January/February 2015 Life Magazine

January/February 2015 I The Monthly Magazine of Northwood
A Sea of Blue
January I February 2015
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 April issue, please call Tara
at 902-454-3342 or send them to
tdunn@nwood.ns.ca by March 1.
Important Information
about Your Health
and Dental Benefits
Effective January 1, 2015 administration
of the Northwood employee benefit
package changed from Blue Cross to
Manulife. If you have not yet received
your new Manulife benefit cards,
contact Health Association Nova Scotia
at 1-866-886-7246.
Once you receive your cards, go to the
Manulife Plan Member secure site at
www.manulife.ca. Choose the sign
in button and select Plan member;
then follow the prompts to register
your account. You will be asked for an
activation code, which you should have
received by mail in early January. If you
did not receive one, contact Manulife at
1-855-626-4267.
Shirts for Everyone!
Representatives from the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
program handed out Northwood’s new T-shirt to all staff in January.
Promoting Northwood’s programs and services is becoming more and more
important. Every time we advertise our name, we help ensure our future,
Once you have signed into your account, promote Northwood’s services and build client trust.
you will need to update your banking
information. This ensures your providers
(massage, physiotherapy, vision, etc.)
are able to direct bill for services. If your
information is not there, you will have to
pay directly and then submit your receipt
by mail or online to be reimbursed.
For additional assistance, contact Robyn
Bentley, HR Advisor - Compensation &
Benefits at 902-454-3358.
Each employee received one shirt at no charge. Staff are encouraged to wear
their shirt to work (it’s considered acceptable work attire), so don’t wait
until Casual Day to wear yours. Look for more information on how you can
purchase additional shirts for yourself in the weeks to come.
Ivany Place Café
Monday to Friday
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
On the Cover
The working group who made the
shirts possible – John Verlinden,
Communications; Christine
Bowman, Financial Services &
EAP member; Melodie Quigley,
Ivany Area Support Clerk & EAP
member; Karie Raymond, In Care
Living & EAP member; and Robyn
Bentley, Human Resources.
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Serving soup, sandwiches
and a variety of sweets,
as well as tea, coffee,
cold drinks and
other food items.
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.
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
Northwood - live more
For Advertising Opportunities
call 902-454-3377
January I February 2015
Sharing a Moment with
Janet Simm, CEO
Northwood begins with Me
Happy New year everyone!
This was my first holiday season with
the organization. I want to applaud
everyone for the special efforts that
are made during the holiday season to
convey to our customers how special
they are to us. I am so impressed
with the events and the tremendous
effort that goes into organizing these
activities. I was so fortunate to have
had the opportunity to hear from our
clients and their families, the positive
impact on their lives!
Since my Northwood journey began,
Life Magazine as provided me with an
excellent opportunity to share thoughts on our successes and challenges, as well
as the many opportunities that lie ahead for the organization. Our Value “We can
always do better” is at the forefront as we plan for the future and respond to daily
opportunities and challenges.
The important element in that value is the term ‘we’. As we strive to make a
positive difference for those that we serve, what is critical to remember is that
this involves each and everyone one of us in every area of the organization. The
decisions you make and how you show up to work or volunteer every day, are
the most important components of creating positive work culture and delivering
high quality services to all clients. That is the power you hold.
I was approached by two individuals recently who had ideas on how to support
front line staff to take a leadership role in creating a positive work environment.
A supervisor in Home Support suggested an idea on how to make sure those
who are considering leaving the organization know the right questions to ask a
potential new employer to ensure they do not lose benefit coverage. I applaud
those individuals for recognizing the part they play in making a difference. That
is what is so special about the people and the culture of
this organization. I challenge everyone to ask themselves
at the beginning of every day: What can I do today to help
Northwood “do better”.
Lastly, congratulations to all staff on our selection as one of
Nova Scotia’s Top Employers and one of Atlantic Canada’s
Top Employers for 2015. This is an honour we should all take
great pride in.
January I February 2015
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Spiritual Corner
Submitted by Rev. Renée Clark, Spiritual Care Liaison
“Who Drinks of This Water”
Offering visitors a cup of tea and a little something to
accompany it has been a cherished tradition of my Cape
Breton roots for generations. Simple hospitality brings
people together, fosters rich conversation, breaks down
barriers, and helps us to understand each other and the
things that make us both alike and different.
To: Charles Grimes
From: Maria Burgess
Charles came up to 8 Centre on December 14 expecting
just another normal work day and instead gave a little
of himself to all the residents and families of Pine Bay.
I believe you are definitely on Santa’s nice list for the
wonderful gift of joy, love and laughter you brought to
our residents. Thank you Charles for playing the part of
Father Christmas and spreading the spirit of Christmas.
In late January, churches the world over celebrated the
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. In 2015, the theme
Scripture is the story of the encounter between Jesus
and the Samaritan woman at the well from the fourth
chapter of the Gospel of John. This is a story that invites
us to try water from a different well and also to offer a
little of our own, recognizing that in diversity, we enrich
each other. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is a
privileged moment for prayer, encounter and dialogue. It
is an opportunity to recognize the richness and value that
To: Linda Bennett
From: Denis Alvarez
I was called to 3 Cedar Lake around 4:45 p.m. to give pills
and she knows that I don’t know the residents on this
floor. She stood beside me and helped me identify every
resident on the floor, making my med pass so easy. Linda,
words cannot express my sincere gratitude on what you
did. Thank you so so much.
