SPOTLIGHT on Seniors Kingston

Spotlight Senior’s guide to senior’s living

Kingston and area

Vol. 2 - July 2014

on SENIORS

William Shatner A paragon of aging well and keeping active

Hope or Hopelessness

The uses and misuses of Powers of Attorney

Kayaking

Seeking the solace of adverture

How do you communicate from so far?

Where to turn for help

In support of:

The COA is funded by:

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

www.councilonagingkingston.org

PHOTO BY MANFRED BAUMANN

Grandparents at a distance

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Picton

202 Main St. 613.476.2888

Kingston

61 Brock St. 613.548.7721

Kingston West

2395 Princess St. #6 613.767.6645

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Senior’s guide to senior’s living

SPOTLIGHT on SENIORS

Kingston and area Vol. 2 - July 2014

Publisher Frose Creative Solutions Inc. managing Editor Olivia Rose design Sacha Frederiks Advertising sales 613-354-6661 frose@kingston.net Contributers Mary Thompson, Rob Mooy, Dr. Sanjay Vakani, Mayor of Kingston M. Gerretsen, St. Lawrence Place Revera, Valerie Hounsell, Annelies De Lepper-Van Dijk, Christine Showler, Dr. Nandini Deshpande, Victim Services Cover Photo Manfred Baumann Spotlight on Seniors is a Frose Creative Solutions publication 4185 Mangan Blvd. Kingston ON, K0H 2N0 Tel: 613-532-6661 • E-mail: frose@kingston.net The publisher accepts accepts no responsibility for advertiser’s claims, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written permission from the publishing. All rights reserved.

Spotlight on Seniors is produced in support of the Frontenac-Kingston Council on Aging.

Registered Charitable No. BN84734 9404 RR0001

230 Brock St., Kingston, ON K7L 1S4 Tel. 613-542-1336 Email: info@councilonagingkingston.org www.councilonagingkingston.org Subscriptions Spotlight on Seniors is published twice a year, Spring/Summer, Fall/Winter and is distributed

by Metroland Media community newspapers in Southeastern Ontario and at various pick up locations throughout Southeastern city centers.

To subscribe submit a request online to at www.councilonagingkingston.org Call 613-542-1336 or Email: info@councilonagingkingston.org.

Annual direct mail subscription $5.00 In support of:

The COA is funded by:

contents Vol. 2 - July 2014 – KINGSTON and area

COUNCIL ON AGING 4 What’s new at the Council on Aging....

What’s next....

What has the Council on Aging been up to....

6

The Council on Aging Annual Education Day

PROFILE 22 Local ‘artist soul’ Valerie Hounsell

expresses herself through visual arts

7

What you need to know... your rights and responsibilities in the Health Care System

HEALTH 24 It’s natural, so it’s not a concern...

or is it?

COVER STORY 8 William Shatner

Spokesperson for March of Dimes

Canada

26

INFORMATIVE 12 Hope or Hopelessness

The uses and misuses of

Powers of Attorney

SENIOR SUPPORT 30 Remaining independent at home

with help with community services

COMMUNITY 14 City of Kingston’s Age Friendly Plan 4 LIFE EXPO 17 ‘Relaxing 4 Life’

Winner of the 4 Life Expo Grand Prize

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS INC.

ACTIVE LIVING 20 Seeking the solace of adventure

5

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

FROSE

RESOURCES 18-19 Resource information for Seniors

Summer and your eyes

grandparenting 28 Grandparenting from a distance

31

How to choose a retirement residence

INFORMATIVE 32 Increasing age and declining mobility

What you need to know 34

Seniors and Safety

KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

3

council on aging

What’s new at the Council on Aging...

Who are we and what do we do?

The Frontenac-Kingston Council on Aging is a volunteer-based charitable organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of seniors. We strive to promote and champion an inclusive, caring community with a special focus on the vulnerable and isolated.

“Never doubt that a small committed group of people can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has. ” Margaret Meade. This quote describes the volunteers who make up the COA though small in number they are mighty in accomplishments.

Since the establishment of the COA in 1990 the organization has become known for its strong informed voice. Our small group of Board members and volunteers bring the needs of seniors to the attention of all levels of government and work diligently to develop education and support programs to serve our local community. Over the years the COA has been recognized by all levels of government as an informed resource on public policy issues affecting the quality of life of seniors.

Elder abuse prevention became part of the COA’s mandate in 2001when the Elder Abuse Prevention organization was unable to secure funding for staff or an office. Under guidance of the COA lead David Swerdfeger the volunteer peer support program was expanded from public education and information to direct

support and referral of abused seniors to appropriate community resources.

The COA is also known for innovation.

By developing programs such as Senior Friendly Cities, The Smile Program, A Guide to Navigating the Health Care System, A Guide to Navigating Power of Attorney, Utilizing Small Claims Court to name a few projects among many public education initiatives the COA is always striving to develop new pilot projects and educational products.

A prime example of the work the COA does is demonstrated with the OASIS project. To alleviate the long term care wait list, the COA in partnership with Homestead Land Holdings Limited developed Oasis Senior Supportive Living Inc. at Bowling Green 2 Apartments. Funding was received from the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program followed by a grant from the City’s Healthy Community Fund and a major grant from the United Way serving KFL&A. Oasis is now annually funded by government through a registered health care provider. Sixty-four seniors, eighteen of whom are deemed eligible for long term care, reside comfortably in their apartments enjoying on site social and exercise programs as well as communal dining. In this one project the provincial government is realizing a saving of close to one million dollars since the per diem rate paid by the government to a nursing home is approximately $159.

“Aging, Everybody’s Doing It!” We help make it better.

What’s next ....

The COA is focused on advocacy, education, elder abuse prevention and aging-well promotion.

Focus on the future Moving forward the COA is focused on investing in your future, the future of your family and your community. We are focusing on rural outreach, educational workshops, and our 2nd annual 4 Life Expo. We are pushing forward with plans for the 2015 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to help increase public understanding of seniors issue.

Join us in the effort to create the kind of community that we all want and deserve to grow old in – where seniors get recognition and respect as valued, engaged participants, where no one gets left behind. Aging and quality of life is everyone’s business.

✁ Membership Application ❏ $25 Annually per family ❏ Non-Profit $75 ❏ Standard Corporate $100 ❏ Donation $____________

Address: ____________________________________________________________ City/PC: _____________________________________________________________ Phone (optional): ______________________________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________________

PAYMENT

❏ Cheque

❏ MasterCard ❏ Visa

Name (as shown on card): ______________________________________________ Expiry Date: __________________________________________________________ Card# _______________________________________________________________ MAIL TO: 230 Brock Street, Kingston, Ontario K7L 1S4 Tel: 613–542–1336 or 1-855–542-1336 Email: info@councilonagingkingston.org Tax# BN847349404 RR0001

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

VOLUNTEER ❏ I am interested in volunteering with the COA

Date: _____________ Name: ____________________________________________

There is no better time to take advantage of the opportunity to become a COA member and get involved!

4

✁

www.councilonagingkingston.org

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

council on aging

What has the Council on Aging been up to....

4

life expo

Annual Expo for Seniors

The first annual Expo was held March 8 and 9 , 2014 at Portsmouth Harbour, Kingston. Hundreds of seniors and their families attended the two day event hosted by the Frontenac–Kingston Council on Aging and Frose Creative Solutions which featured over 80 exhibitors and dozens of presentations by guest speakers from local businesses. Look for next years Expo’s date in your local newspaper or visit the website at www.councilonagingkingston.org

The 2014 Victim Services Awards of Distinction David Swerdfeger has helped to protect and champion the rights of victims of elder abuse, personally and professionally, for 25 years. He is the volunteer Past-President of the Frontenac -Kingston Council on Aging, and led a regional effort to obtain funding for a 24/7 seniors support line, which now helps more than 1,000 seniors in need each year. Last year, together with other members of his interdisciplinary team of police, doctors and lawyers, David intervened in approximately 200 cases where elder abuse occurred or was suspected. He also trained more than 600 people to recognize and respond effectively to elder abuse in institutional and private settings in 2013.

Kingston Town Crier Chris and Mayor Mark Gerretsen open the first 4 Life Expo to the public.

4 Life Expo door prize winner Mary Thompson, president, Frontenac-Kingston Council on Aging, and Betty Allison, winner of the Niagara Falls door prize at the 4 Life Expo in March, read a Niagara Falls brochure highlighting all the exciting things the prize from HOCO Entertainment and Resorts includes – two nights at the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill, $50 meal vouchers for Kelsey’s and Boston Pizza in Niagara and four Clifton Hill Fun Passes (Including admission to the MovieLand Wax Museum, Niagara Skywheel, 3D Ghost Blasters, XD Theatre, Galaxy Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf ). Congratulations to our winner.

