Category: Important Notices

age-friendly, covid-19, Health Services, Important Notices, Services

SCOA Covid-19 Response

Saskatoon Council on Aging

SCOA Re-opening Update 

The safety of older adults and the community are top priorities to the Saskatoon Council on Aging.
Current Saskatoon Council on Aging Response:
As safety is paramount, we voluntarily remain with our office closed to public access.  Our staff continue to work from home to ensure that older adults have access to resources and information. We can be reached by phone 306-652-2255 or by email admin@scoa.ca for referrals. We maintain a dedicated COVID-19 resource page for older adults on our website www.scoa.ca.

We have a plan in place to reopen when it is safe to do so in compliance with guidelines set out by the Government of Saskatchewan. We plan to prepare our facilities in a way that will allow us to maintain the safety of all involved. We also adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing measures by creating new opportunities for older adults to stay connected. These include our Telephone Visit Program and a program that shows older adults how to use ZOOM technology to join social groups online. 

Once the City of Saskatoon allows SCOA to use their leased space in the Saskatoon Field House [DATE TBA] our organization will continue to operate with the majority of staff working off site and office closed to the public. The office will use a contact-less business model.  

Facilities precautions include but are not limited to:

  • A maximum of two staff members will work out of the office with their work space being more than 2 meters apart.  
  • Shared facilities, office equipment, and common touch surfaces such as telephones, computers, reception desk will receive increased cleaning and disinfection
  • All staff must wash hands upon entry and exit of building
  • Aside from the regular mail services, clients and staff picking up or dropping off items need to schedule times. Pick ups and drop-offs can be done just outside the front entrance of the Field House.  

Classes, Programs and Events 

  • We plan to host fall programs and classes online via ZOOM. Check our website scoa.ca for updates and class schedules 
  • Grand Old Opry Zoomer Style is scheduled for October 21 at the Western Development Museum http://www.scoa.ca/opry.html 
  • Spotlight on Seniors is cancelled for 2020 but will resume in 2021. http://www.scoa.ca/sos.html 

While there is a significant amount of COVID-19 information available, SCOA recommends utilizing only trusted resources to avoid confusion.

We suggest you act upon the recommendations found on the following web pages or other trusted resources.

Potential: SCOA acknowledges the potential challenges brought about by situations such as these. We will continue to do our utmost to remain responsive, flexible, and cooperative in the effort to deliver services and resources to older adults and the community. We will continue to evaluate this model and adjust as necessary as the situation evolves. 

Phone 306-652-2255
Email admin@scoa.ca
Facebook @scoa25
Twitter @scoa3

 

 

 

 

 

age-friendly, Important Notices, Services, Technology

What older adults need to know NOW about virtual communication 

Saskatoon Council on Aging
apple coffee computer desk
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

One truth that has emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic is how important virtual communication has become. Sometimes it’s the only means of communication possible. In hospital settings and nursing homes where visitors are not allowed to visit, virtual communication becomes the only way (besides trying to talk through a window) to reach a loved one and keep them (or yourself) from feeling totally abandoned.

And please don’t throw up your hands and say: Oh, that’s so beyond me; I’ll just phone; my family will be there for me; I haven’t needed it in the past 20 years and I don’t need it now! Really? You may need it tomorrow if you have to be admitted to a care facility or hospital.

Got your attention?  Let’s start with the common cell phone. I think everyone should have one for safety sake in any case, and should, at the very least, know how to text, send emails, use FaceTime and just for fun, learn how to take photos. These basic functions will allow you to keep in touch with your family and they with you.

So why not prepare now for a worst possible communication scenario?

Even if you never have to endure the trauma of mandatory visiting restrictions keeping you from  a loved one, note that there are many other advantages to a cell phone. Texting is the fastest way to reach the grandkids!! FaceTime brings them right to the edge of your chair. And they can teach you the basic functions of a cell phone! And photos are fun!

Why not give it a try?