To: Caring Staff
From: Myley Myra & Food Services
I wanted to thank everyone who pitched in to help the
dietary department on Monday, December 15 (PCWs,
supervisors, managers, etc.). This help filling in allowed
the staff of the dietary department time to attend our
friend/co-worker’s funeral. We really appreciated the
support.
To: Janet (Housekeeping)
From: Someone who noticed
Janet saw a resident who was walking on his pants. She
stopped, got on her knees and rolled them up for him so
he would not trip.
Never too old
to get fit
One of our apartment tenants, Edie Grandy,
started at the Northwood Fitness Centre two years ago
and has been building strength and endurance since
day one. When Edie first came, she was determined to
build strength and progress to longer workouts. She
has surpassed both my and her own expectations,
becoming so much stronger and increasing her
workout time. She has also built so much strength and
endurance that she was able to plan her 90th birthday
in Cuba. A trip where Edie made lots of memories with
her family!
Congratulation Edie, as you have shown us it’s never
too late to get fit!
~ Submitted by Donna Hyland, Fitness Consultant
are present in the other, the different, and to ask God for
the gift of unity.
Northwood forms an integral part of the community of
churches in the North End of Halifax. The congregations
from St. Mark’s Anglican, United Memorial, Mulgrave
Park Baptist, Blessed Mother Teresa Parish, and St.
Margaret of Scotland join with us regularly both for
worship and for fellowship events. We here at Northwood
will host our fellow North End congregations for a special
service to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian
Unity on Sunday February 1 at 2:00 p.m. in the Shirley
Burnstein Hall. There will be a combined choir from all
of the churches, a dramatic presentation, special guests,
and of course, that cup of tea and a little something to
accompany it. All are welcome to join us!
Seasonal Quilt Project - created by the members
and staff of our Out & About Program*
Throughout 2014, our members and staff created
a quilt of reflections of different themes from our past
year. Each square represents a theme. So many people
helping, so many hours, a tremendous amount of
creativity coming together to create a truly beautiful and
unique piece of art work.
How do we create our quilt? First, we create an
image on a large presentation white board. Then our
members fill in the colours with rolled up tissue balls
(that they make), filling in the colours over the board
in the appropriate areas using non toxic white glue. For
variance, our background fill is torn construction paper.
*Out & About Day Program (formally known as the Adult
Day Program) supports people living with dementia in our
community.
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Introducing Doris Darer
Resident, Mayflower Point
Ivany Place
Doris Darer is a witty lady with an infectious smile. After the war, she and Roy decided to emigrate from
Although she has seen her share of troubles, she continues England. They applied to several countries and were
to live each day with happiness.
accepted by Canada first. In the winter of 1968, the family
moved to Manitoba and settled in Winnipeg, where Roy
Doris was born in 1925 in London, England (in the same had a job waiting for him as a tradesman. Several years
hospital as Prince George), to Alex and Nancy Coughtrey. later, they relocated to Toronto, where Roy worked for
Her father was a linoleum and carpet layer and her the Toronto Star and Doris, as a medical secretary. Twenty
mother was a homemaker who made teddy bears on the years later, the couple retired and moved back to England
side. “My parents were a lot of fun,” says Doris. “My dad for two years. “We got fed up again and decided to come
was a little strict, particularly with us girls. But we were back to Canada,” she says. “Our daughter Jackie was living
loved.”
in Nova Scotia, so we bought a house in Dartmouth.”
When the war broke out in 1939, Doris remembers life
changing forever. “It was hectic during those six years,”
she says. “Night after night, there were rockets and
bombings. You’d wake up in the morning and think ‘I’m
still here’.” Doris remembers practically everything being
rationed including food, cigarettes and even clothing.
“We would line up for fruit, even if there was bombing
going on around us.”
One evening, she was supposed to meet friends on their
usual street corner but her dad didn’t want her to go.
Although her mom gave the okay, for some reason, Doris
decided to stay home. That night, the corner was bombed
and she lost all of her school friends. She remembers
feeling very guilty and having a hard time dealing with
the loss.
“Although they were horrible years, the war didn’t stop
us from doing fun things,” says Doris. “I was a ballroom
dancer and even won a medal at a competition.” She also
attended dances with bands like Ivy Benson and Her All Girl
Band and says at times, they would have so much fun.
When she turned 16, Doris was called to work in a factory
making airplane parts. That’s where she met her future
husband Roy. “He was the guy who fixed the things that
I broke.” The couple was married and shortly after, Roy
was called up to war leaving a pregnant Doris to have
their first baby by herself.
When Roy died in the mid-nineties, Doris built a house
with her daughter in Cole Harbour and lived there until
she came to Ivany Place in July 2014. She also has a
daughter, Sharon and a son, John who live in England, as
well as seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Cambridge Suites
Staff Host
Holiday Bingo
Rockin’ in the New Year!
