elder life as their
sound advice to some ‘tough’ question or needs continue to change
decision facing our family; Michelle was through the aging process
there for us. The world needs more like you
• Refers and collaborates with
Michelle! Thanks for the friendship and
other professionals as
caring shown to our Mom and to us, and
appropriate
thank you for making our Mom’s quality
of life just that much better!”
~ Terry Cooper
Taco Pie
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
1(8 ounce) package refrigerated
crescent rolls
1pound ground beef
1(1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1(16 ounce) container sour cream
8ounces shredded Mexican-style
cheese blend
1(14 ounce) bag tortilla chips, crushed
Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes
Directions:
•
•
•
•
•
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
(175 degrees C).
Lay crescent dough flat on the
bottom of a square cake pan and
bake according to package
directions.
Meanwhile, brown the ground beef
in a large skillet over medium high
heat. Add the taco seasoning and
stir together well. When dough is
done, remove from oven and place
meat mixture on top, then layer
with sour cream and cheese, and
then top off with the crushed
nacho chips.
Return to oven and bake at 350
degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10
minutes, or until cheese has melted.
Remove from oven and top with
lettuce and tomatoes to taste.
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September 2014
Congratulations to Our
Food Service Retirees!
Northwood Life
New Discount for
Staff & Volunteers
Dietary Aide
Frances Cosman
after 25 years.
Production Supervisor
Darrell Robinson
after 27 years.
Dietary Aide
Pauline Blackmore
after 28 years.
Hello, my name is Juanita
Value Village
Halifax & Dartmouth
Value Village has extended a
10% discount offer to all our
employees and volunteers.
The discount cannot be
combined with any other offer
and it not valid on new
red tagged items.
For all their years of service, they went over and above going about
their daily tasks. As team members they would do whatever they could for
the residents and staff.
I for one as well as many of us will miss them dearly. God bless each and
every one of them in hopes of a long and happy retirement.
~ Submitted by Debbie Somers, Food Services
Raising the
Pride Flag
The Board Room Game Café
1256 Barrington Street
near South Street
Sunday through Thursday enjoy two
play passes for the price of one!
Food or drink purchase is required.
To learn more about The Board
Room Game Café visit
www.boardroomgames.ca
Linda Baigent and
MP Megan Leslie on
Canada Day, Halifax
After my job at the Moirs
Chocolate Factory ended in late
2007, I wondered what I could do
that would give me satisfaction and
allow me to take care people. I chose
the continuing care assistant course
and haven’t looked back. During my
course, I completed three clinical
placements; one with Oceanview
in Eastern Passage, one with
Northwood Homecare and the last
Save the Date
Hugo Dann, a member of the Nova
Scotia Rainbow Action Project, attended
the raising of the Pride flag at Halifax.
Resident Len Stephenson and Maintenance
Manager, Ken Newman raise the Pride flag
at Ivany Place.
September 2014
Johnson
and I’m a CCA on 4 Willow Shore at Northwood at the Harbour.
There have been four long service employees retire so far in 2014:
Food Service Supervisor
Betty LeRue
after 34 years.
9
Northwood Life
2014
Staff Holiday Dinner
& Dance
Friday, December 5
one with Northwood at the Harbour.
I originally thought about working in
Homecare, but after my last clinical
in Halifax, I realized I liked the idea
of staying in one place. I was hired by
Northwood in 2010.
I always try to do what I can to go
above and beyond, and say that if I
could give more than I’m giving now,
I would. Every now and then, a few
of us will come together and sing for
the residents. They just love it!
I really like what I do every day and
it gives me so much gratitude at the
end of the day knowing that I’ve
helped someone. I really like when
the residents call me by my name,
it really shows the connections I’ve
made. I also have one resident who
likes to call me ‘Brown Sugar’. Every
time she sees me, she’ll say, “Did
I get my brown sugar today?” She
really just wants a hug. When she’s
sitting at the dining room table with
the other ladies, they want hugs too.
It just takes me away and my heart
goes out to all of them.
Growing up, we were always taught
to help others and so giving back
to society is gratitude for me. In my
personal life, I’m very involved with
St. Thomas Baptist church in North
Preston as a choir member and
missionary, a former member of the
IODE and a Sunday school teacher.
I’ve been blessed with a large family
and spending time with them is also
very important to me. We have
extended family gatherings at every
special occasion, and they always
seem to be held at my house!