Clifton Hill

Fun by the Falls

get your

FUN PASS Gain access to the following attractions: Niagara SkyWheel Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars 3D Ghost Blasters Dark Ride XD Theater Dinosaur Adventure Golf or Wizards’ Golf Bonus Five Midway Tokens

FUN PASS 5 GREAT ATTRAC

SAVE

TIONS

$25

Available at

CliftonHill.com

and participating attractions

KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

5

council on aging

Annual Education Day What you need to know

Power of Attorney Uses & Abuses Seminar Wednesday, October 1, 2014 Location: Royal Canadian Legion 560, 734 Montreal Street, Kingston

Registration: 8:30am Workshop: 9:00am to 4:30pm

Register Today!

$50 Registration Fee {Lunch included} 5 credits available through Financial Planning Standards Council (FPSC) Lawyers receive 7 hours of CPD-CE $100 Registration

Call for more information Frontenac-Kingston Council on Aging Inc. 613-542-1336 or email: info@councilonagingkingston.org

www.councilonagingkingston.org

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

With you every step of the way...

Seniors On The Move is a senior relocation professional, who specializes in helping seniors and their families downsize, and relocate to new living situations.

Seniors on the Move is dedicated to the housing needs of Canada’s 55+ housing consumer. Everyday older consumers are faced with life changing events, such as early retirement, transitional retirement, financial issues, and health concerns.

Consumers and their families have many questions: s 7HAT ARE MY HOUSING OPTIONS s 3HOULD WE BUY OUR RETIREMENT HOME s 3HOULD WE SELL OUR HOME AND INVEST THE PROCEEDS TO FUND our retirement s #AN MY PARENT S AFFORD TO LIVE AT A RETIREMENT HOME RESIDENCE 4O INTRODUCE OUR SERVICES A COMPLIMENTARY NO OBLIGATION MEETING IS OFFERED to you and your family. You may use this to discuss which services you may require.

6

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

7E PROVIDE AS MANY OR AS FEW OF THE FOLLOWING SERVICES AS YOU NEED SERVING AS THE SINGLE CONTACT POINT FOR ALL SERVICE PROVIDERS

s !SSISTANCE WITH SELLING THE CURRENT HOME s $EVELOP AN OVERALL MOVE PLAN s 0ACKING SORTING AND DOWNSIZING s /VERSEE MOVING DAY s 5NPACKING AND NEW HOME SET UP

Visit us at www.seniorsonthemove.ca or call 613-583-5001

council on aging

What you need to know....

Your rights and responsibilities in the Health Care System Your Rights • To be treated with respect, dignity, and privacy.

• To know the name and role of those involved in your health care.

• To ask questions and receive answers which help you understand your condition, your treatment, and hospital procedures.

• To have information about all your health care options so you can make an informed choice.

• To say “yes” or “no” to a treatment or test.

• To request a second opinion about your health care.

• To have a say in your hospital care and discharge.

• To choose someone to make your decisions for you if you are not able to make your own decisions (Power of Attorney for Personal Care).

• To have someone with you for support and to take notes when your care is discussed.

• To be able to express concerns and/or make complaints • To receive enough information so you understand the implications of everything you sign.

• To receive a copy of any forms that you have signed.

Your Responsibilities • To SPEAK UP! You are your own best advocate.

• To have a friend/family there to help you.

• To participate in planning your own care and service.

• To work with service and program providers to identify your goals and needs.

• To make informed health care decisions.

• To tell family and friends about your condition.

• To tell your family doctor about your condition and your concerns.

• To collect all the information that you need to know so that you can plan for your return home.

Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer experience?

Do you like to drive?

Do you have a good driving record?

Do you like meeting new people?

If yes, consider becoming a volunteer driver with Frontenac Transportation Service • We require drivers to take seniors and other people with transportation needs to medical and other appointments • Throughout Frontenac County, especially in the Battersea and Inverary areas • Mileage rate paid (non-taxable) • Drive as much or as little as you wish

Please contact Gail Young at Frontenac Transportation Service

Get your copy of the Senior’s Guide to Navigating the Health Care System COST $10.00 Picked up from our office $15.00 Mailed to your home

Tel: 613–279-2044 1-877-279-2044 Email: transportation@frontenac.net

Frontenac Transportation Service

Mail your cheque or money order to: 230 Brock Street, Kingston, ON K7L 1S4 613-542-1336 or Toll Free 1-855-542-1336 Email: info@councilonagingkingston.org www.CouncilOnAgingKingston.org KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

7

William Shatner Spokesperson for March of Dimes Canada

photo: Manfred Baumann

cover story

For over 60 years, March of Dimes has been at the forefront of the disability movement in Canada.Today, March of Dimes provides a variety of important programs and services to over 50,000 Canadians with disabilities each year: programs like Conductive Education®, which helps improve mobility and self-confidence, recreation and social opportunities, employment supports, funding for assistive devices and home and vehicle modification, support for polio and stroke survivors, their loved ones and healthcare professionals, advocacy and more.

Since 2006, William Shatner, Canadian icon, actor, writer, producer, director and musical performer has been the Spokesperson of March of Dimes Canada. He has filmed popular public service announcements, recorded radio ads and voice broadcasts, and includes the charity in his popular social media properties.

Since then, Mr. Shatner has worked tirelessly in a variety of media, and won numerous awards for his portrayal of attorney Denny Crane in the television series The Practice and Boston Legal. His autobiography, Up Till Now, was released in 2008 and a follow up Shatner Rules was released in 2011. Both can be found in bookstores across the country, or online at Amazon.ca.

More recently, Mr. Shatner released an album Seeking Major Tom, produced and narrated a documentary called The Captains, where he traveled around the globe to interview the elite group of actors (Chris Pine, Patrick Stewart, Avery Brooks, Kate Mulgrew and Scott Bakula) who have portrayed the role of Starship Captain in the Star Trek series and films. Throughout 2011 and 2012, Mr. Shatner starred in a One-Man Show that toured across Canada, took Broadway by storm and is still touring the United States. Most recently, Mr. Shatner produced and narrated Get a Life, a documentary that focuses on Star Trek fans and how the show has affected their lives.

Mr. Shatner is a passionate advocate for people living with disabilities, and aging well. A big part of what drew him to March of Dimes was his memories of living through the polio epidemics. “I was very aware of the polio epidemics, and what I remember most was the fear, the sense of fear that permeated everything. It was just all around you. Everybody knew a family member or friend who had polio, remember houses being quarantined, being kept out of swimming pools, or being sent out of the city in the summers. And it was because of March of Dimes, and the dimes they collected for the research (for a polio vaccine) that helped find that cure, and ended the fear,” says Mr. Shatner.

“William Shatner is a paragon of aging well and keeping active, however; he is aware that the need for March of Dimes Canada’s support continues to grow as our population ages.

William Shatner also runs his own annual fundraising event (www. horseshow.org) that supports therapeutic horseback riding programs for people with disabilities.

“I have seen the remarkable impact therapeutic riding has on people, not only with physical disabilities, but with emotional or traumatic injuries as well. It makes an enormous difference in the lives of people. I have seen individuals who have recently lost limbs, or suffered a trauma be transformed by the salutary effects of riding. And the people served by March of Dimes are similarly affected by the same kind of good work,” he explains.

KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

9

cover story

“More seniors will seek services as the population ages”

Continued from page 9 By 2018, the percentage of Canadians experiencing a disabling condition will exceed one in five. The next generation of consumers with disabilities will expect more from their governments, greater control over their services, and may have fewer family caregivers to rely upon. The profile of March of Dimes Canada’s client base will change.

The demographics of those March of Dimes Canada serves will continue to change. More seniors will seek services as the population ages. People with less complex or moderate disabilities will access mainstream services, while people with more complex and severe disabilities will increasingly expect community-based services.

10

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

Increasingly, people are rejecting institutional living, even as they age and acquire disabilities. Instead, they are choosing to live in their own homes, as active participants in the community from birth to death. March of Dimes Canada believes that community living will drive government health and service spending decisions and models of service delivery.

William Shatner is a paragon of aging well and keeping active, however; he is aware that the need for March of Dimes Canada’s support continues to grow as our population ages.

“I think it can become overwhelming to have to deal every day with the obstacles that can be faced by people with disabilities,” says William Shatner.