The music was rocking, the dance
floor was hopping and everyone
had a great time! This year’s sold
out New Year’s Eve party for
On December 22, the caring staff
Northwood Tenants was held in the
from Cambridge Suites Hotel hosted
Harbourview Lounge and included
a Holiday Bingo for residents at
music, champagne and chocolate at
Northwood at the Harbour. They
brought a door prize worth $150,
ten smaller prizes, snacks for each
resident (juice box and chips) and a
holiday card. They helped with set
up, portered residents to the Shirley
Burnstein Hall, called the bingo
numbers and assisted residents who
needed a little extra help.
“Each holiday, we look to give
back and do something in the
community that is championed by
our employees,” says Carol Logan,
Director of Human Resources. “We
have a very caring and thoughtful
team at Cambridge Suites.”
Housekeeping Manager, Janice
Gunning came up with the idea
and thought it would be great for
everyone to get involved. “It’s a great
feeling when you can do something
very special for the residents,” she
says. “It was a great day!”
midnight, and lots of door prizes!
A special thank you goes out to
the following tenants, Eileen Kelly,
Bonnie Forrest, Shirley Boutilier and
Bill Mont, who, along with Kerri
Miller, Manager of Retirement Living,
organized the event.
Holiday Ice Cream Social
On Sunday, December 28, Ivany Place hosted an Ice Cream Social in the
Café for residents and families, as a way to bring everyone together one last
time over the holidays.
Ruth Canton, Food Services Manager and her daughter Sara, served the ice
cream, and In Care Living Executive Director, Josie Ryan entertained the
crowd playing her guitar. Nursing and Food Services staff brought residents
down and a good time was had by all!
January I February 2015
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2014 Christmas Card Campaign
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January I February 2015
2014 Giving Tree for Care & Share
This year’s Giving Tree campaign for Care & Share Northwood. Not only were items donated (like socks,
was a phenomenal success! Trees went up at all three body wash, puzzles, chocolate, etc.), but nearly $3,380.00
locations and many outside businesses also participated was also contributed to help purchase gifts.
by putting up their own Giving Tree in support of
Staff from 92.9 Jack FM and
aValue Village dropping
off cards
Thanks 92.9 Jack FM for
leading the 2014 Northwood
Christmas Card Campaign.
This year, more than 5,000
cards were received and
distributed to residents in
Halifax and Bedford.
Caleb Raymond (son of Karie Raymond, In
Care Living) with resident, Mary MacLellan,
8 Redwood Haven
We want to thank all the groups,
businesses and individuals who
took the time to make or sign
cards for our residents. A special
thank you also goes out to Value
Village for all their support with
this worthwhile campaign.
Students Spread Joy
Staff from Archway Insurance collected gifts and money for the Giving Tree
Halifax
“We had wonderful gifts this
year and have lots of leftovers,”
says Pam Sherren, Halifax Social
Worker. “Some items will be saved
for next Christmas; some will be used
as residents have needs throughout
the year.” Pam also says there were
enough gifts to stock the Goody Cart
Giving Tree at Data Wiring
Sam Cormier, Halifax resident
and to use as prizes for Recreation choose items that best suited the
Therapy programs.
residents. “More staff saw what was
donated and could appreciate how
The process for gift giving was the community is supporting our
changed this year, which added spirit residents,” says Pam. “There was
to the occasion. Instead of putting laughter and excitement in seeing
everything in a gift bag and sending something that was ‘just right’ for a
it to the floor, nursing staff were particular resident.”
able to come to a display room and
The students and families of
Atlantic Memorial and Terrance Bay
Elementary Schools embraced our
Northwood Community this year by
taking part in Northwood’s Giving
Tree Program. Working together,
they raised $1,000 to purchase gift
cards, bus passes, stamps, etc. for the
Care & Share program.
Ivany Place
“We found that everyone
wanted to participate in Care
& Share this year,” says Jeanette
Vidito, Ivany’s Social Worker. “From
families and community partners
approaching us to help, to staff and
even residents themselves. It was a
special season for sure.”
On December 17, Northwood at the
Harbour had the pleasure of hosting
50 children from their Kids Council
and School Choir.
Jeanette would like to especially
thank Heather Graham, Ivany’s
volunteer shopper who purchased all
the individual gifts for residents.
Cassie Philpitt has organized a Penny Auction at Ivany
Place for the past three years. Money raised this year
went to Care & Share.
Some of the gifts purchased
for Ivany residents
January I February 2015
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January I February 2015
Northwood Christmas
January I February 2015
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Memories
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January I February 2015
Out in the Field
Enhance the experience.
Every person. Every day.
Submitted by Rebecca MacDonald, CCA, Northwood Homecare
It is a new year, with new goals, new directions
and new adventures for some of us. For others,
it is new unknown challenges, new concerns of what
the new year ahead may hold for them, new worries
about friends around them passing on and having to
face another year of health issues of their own. It is not
always “Happy New Year” to all. This is something we, as
caregivers, need to mindful of.
For many of our clients, the coming of a new year will
trigger memories of a spouse passing. It may bring back
a flood of emotions to accompany that memory. It may
be the first year of living without a loved one; The first
year of being alone. This in turn can affect their eating,
appetite, sleep patterns and even social motivation.
