Compass Homecare

Aging brings unique challenges that can impact the mental health of our older adults, including dealing with loss, physical changes, and feelings of isolation. But there are ways we can support them at this stage of life. Here are 4 things we can do:

1. Foster Connection: Encourage regular social interactions through local community programs, family gatherings, or online platforms. Connection combats loneliness and keeps the mind engaged.
2. Promote Physical Activity: Even light exercises like walking or yoga can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Encourage getting outside as much as possible during suitable weather, even to just sit at the park or in the backyard.
3. Offer Emotional Support: Create a safe space for seniors to share their feelings. Listen with empathy and validate their experiences, ensuring they know they are not alone. Ask questions and regularly check-in with them to ask how they are doing. Encourage them to write their thoughts and feelings down in a journal.
4. Encourage Finding Purpose: Help our older adults discover new passions by learning a skill, picking up a hobby, or exploring a new interest. Engaging in meaningful activities can provide a sense of purpose, boost self-esteem, and keep the mind sharp.

By taking these steps, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our aging loved ones. Let's prioritize their mental health as much as their physical well-being.

September is Prostate Awareness Month by Prostate Canada. In an effort to signal boost awareness, we are sharing risk factors and facts in developing prostate cancer in men. The risk factors for developing prostate cancer are not fully understood and require more research. However, the following are risk factors that have been well-studied and are most likely to increase your chances of developing prostate cancer:

Race: It is not clear why, but African-Canadian and Caribbean-Canadian men are at the highest risk of developing prostate cancer. Black men are 76% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than other Canadian men and are 2.3 times more likely to die from their prostate cancer.

Age: The odds of developing prostate cancer increase with age. In other words, the older you are, the more likely you are to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. The lifetime odds of a man developing prostate cancer in his 50’s is 1 in 111. The odds rise to 1 in 30 for men in their 60’s. While very rare, men as young as in their 20’s have been diagnosed.

Asymptomatic in Early Stages: Prostate cancer often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which makes regular screenings, like PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests, crucial for early detection.

Spread the word—early detection can make a difference. How can you get involved? Find an event taking place near you across Canada, or learn more about Prostate Canada via the link below:
https://prostatecanada.ca/get-involved/find-an-event

September is World Alzheimer's Month, a global campaign to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer's disease and dementia. With over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia, it’s more important than ever to support those affected and invest in research for better treatment and care.

Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing the disease. Here are 5 potential early warning signs to be aware of:

1. Memory Loss: Frequently forgetting recently learned information or important dates.
2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems: Struggling with tasks that require concentration, like following a recipe or managing finances.
3. Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time.
4. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Trouble with routine activities, such as driving to a familiar location.
5. Changes in Mood and Personality: Becoming easily upset, confused, or anxious, especially in new situations.

If these signs are noticeable, it's important to seek medical advice. Early detection can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Does your loved one need help? Caring for a family member or loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is an immense undertaking, and Compass Homecare is here to help. As the disease progresses, their needs increase exponentially. We understand the duty families feel to their loved ones, and we’re not here to interfere with that. Instead, our team is available to provide professional and much-deserved support.

Learn more about our approach to Alzheimer’s & Dementia care via the link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/alzheimers-dementia-care

Did you know that Compass Homecare offers Post-Surgery & Post-Operative Care services?

Are you worried about leaving the hospital? We understand that transitioning from the hospital to home after surgery can be daunting. As part of your recovery continues at home, we are here to ease your worries and ensure a smooth, safe transition back to the comfort of your own space. At Compass Homecare, we strive to be the helping hand that bridges your journey from hospital care to home independence.

Our expert team is here to support individuals in their journey to recovery. We can provide personalized assistance with medication management, meal preparation, toileting, dressing, washing, safe ambulation, and other forms of post-operative assistance in the comfort of your own home.

