AgeCare Has a New Look!

We are very proud to share with you our new AgeCare logo! As we embark on our strategy of growth, transformational change and quality care, this new logo will inspire us to realize our goals and objectives. We chose to refresh our logo after reflecting on our past as a trusted brand in seniors care and our evolution over the last 25 years. The new AgeCare logo represents who we are as an organization and reflects our vision for the future – to transform and lead quality, services, and innovation in the long-term care sector in Canada.  

We hear about it far too often – people being targeted by thieves who use tricks to steal items, identities, or hard-earned savings. Sadly, while everyone is susceptible to widespread scams, seniors are particularly vulnerable and the ruthlessness of some fraudsters can leave them fearful, embarrassed, or worse - financially devastated. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), scams are up considerably this year, with over 6,600 frauds reported as of January 31, 2023. A recent RCMP news release explains the various ‘Grandparent Scams,’ and urges Canadians to warn and educate seniors in their lives, as well as encouraging them to report any suspicious calls they may receive. Some of the scams targeting seniors include: Distraction Scam: Fraudsters in a retail location observe a senior’s PIN number during a transaction then follow them, looking for an opportunity to distract so  Read More...

This month, as we observe World Alzheimer's Day on September 21, we are proud to showcase the incredible efforts and great strides we are making to ensure those living with dementia, or any form of cognitive decline, are living their best possible lives in our communities. Below is an example of how Walden Heights has implemented a vital component of our Dementia Strategy by creating meaningful spaces for residents.    For some, home is a place. For others, home is a feeling. At AgeCare, we think it’s both, and we are undertaking an exciting initiative to make our spaces even more meaningful and therapeutic.   Providing residents with warm and welcoming spaces that promote dignity and independence is part of the Engaging Vibrant Communities pillar of our dementia model. With mindful attention to sight, sound, and smell, the dementia neighbourhood at  Read More...

AgeCare has introduced a new method of meal planning and serving that is helping reduce the amount of food we waste, while offering residents more freedom to choose food items and control their portions. The process involves careful planning and tracking the amount of food consumed at mealtime. By applying simple math, food services can track how much food is being consumed and how much is going to waste. An important part of the equation is serving our residents tableside rather than plating their food. This gives them the opportunity to opt in or out of food items and choose their preferred quantity. At the same time, our dieticians are conducting regular food-plate audits, to monitor changes in appetite that may indicate a health concern, and to help inform the quantities of food production. “This new system keeps food waste  Read More...

For some, the idea of making a move to retirement or seniors’ communities holds great appeal, but the thought of downsizing has a paralyzing effect. It’s easy to understand why. Some have spent decades in their homes, raising their families, harvesting memories, and amassing great collections of meaningful keepsakes. Sifting through these sentimental treasures is sure to stir up longings for days gone by. Others have moved more frequently throughout their lives and perhaps done plenty of downsizing. Some even enjoy paring down their belongings at regular intervals. However, as age becomes a factor, the process of downsizing can become overwhelming especially for those experiencing challenges such as diminished strength, ailing health, and/or waning energy. Moving at any stage of life can be stressful. How does one manage such a feat when first you have to reduce the contents of  Read More...

You hear it all the time… exercise is key to maintaining good health. It is important for your physical, mental and emotional wellness. It makes you stronger, improves balance, controls weight, and can boost your energy and your mood. Research shows exercise can even ward off disease, reduce the symptoms of chronic illness and possibly even extend your life expectancy. These are all good reasons to exercise! However, logic and compelling arguments don’t necessarily add up to incentive for seniors who may be contending with the aches and pains of arthritis and experiencing diminishing strength, energy and appetite. If this is you, don’t despair. Exercise doesn’t have to be all or nothing; there are reasonable alternatives in between. Here is an approach that might work for you. Change your perception! With a goal of working up to a feasible (age  Read More...

My sister and I always take turns arriving bright and early on Sunday mornings at the care home where mom lives, to help her get into her ‘Sunday Best.’ Mom’s been donning her ‘Sunday Best’ for over 80 years now, which really means she takes the time to put some colour on her cheeks, add a bit of lipstick, and make sure her blouse matches nicely with her slacks. Oddly, we know this to be a Sunday ritual, but have never thought to question the reason behind it. This Sunday, as I helped mom choose just the right outfit, I asked her … “Who are you dressing up for mom?” “For my little sister,” she said with a coy smile. I thought for a moment, a little worried that mom’s mind might be slipping. “But you don’t have a little  Read More...

We often hear that people are living longer these days, but the reality is, for some, those later years in life can be a lonely time, especially for seniors who find themselves isolated. According to a recent report published by Canada’s National Institute on Ageing, social isolation and loneliness have become a public health concern in Canada and globally; as these two factors are proven to have a negative impact on the health and well-being of older adults. The report outlines the differences between loneliness and isolation, but highlights that both can play a role in declining health, and studies have shown specifically that these factors can lead to increased risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, and cognitive decline, as well as heightened anxiety and depression. A similar study conducted in 2019 by the US-based National Institute on Aging also  Read More...

Sunny summer days can go a long way toward boosting our moods, but there are still those days when work challenges, health issues, relationship difficulties, and all kinds of other ‘life stuff’ can take a toll on our mental and emotional disposition. If you are finding that challenges in your daily life coupled with distressing world events are taking a toll on your peace of mind, consider taking these steps for self care: Refrain from doomscrolling – a word that made its way into the English lexicon in 2020 when the global pandemic hit. In short, limit the amount of time spent searching for and reading negative news stories. Studies show that continuous viewing of traumatic events can cause anxiety and depression. Move your body as much as you are able, every day. Studies show that even a 10-minute walk  Read More...

Residents at four BC AgeCare communities are delighted to engage with their new friend, ABBY™; an interactive board designed to provide meaningful stimulation, as well as fun and games, for those who choose to engage. “ABBY™ is a wonderful tool that is fun and easy for residents to interact with,” said John Nocon, Executive Director at AgeCare Mount Ida Mews. “It is kind of like an old familiar friend. It brings nostalgic and familiar memories back to our residents, allowing them to re-live experiences they found pleasant and enjoyable.” ABBY™ can play pre-selected personal and familiar pictures, videos, and songs. Residents can engage independently when they choose, or with the guidance of staff and family members. “They can do things like recall pet memories by patting a cat, engaging with mechanical programs, or listen to old radio stations by turning  Read More...