These are only a few concerns to watch for.
The New Year arrives in January and in the Maritimes, that
means winter. Our clients can be facing difficult decisions
such as, should I have the roof repaired? Can I afford it?
How will I afford oil to keep the furnace running? Who
will bring my wood in for me? How will I fill my wood
stove? What if my pipes freeze? How will I afford plowing
if we have another year of tremendous amounts of snow
fall? How will I get out to run errands? Will it be too
dangerous for me to go out anywhere? What if I fall? Will
anyone visit? What if the power goes out?
somewhere handy to the client’s telephone. Make sure
that there is a flashlight within arm’s reach for the client
at all times. Make sure this flashlight works and has spare
batteries also. Put a sweater and/or blanket over the
chair or chesterfield where the client usually sits. Prepare
a “snack basket” of non perishable items, like granola
bars, cookies, water bottle, juice box, cereal bars, and a
box of tissues and keep it close to where the client likes
to sit. This may hold someone over in the event that we
are delayed in getting to a meal prep appointment. Try to
have a light meal such as a sandwich made up in advance
in case an appointment is unfilled due to a storm. Putting
together snacks like pickles, sliced apples, sliced cheese,
peanut butter on crackers, sardines or tuna out of the can
with crackers, and having it readily available, may increase
the chances of a client snacking and feeling less anxious
about being alone. Ask the client to help with this type
of advance preparation. Keep them very much involved.
Often it can help give them feelings of being more in
control and assist them to feel prepared in the event of
a storm.
Spending a few minutes sitting down and talking with
our clients at the end of a visit, can make the difference
between leaving them feeling as though they are a
nuisance and feeling very rushed or leaving them feeling
sincerely cared for, listened to and very much respected
and appreciated. Ask a client about their memories of
This is the time of year to keep a watchful eye on our winter as a child. Listen to their tales. Learn from their
loved ones, as well as those we care for “out in the field” vast experiences. A little goes a long way for us all.
on our day-to-day travels. Keep an eye on the weather
and help reassure and prepare our clients for pending Stay safe and remember - “Enhance the experience. Every
storms. Have the client help you make a list of people person. Every day.”
for them to contact in the event of a power outage
or just to reach out to in their times of need. Put this
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January I February 2015
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January I February 2015
Hello, my name is Lisa
New Staff/
Volunteer/Alumni
Discount
EAP staff 50/50 lottery: Year Three!
Listed below are the winners of the staff lottery for 2014!
Date
January 3
January 17
January 31
February 14
February 28
March 14
March 28
April 11
April 25
May 9
May 23
June 6
June 20
July 4
July 18
August 1
August 15
August 29
September 12
September 26
October 10
October 24
November 7
November 21
December 5
December 10 -
BONUS
DRAWS
December 19
Winner
Janet Pellerine
Mary Conrad
Rosa Blair
Sheila MacNeil
Cassandra Smith
Suseela Vankamamidi
Paula Myers
Linda Anstey
Zenny Nequin
Kim Wile
Amanda Lowe
Stacey Swistun
Marlene Price
Sara Britten
Belinda McMullen
Coleen Hubley
Emily Jackson
Julie DeCoste
Marcia Wambolt
Catherine Simmonds
Tanya Janc
Cory Clayton
Olivene Royes
Jennifer Hughes-Tucker
Wanda Walker
Renee Patterson
Ralph Whittle
Troy Burton
Sherry Ann Phillips
Vanessa Veinotte
Marilyn Maskell
WorkplaceAmount
Halifax
$1,945.00
Homecare Field
$1,980.00
Homecare Field
$1995.00
Ivany Place
$1,985.00
Halifax $2,000.00
Halifax
$2,032.50
Homecare Field
$2,055.00
Halifax
$2,052.50
Halifax
$2,085.00
Dartmouth
$2,100.00
Halifax
$2,097.50
Halifax
$2,077.50
Halifax
$2,105.00
Homecare Field
$2,125.00
Halifax
$2,132.50
Homecare Field
$2,145.00
Homecare Field
$2,127.50
Homecare Field
$2,132.50
Homecare Field
$2,147.50
Halifax
$2,145.00
Homecare Field
$2,142.50
Halifax
$2,130.00
Halifax
$2,132.50
Halifax
$2,127.50
Homecare Field
$2,110.00
Halifax
$500.00
Halifax
$500.00
Halifax
$500.00
Ivany Place
$500.00
Ivany Place
$500.00
Halifax
$2097.50
Total paid out: $56,705.00
House of Auto Details
9 Symonds Road, Bedford
902-404-1500
www.houseofautodetails.ca
10% discount off
Full Service Detailing and
$15.00 off Krown
Rust Control application.
Winning
January/February
Employee Numbers
Sponsored by your SMART Committee
Northwoodcare:
6529, 6833, 6858, 60822
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:
32431, 32568, 32577, 32733
If you see your number, leave a
message for Christine Bowman
at 902-421-6380 and we will mail
you your $20 prize.