Isn’t it everyone’s responsibility to learn to communicate virtually?

You’ll be glad you did!

by Mercedes Montgomery, SCOA Co-President 

Great collection of how to’s for ZOOM 

 

age-friendly, Important Notices, Programming, Services, Volunteering

Telephone Visit Program

Saskatoon Council on Aging

Like many other organizations we have cancelled and postponed events until it will be deemed safe by government and health authorities.  As a result of COVID-19, older adults are at high risk for social isolation. They lack opportunities to stay engaged and socialize with others; a key component to health and wellness. They also lack access to current or reliable information as many do not use or cannot access the internet. This may further impede their ability to access basic necessities such as groceries, health products or medical assistance.

The Saskatoon Council on Aging is working with community organizations on a new project to support isolated older adults. We will launch a Telephone Visit program that matches seniors with trained and screened volunteers from community organizations. The volunteers will connect with older adults once or twice a week to chat. Conversations can be short or long and can cover any topic from pets to gardening. The volunteers are not social workers, doctors or any other health care professional. They are just regular people that want to help and touch base with older adults.  The only information that will be shared is a first name and a phone number. Seniors can also pick the best time for volunteers to call.

SCOA will be a central intake agency to provide callers with referrals and support relating to COVID-19.  If the senior is experiencing isolation they would be connected to friendly volunteers that would be a “telephone buddy” .

To register phone SCOA 306.652.2255 

Funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program
In partnership with United Way of Saskatoon and Area.

Background: 

The Saskatoon Council on Aging [SCOA] serves the approximately 80,000 older adults 55 and over in Saskatoon and area. The coronavirus outbreak has profoundly impacted the lives of older adults. They are at a high risk to become socially isolated due to necessary social distancing measures designed to keep them safe.

Prior to the crisis, SCOA provided many opportunities for older adults to socialize and stay connected. We presently have a membership of 4500 older adults. We keep people informed through our one stop information and resource centre, caregiver information and support centre, newsletters, directory of services for older adults, spotlight on Seniors trade show and our websites.  Our programs and services including seniors neighborhood hub clubs, century club, life- long learning programs and globe walk program keep older adults socially connected, engaged, active and healthy.

 

 

 

age-friendly, covid-19, Health Services, Important Notices, Services, Uncategorized

SCOA Covid-19 Response

Saskatoon Council on Aging

The following events have been cancelled:
– Mayfair Seniors Neighbourhood Hub Club – June 18

The following events have been postponed: NEW DATES**
–Grand Old Opry Zoomer Style – OCTOBER 21, 2020
– Main Caregiver Forum –   NOVEMBER 20, 2020
–Spotlight on Seniors   OCTOBER 5, 2021 NEW DATE

Our office is currently closed to the public. To ensure safety with respect to COVID-19, staff will work remotely. We will be available by phone, email or social media for inquiries or referrals.

Phone 306-652-2255
Email admin@scoa.ca
Facebook @scoa25
Twitter @scoa3

As older adults have a higher risk of getting very ill after exposure to COVID-19,  the Saskatoon Council on Aging  [SCOA] is very concerned about this situation.
• The safety of older adults and the community is paramount – SCOA wants to play our part to help flatten the curve for our healthcare system.
• We are cancelling and postponing our social events to ensure that older adults stay safe and also to ensure safety of the community.
• We are also communicating with our membership about basic precautions to take such as hand washing, social distancing et cetera to slow the spread of the virus and also where they can go for more information.
• We urge everyone in the community to stay updated and follow the precautions outlined by the Province of Saskatchewan and Government of Canada

Please watch our website http://www.scoa.ca or call our office 652-2255 for further updates.

 

 

 

 

Health Services, Important Notices, Services

COVID-19 March 18, 2020

Saskatoon Council on Aging

The safety of older adults, volunteers, staff and the community is paramount.

Our office is currently closed to the public however we are available by phone, email or social media for inquiries or referrals.

