Better with Age Mieux avec l'âge Winter 2021 - Volume 1 A Message from the Coalition Welcome to our first issue of Better with Age. This newsletter was developed by the Seniors Take Action Coalition to learn more about seniors and concerns of seniors by providing information and opportunities for seniors to contribute to this newsletter. We hope to demonstrate and celebrate the lives and contributions of older adults in Richmond County. As strong advocates for age-friendly communities, we will increase the awareness about, and emphasize the importance of, age-friendly communities for people of all ages who live in Richmond County. Nous sommes fiers de vous présenter notre première édition de Mieux avec l’âge. Ce bulletin a été développé par Seniors Take Action Coalition pour en savoir plus sur les aînés et leurs préoccupations en fournissant diverses informations propices. Nous voulons également offrir des occasions aux aînés pour contribuer à ce bulletin. Nous espérons démontrer et célébrer les contributions des personnes âgées dans le comté de Richmond. En tant que fervents défenseurs des communautés Amies des Aînés, nous augmenterons la sensibilisation et nous soulignerons l'importance de cette collectivité pour les personnes de tous âges qui vivent dans cette région. The Seniors Take Action Coalition was established in January, What's in This Issue: 2016, to work collaboratively with others to improve the health and well-being of seniors in the Strait Richmond area. Members Page 1: come from various seniors’ clubs, organizations involved in Update from the Seniors Take Action Coalition seniors’ programming and services, and people passionate about ageing well in the place we call home. Page 2: Age -Friendly Communities We recently learned that we were successful in receiving funding No Room Here For Ageism by Julie Freeman through the Wellness Funds (from the Strait Richmond Community Health Board). Through this project we hope to Page 3: strengthen the ties that hold us together as a Coalition and to Who are the people in your neighborhood expand our active membership. Meet Robert Goyetche by Josette Marchand Our project goals are to: Page 4: Community Corner: Spotlight on: VON Build a collaborative network of organizations, groups and Services and Programs in Your Community individuals passionate about working together to address issues impacting older persons in our communities. Page 5: Determine priority areas on which to begin our work together Seniors Clubs and Groups in Your Community to help reduce social isolation. Develop an action plan with achievable goals. Page 6: Upcoming Courses, Events We hope to create ways that the voices of all seniors in our area Useful Links and Tidbits are heard. We welcome others to join us as we strive together to increase the health and well-being of seniors in Richmond Page 7: County. Available Grants for Organizations and Individuals Dorothy Barnard, Coalition Chair Page 8: Last Words Celebrating and thanking the many local businesses in our communities operated by older adults For more information about the Seniors Take Action Coalition, or if you would like to become involved contact: [email protected]
A G E - F R I E N D LY communities An age-friendly community has policies, services, settings, and structures that support and enable people to age actively by: Recognizing the wide range of skills and experiences among older people. Anticipating and responding flexibly to aging-related needs and preferences. Respecting the decisions and lifestyle choices of older adults. Protecting those older adults who are most vulnerable. Promoting the inclusion of older adults in, and contribution to, all areas of community life. Une collectivité-amie des aînés : Reconnaît la vaste gamme de compétences et d'habiletés propres aux aînés; Connaît les besoins des aînés liés au vieillisUne collectivité-amie des aînés:sement et y répond; Respecte les décisions et les choix de vie des aînés; Protège les aînés vulnérables; Sait que les aînés ont beaucoup à offrir à leur collectivité; Rreconnaît l'importance de la participation des aînés à tous les volets de la vie communautaire. Age-friendly planning is about a community’s preparedness for residents of all ages to enjoy and participate in community life. As a population ages, new supports and services are required to reflect people’s changes in mobility, vision, taste, smell, and memory, as well as interests and concerns. Communities can help with some of