Northwoodcare Bedford:
55010, 55331
If this is your employee number,
please see Bill Ryan in the
Business Office to collect
your $20 prize.
Vassos
and I’m a Housekeeper at Northwood at the Harbour.
Over my years at Northwood, I’ve grown a lot and
learned many valuable life lessons, like how to laugh! I’ve
also discovered that having a sense of humour goes a
long way.
from their home town. I knew neither one of them would
ever be able to go home, so I brought home to them.
It made me feel really good to bring such happiness to
these residents.
I started part time at Northwood in laundry in July 1996.
I worked the late and back shift, and did both personal
laundry and linens (that was before we sent out linens
to be done). Around Christmas time, I was transferred
to housekeeping and have been here ever since. In
my seventh year, I was offered a full time position on
evenings cleaning the offices on the main floor Centre,
the Towers and on 11 Manor, well before it became a
care floor. Just over ten years ago, I was moved to day
shift and have since worked on pretty well every floor
in the Centre. I’m now working on 1 Chestnut Lake and
couldn’t be happier.
The residents really rely on us and I always try to be
kind and courteous, and look out for their safety. The
interaction I have with residents is my favourite part
of my job. I try to go above and beyond every day, but
everything I do is from my heart.
In addition to anything digital, I’m also a sports fanatic
and huge Habs fan. I saw my first NHL game three years
ago when the Canadians faced the Sabres in Buffalo.
My next dream is to watch a game at the Bell Centre
in Montreal. I also like to travel, do photography, watch
movies (especially at the IMAX theatre) and walk on the
beach. I love animals and have three cats named Babi,
When my manager approached me last year about Gurl and Nola. And finally, I’m currently taking the Young
becoming a mentor, I said yes right away. I’ve since Drivers of Canada driving course to finally get my license!
mentored three students in the Environmental Service
Technology course at Future Works. One student was
even hired after her time with me. I enjoy showing them
my everyday job as well as proper body techniques and
other safety practices.
I’ve taken every opportunity I can to further my education
here at Northwood. I’ve done the environmental services
course, Essential Skills, and a computer course focused
on Microsoft Excel and Word. My union also sent me to
do a communication and information technology course
in Ontario. Using what I learned, I now manage the
Facebook page for my union’s local, as well as the web
page and Twitter account.
As a self-proclaimed computer geek, I enjoy electronics
and have helped friends, coworkers and residents with
various computer and cell phone problems. Early last
year, I was able to help a resident connect with all of her
children at the same time. She was close to dying and I
was able to Skype in her daughter from South America
so they could all be together one last time. Another time,
I put together a presentation for two residents of photos
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January I February 2015
Miss Me a Little but Let Me Go
Author unknown
When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me,
I want no tears in a gloom-filled room,
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little – But not for long
And not with your head bowed low,
Dorothy Beard
Clarita Cane
Pearl Spurr
“It has been a challenging holiday
season for us on Cedar Lake.”
On December 24, we had confirmation that Influenza
A/B was on our unit, which caused our floor to be closed to
visitors during the most joyous time of year. Our residents
were unable to attend any Christmas activities planned for
Northwood at the Harbour. As well, ringing in the New Year
amongst friends and family in the Harbourview Lounge
could not occur. This caused much disappointment to our
residents which trickled down our team.
We were all busy monitoring our residents; taking
temperatures, applying cool cloths, ensuring everyone was
well hydrated, and that aerosols were given regularly to help
our residents breathe. Staff used their bat-like hearing for
any cough, congestion or raspy voices. The staff diligently
followed infection control practices and luckily, more than
half of our residents did not even have a sniffle. However,
they still could not leave the unit.
January 8 was the day the restrictions were lifted. When I
removed the “Do not leave the floor” signs I couldn’t wait
to go into the dining room while the residents were eating
breakfast to share the wonderful news. Both residents
and staff cheered aloud. There were many big smiles that
morning. Finally residents could enjoy their home and their
community. It was decided then, through an impromptu
meeting, that we should celebrate this happy occasion.
January 13 was that day. We ordered chicken tenders and
taters for lunch. Residents enjoyed the take out and having
a glass of Pepsi or Diet Coke with their meals. We handed
out the Arbonne hand cream to each resident that was
beautifully wrapped and signed by Northwood’s volunteers
and affiliates and we opened the Christmas gifts that were
purchased for the residents voicing aloud what the items
were in hopes of engaging residents, facilitating friendships
and building connections.
Special thanks to the WHOLE TEAM that day for working
together and making this a wonderful lunch time celebration
for our residents. Thanks to all the staff of Cedar Lakes for
the work you do, the care you provide and the core values
that you live and work by every day.
Our GPS Watch
Provides
Peace of Mind
Northwood believes people with Alzheimer’s disease
and other dementias should have the opportunity to
move about as freely and independently as possible.
Our new GPS Watch facilitates freedom of movement
while ensuring a person can be found quickly should
they become disoriented, confused or lost.
Miss me – But let me go.
For this is a journey we all must take,
And each must go alone,
It’s all a part of the Master’s plan
A step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick of heart
Go to your friends that we know,
And bury your sorrows in doing good works,
Miss me – But let me go.