“So remaining positive – and the more we can do to help (March of Dimes consumers) the better off we all are.

Sometimes, giving to charity often becomes a lesser priority. But for the people receiving the benefit – their need doesn’t change, in fact, we know now that it is becoming greater. So I believe it behooves us all to make charitable giving high on our list of priorities,” he says.

For more information on the programs and services of March of Dimes Canada, please visit www.marchofdimes.ca or follow us on Twitter @modcanada or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ marchofdimescanada William Shatner can be found @williamshatner or on his website www.williamshatner.com

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SENIORS HELP

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Planning can be a powerful tool especially as we age but things can go amiss. The Council on Aging can help. It is believed that 75% of Elder Abuse is financial in nature and 75% of that financial abuse is misuse or abuse of Powers of Attorney (POA) When used properly, a power of attorney can assure that a trusted person is handling your financial affairs or making healthcare decisions for you when you are not mentally or physically capable of doing this yourself. The reality is abuse is happening frequently in our community. According to our statistics, gathered from our support line activities, we dealt with approximately 281 cases this year regarding problems with POA. The Council on Aging has been serving our community for over two decades and has great knowledge of the types of recurring abuse that takes place.

There are two basic types of abuse of POA:

12

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

Or lack of use of the POA These are cases where the power of attorney simply doesn’t know how and when to use the power of attorney properly. This can lead to poor outcomes for the senior who granted the power of attorney. The result is that the help is not being provided or unwanted help is given to the senior.

These changes often cause the senior’s circumstance to worsen.

Intentional Misuse To gain advantage These are cases where the usage is not a mistake or an oversight but an intentional action by the person entrusted with the POA. The intent is to put money and/or property into their possession. This intentional removal of resources makes life more difficult for the senior. We also see great pain when POA makes decisions based on their feelings rather than what the person would do if they were capable. .

The consequences to the POA are the same whether unintentional or intentional. The Council on Aging

SENIORS HELP

can help work through difficulties associated with POA in two ways.

First, we can help the power of attorney through the pitfalls of carrying out their job. If the power of attorney is doubtful as to what they should be doing or not doing, they can call us. With our depth of experience we have probably encountered the problem before and have seen a successful resolution to the problem. If the senior, family or friends have a question of what should be done under the POA we can help provide information and direction.

Secondly, if the abuse is deliberate and self serving letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk. It may be possible to change the person assigned as power of attorney. We can help to stop the abuse and provide guidance in the recovery of what has been lost.

There is seldom a situation that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be improved with cooperative assistance from us, the police and the many agencies that work hard to restore dignity and safety.

There are no fail safe ways to prevent power of attorney abuse but there are agencies and organizations like the Council on Aging that can help guide you through the set up and resolution or dispute process.

To find out more about our Navigator Education Series or for dates and times of upcoming seminars and workshops call 612-542-1336 or visit www.councilonagingkingston.org.

No one to trust?

CALL 613-542-1336 Elder Abuse Prevention Services

Kingston

Denture Clinic

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Ăť Complete and partial dentures Ăť Implant retained dentures Ăť Relines and soft liners Ăť Repairs and tooth additions

Smile with Confidence!

Jhon Marin, D.D. Denture Specialist

Council on Aging Peer Support

1317 Princess Street, Kingston, ON K7M 3E3

613-542-5442 kingston-denture-clinic@hotmail.com

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

www.kingstondentureclinic.com

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KINGSTON AND AREA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

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community

City of Kingston’s Age Friendly Plan

Kingston is a beautiful and vibrant community, known as Canada’s First Capital and home to our nation’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.

Our historic city has the region’s best cultural attractions, museums, galleries, and historic sites. Kingston is the proud home of three top post-secondary institutions, a beautiful waterfront, and a vibrant downtown. We are consistently ranked among the best places to live in the country, and this year MoneySense magazine named Kingston Canada’s number one place to retire in their Best Places to Live survey.

This recognition as the place to retire pays tribute to our commitment to creating age-friendly spaces, programs and services.

Community As our community grows we prioritize sustainable planning so we can meet the needs of our residents now and into the future. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the population of senior citizens throughout the world will more than double within the next few de14

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

cades. With this in mind, and as an already attractive retirement community, we can expect growth in our seniors’ population.

To meet the needs of the current and future senior population in our community the City of Kingston set out to develop an Age Friendly Plan.

The Age Friendly Plan Our Age-Friendly Plan uses a framework established by the WHO’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities. When creating the plan we set out to hear from seniors about how livable our city is now and to capture suggestions to guide us in making improvements as we plan for the future. Through the creation of our plan and the Age-Friendly Advisory Committee, who advise and assist in it’s implementation, the City is making progress on the recommendations of how we can become more age-friendly. These recommendations cover a range of areas of improvement from keeping seniors in their homes longer, park design, and access to programs and services that are both affordable and of high quality.

The City of Kingston, in acknowledgement of our work in this area, was accepted as a member of the World Health Organi-

zation’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities. This membership recognizes cities that have developed an Age-Friendly Plan and have made a commitment to a cycle of continually assessing and improving the age-friendliness of their community.

Age-friendly communities enable all citizens to live safely, age actively, maintain their health and participate fully in their communities. The City is not alone in our efforts to be more age-friendly, we have a number of community organizations and agencies who are committed to best meet the needs of our changing demographic.

Moving forward we want to keep the conversation going and get your feedback on what can be done to enhance the quality of life for all residents. If you have thoughts on our age-friendly plan please do not hesitate to contact me at mgerretsen@cityofkingston.ca

Mayor of Kingston, Ontario

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Kingston was established as a city in 1673 and is the oldest city in Ontario.

Kingston was Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Capital City from 18411844, and home the the first Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald.

Kingston was originally called Cataraqui, but settlers referred to it as Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Town after King George III, eventually shortening it to Kingston.

Nine of the 14 Martello Towers ever built in Canada still exist, Kingston has the most at four.

In 2010, Kingston was rated #2 on the list of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 10 Most Livable Cities.

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KINGSTON AND AREA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

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‘Relaxing 4 Life’ Evelyn O’Callaghan, store manager for La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery in Kingston, congratulates Don Lamarche winner of the 4 Life Expo grand prize: a La-Z-Boy recliner.

By Rob Mooy – Frose Creative Solutions It’s always exciting to win a major prize.

For Don and Anita Lamarche it was extra special as they were decorating a new home they moved into last year.

Originally from Cornwall, Don moved to Sudbury in 1973 to teach, retiring in 2006 after teaching high school for 33 years.

In 2012 when his wife was planning to retire they decided to move further south to take advantage of warmer winters. As they have family living in Kingston, they had come to know the area quite well and decided to make the Limestone City their new home. So far, they are loving their new home and community. Don explains, “Kingston is a great place with lots to do. We are sampling the local restaurants, enjoying various activities, visiting the downtown and are getting to know our new neighbours.” It is been a good move for them.

It was during one of these outings that brought them to the Frontenac-Kingston Council on Aging (COA) 4 Life Expo in March. Don says they really enjoyed the show and found the exhibitors very informative and were surprised to learn about the range of services offered to seniors. The nicest thing was how friendly everyone was as we walked by. You were made to feel welcome.

To top of their 4 Life Expo experience, Don won the big door prize, a recliner

from La-Z-Boy. “I never win anything so I thought it was a joke at first,” explains Don. “I was thrilled to realize that I had won the grand prize.” He didn’t need a lift chair at this time, so decided upon a power recliner. Don is looking forward to watching his favourite TV shows from the comfort of his new chair.

The couple has nothing but praise for the local La-Z-Boy outlet. Don says the staff is great and the management is very supportive and friendly as well. “We were really happy to see that La-Z-Boy supports the COA. We would like to congratulate the COA for this initiative. Seniors fairs provide an important service to seniors and their caregivers. Even if one knows the system, services change so often that it is important to keep up to date.

“We hope that the COA will be able to hold more such events in the future.

Thanks for everything.”

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HEALTH & TRAVEL INSURANCE Barbara Patton, design consultant with La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery in Kingston, shows Don and Anita Lamarche some of the thousands of colourful swatches available to chose from.

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KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 GMS-IH-Barry-Miners-040614.indd 1

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6/4/2014 3:55:05 PM

Senior’s Help List Addiction services Alcoholic Anonymous Help Line......... 613-549-9380 Narcotics Anonymous.................................................. ..................................Box 222, Kingston, ON K7L 1X4 Drugs & Alcohol Registry of Treatment.......................... ..........................................................1-800-565-8603 Overeaters Anonymous Info Line........613-634-2159

after hours clinics & Dental services Emergency Dental Work......................613-650-2026 Greater Napanee Medical Clinic...........613-546-5506 (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.)