Learn more about our Post-Surgery & Post-Operative Care via the link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/post-surgery-post-operative-care/

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month by Ovarian Cancer Canada. Did you know that ovarian cancer is not just one disease, it is a group of diseases? Each type of ovarian cancer is different and are broadly classified according to which type of ovarian cell they start from (epithelial, germ, or stromal). Ovarian tumours that are malignant can spread to other parts of the body and can be serious. Here are two other facts you might not know:

1. Silent Symptoms: Ovarian cancer is known to be “silent"" because its symptoms—like bloating, pelvic pain, and frequent urination—are often mistaken for less serious conditions. This can lead to late-stage diagnosis, making early awareness and attention to these signs vital.
2. Genetic Links: About 20% of ovarian cancer cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetic testing could be an important step in early detection and prevention.

Talk to your mother, sister, daughter, or friend about ovarian cancer and the importance of getting screened — it may just save someone's life. Let's spread awareness and support ongoing research to improve early detection and treatment. Looking to take more action? Join the OCC Walk of Hope taking place in cities across Canada this Sunday, September 8th:
https://ovariancanada.org/events/ovarian-cancer-canada-walk-of-hope

September is Arthritis awareness month by the Arthritis Society of Canada. Arthritis is a collection of conditions affecting joints and other tissues. It causes pain, restricts mobility and diminishes quality of life. Did you know that there are over 100 different forms of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint condition that can significantly impact daily life. Early signs to watch for include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, often worsening after activity. If you notice these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

Management options range from lifestyle changes like weight management and exercise to medications and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. Early intervention is key to maintaining mobility and improving quality of life.

If you or someone you love has been been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, the Arthritis Society of Canada has put together a self-management tool kit via the link below:
https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-self-management

Happy Labour Day long weekend! Let's relish these final moments of summer by spending quality time with our loved ones. Whether it's a family barbecue, a relaxing day at the park, or simply sharing moments at home — it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. At Compass Homecare, we believe in the power of family, togetherness, and the joy it brings to our seniors. Wishing everyone a safe and Happy Labour Day!

At Compass Homecare, we recognize that living with a chronic condition presents unique challenges for you or your loved one. Our Complex Care services offer personalized and compassionate support, tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're dealing with a neurological disorder, managing a disability or injury, or need assistance with personal care, we're here to help you maintain control over your life while receiving expert care in the comfort of your own home.

Learn more about our Complex Care services at: https://compasshomecare.ca/services/complex-care/

Compass Homecare offers Hospital Discharge services that help you Recover — Return — and Remain at Home. To continue with your or your loved ones healing, we provide smooth hospital-to-home transitions. Our hospital discharge services are tailor-made to ensure our clients leave the hospital with ease, comfort, and security while supporting their ongoing recovery.

Our team provides excellent support with medication management and other critical aspects of their transition. Ensure your loved ones have a safe and hassle-free hospital discharge with our specialized hospital discharge services in the Greater Toronto Area.

Learn more about our Recover. Return. Remain at Home road map via the downloadable PDF at the link below: https://tinyurl.com/mvsrm5uj

Have an in-depth look at our Hospital Discharge services at our link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/hospital-discharge/

A recent MRI scan of a 40-year-old triathlete and a 70-year-old triathlete revealed that both athletes retained nearly identical muscle mass and bone density. This compelling evidence shows that aging doesn't have to mean a decline in health. By incorporating daily physical activity at any age, we can mitigate many of the challenges that come with aging. Let's advocate for sustainable physical activities for all ages and abilities to achieve lasting health benefits.

Source: https://www.bettermovement.org/blog/2012/use-or-lose-looks-like

Our reputation in the community is important to us and we like to share what our client have to say about our care services. Judy tells us about her experience with us as we provided Alzheimers care:

“Compass Homecare was very helpful in locating a caregiver to look after our father who suffers from Alzheimers. During the short time the caregiver worked with our family, she made very certain that our father was well taken care of. She was conscientious and warm in all her dealings with him and our family. Her care provided peace of mind during a difficult time.”
– JUDY

After over a decade of providing top quality care to families across the GTA, we are proud of difference we can make as a team. Read more about our Alzheimers & Dementia care via the link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/alzheimers-dementia-care/

We can all work towards better and prolonged health by simply incorporating the right food into our diet. As we age, it’s even more imperative that we foster a diet that supports our bodily systems and can contribute to longer lasting good health. We have put together a list of 10 superfoods to add to your next grocery store trip:

Blueberries:
• Benefit: Packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, they combat oxidative stress and inflammation, improving brain health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Avocados:
• Benefit: High in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins E and C, avocados promote skin health, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.

