Retirement homes: making the right choice
Combatting isolation and loneliness
Solitude is a state of mind that can be positive, when it’s desired, but when it turns into isolation and loneliness, it can become unbearable. Un- fortunately, many seniors reach this point and don’t know what to do about it. Combatting isolation is vital, as it can have a ne- gative impact on the lives of seniors, including increased anxiety, depression, food and sleep di- sorders, suicidal thoughts, and an increased risk of developing a chronic illness. Isolation has many causes. When a spouse dies, the surviving partner often isolates him- or her- self for fear of becoming a burden to their fa- milies. A change in living accommodations can also lead to a similar reaction. To counter this type of situation, family mem- bers and friends should take concrete action. Both regular and unplanned visits and telephone conversations help to break isolation. Talking about day-to-day happenings and asking how
the senior is getting on can do a world of good. Organizing family dinners where the different generations can spend time together is another solution. Seniors appreciate the company of children as well as that of adults. It is also advisable to encourage seniors to re- gister for activities that allow them to mix with people of their own age, such as bridge, dancing, or gentle exercise classes. Weekly activities will ensure they have more active social lives. Zootherapy is another solution. The presence of an animal in the life of a senior is an ideal com- plement to human contact. Whether it’s a new pet of their own, or visits from family members’ pets, a little cuddle now and then can bring a lot of sunshine into a senior’s life.
Moving into a retirement home is a huge step in someone’s life, and it can certainly be a very difficult decision to make. There are many reasons for moving into a retirement home: loss of independence, lack of support from close family members, and the onset of more health problems, to name a few. Financial reasons can also be a factor. Whatever the case may be, choosing to leave the comfort of one’s own home to move into a retirement home is a decision that must be made freely, after a great deal of thought. If this deci- sion is made for the right reasons, it can be very positive for the person involved and may contri- bute to an improvement in their quality of life. The choice of retirement home is, however, ex- tremely important. Seniors have to be sure of their needs in order to come to the right deci- sion. For example, if you’re worried about your
health, then it is wiser to choose an establish- ment that offers on-site medical services, which is sure to contribute to your peace of mind. Maybe you’re a very sociable person or, on the other hand, maybe you require moments of so- litude. Here again, your needs should guide you in your choice of home. These types of ques- tions, while seemingly very simple, are essential to the process of establishing your list of requi- rements. After you know what you want, you can consider retirement homes in a particular geographical area. For some people, going to live in a retirement home can be an opportunity to broaden their ho- rizons. The move could also give them the chan- ce to live closer to a family member or friend. Who knows, this new home could end up being an oasis of comfort and peace!
BREAK A SENIOR’S ISOLATION WITH REGULAR VISITS, FAMILY GATHERINGS, AND ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE HOME.
Député provincial - MPP Glengarry-Prescott-Russell Grant Crack Les aînés sont notre richesse! Seniors are our wealth!
Nous offrons une gamme de services variés, soit traditionnels, disposition directe, incinération et toutes religions ethniques. Il est également possible de personnaliser les funérailles d’un être cher. Maison Funeraire & Chapelle Lafleur 709, rue Principale, Casselman, On 613-764-3286 874, rue Notre-Dame Embrun On 613 443-3286 Lafleur
Bureau de Rockland 613 446-4010 1 800 355-9666 gcrack.rockland@liberal.ola.org
Bureau de Hawkesbury 613 632-2706 1 800 294-8250 gcrack.hawkesbury@liberal.ola.org
Bureau d’Alexandria 613 525-4605 1 800 294-8250 gcrack.alexandria@liberal.ola.org
In the comfort of your own home, or mine. Dans le comfort de votre maison, ou la mienne.
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RETIREMENT COMMUNITY RÉSIDENCE POUR RETRAITÉS
STERILIZED TOOLS WITH AUTOCLAVE
“Make yourself at home” 475 Church, Russell 613-445-5200 www.russellmeadows.com
www.hearingouie.ca Plus de 25 ans à aider la communauté à mieux entendre ceux qu’elle aime. More than 25 years of helping the community hear the ones they love better.
Appellez une de nos 4 cliniques dès maintenant pour un rendez-vous!
(Siège social) Orléans 260, boul. Centrum, bur. 103 613 837-9902
Casselman 676B, rue Principale 613 764-5328
Rockland 2741, rue Chamberland, bur. 212 613 446-4198
Osgoode 3192, chemin Logan Farm 613 837-9902
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