Clothing - second hand/ reasonable priced Ontario March of Dimes........................ 613-549-4141 St. George Cathedral............................ 613-548-4617

Distress Line Alateen Family Groups Amherstview.... 613-384-2134 Bell Canada Special Needs.............. 1-800-268-9243 TTY..................................................... 1-800-268-9242 Family Resource Centre...................... 613-544-2886 Frontenac Community Mental Health Services.............. ............................................................... 613-544-1356 Crisis Line...............................................613-544-4229 Kingston Interval House - 24hr. Crisis Line................ ............................. 1-800-267-9445 or 613-546-1777 Sexual Assault Crisis Line.................... 613-544-6424 .......................1-866-863-0511 or 613-545-0762 Fem’ Aide (French only)- 24hr. Crisis Line ................ .........................1-800-387-8603 or 1-877-336-2433

Emergency Services Ambulance, Fire and Police....................................911 Fire (non-emergency) Amherst Island......................................613-384-9224 Howe Island.......................................... 613-542-7398 City of Kingston.....................................613-548-4001 POLICE - City of Kingston.....................613-549-4660 Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)...................................

TTY....................................................... 1-888-310-1133

Legal Assistance Kingston Community Legal Clinic........613-541-0777 Legal Aid Ontario – Kingston..........1-800-668-8258 Legal Aid Ontario – Napanee.............. 613-354-4773 Queen’s Elder Law Clinic.......................613-533-2102

Food banks / Free / inexpensive meals Martha’s Table..........613-546-0320 or 613-530-3771 Meals on Wheels................................... 613-634-0123 Northern Frontenac Community Services.................. .................................................................613-279-3151

Food banks / Free / inexpensive meals (cont.)

Partners in Mission Food Bank (for all areas)............ .............................................................. 613-544-4534 St. Vincent de Paul Society.................. 613-546-3333 Salvation Army Food Cupboard.......... 613-548-4411

General information numbers Federal Information.........................1-800-622-6232 TTY..................................................... 1-800-926-9105 Seniors’ Programs............................1-800-622-6232 Provincial Access Ontario................ 1-800-267-8087 TTY.....................................................1-800-268-7095 Ontario Seniors Secretariat..............1-888-910-1999 TTY......................................................1-800-387-5559 Ontario Ministry of Health................ 1-800-268-1154 Municipal Social Services.............................................

Central Frontenac Township.................613-279-2935 City of Kingston..................................... 613-546-4291 Frontenac Islands (Wolfe Island).........613-385-2216 Loyalist Township..................................613-386-7351 North Frontenac................................. 1-613-479-2231

HOUSING CERA (Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation) ............................................................1-800-263-1139 Housing Help Centre.............................. 613-531-3779 Kingston & Frontenac Housing Corporation............... ............................................................... 613-546-5591 Community Information & Research Centre.............. ................................................................613-541-1099 Loughborough Housing Corporation.............................. ...............................................................613-376-3686 Royal Canadian Legion Villa............... 613-544-2008 Kingston Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation .............................................................. 613-542-0443 Cataraqui & Weller Arms Seniors........613-549-8397 Zion United Church Housing Project for Seniors........ ...............................................................613-548-3389

Hospitals Hotel Dieu Hospital............................... 613-544-3310 Kingston General Hospital................... 613-548-3232 PCCC Mental Health Services................. 613-546-1101 Kingston Regional Cancer Centre........613-544-2630 St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital............613-544-5220

HEALTH, HOME AND SOCIAL SUPPORT Alzheimer’s Society..............................613-544-3078 ALS Society....................................... 1-866-858-4226 Arthritis Society....................................613-546-2546 Bereavement Group.............................613-634-0130 Breast Cancer Action Kingston..............613-531-7912 Canadian Cancer Society.......................613-384-2361

Kingston and area HEALTH, HOME AND SOCIAL SUPPORT (cont.)

Canadian Diabetes Association...........613-384-9374 Canadian Hearing Society.....................613-544-1927 TTY..........................................................613-544-2765 Canadian Mental Health Association............................... .............................................................. 613-549-7098 Canadian Mental Health Helpline .....1-866-531-2600 Canadian National Institute for the Blind................... ...............................................................613-542-4975 Canadian Red Cross............................. 613-548-4929 Southern Frontenac Community Services / CORP......... ............................................................... 613-376-6477 Southeast Community Care Access Centre.................

Kingston............................................... 613-544-7090 Chrohns & Colitis Foundation...............613-530-4934 Elder Abuse Prevention Service, Council on Aging, Peer Support................................ 613-542-1336 .......................................... or 1-855-542-1336 Epilepsy Kingston................................. 613-542-6222 Council on Aging, Frontenac-Kingston....................... ................................................................613-542-1336 Heart and Stroke Foundation...............613-384-2871 Hospice Kingston...................................613-542-5031 Immigration Services Kingston Area.............................. ...............................................................613-544-4661 KFL&A Public Health...........................613-549-1232 KFL&A Public Health Stay on Your Feet program: ................................................................. 613-549-1232 KFL&A Public Health Falls Prevention Ambassador Program: ................................................ 613-549-1232 KFL&A Public Health Walk ON Program: .613-549-1232 KFL&A Public Health Community Food Advisor Program: ................................................ 613-549-1232 Kidney Foundation.................................613-542-2121 Kingston Heart Clinic ...........................613-544-3242....

L&A Seniors Outreach Services (Lifeline).................... ................................................................613-389-7313 Lung Association...................................613-545-3462 Multiple Sclerosis Society.................... 613-384-8500 Northern Frontenac Community Services...................... .................................................................613-279-3151 North Kingston Community Health Centre................ ...............................................................613-542-2949 Osteoporosis Society of Canada.....1-800-463-6842 Parkinson’s Society of Canada-Kingston........................ ...............................................................613-541-0829 Specialized Geriatrics........................... 613-544-7767

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

Rural Area Numbers

Central, North & South Hastings LONG-TERM CARE HOMES Arbour Heights.......................................613-544-1155 Briargate................................................613-384-9333 Extendicare Kingston...........................613-549-5010 Fairmont Home.................................... 613-546-4264 John M. Parrott Centre.........................613-354-3306 Providence Manor Home.....................613-549-4164 Rideaucrest Home................................ 613-530-2818 Trillium Ridge.......................................613-547-0040 Helen Henderson..................................613-384-4585

MEDICAL DRIVES Seniors Association, Kingston Region.................... ....................................................... 613-548-7810 Provincial Information............ 1-800-387-3445

SENIOR’S INFORMATION ORGANIZATIONS Elder Abuse Prevention Services COA FrontenacKingston Council....................................613-542-1336 Help Age Canada...............................1-800-648-1111 NICE (National Initiative for the care of the eldery).. ..............................416-978-0545 - www.nicenet.ca Older Women’s Network...................1-416-214-1518 Ontario Senior’s Secretariat.............1-888-910-1999 The Office of Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT).... ......................................................1-800-518-7901

Seniors association Kingston Region........................... 613-548-7810

SOCIAL CLUBS Crossroads United Church Shuffleboard................. .......................................................613-542-9305 Later Life Learning........................ 613-546-2625 Royal Canadian Legion Seniors Club....................... .......................................................613-548-4570 Singles Only Club of Kingston...... 613-530-4912

SHELTERS Dawn House Women’s Shelter.....613-545-1379 Harbour Light Centre (Men 18 & Older Salvation Army)............................ 613-546-2333 Kingston Interval House (Crisis)...613-546-1777 Lennox & Addington Interval House................... ...................................................... 613-354-0808 Ryandale House (Men, Women & Families)........... ...................................................... 613-548-8466

TRANSPORTATION Kingston Access Bus...................... 613-542-2512 Kingston Tourist Route Info........613-546-0000

After hours clinics Sharbot Lake Family Medical Centre................. ................................................... 613-279-2100 Country Roads Community Health Clinic ......