this loss in capacity from aging by providing safe and accessible buildings, appropriate transportation, walkable environments, and opportunities for learning, working ,and volunteering. No Room Here For Ageism by: Julie Freeman More than 20 years into the new century, we have turned our backs on Race-ism, sex-ism and most other forms of prejudice. And yet, Age-ism thrives – the discrimination based on a person’s age, and the stereotype we ourselves have come to believe. We knock ourselves down with jabs like ‘having a senior moment’, ‘too old for that’, ‘looking good for our age’. It’s who we are now, we tell ourselves. The Ontario Human Rights Commission published a report more than 20 years ago, pointing out that only 25% of aging is due to physical disability. The other 75% is about how we see ourselves, through folklore and prejudices we wear like an old, weathered sou’wester. Click here to read the report. http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/time-action-advancing-human-rights-older-ontarians/ageism So, here is my confession on the subject: I’m a senior who pretty much bypassed even recognizing it as something to be reckoned with. Because it’s that sneaky. That hateful. And that common… But now, it’s smacked itself on my windshield, and I can’t wipe it out of my view. There are many seniors who push aside maturity and live full and productive years. President Jimmy Carter, at 96, builds homes for the homeless; by the time he was 81, Australian Jon Sanders, sailed solo around the globe 11 times, raising awareness of plastic pollution in our oceans; beloved Cape Breton-er Rev. Hugh Donald MacDonald served his diocese until the age of 92; Betty White just turned 99, and has been entertaining us for 80 years non-stop. It’s an endless list of course. And most of us won’t leave such a distinguished legacy. But here in Richmond County, where hearts are as big as the sky, there is just no room for Ageism in any form. More Information Coming Soon - Richmond County Age Friendly Communities Action Plan Committee 2
WHO ARE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Robert Goyetche by: Josette Marchand If you have participated in any senior event in Richmond County, chances are you know Robert Goyetche. A long-time fixture in his community, he admits he has taken on many roles over the years. After completing his Grade 12 at Isle Madame District High, Robert went on to complete a B.A. and then a B.Ed. at St. FX University. After his graduation, he received three job offers (two in Sydney and one in Port Hawkesbury) and he chose to teach in Port Hawkesbury. He retired in 2005 after a teaching career that spanned 31 years. “Fortunately, because of that job offer, I was able Watching Robert work and witnessing to live in my community,” Robert says with pride. his easy interactions with people, you probably would not be surprised that he “I loved the sense of growing up around all of my is quite active in his community. immediate family and a caring community where Looking at the list of Robert's current everyone looked out for each other. They were there and past service, he touches almost for each other in good times and when the going was every important aspect of our lives. tough. I always admired the feeling of everyone Here is just a sample of what he does: rallying around each other for support.” · Chair of Louisdale Community Homes Association and board member for the Born into a close-knit family in Louisdale, Goyetche credits his parents “since day one” past 20 years; for instilling the importance taking care of people and of giving back. He says he and his · Vice-Chair and member, Strait-Richmond two younger sisters, Marlene and Darlene, grew up in a very busy household where his Healthcare Foundation; mother was their primary caregiver when his father worked away during the week. · Director / Member of the Louisdale Lions Additionally, they lived with both sets of grandparents and were blessed to spend some Club /Acting Secretary/Treasurer at times time with them. Naturally, their house was always full of visiting relatives. for the last 10 years; · President of the Louisdale Fleur de- Lis According to the National Seniors Council report on Volunteering Among Seniors, Seniors Club with over 350 members; seniors aged 65+ gave more hours on average than any other age cohort, with an · Member of the Seniors Take Action average of 218 hours annually. Robert Goyetche is among the growing number of Coalition