Phone 306-652-2255
Email admin@scoa.ca
Facebook @scoa25
Twitter @scoa3

Every effort will  be made to communicate regularly with our community, members, partners and stakeholders as this situation evolves.

We are developing a list of resources for older adults during the COVID-19 crisis that will be made available on our website scoa.ca.

We  will closely monitor the situation to respond to changes in provincial and public health recommendations.

Following official recommendations to support our community with respect to COVID-19:
-We have cancelled or postponed all events, programs and classes:

The following events have been cancelled: 
-Caregiver Week workshops – March 16, 17 and 18
-Globe Walk St. Patrick’s Day – March 18
– Seniors Tech Buddy – April 1
– Mayfair Seniors Neighbourhood Hub Club – March 19
– Century Club – April 7 

The following events have been postponed: NEW DATES**
–Grand Old Opry Zoomer Style – October 21, 2020
– Main Caregiver Forum –   NOVEMBER 20, 2020

As the situation evolves, we will provide further information on cancellations or postponements.

 

covid-19, Events, Health Services, Important Notices, Services

COVID-19 Resources for Seniors

Saskatoon Council on Aging

eNews header 585X150

COVID-19 Resources for Seniors
A one page handout with essential phone numbers and information

WordPress Headings

Community Directories

Face Masks

Fitness 

Forever in Motion Home Fitness and Leisure Resource Guide- PDF
Forever in Motion Facebook Group  Join the group for fitness videos, health and wellness information and more

WordPress Headings-2

Grocery Delivery Services 

YXE Community Response to COVID 19 – Humans Helping Humans
Volunteers help isolated seniors with grocery delivery and other errands
Hotline – 306-361-4357     
Email yxecovid19help@gmail.com 
Join Facebook Group 

CHEP GOOD FOOD DELIVERY 
CHEP’s food access programs provide home delivery. Delivery is FREE! Saskatoon only. To order, message us, call 306-655-4575 or email marketsoutreach@chep.org

NEW HORIZONS DELIVERY FOR SENIORS! CHEP Good Food is designated Food Security Lead for Seniors by United Way of Saskatoon & Area as part of the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. Through this program, we are able to deliver ‘good food’ to Seniors FREE OF CHARGE. 
1. By phone (306-655-4575), or
2. Use the online order form. New Horizons for Seniors Order Form. The link can also be found on CHEP.org by scrolling down through Good Food Delivery.

Salvation Army – Grocery and Pharmacy Delivery
 Please email us at covid19response@salvationarmysaskatoon.org or phone (306) 477-2363 and inform the operator you are in need of assistance.

White Buffalo Youth Lodge – 306.653.7676  – Check for current services available – lunch and supper delivery

World Sikh Aid Foundation Volunteers deliver food free of charge to people who can’t get out or afford to buy their own groceries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Phone 306.880.3898 | 306.715.3366 | 306.241.6537

Grocery Stores that deliver

Where to find Saskatchewan sourced food essentials during the pandemic
How to Buy Groceries without going to the store Information Sheet by Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism

Health Services

Lumeca
A Saskatchewan based app that gives Saskatchewan residents free, confidential access to health care professionals through their mobile devices

Self-Assessment Tool: COVID-19 – Government of Saskatchewan

Mental Health Resources

Pets

Pharmacies

  • YXE City Cabs Free Prescription Pick-Up for seniors: (306) 444-3333
  • Medicine Shoppe [any location] – Free prescription delivery
    https://www.medicineshoppe.ca/ 
  • Earl’s Pharmacy – Free prescription delivery 306-244-1531
  • London Drugs – a program to help seniors who may be isolated and in need of medications.  Caregivers and family members can email SupportSeniors@LondonDrugs.com 
  • Shoppers Drug Mart – Fee delivery of medications to your home and help answer your questions via phone. Phone local store[s] for details.