Salmon:
• Benefit: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes healthy skin and brain function.

Kale:
• Benefit: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, kale supports immune function, bone health, and skin elasticity.

Nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts):
• Benefit: High in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, nuts improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.

Green Tea:
• Benefit: Contains powerful antioxidants like catechins, green tea enhances brain function, aids in weight management, and may reduce the risk of cancer.

Turmeric:
• Benefit: Its active compound, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, improving joint health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Spinach:
• Benefit: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, spinach supports eye health, reduces oxidative stress, and improves overall vitality.

Dark Chocolate:
• Benefit: High in antioxidants and flavonoids, dark chocolate improves heart health, boosts brain function, and protects skin from UV damage.

Quinoa:
• Benefit: A complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, quinoa supports muscle health, provides sustained energy, and is high in fiber and antioxidants.

Speak to a health care professional about the right nutritional plan to meet the unique needs of you or your loved one. Did you know that Compass Homecare can assist with ensuring proper nutrition through meal assistance? Learn more about our comprehensive care services:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/

In today’s ever-evolving society, Compass Homecare stands at the forefront of providing exemplary Elder and Senior Home Care services. We understand that with age, a familiar environment is always a preference. We are here to help facilitate their desire to stay at home in the comfort of their own environment. At its essence, our service ensures that seniors are able to age in the comfort and safety of their own homes, surrounded by cherished memories.

The journey of aging is accompanied by unique challenges, be it mobility constraints, cognitive changes, or the need for companionship. Our service aids seniors battling these challenges and supports those recovering from medical procedures or enduring disabilities. Moreover, families seeking premium care for their loved ones find peace of mind in our expertise, freeing them from the stress of relocating to a new environment.

Learn more about our approach to Elder Care via the link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/services/elder-care-senior-home-care/

Have you and your family spoken about Emergency Preparedness for elder family members living at home? Ensuring our seniors are safe and prepared for emergencies is crucial and can make all the difference in outcomes, creating better peace of mind for everyone. Here are key steps to keep in mind:

1. Identify likely Emergencies: Learn about the types of disasters or emergencies that could happen in your community, from blackouts, severe snow storms, or accidents in the home. Understand how their medical, physical and cognitive needs may affect your ability to respond to a disaster or an emergency. i.e. Are there backup power sources for individuals needing medical devices in the event of a blackout?
2. Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan that includes emergency contacts, medical records, evacuation routes, designated meeting spot, and an action to plan to address any of the potential emergencies listed above.
3. Assemble an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials like medications, water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, candles, and ensure first aid supplies are easily accessible. Assess the need for an emergency fall button.
4. Stay Informed: Sign up for alerts and weather warnings. Ensure seniors have access to a reliable communication device, such as a battery operated radio and cell phone.
5. Home Safety Check: Regularly inspect the home for potential hazards. Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers — on every floor of the home, and ensure easy access to exits.
6. Community Support: Establish a support network with neighbours, family, and friends who can assist during emergencies. Consider hiding a key in a safe spot outside the home for neighbours/family to gain access in the event of an emergency.

Being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of our elders.

Read more via the link below from Red Cross:https://www.redcross.ca/crc/documents/Emergencies-Guide-for-Older-Adults_web.pdf

As we gear up for the long weekend ahead, let's take a moment to remember the importance of encouraging our seniors to stay social and connected.

Engaging with friends and family, attending gatherings, and staying active in social circles isn't just about having fun—it's crucial for their mental and physical health. Studies show that regular social interactions can reduce the risk of depression, enhance cognitive function, and even boost overall longevity.

So, let's make an extra effort this weekend to reach out to the seniors in our lives. Invite them to family function, spend quality time together, and ensure they feel included and valued. Their well-being benefits tremendously from staying connected and social as they age.