since 2016; seniors who give freely of their time and talents for the betterment of the community. · Member of the Louisdale Parish Finance But does volunteering also contribute to the well-being of the senior? Committee, Baraco Day Committee, Food The report states that Bank Committee, Good Friday Meal Committee, etc.; Volunteering is also linked to improved quality of life, increased · Treasurer of Richmond PC Association physical activity, and lower mortality rates. It enhances life for the past 30 years. satisfaction and well-being, contributes to self-confidence and personal growth, and provides a sense of purpose by providing individuals with the opportunity to contribute to their communities and to society. Robert agrees with that statement. “Now that I am a senior, I see the value of their contribution to society over the years and to be an advocate for issues that affect them., \" he said. “Involvement in my community helps me avoid negative Robert with his sisters Darlene (left) and Marlene (right). outcomes such as poor mental health by providing me with a sense of belonging and energy that drive me to beneficial 3 activities that help others.\" However, when asked about his most memorable volunteer experience, Goyetche reminisced about the creation of the Louisdale Community Homes Association. “I had a cousin who was in a guest home in Mabou - - actually there were three from Louisdale. I approached Father Sid Mifflen at the time to see what we could do”. Soon thereafter, through hard work and community dedication, a group of residents moved into a guest home in Louisdale. “This was so gratifying to see,” said Goyetche. “I am so amazed and proud to see their independence. \" If you wonder why Robert gave and continues to give so much of his time, this is what he will tell you: “Volunteering gives me a great sense of satisfaction. I am soft-hearted for people in need, I am drawn to help them. Volunteering comes naturally to me. I just do it.” We are delighted that we can count him among our own!
COMMUNITY CORNER spotlight on: VON VON Canada has been providing services to the residents of Richmond County since June 2019. With over 200 clients, Home Support workers visit clients in their homes to help maintain independence, and provide caregiver support. If you want more information on this program, call 902-345-2900. VON also offers the flexible and convenient Meals on Wheels Program for clients who are not able to – or not interested in – cooking full meals for themselves. These are frozen single portions, available for pickup in our office, or delivered to your home. With several home-style frozen meals to choose from, they are ready to pop into the microwave or conventional oven and include options such as chicken, beef and fish entrees. Family members and caregivers can also benefit from these convenient meals by ensuring their families/loved ones have meals in their freezers to have on hand when needed. Thanks to generous community funding, we currently have a price of $5.00 per meal, with additional non-perishable food items provided with the compliments of Sobeys. Home deliveries are no-charge on this program. The Transportation Program makes it possible for those without adequate transport to maintain an independent lifestyle. Supported by volunteer drivers, clients can receive door-to-door transportation to medical appointments and to run errands. The program provides rides throughout Richmond County and surrounding areas. ** VON Richmond has immediate Volunteer positions for their Frozen Meal program. Volunteers transport and accompany clients to their medical or other essential appointments. Please reach out for more information. All of our volunteers are screened and trained in COVID-19 safe practices and supported by staff. For more information about our Frozen Meal or Transportation Program, or becoming a volunteer, please contact Karen O’Neil at [email protected] or phone 902 564 6479 ext. 205. SERVICES AND PROGRAMS in Your Community Richmond County Seniors’ Safety and Social Inclusion Program All services available FREE of charge for Richmond County residents 55+ (Funding from Dept. of Seniors and Municipality of the County of Richmond) - Service Navigation ( where to go to for services and help) - Home Safety Visits (includes Fire Safety) - Yoga & Mindfulness - Presentations (Falls & Abuse Prevention, Deprescribing, Frauds & Scams Awareness) - Programming (Your Way to Wellness, Canadian Mental Health