Everyone I’ve met over the past four
years has been wonderful! There are
good relationships on our floor; from
our RN, Sandra, right through to
housekeeping and dietary. We try to
help as much as we can and we have
a lot of laughs here as well. When
you’re working with a crew that’s on
the same wave length, it really makes
a difference.
I’ve been married to my husband
Oliver, for 37 years and together we
have six children; two daughters and
four sons, ranging in age from 16 to
40. We also have five grandchildren. I
love to travel, shop, read, do puzzles
and go to the movies, concerts
and other social events. This past
April, I went on a Caribbean cruise
with friends and family and it was
fabulous!
September 2014
10
Northwood Life
11
Northwood Life
September 2014
What is Dementia Care Mapping?
Dementia Care Mapping (DCM) was
first developed at the University of
Bradford by the late Dr. Tom Kitwood
and his colleague Kalthleen Bredin,
who together formed the worldrenowned Bradford Dementia Group.
Dementia Care Mapping consists
of a set of observational tools, or an
observational framework, that has
been used in formal dementia care
settings such as hospital wards, care
homes and day care facilities in the UK
since 1992 as a means of recording
quality of life and quality of care, from
the perspective of the person with
dementia.
Dementia Care Mapping is exemplary
of a person-centred approach to care,
which values all individuals regardless
of their age or health status while at the
same time stressing the importance of
relationships and individualized care
plans in the maintenance of quality of
life. Not only is it used as an instrument
for developing person-centred care
practice, but also as a tool in research.
Why is Dementia Care Mapping
important?
Dementia Care Mapping is considered
central to improving quality care for
persons with dementia and is closely
aligned with the emphasis in the
National Research Strategy on Living
well with dementia. As both loved
ones of persons with dementia and
their caregivers are aware, the delivery
of humanizing care practices becomes
extremely difficult as the disease
progresses through its stages (mild,
moderate, severe) and dementia
sufferers become unable to accurately
vocalize their needs to others.
When the ability to vocalize has
been lost, an individual’s needs
Larry Fleming, Bernie Campbell,
Mike Dubray & Leanne Herbert
are revealed in other ways such as
through behaviour (whether positive
or negative) and this is where DCM
is particularly useful. When needs are
continually unmet, the person with
dementia may become agitated or
even aggressive. Alternatively, their
behaviours can also be indicative of
their relative state of happiness or
content.
progress because that experience is
individual-based. However, we can
choose to change how we respond
to it. With the appropriate tools like
those embedded in DCM, we can
begin to understand the experience of
the PERSON with dementia. Through
this lens, they become humans again,
which benefits not only those with the
disease, but their caregivers as well.
Through its observational techniques
and identification of behavioural
triggers,
DCM
informs
the
development of individualized care
plans that promote well-being by
assisting caregivers in understanding
the causes of behaviours so that needs
can be met and quality of life upheld.
Christine Bryden solidified its
importance by stating “I believe that
people with dementia are making an
important journey from cognition,
through emotion, into spirit. I’ve
begun to realize what really remains
throughout this journey is what is really
important, and what disappears is
what is not important. I think if society
could appreciate this, then people
with dementia would be respected
and treasured”… as they should be.
The reality is that Dementia is one
of the most feared aspects of aging
and one can assume that’s largely
the result of its ambiguous nature.
We cannot predict what course the
disease will take or how fast it will
~ Submitted by Alyssa Firlotte, Masters in
Gerontology Student
Kevin Marks (Medical Mart Atlantic),
Steve Bowser, Colin Izzard (Airtron) & Dan Roberge (MaintenanceCare.com)
Ron Cornelius, Kevin Mahar (Sutton Group), Jamie Robertson
(K Carlsen Manufacturing Ltd) & Graham Sweet
Marvyn Blackett, Cindy Blackett,
Loretta McDow & Jamie McDow
(Atlantic Stoves)
Carl Nugent, Scott McNutt (Medic Courier),
Larry Harding & Barry Parent
FedUp Cup
On June 19, the Fox Hollow Golf Course was full,
the sun was shining and the games at the holes were
hilarious. This was the setting for the third annual
FedUp Cup, a fundraising golf tournament created
and organized by Northwood’s own Ken Newman,
Physical Plant Manager at Ivany Place. This year
the event raised $3,600 in support of The
Northwood Foundation.