Wrist-worn and easy-to-use, it functions like a typical
watch, plus it has an SOS button, built-in fall detector,
and personalized safe zones.
• The GPS watch helps maintain independence
•
•
•
while giving caregivers peace of mind
Waterproof and lockable
2-way voice capability
Call us to arrange a show and tell
902-492-3346 or 1-800-461-3346
northwoodintouch.ca
Cheers, Helena Paz, RNCL
3 Cedar Lake
“Unity is strength... when there is teamwork and collaboration,
wonderful things can be achieved.” Mattie Stepanek
Remember the love that we once shared,
Northwood is proudly not-for-profit and is maintained by volunteers
Memory Lane:
Did you know this old Empire Theatre
once stood where Northwood’s Edward L. Roach Centre
for Living is today?
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Community Dance Lessons
Reboom Registration & Info Line: 902-454-3351
In Memory of Heather Vallis (Schnare)
You never said “I’m leaving”
You never said “goodbye”
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knows why.
Merci Northwood
A wonderful gathering of seniors from the Acadian/
Francophone community of Halifax was held in the
Shirley Burnstein Hall at Northwood on October 30.
More than 150 people enjoyed seeing old friends, tasting
delicious food and listening to French music. A dozen residents
from Northwood were also able to attend and partake in
the festivities. Louise Cloutier, Northwood Board member
welcomed the attendees to Northwood.
Three former staff members of Northwood helped with the
evening. Linda MacDonald saw that residents present were well
cared for; Natalie Ladouceur was one of the main entertainers;
and I, Judy Aymar was one of the principal organizers.
I wish to give a heartfelt thank you to Northwood; to
the Reboom staff led by Natasha Handspiker, to Michele
Matthews from Recreation Therapy, and to Joan Colbourne
and the great Environmental Services staff who always lend a
hand. The event was a success and Northwood helped make
it happen. Merci!
~ Submitted by Judy Aymar, former Northwood employee
There are no words to tell you
Just what we feel inside
The shock, the hurt, the anger
Might gradually subside.
- by Unknown.
On December 11, 2014 we were shocked and saddened by the
passing of our co-worker and friend Heather Vallis.
Heather was an employee in the dietary department for
36 years from 1979-2014. Heather enjoyed bingo, knitting,
baking, shopping, going for walks, travelling (to someplace
she could tan), getting her hair and nails done, and family get
togethers. She loved to spend time visiting her niece’s farm
enjoying the animals with her grandsons. Her joy in life was
her family; her husband Ross, daughters Holly and Melissa and
three grandsons Cody, Riley and Myles. We will miss Heather
as our co-worker but more than that, our friend. She will be
forever remembered and never forgotten.
Save the Date!
The 2015 Appetite for Life Dinner,
hosted by the Northwood Foundation,
will be held on Saturday, May 2
at the Cunard Centre in Halifax.
Stay tuned for more details!
Signature Event!
Sweetheart Dance
Grab your sweetheart and enjoy a special
evening of dancing and refreshments.
Featuring the musical styling’s of Tom
Keeping.
When: Saturday, February 14
at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Harbourview Lounge,
Northwood at the Harbour
Cost: Tickets are $5 each and are
available at the Reboom office
Lunch Bunch
Good food in a relaxed atmosphere with
great company! We make the reservations
and provide the transportation from
Northwood or you can meet us there.
When: Wednesday, February 25
at 11:40 a.m.
Where: Willman’s Fish and Chips
5644 Kane Street
Cost: $8 p/p for transportation plus
cost for lunch
Register by February 24
Social community dancing lessons made
up of contras, squares, circles and lines.
Beginners welcome and instruction
provided before each dance, plus calls or
prompts during the dancing. Come alone
or with a partner.
When: Wednesday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
February 11 and 25
March 11 and 25
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall,
Northwood at the Harbour
Cost: $3.00 per class
Register with payment the Monday
before each class
Living Alone Series
This free workshop series has something
for everyone. Full-day sessions include a
free light lunch.
Instructor: Lynn Barrett
Cost: No charge
Register one week in advance please
Reboom Bingo
Games consist of 10 regular games; one
jackpot game, six specials (optional)
and we also collect for a loonie number
(optional).
When: Mondays and Saturdays
at 7:00 p.m.
Card sales, 6:00 to 6:50 p.m.
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall,
Northwood at the Harbour
Improve Your Bridge Game
Go beyond the basics and learn how to
improve on your game.
When: Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
February 10 to April 14
Where: Shirley Burnstein Hall,
Northwood at the Harbour
Cost: $40.00 for the eight-week series
Register with payment by February 3
February 7: Caregiver Supports
Penthouse
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Care Planning
Penthouse
1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
February 27: Learning to Living Alone
Stadacona Room
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Living Alone with
Technology
Stadacona Room
1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
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Accreditation 2015: Are You Ready
the Dignity Project
A Celebration of Aging ElderDog Canada, Robert MacLellan Photography and Northwood
It was the third time he had called the elevator, only
to watch the doors open and close without moving a foot.
It was my fourth trip between the Great Room and the van
parked at the front door. After depositing the tripods and
extension cords, I stopped on my way back to the front door.