Portland..................................... 613-272-3302

Housing Loughborough Housing Corporation................ ...................................................613-376-3686 North Central Frontenac Non-Profit Housing... ....................................................613-279-3322

DISTRESS LINES Land O’Lakes Community Services................... ...............................................1-877-679-6636 North Frontenac Community Services.............. .................................................... 613-279-3151 North Rural Women’s Program......................... ...............................................1-877-679-6636 Crisis Line Talk . ......................1-613-544-1771 Financial Assistance Southern Frontenac......... ...................................................613-376-6477 Northern Frontenac Township.. 613-279-3151 South Frontenac Township...... 613-376-3027 Rural Legal Services - Sharbot Lake.................. ....................................................613-279-3252 North Frontenac Community Services, Sharbot Lake.............................. 613-279-3151

Legal Services Rural Legal Services, Sharbot Lake................... ....................................................613-279-3252 Toll Free..................................1-877-777-8916

Dinner Clubs Sharbot Lake.............................. 613-279-3151 Iwnverary, Harrowsmith, Verona, Sydenham, and Glenburny..........................613-376-6477

SUPPORT GROUPS Alzheimer’s Support Group.... 613-544-3078 Alzheimer’s Society of Kingston......................

613-544-3078 North Frontenac Community Service................ .................................................... 613-279-3151 South Frontenac Community Service............... ...................................................613-376-6477 Senior’s Association Kingston Region.............. ...................................................613-548-7810

Emergency Services Fire Ambulance...................................................911 Districts Bedford, Loughborough, Portland, Storrington, Hinchinbrooke & Oso.............911 Kennebee District...................... 613-335-2213 Mountain Grove.........................613-335-2146 Police Districts Loughborough, Portland, . ...............

Storrington...................................................911 Districts Bedford, North Frontenac, Hinchinbrooke, Kennebee, Olden & Oso.........

1-888-310-1122 FOOD BANKS South Frontenac Community Services (Referral)...................................613-376-6477 North Frontenac Food Bank...... 613-379-3151 Partners In Mission Food Bank.613-544-4534 HEALTH RELATED ORGANIZATIONS S.E. Community Care Access Centre.................. .................................................. 613-388-2488 Northbrook................................ 613-336-8310 Lanark, Leeds & Grenville (Brockville).............. .............................................. 1-800-267-6041

Long Term care Friendly Manor......................1-613-396-3438 Helen Henderson Care Centre.613-384-4585 Pine Meadow.........................1-613-336-9120 Village Green.............................613-388-2693 Social Clubs Rock Lake Seniors, Verona....1-613-536-0312 Pittsburgh Township Seniors Club.................... ...................................................613-542-5883 Westbrook Seniors...................613-389-2474

TOWNSHIP OFFICES South Frontenac Sydenham.... 613-376-3027 Central Frontenac, Sharbot Lake.....................

613-279-2935 North Frontenac, Plevna....... 1-613-479-2231 North Frontenac Community Services.............. .................................................... 613-279-3151 Coach Canada............................613-548-4727 WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORTATION South Frontenac Community Services ............

(Must Transfer).........................613-376-6477 Victorian Order of Nurses.........613-634-0130 Kingston Access Bus..................613-542-2512 In support of:

The COA is funded by:

Serving Kingston, Frontenac Lennox & Addington

www.councilonagingkingston.org

Call the Elder Abuse Prevention Support Line today! 1-855-542-1336 KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

19

active living

Kayaking Seeking the solace of adventure

By Christine Showler

For years, much media coverage of kayaking has characterized it as a young person’s adrenaline sport.Lately, the focus has changed to encompass a wider audience by spreading the word on sea kayaking, day-touring and recreational paddling.

Today, an increasing number of enthusiasts of all ages and from all walks of life are on the water, communing with nature, exploring lake systems and even kayaking among whales. Thus, more people are becoming aware of kayaking’s multifaceted health benefits, which typically include a harmonizing effect on mind, body and spirit.

BENEFITS Tones and Strengthens Core Muscles: Contrary to what many believe, kayaking does not demand aggressive arm action or upper body strength. The biomechanics of stroke efficiency are readily achieved through coordination between the paddler, paddle, boat and water.

Power for propelling the kayak comes from the paddler’s core muscles and is primarily achieved through torso rotation; this engages the larger, more powerful, back and abdominal muscles.

It makes sense that toning the core muscles helps to alleviate lower back pain often associated with middle

age. The forward stroke also draws power from the lower body, which is why it’s important to have a firm foot brace system in the kayak; as the paddler uses his right arm to draw the right paddle blade through the water, he pushes with the corresponding foot, which transfers that energy from the lower body through the upper portion of the stroke. At the same time, his left arm bends and pushes out from the shoulder towards the bow of the kayak, providing each stroke an added kick of thrust.

Thus, kayaking becomes an all-encompassing workout

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

active living

softer adventure revel in gliding through secluded lakes and hearing unforgettable birdcalls. Kayaking serves as a meditative,environmentally friendly, water sport alternative, which everyone can enjoy.

Whether to help maintain a high level of fitness or indulge in more relaxed “lily dipping” on nature’s ponds, using proper paddle stroke techniques makes kayaking both enjoyable and physically beneficial.

Improves Bone Density and Stimulates Joints: Experience shows that the rhythmic movements of paddling helps keep the joints fluid, while increasing overall flexibility and balance. Water provides a natural resistance and paddlers make use of this basic workout principle to maintain bone density and boost metabolism. Of course, the extra calories burned functions as an aid to weight loss, which in turn further relieves stress on joints. Advances in equipment, such as lighter paddles, narrower blades and ergonomic shafts, help to maximize efficiency and offset the effects of the repetitive motions of paddling.

Mental Benefits Most people in today’s fast-paced, high-tech world are looking for ways to relieve stress associated with their busy lives. For those seeking greater adventure, kayaking can be elevated to offer the challenges of expedition travel. Those seeking the solace of

Social Benefits: Kayaking clubs and paddling centres provide opportunities to meet and mingle with kindred spirits who also share a healthy respect for nature.

It’s often considered to be a leisurely social activity and an environmentally conscious way to feel at one with nature. Paddling, a necessary means of transportation for native peoples and explorers in the Americas, is today a pleasant and healthy way to integrate with history, heritage, nature and geography.

Here’s a few tips to help refine your paddle stroke technique: • Avoid higher seat backs; they may look comfortable, but can actually impede smooth torso rotation and contribute to lower back pain • Maintain good posture in the kayak to allow for greater rotation of the torso and minimize lower back strain. Try to paddle leaning slightly

forward, about five degrees • Keep a low profile to each paddle stroke to minimize wind deflection and help keep arms and shoulders aligned. Try to have the top padd ling hand reach its highest point at eye level.

It’s common for kayakers to develop some numbness in their feet over the course of an outing. Here are a few tricks to help eliminate the problem: • Use an inflatable or foam cushion to hold thighs in a braced position to help alleviate pressure points • Ensure foot braces are correctly positioned on the balls of the feet • Install heel pads to relieve stress and keep feet warm in cold-water conditions.

• Stretch the legs and wiggle toes often while paddling.

ENJOY!

Christine Showler, Co-owner & Head Instructor of Frontenac Outfitters Canoe & Kayak Centre 6674 Bedford Road, Sydenham, Ontario, Have any auestions about the benefits of kayaking? Call 1.613.376.6220 or visit www.Frontenac-Outfitters.com.

KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

21

profile

Local ‘artist soul’ Valerie Hounsell expresses herself through visual arts I was born into a family of artists in a small town called Stoufville. All of my siblings as well as my mother and aunts on both sides are very creative and encouraged me from a very young age to explore my artistic tendencies. I have been a very visual person for as long as I can remember.

I also received a great deal of encouragement from my public school and high school teachers,selling my first piece at the age of 11.

Once I completed high school I contemplated attending OCNA in Toronto but felt discouraged by the greater talent of my peers and decided it was not feasible to turn my talent into a career. I took a completely different career course in multi-media that supported my career in multi-media sales for over 30 years. I was able to use my artistic eye to help local organizations

and companies promote and brand their businesses. Although this was a rewarding career it never fulfilled the artistic urges and my need for self expression.

I began to raise a family in 1985 and moved to a more rural setting just north of Napanee Ontario. I lived on a small 80 acre hobby farm surrounded by beautiful countryside, and it was at that time that I began to paint more seriously. As a self taught artist I continued to grow and experiment with each piece I created but progressed slowly as I spent most of my time raising children and pursuing my multimedia based career.

In 1990 my career took me to picturesque Picton in Prince Edward County then moving again in order to advance my career in

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

media sales in 2010 to the historic, waterfront, community of Bath Ontario just outside the city of Kingston. A highlight of my artistic rebirth happened in 2011 when I joined a group of artists known as The Bath Artisans. The group reinforced my goals and I was encouraged to move forward, showing my art publically for the first time at their fall show that year.