Shopping

Support Services 

  • Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan: Phone/email support to people with dementia, family, friends 306-683-6322; Dementia Helpline at 1-877-949-4141
    email helpline@alzheimer.sk.ca
  • Family Service Saskatoon –Phone counselling
    Phone counselling will be offered during our regular office hours – Monday – Friday,  9am – 5pm. Call (306) 244-0127 within those times for more information.
  • Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations [FSIN] 1-877-626-6448 covid@fsin.com
  • Saskatoon Food Bank – 306-664-6565 Emergency Food Hampers
  • Saskatoon Crisis Intervention Service – Emergency service (306) 933-6200
  • Sage Seniors’ Resources – home health and mobility needs
    Phone: 306-955-7243 Email: sageteam@sasktel.net
  • Saskatoon Council on Aging: Telephone Visit Program – SCOA will match you with a friendly volunteer to chat over the phone.  To register phone 306.652.2255
    Funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, in partnership with United Way of Saskatoon and area. 

Technology

Bolt Mobile – Operation Lifeline 
Old phones are being refurbished and sanitized and then donated to people without phones who are isolated in seniors’ homes and hospitals. Currently available to hospitals and care homes only. Donations accepted. If your hospital or care home facility is interested in receiving donated devices, please contact us today by calling 306-668-4653. .

Utilities

SaskPower
SaskEnergy
SaskTel – COVID-19 Update

News Releases

age-friendly, Important Notices, membership, scoamembership, Services, Uncategorized

Executive Director’s Message

Saskatoon Council on Aging

Did you know that the Saskatoon Council on Aging (SCOA) serves over 80,000 older adults in Saskatoon and area?  SCOA is a non-profit organization which began operations in 1991 and is dedicated to promoting positive aging for all in an age-friendly community.

Positive aging means feeling good, as you grow older. The key to positive aging is staying ACTIVE, ENGAGED and INFORMED.

  • You can stay ACTIVE through SCOA’s Globe Walk Program.
  • You can stay ENGAGED through SCOA’s Senior Neighborhood Hub Clubs, Century Club, and Lifelong learning programs.
  • You can stay INFORMED through SCOA’s information/resource centre and caregiver information and support centre and our publications.
  • Through SCOA’s Age Friendly Saskatoon Initiative the City of Saskatoon now belongs to the World Health Organization’s Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities.   The network was established to foster the exchange of experience and mutual learning between cities and communities worldwide who are striving to better meet the needs of their older residents.  .

Some SCOA key projects and partnerships in the last few years that have emerged from the age-friendly initiative include:

  • Development of an Age-friendly lens that is used to encourage organizations to become age-friendly.
  • Building Respectful Inclusive Communities (training for older adults in congregate living how to combat bullying).
  • VIDEO with Saskatoon Fire, Police and Preston Park 1 (training police and fire to work with seniors).
  • Development of a Community Police and Fire Academy for older adults
    The “Remembering When” project with Saskatoon Fire (volunteers will visit you in your home to educate about fire safety)
  • VIDEO with City Transit (learn how to serve older adults and show older adults how to use City Transit).
  • Bus Buddy program(volunteers show older adults how to use transit)
age-friendly, Important Notices

Executive Directors Message for October 2019

Saskatoon Council on Aging

The staff and volunteers have been quite busy over the summer months organizing programs and events for the fall.  I hope you enjoy reading this issue which is produced by our talented Fund Development/Communication Coordinator, Virginia.

Recently SCOA’s Co-Presidents and I met the Honorable Warren Kaeding, Minister Responsible for Seniors.   He advised that he will be an advocate for older adults at the Ministerial Cabinet table bringing the right people together to make necessary connections.  He is working on gathering a snap shot of what each Ministry does for programs for older adults and collate these findings for a central registry for older adults.  You may find the following link useful from the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum that was held this past May.  At the forum new and emerging issues related to older adults and ways to work collaboratively on key projects were discussed.  Reports and policies that have been approved can be found on this link as well as a variety of resources for seniors.   Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum

The Minister also discussed social isolation of older adults.  Our Volunteer/Program Coordinator, Sheila, has been working hard to have social programs established in Saskatoon for older adults!  SCOA is happy to announce that St. Martins Church and Silverwood Community Heights Association have will be part of the Seniors Neighbourhood Hub Clubs bringing the total now to 5 clubs in Saskatoon.  Please check out the Hub Club for more details.