Ken Newman, Jay McIntyre, Alex Newman (Northwood)
& Brian McClug (Canadian Coast Guard)
September 2014
12
Northwood Life
13
Northwood Life
September 2014
Out in the Field
Submitted by Rebecca MacDonald, CCA, Northwood Homecare
u
Canada Day at Ivany Place
Making Strawberry
Shortcake on
Maple/Oak Haven
Perception... from our client’s point of view
I have been working as a CCA for
ten months now and still I am
amazed at the lessons I learn daily
by simply listening to my clients.
The one characteristic that I personally
feel should be coupled with listening
is “patience”. I cannot stress the value
of exercising patience enough and
the values it will have for those we are
caring for daily.
For example, keeping meal sizes and
portions appropriate to each individual
client. Don’t just rush ahead. A can of
soup may very well equal two meals.
One medium potato is likely too much
for one meal. Make two egg salad
sandwiches with one hardboiled egg.
When slicing a pound cake - ask which
way he/she would like the pieces sliced
from; the short side or the wider side.
Preferences are equally as
important.
Do not cut a pound of bacon in half
because it’s how you do it at home. Ask
to see if the client likes long lengths
of bacon instead. Even if he/she is
only having two full slices per serving
- putting four half slices on the plate
may equal out, but the ‘perception’ is
that it is too much and that person my
cut back on much needed protein as a
result.
Use plastic or Tupperware containers
when available. Plastic wrap is another
expense to add to a limited income
grocery list. Also it can be a challenge for
some people to navigate. At the risk of
cross contamination or dangerous spills,
look for plastic containers with lids.
I once asked why a client didn’t use the
re-useable grocery bags. It seemed to
make more sense to me at home. The
gentleman replied that he used grocery
store bags in all of his household waste
baskets. He used them to put soiled
incontinent products in to keep the
odour down before discarding them
into his garbage can. He used them
for separating his compostable items/
recyclable bottles, cans and papers in
prior to taking them outside to the
larger units. He asked me if I had any
idea how much money he saved from
not buying special garbage bags, in the
run of a year. I had never imagined
nor given it any thought until then.
His ‘perception’ of how valuable those
grocery store bags are was crystal clear!
Mine was not. I learned so much from
him that day.
Hugs and many thanks.
Who doesn’t love a good hug right?
The thing is, often our hugs are far
stronger than we realize. Be mindful
of the ones we are hugging and their
physical fragility. A very tiny and sweet
little lady was sharing with me, how
there had been an unusual and endless
flow of family and friends visiting her
over the course of one weekend. (Most
were in the area to attend a funeral.)
While she was over the moon with the
excitement of seeing so many faces and
having the constant buzz of chatter
filling her home, my lovely little lady
was left with such painful muscle strain
and a horribly stiff neck, for well over
two weeks. It literally immobilized her.
Though she did say “it was worth every
hug Deary”.
Often at this stage in life, we are hearing
of new babies being born, upcoming
weddings and the various stages of
planning that go into both events.
While our ‘perception’ may be that
our clients see these as exciting times,
and are looking forward to all that
encompasses each, this is not always
so. Watch their facial expressions. Pay
attention to body language. It may be
that these events open a frightening
and even sad door. With many of
our clients facing decreased mobility,
unsteady gaits and less physical
strength, it may be that the birth of
a new grandchild opens up concerns
around being capable of holding this
tiny bundle of love, walking outdoors
with the wee one in a stroller or facing
the painful fact that child minding will
not be possible. This can be incredibly
and deeply tough to accept for some.
Much of the same concerns can apply
to an approaching wedding. Our clients
may feel he/she has nothing they
can do to help. I once suggested that
my client recall as many amusing or
favourite memories of her grandson,
write them down and ask to be able
to share them at the speech portion of
the reception. Each visit following that
one, I would find her with pen in hand
busily jotting her heartfelt thoughts
and recollections down. This involved
her and gave her the ‘perception’ that
she was being helpful and was totally
involved! (It turned out magically at the
big day!)
‘Perception’ and ‘patience’, I cherish
each on this journey in life.
September 2014
14
Healthy Workplace Matters
The incidents reported here are “recordable injuries” and do not reflect all staff
incidents. The most frequent types of injuries by site are also included as follows:
Northwood Life
15
Northwood Life
September 2014
Winning Employee Numbers
for July, August, September
Sponsored by your SMART Committee
Northwoodcare:
2108, 6569, 6752, 6930, 8745,
70007
If one of these numbers matches your
ID number, you’ve just won $20!!