“We’re doing a photo shoot today,” I said as I walked up to
him. “We’re unloading all the photographic equipment and
setting up in the Great Room. We’re taking pictures of older
dogs for a book we’re going to publish.”
“What kind of book is that?” he asked me. I explained we
were volunteers with ElderDog Canada, a national non-profit
organization that helps seniors look after their dogs and finds
new homes for their dogs if they can no longer care for them.
I told him the book is a collaboration between Dr. Ardra Cole,
the Chair and Founder of ElderDog Canada and professional
photographer Robert MacLellan. The book will be published
in 2015 and will raise funds to support ElderDog volunteers
who help seniors and their dogs free of charge.
He smiled and replied, “How interesting. I’m a retired
photographer. Never took pictures of dogs, mainly school
children.” “You must come and see the set up,” I said as we
walked towards the Great Room. I introduced him to Robert
and straight away they were deep in discussion about cameras
and lighting, fidgety school children, and unruly dogs. He was
one of several residents and staff who joined us during our day
photographing the elder dogs of ElderDog Canada.
We photographed six older dogs that day ranging in age from
nine to 15 years. Every dog has a story whether it is one of
being rescued or re-homed later in life; surviving serious health
issues; or challenging odds of life expectancy. One story they all
have in common is the loyalty, love, and companionship they
share with their humans. And every resident who joined us
had some dog stories to tell. Anyone who has spent time in the
company of dogs knows the importance of that relationship.
Our goal, at ElderDog, is to help those relationships continue.
This was our first photo shoot in a nursing home and we want
to thank Northwood for generously donating Ivany Place’s
Great Room for our use. We also want to thank the staff and
residents who hosted us so graciously and expressed such
interest in our work. It was a successful day all around!
ElderDog Canada is a volunteer run organization dedicated to
aging people and aging dogs, and supporting the important
connection between them. We provide in-home support such
as dog walking and help with basic dog care, re-homing dogs
when needed, lending pet loss bereavement support, and
offering education and outreach.
For more information about us, please visit our website at
elderdog.ca, call our toll free line at 1-855-336-4226, email us
at info@elderdog.ca check us out on facebook/elderdog and
shop at our online store elderdogcanadastore.ca. Photographs
of some of the dogs who will be included in the book can
be viewed at www.elderdog.ca/EducationOutreach/
TheDignityProject.aspx.
~ Written by Susan Stevens, Vice Chair, ElderDog Canada
Accreditation 2015 is scheduled from
February 23 to February 26, 2015.
During that time, three surveyors from
Accreditation Canada will be visiting
Northwood’s three sites. They will meet
with both our leadership team and with
staff, clients, residents and families. They
will review individual files and look at
our systems and policies. You may be
approached by one of the surveyors and
asked about how a particular process
works. A brief overview of their schedule
is listed below.
Day 1: Monday, February 23
Halifax • Meeting with CEO and leadership team
• Meeting with the Board of Governors
• Infection control and Prevention
• Medication Management
Day 2: Tuesday, February 24
Halifax
• Communication
• Human Resources
• Adult Day Program site visit
• Tracer activity
• Physical Environment
• Emergency Preparedness
• Medical devices
Day 3: Wednesday, February 25 Dartmouth
• Physical Environment
• Home Support Services
Ivany Place
• Tour of facility and physical
environment
• Tracer Activity
• Emergency Preparedness
• Medical devices
Bedford
• Adult Day Program
Halifax
• Financial management
• Ethics
• Quality
Day 4: Thursday, February 26
Halifax
• Final debriefing and presentation
Meet our Surveyors
Sheana Mohra is the Executive Director of Rocmaura Nursing Home Inc, an accredited and provincially
licensed nursing home in Saint John, New Brunswick. Rocmaura is home to 150 people. Prior to this position,
Sheana was the Assistant Executive Director of Rocmaura from 2000-2008. She was responsible for the
leadership and direction of the nursing, recreation and clerical departments.
Sheana graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Nursing and is a member
of the Nurses Association of New Brunswick and the New Brunswick Association of Nursing Homes. She is a
past member of the board of directors of the Alzheimer Society and the marketing committee of the Royal
Kennebeccasis Yacht Club.
Brenda Hannah is the Administrator at Clifton Manor, an accredited long term care facility in Calgary
providing services to 258 residents. Brenda has also held various roles within Alberta Health Services. For over
25 years, she was involved in the planning and delivery of community and continuing care services in both
urban and rural settings. She has a strong commitment to quality and safety.
She holds a Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Science (Medical Science) from the University of Calgary
and has been a surveyor since 1995. Brenda participates in numerous community activities including Board
membership and volunteering for the Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Canadian Diabetes
Association.
Laura MacDermaid is the Director of Long Term Care and Services for Seniors at the Regional Municipality
of Durham, a position she has held since 2012. Laura has over 25 years experience in various positions within
the health care field and has been a surveyor since 2006. She is a former registered dietitian and a Certified
Human Resources Professional.
Laura currently holds a Certified Health Executive designation with the Canadian College of Health
Leaders, a Bachelor of Home Economics from the University of Alberta and an Honours Bachelor of Health
Administration from York University. In addition, she has a Master of Industrial Relations from the University
of Toronto and is currently completing a Diploma in Public Administration through Western University.