Association, Fountain of Health) - Socially inclusive programs and services What to Do in Times of Stress The Dr. Kingston Memorial Community Health Centre received permission to adapt the World Health Organization's guide to coping with stress and adversity into a peer supportive program. Volunteer Senior Facilitators throughout Richmond County will be trained to take the program into their communities. (Funding from Dept. of Seniors Age- Friendly Communities) Michele is available to assist individuals with accessing information, services, and programs related to their safety, health, and well-being. Reach out to Michele MacPhee (902) 587-2800 ext: 5 or [email protected] 4
SENIORS CLUBS IN RICHMOND COUNTY in your community Arichat - Susan Marchand Dundee/St.George Isle Madame New Horizons Seniors Club Channel [email protected], 902-631-3853 Dundee/St. George's Channel Red Islands South Mountain Arm of Gold Association Grand River - Joanne McCormack Port River Grand River Seniors Club Hawkesbury Bourgeois [email protected], 902-587-2143 L'Ardoise - Lillie Spray West Bay St. Peter's Grand River L'Ardoise Jolly Seniors Lower River [email protected] , 902-587-2077 Louisdale L'Ardoise Louisdale- Robert Goyetche Fleur de Lis Seniors Club - Arichat Rocky Bay [email protected], 902-345-2232 or Cell - 902 227-7079 Other Seniors Groups Lower River- Peggy MacNeil Riverdale's Seniors Club 55, Le Regroupement de Aines et Aines de la Nouvelle-Ecosse [email protected], 902-625-0166 Janine Lacroix, [email protected] Port Hawkesbury - Francis Lamey 902-226-0077 Strait Area Evergreen Senior Citizens' Club Richmond County Seniors Council [email protected], 902-625-3962 Claire and Wilfred Marchand, [email protected] Red Islands - Howard MacIntyre 902-345- 2499 or 902-302-1650 Bras D'Or Lakers Seniors’ Club, Richmond County Branch of Retired Teachers [email protected], 902-631-5643 Marlene Boyd, [email protected] River Bourgeois - Rose Merrick 902-625-3096 River Bourgeois 50+ Seniors, [email protected], 902-535-2141 Rocky Bay - Cynthia Blackmore Rocky Bay Irish Club, [email protected] 902-302-3922 St. Peter's - Ken Leachman Bonnie Brae Senior Citizens Club [email protected], 902-535-2835 West Bay - Murray McPhee Head of the Bay Seniors Club 902-345-2988 or Sedley Rafuse, [email protected], 902-345-2063 “You can't help Trivia getting older, but you don't have Tune into our next issue to see if you have the correct answer! Lisez notre prochaine édition pour vérifier si vous avez coché la bonne réponse ! to get old.” What percentage of adults living in Richmond County are 55 years and older? - George Burns Quel est le pourcentage d’adultes âgés de 55 ans et plus, qui vivent dans le comté de Richmond ? 28% 34% 46% 58% 5
UPCOMING events, courses, and other useful links and tidbits 30th edition of the Positive Aging Directory a guide to programs and services for older adults in Nova Scotia. Click here to read. Richmond County Literacy Network Useful Provincial Websites https://caregiversns.org/ https://alzheimer.ca/ns https://ns.211.ca/ https://nscommunitylinks.ca/ https//novascotia.ca/seniors/ https://novascotia.ca/dhw/ccs/ https://housing.novascotia.ca/programs/housing-programs-seniors https://mha.nshealth.ca/en https://fountainofhealth.ca/ National and International Websites https://www.carp.ca/ https://www.activeagingcanada.ca/ https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/ https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/aging-seniors.html https://cnpea.ca/en/ https://www.endsocialisolation.org/ https://www.nia-ryerson.ca/ 6
AVAILABLE GRANTS for organizations and individuals The Age-Friendly Communities Grant Program available through Department of Seniors provides funding for projects that lead to more age-friendly communities. Visit: https://novascotia.ca/age-friendly-grant/ . Check out these individual grants The Pay It Forward - Angel Fund Society Cette société importante, veut soutenir les résidents locaux qui sont atteints aux maladies potentiellement mortelles et Supports local residents, who face life sont actuellement sous traitement. Depuis son début en threatening illnesses and are undergoing 2020, la société a appuyé 37 patients, pour un total de 3700 treatments. Since they began in 2020, they $. Chaque personne a reçu un don unique de 100,00 $ (deux have supported 37 patients, totaling $3700, cartes-cadeaux de 50,00 $). Les membres du conseil each with a one-time gift of $100.00, (two d’administration travaillent actuellement