Take your ID and a copy of Life to the
Business Office to collect your prize.
Northwood Homecare:
Grace Brown, daughter Shirley and granddaughter Linda, 3 Cedar Lake
Sandra Whynot with her mom, Theresa, Towers Tenant
and her aunt, Pauline, 4 Willow Shore
15009, 32066, 32175, 32380,
32475, 32586
If you see your number, leave a
message for Christine Bowman at
421-6380 and we will mail you your
$20 prize.
Northwoodcare Bedford:
55214, 55055, 55363
If this is your employee number, please
see Bill Ryan in the Business Office to
collect your $20 prize.
Most frequent accident type: Ivany Place: Struck against or contact with
Halifax: Resident/client action, Homecare: Client lift, transfer/reposition
Faith, Song & Story
While at the fall programming meeting for the North
End clergy, I received these pictures from our Faith, Story
and Song 2 event held here on the afternoon of Sunday, June
15th. I wanted to share them because they tell a great story!
The first Faith, Story and Song event came out of a conscious
effort by me and the other ministers in the North End to
engage our residents in ecumenical activity in the broader faith
community during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in
February. We had about 45 people turn out on a chilly February
evening, but the fellowship was warm and the residents loved
it – so much so that we decided to have an encore event in
June. Parishioners from Blessed Mother Teresa, St. Marks, St.
Margaret of Scotland, United Memorial, and Mulgrave Park,
as well as residents and their families, tenants, and volunteers
gathered to share in stories of how our faith impacts our
lives, sing our favourite hymns, and enjoy fellowship. It did my
heart good to see everyone gathering together as one faith
community, and I hope it will do the same for you!
There are upcoming plans to involve our residents in three
more ecumenical events during the fall, including another
Faith, Story, and Song event here in November.
~ Submitted by Rev. Renée Clark
Dorothy Beard, 3 Cedar Lake
Nancy Chambers, 3 Cedar Lake
Miriam MacBride, 3 Cedar Lake
Ruby Taylor, 3 Cedar Lake
Quilts Bring Warm Wishes to Residents
Twice a week, 30 women gather
together in Sackville to make quilts
for charity using donated fabric.
The Warm Wishes Quilters starting
meeting in 2008 as a group of
seven ladies, and have since given
over 100 quilts per year to various
organizations like the IWK, the Nova
Scotia Hospital, shelters and nursing
homes. In early July, eight quilts were
donated to residents and one tenant
living at Northwood at the Harbour.
‘No one has ever given me anything She is so pleased to have it and I think
like this before.’”
it’s absolutely wonderful.” Grace’s
granddaughter Linda was also able to
Pauline Whynot, a resident on 4 send photos of the quilt to Grace’s
Willow Shore also received a quilt. grandsons and great-grandsons as
Pauline’s daughters, Susan Park and well.
Janet Clark, were so pleased that
their mom had been given such a Cathy Pyne, a member of the
beautiful quilt to put on her bed and Warm Wishes Quilters (and mother
brighten up her day.
of Sandra Pyne, Maintenance
at Northwood at the Harbour)
Centenarian Grace Brown, 3 Cedar delivered the quilts. “I was personally
Lake was so happy to receive her overwhelmed seeing their faces,”
Apartment tenant, Theresa Whynot quilt. Her daughter Shirley says, “I says Cathy. “To light up somebody’s
received a quilt and was almost in think the quilt is so beautiful! When life like that takes my breath away. I
tears when it was given to her, says my mother received it, she thought loved doing it.”
her daughter Sandra. “Mom said, it was too pretty to put on the bed.
16
September 2014
Janet
Egli,
RN
Northwood Life
Re-Igniting
Pride
Catherine
Boucher,
RN
17
Northwood Life
Kathy
Snow,
RN
September 2014
Kristine
Ando,
RN
Joyce
Mal,
RN
The College of Registered Nurses of Nova
Scotia Real Engagement Committee has a
new initiative to engage RNs by re-igniting
pride in the profession and ensuring they
are solution-focused decision makers in
health system change. To re-ignite nursing
pride in themselves and their colleagues,
they asked RNs to state in five to ten words
why they are proud to be a registered nurse
in Nova Scotia.