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Healthy Workplace Matters
Honeyed
Chicken
Diablo
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp butter or margarine
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup prepared mustard
• 1 tsp curry powder (more if desired)
• chicken thighs (or breasts cut into
smaller pieces)
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:
Most frequent accident type:
Ivany Place: Resident Lift/Transfer/Reposition
Halifax:
Struck against or contact with
Homecare: Client lift, transfer or re-position
Directions
In shallow baking pan, melt butter. Stir in
honey, mustard and curry powder. Add
chicken and turn to coat all sides. Bake
at 375°F for 30 minutes. Turn chicken
pieces and baste. Continue cooking 15
to 20 minutes until chicken is tender and
richly glazed.
Northwood is Once Again a Top Employer for 2015
We’re on a winning streak! For the third year
in a row Northwood has been awarded Top
Employer in Atlantic Canada and for the second
year Top Employer in Nova Scotia.
When preparing our application, the submission
committee looks back on the previous
year’s initiatives and activities. We update information on
Northwood’s size, locations, benefits and education offerings
just to name a few categories! Being part of the submission
committee can be an overwhelming experience, but more
than that, it’s a wonderful reminder of the team we all belong
to, and what a great place Northwood is.
Thanks to the submission committee
– Robyn Bentley, Shelley James, Eileen
Paddon, John Verlinden and Debbie
Stewart. They pull a lot of information
together in a short period of time.
Once again, on behalf of the submission
committee a huge BRAVO and congratulations goes out to all
Northwood Staff. We wouldn’t be a Top Employer without all
of you! Congratulations!
~ Submitted by Theresa MacFadyen, HR Coordinator
Best Wishes in Retirement
Andrea Leonard, Homecare
25 years of service
Thank you to everyone at Northwood and in particular
Northwood Homecare, for all the well wishes you have sent. I
hope retirement is going to be a new and exciting time of my life!
Even though I’ve looked forward to retirement for several
months now, it will never replace the sense of community and
belonging I felt every time I walked through the doors of one of
the Northwood buildings. It has been a very important part of my
life for over 25 years and it is the people, the staff, the clients and
the residents, who make working at Northwood so rewarding. I
have been proud to be a Northwood employee and have never
had a day when I wasn’t totally sure we were providing the best
services and care to our clients and their families.
My parting message is this: no matter what the future may bring
to Homecare and our Homecare team, you should all stand tall
and be proud of the work you do in Continuing Care. Every
individual working in Homecare contributes to that care and
even though the roles may change and the challenges continue,
I know you will be there for each other and for those we serve. I
will miss you all and wish you only the best.
Andrea Leonard has held positions in long term care in Halifax,
education, Out and About, clinical care and most recently as
Homecare’s Manager of Quality and Risk Management.
Sandra Bauld, Homecare
18 years of service
Here’s my farewell to Northwood - it cannot be brief!
“Oh”, say the masses, “That’s a relief!”
The years now are eighteen. It seems like much more!
Some though were asking, “Can we show her the door?”
For the most it was “up” times, as well, a few “downs”
Amongst the wide smiles, I saw a few frowns.
One thing though is certain and all will admit
For everything Homecare, Northwood is “it”!
We came from four places, many talents and tools
When all put together, we are nobody’s fools!
There are great strengths in numbers, our model is sound
Even with changes, our gold standard is found!
Over years of big changes, and lots of new ways,
It’s the people of Homecare who brighten my days!
So instead of long listings of all we have done,
I’ll end with my heart words - “I love everyone!”
Sandra Bauld joined the Homecare world in 1996 as a Nursing Supervisor
with Dartmouth Community Homemakers Association, then Executive
Director in 1998 . As four not-for-profit agencies in Capital District
came together from 1999 – 2002, under the Northwood banner, Sandra
became Senior Director of Northwood Homecare.
If you would like to recognize a staff member who is retiring soon, please contact Tara Dunn, Editor at 902-454-3342 or tdunn@nwood.ns.ca
Flexicare
Northwood’s New Staffing Agency
If you’ve provided care to seniors, family members,
young adults or children, you could become a
Flexicare Client Support Worker.
As a current Northwood employee, Flexicare could
be an opportunity for you to try something new or
enhance your current role.
Client Support Workers will provide individual
support to a resident or client including:
• Taking residents to appointments
• Helping residents participate in programs
• Personal interaction with resident (reading,
conversation, walks)
• Assisting with meals
Flexicare offers:
•
•
•
Day, evening, weekend or occasional shift work.
Your choice; flexible options.
Opportunities in long-term care & Homecare
Competitive pay rates
Flexicare is also hiring accredited PCWs, HSWs
and CCAs who want more control over their work
schedule.
If this exciting opportunity interests you or someone
you know, contact:
Northwood is proud to be an inclusive employer
who encourages diverse applicants.
Northwood Human Resources
2615 Northwood Terrace
Halifax, NS B3K 3S5
Tel: 902-454-3369
Email: hr@nwood.ns.ca
www.nwood.ns.ca