sur un plan pour gift cards of $50.00). The Board of aborder le soutien émotionnel par l’entremise de l’éducation. Directors is now working on a plan to (Une session Zoom sera annoncée prochainement). address both emotional supports, as well as education, with an upcoming Zoom session Pour plus d'informations ou si vous avez des questions, (to be announced). veuillez envoyer un courriel à For more information or questions, please [email protected] e-mail [email protected] The Heating Assistance Rebate Program helps low-income Nova Scotians with the cost of home heating. Rebates range from $100 to $200. You can apply until 31 March 2021. https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-heating-assistance-rebate-heating-assistance-rebate-program The Salvation Army Home Energy Assistance Top-up (HEAT) Fund supports Nova Scotians in need with home heating cost during the winter months. For more information, call 902-422-3435 or e-mail [email protected] or visit: https://salvationarmy.ca/maritime/home/programs/heat/ Home Adaptations for Seniors Independence - Helps homeowners pay for home adaptations so seniors with low incomes can stay in their homes independently for longer periods of time. A one-time forgivable grant of up to $3,500 is available. https://housing.novascotia.ca/programs/housing-programs-seniors/home-adaptations-seniors-independence Seniors Citizens Assistance Program - Provides assistance to senior homeowners (age 65+) who would like to remain in their own homes, but cannot afford necessary repairs. https://housing.novascotia.ca/programs/housing-programs-seniors/senior-citizens-assistance-program. Call one of our caseworkers today at 1-844-424-5110. With Thanks With a view to broader modes of communication, Seniors Take Action Coalition recently purchased an internet domain name: seniorstakeaction.ca We would like to thank the Richmond County Literacy Network for covering the associated costs. 7
LAST WORDS Celebrating and thanking the many local businesses in our communities operated by older adults Louis’s Cosy Corner, located on Grenville Street in St. Peter’s, has a rich history and has been around for over 50 years. Open seven days a week, Louis Boudreau takes great joy in serving his customers from Richmond County and beyond many home-style cooked meals and buffets. They also provide catering services and specialize in off–site functions. You can reach Louis at 902-535-3195 or 902-227-7507. La Goélette à Pépé Café is where history and culture La Goélette à Pépé est la croisée des chemins de meet local. Located on beautiful Isle Madame at 2393 l’histoire et de la culture locales. Situé au 2393, Route Highway 206, Lisa Boudreau opened her café in 2015. 206, Lisa Boudreau a ouvert son café en 2015. On y It features everything from fresh brewed coffee to vend de presque tout, du café fraîchement infusé au gourmet espresso and delicious cafe desserts. They gourmet expresso et de délicieux desserts pour also offer grab and go style breakfasts and lunches, accompagner votre café, des déjeuners ou dîners including vegetarian options. Local artisan products pour emporter, incluant des options végétariennes. and books are on display for purchase. Hours are Des produits d’artisans locaux et des livres sont Monday to Friday 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday exposés pour vendre. Les heures d’ouverture sont du 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and closed on Sunday. Contact lundi au vendredi de 7h à 18h; les samedis de 8h à 16h 902-631-4051 or http://www.lagoeletteapepe.ca/ et fermé le dimanche. Contact : 902 631-4051 ou http://www.lagoeletteapepe.ca/. Down Under Bakery (Darlene’s Bread) located in Isle Madame, has been providing her customers with fresh homemade bread for 20 years. Darlene offers a variety of breads, including pan rolls, French sticks, Kaiser rolls , and loaf pan bread in white, whole wheat and raisin. Baked fresh on order. Call her at 902-226 2165 to satisfy your craving! If you have comments, feedback and ideas for future issues let us know at [email protected] Si vous avez des commentaires, des réactions et des suggestions pour nos prochaines publications, faites-le nous savoir à [email protected] Newsletter Committee Newsletter Design Celeste Gotell Celeste Gotell and Janelle AuCoin Cynthia Curtis Health Promotion Team Josette Marchand Mental Health and Addictions Julie Freeman Nova Scotia Health 8
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