Has your aging loved one had: a minor or major fall, noticeable weight loss, clutter accumulation in the home, missed appointments or overdue bills? Now is the time to discuss plans and consult with professionals. Being a family caregiver can be stressful. Often, we are balancing care for an aging loved one with the needs of our own children, grandchildren, work, or other commitments. Care needs can be relentless. As you begin a new year, consider how professional in-home care for an aging loved one will improve their quality of life and support you as well.
Community News
Hiring Housekeepers
Are you passionate about cleaning? Or perhaps you know someone who is? We’re currently seeking Housekeepers to join our team, allowing you to turn your love for cleaning into a rewarding profession. Saskatoon Services for Seniors is in search of individuals with a compassionate nature and a strong work ethic to provide assistance in seniors’ homes, specifically with tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and related duties. No medical or personal care knowledge is required, as the role does not involve nursing-related tasks. If you or someone you know is interested, please feel free to inquire for more details. Your commitment can make a positive impact in the lives of seniors in our community.
Handyman Services
In need of assistance around your home? Our dedicated staff is available to help with various tasks to make your living space more comfortable. Whether you require assistance moving furniture, hanging pictures, changing light bulbs and fixtures, or fixing a leaky tap, our team is here to help. We offer a wide range of services to address your specific needs. If you find yourself in need of support, please don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange for assistance. We are here to help.
Shopping Delivery Program
Navigating the cold and snowy weather can pose challenges for shopping outings. For the convenience of our members, we offer a service where you can simply phone or email us with a detailed shopping list, and we will handle the rest. Our team will go to the store to shop on your behalf and then deliver the groceries directly to your home. Whether you need this service frequently or just one time you can place orders as needed. Order requests are accepted on Mondays and Tuesdays, with deliveries scheduled throughout the remainder of the week. Given the limited availability of spots each week (highlighting the significance of our dedicated volunteers), we encourage you to reach out for more information or to place your order. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities.
Breathe in the New Year!
Let 2024 be the year you live your best lung life with these lung health resolutions: 1) Are you or a loved one thinking about quitting or cutting back on smoking? Join the Saskatchewan Quits community at www.SaskQuits.ca for education, peer support, resources, and the chance to win prizes! 2) Stay up to date on your vaccinations. Protect yourself against influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, and RSV. 3) Check your breathing. If you cough, wheeze, experience shortness of breath, or feel chest tightness, ask your healthcare provider about having a spirometry breathing test. 4) Tune in to Lung Saskatchewan’s live and on-demand Lung Life Webinar Series to learn from leading experts at www.LungSask.ca.
Suicide Prevention – Where to Begin?
Navigating the struggle of suicide prevention involves seeking
support from friends, family, and professionals. Finding
helpful tools such as the Embracing Life App (Scan the QR
code in our Ad) or finding other immediate assistance sources
are key to prevention, along with therapy which provides
coping strategies, and staying connected to help combat
isolation. Educate yourself about warning signs, whether it be
for yourself, a loved one, a child in need, create a safety plan,
encourage professional help. Remember, you are NOT alone—
reach out. Prioritize safety, seek help, and work towards a
healthier, more hopeful tomorrow. Embrace life!
Prince Albert Grand Council, www.pagc.sk.ca
Roles of a Funeral Director
Funeral directors operate year-round, but the winter months present specific challenges. Severe weather, such as snow and ice, can hinder transportation and service coordination. Frozen ground complicates burials, requiring special equipment or waiting for thawing. Emotional support becomes more crucial during the winter as the season can amplify grief and isolation. Funeral homes may adapt services and decor to the season. Holiday disruptions and travel issues can affect planning and scheduling. Despite these obstacles, funeral directors are trained to provide compassionate services, offering support to grieving families throughout the winter months.
Breakfast: Vital Morning Fuel
A healthy breakfast offers numerous benefits, including improved energy levels, weight management support, enhanced concentration, and better mood. Consuming a balanced morning meal jumpstarts metabolism, aiding in efficient calorie burning. It also provides an opportunity to intake essential vitamins and minerals crucial for overall health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Regular breakfast consumption is associated with stabilized blood sugar levels and the promotion of feel-good neurotransmitters, positively impacting cognitive function. Additionally, it establishes healthy habits, setting a positive tone for the day and encouraging the maintenance of an overall healthy lifestyle, both mentally and physically.
Holistic Wellness Program
Youth Engagement & Empowerment program is available for
youth and operates five days a week (Tuesday to Saturday)
and is free to register. Transportation and food are provided.
Participation is required, and our goal is to provide a safe space
where youth can develop self-esteem, leadership skills, and
healthy relationships. We offer evening, summer, and Saturday
day programs, including cultural activities and on-the-land
camps. We aim to reduce illegal behaviors and drug use among
indigenous youth and address their mental health concerns. Our
team includes Elders, youth workers, and various facilitators.
We care about urban Indigenous youth and are here to help
and support them and their families.
PAGC Holistic Wellness Centre, pagc.sk.
Death & Taxes
You know the saying: The only two things that are guaranteed in life are death and taxes. So why is it that we only plan for one of them? Do we really need to ‘deal with this’ now? It is not that we never think about what we would want, but it is also not the most comfortable or cheerful topic to bring up. Being prepared helps ease the burden at a difficult time. You also have the opportunity to know what the different options are, like guaranteeing your choices in advance, so you nor your estate will ever have to pay more. So, this year talk about taxes but also talk about pre-planning your funeral arrangements.
Cold Weather and Hearing Aids
Cold weather can affect hearing aids by reducing battery life and causing condensation. To address this, carry spare batteries, use a drying kit, and store your hearing aids in a protective case. Be cautious when handling them as cold can make the components brittle. Wearing a hat or earmuffs can protect them from the elements. Regular cleaning and earwax maintenance are also crucial. If issues arise, consult your hearing healthcare professional for assistance.