My pieces are mainly inspired by the communities in which I have lived and most of pieces focus on rural landscapes, wildlife and old forgotten cars, trucks and farm machinery.

“If I had one word of advice for new or aspiring artists it would be to not let the talent of others discourage you”

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profile

Valerie Hounsell working on one of her paintings

The pursuit of the creative process, has become a consuming affair and my interaction with nature and love of rural Ontario brings me closer to the subjects I paint. Although I photograph my surroundings and paint from digital images at my home in my studio (or on my back deck in the warm weather) I have acquired a new, larger, stable kayak and hope to take an easel with me this summer and paint small canvasses on the water.

the uniqueness of my art. I have picked up some tips from other artists, mostly my older sister, whom I consider to be my biggest inspiration. But as a self taught artist I have not had the influence of a teacher who may have molded my technique. Unfortunately it also means that I have not had the luxury of the benefits of formal instruction. Instead each piece is a struggle for me, each brush stroke is full of uncertainty and sometimes the creative process is almost painful. But it is this struggle that drives me to continue.

My newly acquired love of kayaking is having a huge impact on my subject matter. Kayaking allows me into areas virtually untouched by man including marshes and shallow streams inaccessible by other watercraft. As corny as this sounds, kayaking allows me to ‘commune with nature’ in a way that was previously unavailable to me. This new access has inspired me to paint some of these areas so I can share the amazing untouched beauty of Eastern and Central Ontario.

Sometimes it takes months or even up to a year to complete a piece due to the added demands of family and career but when a painting is complete and it turns out well this struggle contributes to a huge sense of self satisfaction. I only hope that once a piece has been completed I can reclaim what I have learned for use in future pieces.

This learning process drives me to continue.

My biggest challenge is my lack of formal training. It is this challenge that is one of the main driving forces behind my desire to create and also contributes to

During the past year and half I became an ‘empty nester’, and changed my career to something less demanding allowing me more of an opportunity to

focus on my art. If I had one word of advice for new or aspiring artists it would be to not let the talent of others discourage you. Develop your own talent; it will be a rewarding process. My art makes me want to share my experiences in the hopes that my work will touch others and inspire conservation of this place we call home, so other generations will have the same opportunity to enjoy the planet earth.

As I enter the next phase of my life, I am looking forward to being able to dedicate even more of my time to the creative process. I hope that my health will allow me to continue to kayak into inspiring areas of the Canadian wilderness and I look forward to the struggles and challenges my art and age will present and I am excited for whatever the future might hold.

If you would like more information or are interested in a commission piece, please visit my website at www.theartistsstudio.net Please contact the Bath Artisans through their website www.bathartisans.info to confirm dates and details or to get more information on how you too can join the group.

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

It’s natural so it’s not a concern... or is it?

By David Graham. Pharmacist/Owner One of the most important things a pharmacist does with their patient is to have a complete medical review. This compromises of verifying all the patient’s allergies (medical and nutritional), all of their current medical conditions and a complete list of their prescription and non-prescription medications or supplements.

It’s during this medical reviewthat I find most of the hidden concerns that unless told about, these people would never know that they could actually be doing more harm than good.

One of the more common and basic concerns is interaction with people’s medications and vitamins and/or minerals. There is a large list of drugs that will interact with minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc among others. The most common case is their binding together and stopping the drug from being absorbed properly.

Other vitamins, herbs or natural products

can actually effect the enzymes we have in our bodies that We use to break down drugs we consume daily which could allow the level of drug in our blood to rise or lower to a dangerous level.

On a separate note, cigarette smoke has numerous chemicals that either reduce or increase the levels of certain enzymes we have thatbreak down drugs. That means that when we start smoking, or stop (hopefully the latter), our ability to break down drugs changes, which could have a significantly negative result in our therapy.

Other vitamins may actually interfere with the drug’s biologicalactivity. For example Warfarin, acommon and widely used blood thinner, can be interfered with by vitamin K which can counteract its actions leaving the person’s blood thicker than desired and leaving them at risk for stroke, heart attack or other blood clotting events such as DVT. This doesn’t mean you should stop eating leafy greens but it would be a good idea

health

to find out how much vitamin K is in the foods that you enjoy.

TRADITIONAL CARE t MODERN SOLUTIONS

Lastly, other natural products, St. John’s Wort for example, should not be taken with other medications that help with depression without the consent of your physician. Some natural products work very similarly to prescription drugs and can cause symptoms similar to an overdose of the prescription drug that shares same properties.

We often assume that over-the-counter products are safe as we have access to them in the aisles of pharmacies but that may not always be the case. We should always clear it with our pharmacist first.

I review all new prescription and natural substances my patients take against their current list of meds and medical conditions. Every year thousands of interactions go missed leading to side effects and quiet often hospitalization.

So get the info before you buy or take anything new.

Your pharmacist is more than just a pretty face behind the counter, they may be able to steer you clear of unseen danger.

Free Delivery Your Total Care Partner!

At Graham’s Pharmacy we pride ourselves on offering the best patient care and counseling available. We are a traditional pharmacy yet we utilize many modern advances to provide the best care possible. Graham’s Pharmacy is here for your health, we are about people not products. Check back often for upcoming diabetes and hypertension clinics that our held regularly at the pharmacy. We welcome you to visit us at 328 King Street for a unique pharmacy experience.

David A. Graham Pharmacy Owner

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L E T U S E A R N Y O U R T RU S T A N D B U S I N E S S David Graham, Owner/Pharmacist of Graham’s Pharmacy, Kingston

328 KING STREET EAST t PHONE (613) 542-4111 W W W. G R A H A M S P H A R M A C Y. C A KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

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health

Summer and your eyes

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; KINGSTON AND AREA

By Dr. Sanjay Vakani Though it may seem like this winter has gone on forever, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to pull out the shades and head outdoors. This is my favorite time of year to be outside and participate in all those outdoors activities, however there are precautions to keep you safe.

Health Canada notes there are several ways in which UV light rays are absorbed into the eye. UV light rays are composed of three different types of rays UVA/UVB/ UVC: 1. UVC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; highest energy level of UV rays, and potentially could be the most damaging to both your eyes and skin.

Fortunately the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ozone layers block these rays. Depletion in the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ozone has further potential risks to cause serious harm and UV light related health problems 2. UVB â&#x20AC;&#x201C; slightly lower energy levels than UVC that are partially filtered by the ozone, however many will still reach the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface. UVB radiation causes stimulation of the melanin (skin pigments) causing the skin to darken, which is commonly known as a suntan.

Extreme or higher exposure causes

burns, and can increase the risk of skin cancers, wrinkling, skin irregularities and premature signs of aging. UVB rays are more likely to penetrate on cloudy days and are highly reflective off snow and ice.

3. UVA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Account for up to 95% of UV radiation. A lower energy level than both UVB and UVC, however it easily passes through the cornea and the lens, reaching the back of the eye (retina). High exposures to UVA can lead to changes in the lens, leading to cataracts, and/or changes in the retina leading to macula degeneration. â&#x20AC;˘ The surface layers of the outer part of the eyeball (the cornea and the conjunctiva) absorb UVB rays. â&#x20AC;˘ The lens absorbs mainly UVA rays. â&#x20AC;˘ The retina is the light-sensitive lining at the back if the inner eyeball that absorbs visible light and any other UV Rays that have passed through the cornea and lens

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leaving the eye unprotected can result in significant damageâ&#x20AC;?

health

â&#x20AC;˘ Reflected UV light is just as damaging as direct UV. â&#x20AC;˘ Water reflects up to 100% â&#x20AC;˘ Snow reflects up to 85% â&#x20AC;˘ Dry sand and concrete reflect up to 25% â&#x20AC;˘ Grass reflects up to 3% The level of UV entering the eye in the morning (8am-10am) and late afternoon (2pm-4pm) is nearly double that of midday hours (10am-2pm) at most times of the year.

Risk Factors to UV light exposure Geographic location â&#x20AC;&#x201C; UV light levels are higher in tropical areas towards the equator, the further you are from the equator the lower your risk, but you should still adequately protect your eyes from potential harm Altitude â&#x20AC;&#x201C; UV levels are greater at higher altitudes. The classic Aviator sunglasses

by RayBan were specifically developed for pilots to protect their eyes while flying Setting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; UV light levels are greater in wide, open spaces, especially when highly reflective surfaces are present, like water, snow, and white sandy beaches. UV light exposure can nearly double when UV light is reflected off of various surfaces, however, with increased coverage from trees and buildings in urban settings less exposure is noted.