Important Notices, Partners, Research, Technology

No Patient Left Behind: Electronic Health Record Use in Saskatchewan

Saskatoon Council on Aging

We want to hear from you! No Patient Left Behind: Electronic Health Record Use in Saskatchewan

 Have you ever wanted to see or even access information in your medical record? Are you interested in learning more about what an Electronic Health Record (EHR) is? Or how it works? 

Your EHR is a secure and private lifetime record that gives you access to much of your health data through electronic devices (e.g.: computer, tablet or phone). In Canada, the EHR stores and provides information on your lab results, medication profiles, key clinical reports (e.g.: hospital discharge reports), diagnostic reports from x-rays or other similar tests, and your immunization history. This information can be seen by authorized health care providers and is becoming available for more and more patients to access across the country.  

This technology offers many benefits for patient and health care professionals. For example, the EHR gives patients the ability to see test results and previous and current prescriptions. Access to this data can reduce test duplication and increase communication with doctors and nurses saving time for both parties.  There are also potential challenges with EHR use, including technical difficulties, access to electronic devices and or internet connectivity and concerns about privacy and confidentially. 

Dr. Tracie Risling from the College of Nursing at the University of Saskatchewan is partnering with SCOA on a new research project, No Patient Left Behind: EHR Use in Saskatchewan. This study is about supporting patients across the province to uptake and use their electronic health records. We want to hear from you! How would you want to learn about EHRs? What do think some of the challenges might be when it comes to using EHRs? What type of supports could be developed to support EHR users?

In the coming weeks, Dr. Tracie Risling and her team will be announcing dates for information sessions about EHR use in Saskatchewan and this research project. We are excited to start this research, working with SCOA and looking forward to meeting with those who are interested in sharing their thoughts about this technology and how best to use it.  

For more information on this project contact RisTech Research Coordinator Courtney Carlberg at courtney.carlberg@usask.ca 

This research is funded by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF) and the Saskatchewan Centre for Patient-Oriented Research (SCPOR). 

This research has been approved by the U of S Behavioural Ethics Board (BEH 1259). 

Health Services, Important Notices, Partners, Research

Pain Knowledge Needs of Family Caregivers and Persons with Dementia

Saskatoon Council on Aging

The Saskatoon Council on Aging [SCOA] is pleased to collaborate with Dr. Susan Tupper on the research project “Pain Knowledge Needs of Family Caregivers and Persons with Dementia: Role of Virtual Reality as a Training Modality”. As a leading organization in the province dedicated to supporting positive aging through programs and services that enhance health, dignity, and independence for older adults, SCOA recognizes the importance of this research project for our community members.

Dr. Tupper and the Pain Dementia Virtual Reality Research Team have proposed to create an innovative training program on pain management for family caregivers and people with cognitive impairments related to dementia. Incorporating virtual reality videos into the training materials is an exciting new way to teach family members and people with dementia about pain. The training materials will be developed based on family member input, and their perspectives on the new virtual reality video will help shape the training program in ways that truly support older adults in Saskatchewan. This education will help our families to better cope with pain and prevent suffering and the many negative consequences of living with pain.

In the news: 

CBC Saskatoon May 20, 2019: Pain researcher uses VR to help caregivers deal with dementia patients’ pain. 

CBC Blue Sky May 29, 2019: Managing Acute and Chronic Pain: A panel of Saskatchewan Experts 

Saskatoon Tech Company Using  virtual reality to improve dementia care

The research is funded by the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation and Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation Advancement Inc.

Screen Shot 2019-07-22 at 8.59.55 AM