At Compass Homecare, we understand that the journey from hospital to home can be a critical and sometimes overwhelming process. Do you or your loved one require more individual attention when in the hospital, coordinating the transition back home, or assistance at home to ensure you remain safe & healthy?

Learn about our full spectrum of care services in hospital discharge via the link below: https://compasshomecare.ca/services/hospital-discharge/

Vitamin D is very important for seniors' health, promoting bone strength, immune function, and mood enhancement. Here are four safe ways for seniors to enjoy the outdoors and boost their vitamin D levels this summer:

1. Morning Walks: Enjoy the cooler morning hours with a gentle walk in the park or around the neighborhood, within a safe distance and individual abilities. Use mobility devices, such as canes and rollators that assist with making physical activity safer and possible.
2. Gardening: Engage in light gardening activities, ensuring time in the shade and staying hydrated.
3. Outdoor Socializing: Host or attend outdoor gatherings with family and friends, under umbrellas or shaded areas.
4. Outdoor Yoga and Tai Chi: Participate in low-impact exercises like yoga or Tai Chi in a shaded area, promoting flexibility and relaxation, within our individual abilities.

Let’s encourage our seniors to get outside safely and soak up the benefits of vitamin D while staying active!

Nothing speaks louder than the incredible testimonials we receive from the families we provide care services for. We believe in the power of building a strong reputation in our community as the best way to be found by others who are looking to receive services. Lili S tells us:

“We found ourselves urgently needing night-time care for my mother-in-law whose condition was deteriorating rapidly. Compass Homecare’s response was unbelievably quick. The same day I called they were there to assess the situation, and that evening we had the care in place. We found the people they provided to be kind, effective and reliable. We would not hesitate to recommend their services.”
– LILI S

After over a decade of providing top quality care to families across the GTA, we are proud of difference we can make as a team. Read more about our solid reputation and what our clients say via the link below:
https://compasshomecare.ca/testimonials/

Summer is a wonderful time for seniors to engage in enjoyable and health-promoting activities. Here are some great family friendly activities everyone of all ages can enjoy together:

1. Start a Family Garden: Starting a family garden in the backyard or balcony is a great therapeutic and rewarding activity that provides light exercise and fresh air, all summer long!
2. Trip to the Farmers Market: With Farmers Markets popping up in every borough, there’s bound to be one within close proximity to your family! Make the trek out of town to visit a favourite destination or plan a local market-hop of a few spots right in town.
3. Community Events: Our very own neighbourhoods and communities come alive during the summer with local events, festivals, concerts and more! Need not travel far to create memorable family experiences that also support our local economies. Check your local BIA website and social channels to see what’s on!
4. Host a Family BBQ or Picnic: What better time to wrangle the entire family together during nice weather & sunshine to host a BBQ or potluck picnic! Host a small intimate family event, or an entire family reunion. Create family memories that will last a lifetime.

Whatever you and your family decide to do, it is spending quality time together that matters most. What are some of your favourite go-to age-friendly family events?

At Compass Homecare, we understand that living with a chronic condition brings unique challenges into your life or the life of your loved one. Complex care is our way of extending a helping hand, offering you personalized and compassionate support tailored to your needs.

Whether you are navigating the daily hurdles of a neurological disorder, managing life with a disability or injury, or require assistance with personal care, we are here to enable you to maintain control over your life while receiving the expert care you deserve, right in the comfort of your own home.

Learn more about our Complex Care services at: https://compasshomecare.ca/services/complex-care/

As summer heats up, it's crucial for seniors to take extra care of their health. Here are some essential tips to stay safe and healthy:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
2. Dress Appropriately: Wear light, breathable clothing, UV-filtering sunglasses, and a wide brimmed hat to protect from the sun.
3. Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outdoors.
4. Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat hours. Avoid going out in high temperatures to avoid risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Engage in gentle exercises like walking or swimming, preferably in the early morning or late evening.
5. Check Your Medication: Some medications may cause the body to be more sensitive to the sun. Make sure you and your loved ones know if their prescription medicine requires them to take extra precautions in the sun.