Evelyn
Sutherland,
RN
So tell Nova Scotians – why are you proud
to be an RN in Nova Scotia? Get involved
because your voice alone has the ability to
spark pride within others. Reflect, write,
snap of photo of yourself and share it with
the College is all it takes to get involved.
Heather
Smith,
RN
Maureen
Doucette,
RN
Cindy
Bolhuis,
RN
Roger
Currie,
RN
Mary
Wylde,
RN
Cathy
Misener,
NP
Jessica
Sansford,
RN
Madhu
Rai,
RN
The photos will then be used to create a
video that will spread pride – and the spirit
of Real Engagement – across the province.
Visit the College’s website at crnns.ca/Real
engagement to download a poster and to
find out other ways you can participate. Be
the change you envision – take part today.
Here’s what some of our Northwood at the
Harbour RNs had to say:
Helena
Paz,
RN
Isa
Tubo,
RN
18
September 2014
Syu
Mathew,
RN
Northwood Life
Candace
Crawford,
RN
Sonya
Marcott,
RN
Northwood Life
19
Trudie’s Story
They say that once you learn to ride a bike, you never forget. Such was
not the case for Trudie Helmke, resident on 11 Beech River. While cycling
in Pondicherry, India nearly 20 years ago, she found that she was constantly
tipping over. And what would once have been considered a simple trek, became
overwhelmingly exhausting for her.
Stephy
Valsan,
RN
Erika
Yu,
RN
Sandra
O’Brien,
RN
And so began a two-year marathon
of assessments, tests and tentative
diagnoses for the vibrant, attractive
54-year-old. The final diagnosis was
Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM); a rare
disease that causes progressive muscle
weakness in the legs and arms.
Trudie fought to maintain her
independence as long as possible,
going from a cane, to a walker to a
scooter and moving to an apartment
with an elevator. One of the greatest dangers for a person living with IBM is
the risk of falling and breaking bones. Trudie had been told by her neurologist
to expect frequent falls and was coached on how to protect herself but still
suffered broken toes and ankles. The last time she broke her ankle she lost her
ability to stand independently.
Fortunately, Trudie listened to her social worker when she recommended
applying to Northwood before she actually needed to make the move. As a
result, there was an opening for her within weeks of the time when she could no
longer live independently.
Holly
Anderson,
RN
Vanessa
Clements,
RN
Michelle
McCrue,
RN
Although IBM is a slowly progressing disease, Trudie has to work hard to
maintain the use of her hands and fingers and to keep her upper body, arms and
legs strong so that she can transfer herself to and from her chair. Doing without
physical therapy isn’t an option for Trudie. She’s determined to maintain quality
of life. She uses putty to exercise her fingers and maintain dexterity. She also
tries to get at least two physiotherapy sessions a week for her upper body,
arms and legs but that’s not always possible to schedule. Losing even one week
of physio can cause her a serious setback and compromise her mobility and
independence. She’s really excited about the new Motomed machines that were
recently purchased through Appetite for Life. She’ll be able to book time on the
machine and use it independently in conjunction with physio appointments.
Trudie smiles as she shares a story about how Northwood staff contacted her
son to arrange a meeting with him to discuss how she is doing as a Northwood
resident. “He just said, ‘I don’t think we need a meeting. I think things are going
really great with my mother’.”
~ Submitted by Susan MacLean, Northwood Foundation
September 2014
Respite Database
Pilot:
Support Workers &
Families Needed!
What is respite? Respite is defined
as a “short break” for caregivers.
Caregivers of individuals with autism
often make use of respite services.
Respite workers come to the home
or take the individual out into the
community to do activities and
promote socialization.
Database pilot information:
Autism Nova Scotia is piloting a
respite database in the HRM where
families can connect with respite
workers and other respite services.
Who are we looking for?
Individuals living in the HRM who
have experience or are looking to
gain experience supporting children,
youth, and adults with autism.
Families living in the HRM who care
for children, youth, and adults with
autism and are in need of respite
support.
The next step: If you are interested
in being a respite worker, being
connected with a respite worker,
and being a part of a groundbreaking
initiative, please email us for more
information about registering!
Contact the Respite Project
Coordinator, Melissa Myers
Melissa.Myers@autismns.ca
(902) 446-4995 ext. 33
20
September 2014
Northwood Life
Northwood Life
21
September 2014
We’re growing!
And we would love
for you to visit!
Reboom registration line: 454-3351
Signature Event!
All Inclusive Honey Bee Road Trip
Experience a day in the life a beekeeper!