Medications â&#x20AC;&#x201C; certain medications like tetracyclines, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics, tranquilizers and other drugs affecting pupil reactions can increase your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sensitivity to UV light and natural light sensitivity.

Cloud coverage is an inadequate evaluation of UV light, UV light still passes through cloud cover and even when natural light levels may be lower, UV light exposure can still remain high.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sunglasses are the key to UV Light Protectionâ&#x20AC;?

Every Optometrist will recommend to you good UV light protecting eyewear, they are available in many different styles, shades and colours. Importance of selecting both a comfortable fitting frame and one that you like are key factors to you wearing your sunglasses to help protect your eyes. The purchase of sunglasses doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help if they are not on your face covering your eyes.

Polarized lenses are for everyone, especially beneficial for individuals whom are enjoying outdoor activities or have the higher potential for reflected rays affecting their vision. They will help not only protect your eyes but will enhance your vision and reduce glare, allowing for more comfortable vision. Studies show that everyone wearing polarized sunglasses can achieve increased clarity.

This results in enhanced contrast, even showing better reaction times for drivers, and shorter stopping distances.

For the Senior, population 65 and older routine OHIP covered eye examinations annually are recommended and for those between the ages of 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 64, at least every 2 years, unless there have been changes, or your Optometrist has recommended otherwise due to various monitoring of the health or eye conditions.

Pick up your sunglasses and enjoy the sun safely, in moderation and protect your eyes while doing so. Have a wonderful summer!

Do you want to maintain your eyesight?

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Many Canadianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize, for example, that up to 20% of cataracts may be caused by overexposure to UV rays, which means that they can be avoided in certain cases.

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Have any questions or concerns?

Ask Dr. Sanjay Vakani Limestone Optometry, Kingston 613-767-3937 or 613-549-3555 KINGSTON AND AREA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

27

grandparenting

Grandparenting from a distance

By Annelies De Lepper-Van Dijk Baarn, The Netherlands For Annelies, living 5800 kilometres away from her two grandsons wasn’t going to stop her from being present in their lives. Her relationship with her own grandmother had helped her understand the importance of this special bond.

“It was from my grandmother that I learned the most important things about myself – that I was loved and therefore lovable, that I was appreciated even though I wasn’t perfect and that I was special. If it wasn’t for her I would have been a totally different person today. I

could always count on my grand-mother.

She lived around the corner from us and I always stopped in to change my clothes and shoes before I went to school.

daughter did a pregnancy test and I am becoming a grandmother for the first time! At that time I was 52 years old, a perfect age to become a grandmother.

Back then it was very normal to have your grandparents live just down the block, or at least in the same town or city, today it is more often the case that grandparents live at different ends of the continent, if not in different countries. As it is the case for Annelies. Her daughter lives in Canada while she lives in the Netherlands.

From the age of 36, I raised my three children by myself after their father passed away. I was really looking forward to my first grandchild. However, my daughter and husband decided to immigrate to Canada. This was a tremendous shock and very upsetting. My first grandchild would not grow up in the Netherlands and I would not spent time with him as I had dreamt of. It was very difficult to see them leave.

June 2002 “I am so happy!” says Annelies, “my

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grandparenting

Far away When my grandson was born three months prematurely and my daughter ended up dangerously ill in the hospital in Toronto, the distance seemed extremely far. My daughter developed the HELPP syndrome, a severe pre-eclampsia, and the only way to make her better was to let the baby be born. So, Tom was born on Haloween, October 31, 2002, at 27 weeks gestation. He weigh only 1.5 lbs and was 35 cm, very tiny, and had to fight to stay alive. A lot of stressfull and scary moments followed by the three months hospitalized for Tom to develop and strengthen. Fortunately I was able to visit for a few weeks to meet Tom and to help them out. It was lovely that that was possible.

After the visit we communicated a lot by phone, but mostly by computer. We

use the computer program Skype. This program allowed us to talk and see each other and this way I was able to be keep in touch with them.

When Sam was born in 2007 I decided visit and stay with my daughter and her husband for 6 weeks. Afterwards I was able to follow his ‘growing up’ on Skype and got to know my grandchildren that way. Contact is really good between us and the boys ‘know’ me very well.

This was noticable when my daughter surprised me with a visit two years ago.

She decided to come for her sisters 40th birthday and took her youngest son Sam with her. I had only ‘physically’ seen him when he was a baby, so I was so happy and of course surprised. Sam wasn’t strange to me at all! As if he knew me.

That is the benefit of Skype. It makes our

world a lot smaller. Tom and Sam know who I am and I can speak Dutch with Tom. Sam can understand me but finds it difficult to speak the language. He answers in English.

It is still strange not to have them nearby, but knowing that they are happy and like living in Canada makes it better.

In October, I am going to see them again after 8 years. I am pleased that my son is travelling out with me. I decided to stay for three months and this will be the first time in 12 years I will celebrate Christmas with my daughter, her husband and my two grandsons. I am so excited!”

“Yes, grandma is coming and they will get to see me for a long time. I am really looking forward to it.” ~ Grandma Lies ~

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29

senior support

Remaining independent at home with help from community services my driveway. I want to be out there doing it myself.â&#x20AC;?

Ray Branigan gets help with his medication from Red Cross Care Partners PSW Ashley Scaife

By Gary Buffett â&#x20AC;&#x153;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know anything about the Home care until they told me about it in the hospital,â&#x20AC;? said Ray Branigan from the comfort of his home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With having home care it means that I can stay here at home where I want to be for a long time. I had no idea there were so many options available to me.â&#x20AC;?

Ray, a retired Millwright, discovered he had bladder cancer three years ago after falling on a shovel while he was working at home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had quite a bit of pain and thought I had ruptured something when I fell so I went to see my doctor. That is when I found out I had cancer. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect it. I was always healthy and never worried about it. I rarely had even a headache until now.â&#x20AC;? Ray had been a volunteer driver taking

people to cancer treatments and he understood that attitude is important. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some people give up. I am not going to let this beat me. I will go when I am ready and not when cancer says it is time.â&#x20AC;?

With the help of a variety of services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and supportive family members living close by â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ray, a widower for 14 years, is remaining independent at home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel spoiled with all the care I receive. My personal support workers, my nurse and my two daughters are amazing.â&#x20AC;? Ray also takes advantage of support services such as Community Care, Meals on Wheels and help with snow removal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get Meals on Wheels twice a week and the meals are great. I also really appreciate the help with snow removal but I have to admit it is hard watching someone else plough

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; KINGSTON AND AREA

Red Cross personal support worker Ashely Scaife helps Ray with the activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation and medication reminders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ray likes to be independent,â&#x20AC;? says Ashley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I give him reminders and guidance and he likes to do what he can on his own.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Home care coordinators are very thorough and conscientious,â&#x20AC;? says Ray. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They make sure everything is alright and make adjustments as needed. They are truly caring people and I appreciate having all these great services arranged for me. A lot of seniors donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what is available to them, but we are very fortunate to have such great help to stay independent at home as long as possible.â&#x20AC;?

Gary Buffett, Manager Communications South East Community Care Access Centre, 470 Dundas Street East, Bay View Mall Belleville - ON - Canada - K8N 1G1 Phone: 613 966 3530 www.se.ccac-ont.ca

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senior support

How to choose a retirement residence • Reduce your stress. The safety and security of a retirement residence can eliminate some of the worries that come from living alone or taking care of your own household.

Submitted by St. Lawrence Place, Revera Are you ready for an exciting phase of your life? Or are you looking to help a loved one with retirement living options? Today’s retirement residences offer a wider range of choices – from services to amenities to living arrangements – than ever before.

It’s so important to understand what Retirement Living really is and how it can benefit your experience. Comfort, engaging ambiance and peace of mind are often overlooked when faced with a crisis situation. With planning, you’ll find options that support living an independent, active and fulfilling life.

What does retirement living have to offer? Here are a couple of benefits to consider: • Stay independent. Retirement living lets you live your life, your way. You have the privacy, freedom and choices to maintain the lifestyle you want.

• Nurture your well-being. With everything

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from nutritious and balanced meals, to rewarding recreational and social activities, retirement living can keep you fit in mind, body and spirit.

• Find the right support. If you need a little extra care or support, the professionals on staff can provide you with things like health assistance, medication administration, and help with bathing and dressing.

• Say goodbye to household chores.

Residence staff can free you from the time and effort of chores like laundry, housekeeping and maintenance.

• Live in convenient settings. Retirement residences are often within walking distance of shops, restaurants and other areas of interest, making it easy to get out and about.