Compass Homecare would like to wish you and your family a wonderful and memorable summer season!

Meet Parul, one of our dedicated Nurse Supervisors at Compass Homecare. We're thrilled to share that we recently participated in a seniors' health and wellness event organized by Age Friendly Consulting. A huge shout out to Debra Sayewich for her exceptional effort in coordinating this event. Thank you, Debra!

From all of us at Compass Homecare, we wish you a joyful and relaxing Canada Day long weekend filled with celebration and togetherness. Let's cherish the moments that make us proud to be Canadian. Enjoy the fireworks, barbecues, and time spent with loved ones.

As we close out June and Seniors Month, we'd love to share how we've been making a difference for our care patients and their families over the last 12 years, and the positive impressions we make across the communities we serve. If you've ever wondered how we can make a difference in the lives of your loved one who might need support, here are some real life inspirational stories:

https://compasshomecare.ca/testimonials/

June is ALS Awareness Month in Canada.

Did you know early detection of ALS symptoms can significantly impact a patient's quality of life? Knowing the signs and symptoms might make the difference for you or a loved one, making education key.

Potential early signs:
Tripping
Dropping things
Slurred or “thick” speech
Difficulty swallowing
Weight loss
Decreased muscle tone
Shortness of breath
Increased or decreased reflexes
Uncontrollable periods of laughing or crying

Potential early symptoms:
Feeling weak
Fatigue
Muscle cramping or twitching
Muscle stiffness or rigidity

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, see your healthcare professional. Learn more about ALS via the link below:
https://als.ca/

In Canada, June is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Each year national, provincial, and local associations run campaigns to increase awareness about the prevalence of brain injury, the obstacles that exist for those with brain injury, and the need for more services and support at all stages of recovery.

Lack of awareness of brain injury contributes to both personal and systemic barriers that make daily living and community interactions challenging for the over 1.5 million Canadians with brain injury, their caregivers, and their families. And these are not short-term challenges – for the majority of individuals, the effects of brain injury are chronic and life-long. Yet there is little research on the long-term implications of brain injury, resulting in critical gaps in care for hundreds of thousands of Canadians.

Brain Injury Canada is a resource for those suffering with a brain injury, their families, and for healthcare professionals to keep up to date with the latest breaking research:
https://braininjurycanada.ca/en/

Sunday, June 16 is Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to all the incredible dads out there! We would like to celebrate the love, strength, and unwavering dedication of dads everywhere. At Compass Homecare, we are honoured to serve the families that entrust us with the care of their fathers and loved ones. Dads, your selflessness, compassion, and courage inspire us every day. Thank you for all that you do!

As a homecare provider in your community, we recognize and observe June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by The United Nations.

Between 2019 and 2030, the number of persons aged 60 years or over is projected to grow by 38%, from 1 billion to 1.4 billion, globally outnumbering youth, and this increase will be the greatest and the most rapid in the developing world, and recognizing that greater attention needs to be paid to the specific challenges affecting older persons, including in the field of human rights.

Elder abuse is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries yet is typically underreported globally. Prevalence rates or estimates exist only in selected developed countries — ranging from 1% to 10%. Although the extent of elder mistreatment is unknown, its social and moral significance is obvious. As such, it demands a global multifaceted response, one which focuses on protecting the rights of older persons.

Watch the video from The World Health Organization about their mission toward Age-friendly cities and how they benefit everyone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sppjdYCM8yg

June is Seniors Month in Ontario. The 2024 theme is “Working for Seniors.”

It’s a time to recognize the hard work seniors have done all their lives to build our communities and take care of their families and loved ones. Our provincial government is building programs that recognize the achievements of our elder community and provide services that allow them to thrive, such as funding the Seniors Active Centre programs.

Do you know an outstanding senior who deserves recognition for their contributions? You can nominate someone for the Age-Friendly Communities Recognition program. The deadline is November 15th: https://www.ontario.ca/page/honours-and-awards-community -2