Go to ‘Bee School’ and learn about bee
safety and equipment, the importance of
pollinators and the bee life cycle. We’ll
tour the bee hive and honey house, and
sample the honey! A delicious full course
honey-themed meal is included.
When: Thursday, September 25
Depart: 9:00 a.m., 2615 Northwood Ter.
Return: 3:00 p.m., 2615 Northwood Ter.
Cost: $50.00 Reboom members
$65.00 non-members
Register with payment by Sept. 19
Evening Meditation & Music Circle
Meditation helps alleviate pain, improve
circulation and digestion. It relaxes the
mind, rejuvenates the body and brings
clarity into your life. Add music and the
benefits increase.
When: Friday, Sept. 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Penthouse
Cost: $2.50 member drop-in fee
$3.50 non-member drop-in fee
Register by September 25
Lunch Bunch
Good food in a relaxed atmosphere with
great company and conversation! We
make the reservations and provide the
transportation from Northwood or you
can meet us there.
When: Wednesday, September 24
Where: Mic Mac Tavern
Cost: $10 p/p for transportation plus
cost for lunch
Register by September 23
Breast Health - Free Education Session
Learn about breast health and
mammograms, common myths associated
with breast cancer, risk factors, risk
reduction and the importance of early
detection
through
mammography.
Facilitator brings silicone breast models
for participants to use when learning what
to look and feel for.
When: September 26 at 11:00 a.m.
Where: Stadacona Room
Cost: No charge
Register by September 24
Social Dance I
Learn how to Jive, Cha Cha and Slow
Dance. This course assumes that you are a
beginner at dance but would like to enjoy
moving to music with a partner. Partners
are not guaranteed so it is best if you bring
one with you. All are welcome.
When: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall
Start: September 30, for six weeks
Instructor: Edgett Social Dance
Cost: $50.00 Reboom members
$65.00 non-members
(payment plan available)
Register by September 25
Social Dance II
Take your dancing skills to the next
level in this six-week course suitable for
intermediate and beginners. Learn how to
Jive, Latin and Slow Dance.
When: Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Great Room, Ivany Place
Start: October 1, for six weeks
Instructor: Edgett Social Dance
Cost: $50.00 Reboom members
$65.00 non-members
(payment plan available)
Register by September 26
How to Nordic Pole Walk
Learn the health and fitness benefits of this
popular exercise. Suitable for beginners
and those looking for a refresher. Nordic
poles provided.
When: Thursday, Oct. 2 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall
Cost: No charge)
Register by October 1
Evening Beginner Bridge Lessons
Learn the very basics of playing the game
of bridge in this eight-week series with
instructor Beverly MacDonald.
When: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
September 16 - November 4
Where: Penthouse
Cost: $35.00 Reboom members
$50.00 non-members
Register with payment by Sept. 12
Kitchen Bridge
A relaxed bridge group who plays a
modified contract game and are always
welcomes new members. Our program
hostess Janet Mullock has been playing for
years. You must have some prior bridge
knowledge to play with this group.
When: Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall
From: September 16 - November 25
Cost: $2 drop-in fee
“I’m Just Say’n”
George Burton Toastmasters
Discover how the Toastmasters Club can
help you achieve person goals in a friendly
and social atmosphere, with the support
of your fellow Toastmasters.
When: 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the
month from 9:45 a.m. to noon
September 9 - November 25
Where: Penthouse
Cost: Toastmaster International Fee
Register by contacting Club President,
Wayne Turner at (902) 864-9683
or VP Member Relations,
Pat MacLellan at (902) 852-4297.
Darts
This program begins with an election
of officers and information night where
anyone interested is encouraged to attend.
Registration is then required prior to first
attendance.
When: Fridays at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall
Begins: September 12 - Election night
Cost: $2 drop-in fee
Register before first attendance
Stop by our new Ivany Place office
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.,
Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Take control of your
energy use.
See how much electricity you’re using
compared to similar, anonymous homes in
your area and get personalized tips to
help you save energy and money.
Sign up today!
efficiencyns.ca/myreport
Imagine them living the way they
want without the worry.
Ideal for Alzheimers, Dementia, and those prone to wandering
•
•
•
•
Great for maintaining independence
Lockable and waterproof
Provides peace of mind
2-way voice capability!
Just call 492-3346 and ask about
our new GPS Watch.
northwoodintouch.ca
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