• Enjoy companionship. With friendly neighbours and plenty of opportunities for interaction, you can have a ready-made social life.

• Stay active. There are a range of classes, programs and excursions to suit every interest, and help keep you as busy as you want.

The important thing to keep in mind while taking in all of these considerations is what is really important to you, day in and day out.

Make a list of priorities. What will you make use of, what support systems will make life less stressful? Taking the time to carefully consider your needs, wants and desires will serve you well.

Also, pay the retirement home a visit in person. When you’re looking for retirement living options, it’s important to see the residence for yourself.

By planning and weighing all the considerations that are important to you, you’re sure to make an informed decision, and find a residence that gives you freedom, comfort and support – a place to maintain your independence, and live an active and fulfilling life.

For a free helpful checklist, contact St. Lawrence Place by Revera at 1-877-929-9222 or visit our website www.reveraliving.com and follow the links under Retirement Living.

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31

INFORMATIVE

food education arts fun games sports laughter a helpfor & support s relax today’s enjoy services food friends volunteers arts fitness events program volunteer sports enjoy

active senior

Increasing age and declining mobility What we need to know

By Dr. Nandini Deshpande

s u n i Jo

for the time of your life!

613.548.7810

seniorskingston.ca

32

SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

Mobility is defined as the ability to walk safely and independently in one’s natural environment. Needless to say, mobility is critical for one’s independence in daily activities, for continuing social interactions and for maintaining overall quality of life.

Our natural environment commonly imposes varied challenges while walking such as uneven terrains due to curbs/steps/ ramps, need to increase walking speed when required, stepping over or around obstacles, managing additional cognitive load (conversing with a companion) or physical loads (carrying shopping bags) etc. Our walking pattern must be adjusted precisely to accommodate these challenges. This requires processing of complex information by our brain so that we can maintain our balance and safely continue walking in the intended direction. It is the inability to adapt to and accommodate these environmental challenges while walking that leads to mobility-related disability.

Mobility declines: With increasing age even when not accompanied by overtly catastrophic co-morbid conditions such as stroke. Most importantly, in older persons, disability usually occurs first in mobility followed by a downward spiral of progressive disablement. Therefore, detecting mobility-related problems during an early stage is likely an important opportunity for implementing preventive measures. The path to the mobility-related disability is not clearly understood unless

preceded by a catastrophic event. However, some possible predisposing risk factors have been explored. This article will discuss some of these possible risk factors.

Sex differences: The incidence of mobilityrelated disability is higher in women than men. Additionally, the ability to recover is lower in women. Although the prevalence of mobility-related disability has reduced in overall older population in North America,the sex/gender gap has not reduced. The higher incidence of mobility-related disability in older women can be mostly explained by their inherent lower muscle strength. On the other hand, friends and community ties and overall social engagement outside the home environment may have stronger health benefits for women compared to men.

Fear of falling: Fear of falling is a serious and common problem in community-living older persons and may not necessarily be preceded by an actual fall. Fear of falling is associated with mobility-related disability independent of demographic characteristics (age, sex, education etc.) of older persons.

Although in the short term, curtailment of activities or avoidance may protect against falls, in the long term, fear-induced activity restriction can diminish the physical and mental health of an older person and may further increase risk of future disability and falls. For older adults who have fear of falling, presence of depression may single-handedly contribute to activity restriction. But in those who don’t have depression, factors such as poor muscle strength, balance and vision

INFORMATIVE

problems may independently contribute to fear-induced activity restriction.

Vision loss: It is suggested that compared to those with normal vision, older persons with poor vision (reduced visual field and poor contrast sensitivity) travel less on foot independently and avoid activities. Poor visual contrast sensitivity, i.e. poor visual ability to see objects that do not stand out from their background, is associated with poor balance control and falls in the elderly. Particularly, an independent role of poor visual contrast sensitivity in predicting onset of mobility-related disability has been recently demonstrated. Decreased ability to detect edges due to poor contrast sensitivity may impose challenges while encountering steps, curbs and pavements commonly found in the community. Therefore, visual contrast sensitivity could be a determining factor whether a person chooses to or is able to walk safely and independently in community environments. Older persons with common vision conditions that particularly impact contrast sensitivity in the early stages (e.g. cataract, glaucoma, diabetes mellitus), should be specifically monitored for maintaining mobility.

Cognitive decline: In old age, mild impairment in cognitive function is related to worse performance on various physical performance tests including mobility and increase in possibility of falls.

Even in cognitively normal older persons, those who are at the lower end of the ‘normal’ cognition spectrum have difficulty performing mobility tasks that require performing a concomitant cognitive tasks while walking. Atrophy of various brain structures in old age is strongly associated with reduction in walking speed and other changes in walking that indicate increased caution. On the other hand, the performance on mobility tasks as simple as the ability to increase walking speed on demand can predict future cognitive decline in older persons.

Preserving mobility and delaying mobilityrelated disability in later life is critical for active and healthy aging. Modifiable factors such as improving muscle strength and social engagement with family and friends, addressing vision problems, fear of falling and depression and taking care of one’s cognitive health can be vital for maintaining mobility and delaying the downward spiral of disablement in old age.

Dr. Nandini Deshpande, Queen’s University 613-449-5003 nandini.deshpande@queensu.ca KINGSTON AND AREA – SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

33

INFORMATIVE

Seniors and Safety You know all those ads on television about reporting elder abuse and how it’s a crime?

Well, technically, it actually isn’t. Elder abuse is not a crime in the sense that a police officer can charge someone with “elder abuse”. It is the name given to a series of behaviours that are detrimental to an elderly person’s life, safety, security, lifestyle, and way of life and so on. When a charge is laid in an elder abuse case, it is a charge of physical assault, neglect, domestic assault, sexual assault or in some cases, financial abuse or fraud. This can make things challenging because there are many cases that are not cut and dried so to speak.

Jane Doe talked to the police due to issues and concerns with elder abuse. She was having problems with her adult grandchild who was breaking in, threatening, taking things and intimidating her. It was very stressful for Jane because she wanted to help her granddaughter (she always had before and in fact had helped her the whole time she was growing up), but it wasn’t turning out very well this time and Jane was starting to get very sick from all the stress.

The onus for pressing charges in an elder abuse case typically falls to the victim. There are many things that are good with that in the sense that a person who is victimized should be able to have some

element of control over their life when moving forward. The difficulty is that most times, the victim has to decide between laying charges against a family member and/ or someone they are dependent on.

Family violence dynamics makes this an incredibly difficult decision to make. When that is coupled with dependency issues that are real and relative to everyday living, sometimes, there really isn’t a ‘choice’. Do you tell on your son or daughter who is taking your money, keeping you locked up in your room, yelling and screaming at you for what a burden you are? (then risk becoming homeless with no financial options or ability to secure safe and appropriate housing?) Or do you say nothing and hope that things will get better someday.

John Doe was in that exact same spot. He was very happy to stay in his house in the little village he had lived in for years. He couldn’t get around much anymore and had a hard time remembering to pay his bills so he opened a joint bank account with one of his children. The problem is that this child had a hard time paying his bills too. By the time others were notified, John was on the verge of being homeless, no money, no bills had been paid for months on end and no food (the child was stopping on the way home from work every day and taking that too).

In most of the cases we see, elements of elder abuse exist but they’re not enough to lay charges. Sometimes the issue is the fact that the victim will hesitate, get confused, get overwhelmed or simply not want to tell every single piece of the story because of how embarrassing it is.

In the broadest sense, elder abuse is the mistreatment of a senior or older person by someone they should be able to rely on or trust. Many times, they are someone who is in a position of authority and will often take advantage of that position or of the relationship associated with that position.

Elder abuse can be an individual thing between an abuser and a victim or it can be a systemic thing that comes from policies and procedures enforced by wellmeaning care facilities. Some people have full intentions of trying to take advantage of a senior (telephone and email frauds or businesses that bully their way into making you buy something are great examples). Some people start out with good intentions but things go badly quickly (overwhelmed caregivers, power of attorney that took some money to pay bills with the intent to pay it back…).

To learn more about Elder abuse and home safety for seniors (including getting a free home safety audit), please contact Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville. 1-800-939-7682 or visit our website at www.vslg.ca

James Reid

Kingston’s only Kingston Family Owned Funeral Home ~ Founded in 1854 and is in its fourth generation of the Reid family ~

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SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014 – KINGSTON AND AREA

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KINGSTON AND AREA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPOTLIGHT on Seniors 2014

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