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Winter Sun Safety: What You Need to Know About Protecting Your Skin in the Winter

2/19/2020

Written by
Neha Jayaram, Communications and Marketing Specialist

Slathering your skin with sunscreen, being vigilant about sun exposure is usually associated with the summer months, when the sun shines bright and intense. Most people let their skin protection slip during the winter months, especially on overcast days. This shouldn’t be the case though; protecting your skin from the sun is necessary every day, regardless of the weather or season.

Even on cold or overcast days, damage causing UV rays from the sun are reaching your skin. You can sustain skin damage as easily in the winter as on a hot summer day.

Family Day 2020

2/14/2020

Written by
Neha Jayaram, Communications and Marketing Specialist

Family.
Traditionally the basic unit of society, consisting of two parents raising children. As time has gone by, the family unit has evolved and means different things to different people. Family isn’t always blood. Sometimes it’s the people you met and who became an important part of your world.

Whether it’s the family you were born into or the family you made and chose, family gives comfort, support and unconditional love. Family knows the good, bad and the worst of you, but loves you anyway. You celebrate your wins with them and share your disappointments with them; they’re your port in a storm.

"I'm Lucky, I've Had A Good Life"

2/10/2020

Interview by Jack Langedijk
Written by Neha Jayaram, Communications and Marketing Specialist

My name is Ruth and I’m a client of the Day Hospice Program. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in late 2016. After surgery and treatments, the doctors said they couldn’t remove everything, and I wouldn’t get better.

The people here at SCHC have been so helpful and kind. When I come here, I feel like I am not alone. I am trying to cope with end-of-life, and I felt that this is the good place for me to be. It’s helping me; it’s giving me something to look forward to. I have lot of friends who call me and say hey let’s go there, let’s run etc. and look forward to that Wednesday and make sure I have no other plans that day so that I can be there with all of them. I really like talking to people and listening to their stories, what are they going through and where they are from and what’s their outlook on life.

Let's Call It Mental Wellness

1/29/2020

Written by
Hinduja Raj M , Communications Volunteer

Have you heard the famous quote “A sound mind is a sound body”? We have no doubts in agreeing to the Greek philosopher Thales, whose wise words insist that only a healthy mind capable of positive feelings and constructive thoughts can help in creating a healthy body. If only the mind and the body are in great condition, a person can lead a meaningful life. This is the only recipe to a healthy family and a happier society.
This could seem like a frequently talked about topic. The fact is, it still isn’t enough yet. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) states that, “1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness, in any given year”. Does that seem like a lot? It is!

Alzheimer's Awareness: What Can You Do To Prevent/Delay Alzheimer's?

1/16/2020

Written by
Joanne Tandoc, Community Caregiver Wellness Coordinator

New year, new resolutions, new brain. What do these 3 have in common? These tend to be top-of-mind at the beginning of each year. We set new goals, hoping to become a better version of ourselves and I hope that we also remember to take better care of our brain in the start of this year, or decade perhaps!

January is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness month. It is a disease that we all dread to have as it brings about tremendous losses in a person’s life and in their loved ones’ too. It is partly brought about by genetics, but more recent research suggests that lifestyle has a big role to play in the emergence of its symptoms. We also now know that because of our innate brain characteristics, that brain scientists are continually learning about, our brain cells can grow, develop and change throughout life.

So, what can we do to lower our risk for dementia or delay its onset?

Alzheimer's: Do You Know Enough?

1/10/2020

Written by
Krysta-Leigh Thames, Communications and Marketing Student

It is quite possible you have interacted with someone with Alzheimer's disease at least once in your lifetime, whether you knew it or not.

Quite often, Alzheimer’s is spoken about as the disease some seniors eventually get as they grow older and lose their memory. While generally correct, there is a lot more to it than that simple description.

Here are a few myths/ misconceptions and a few facts you need to know about this disease.

MYTH vs FACT

MYTH: If your parent/ grandparent had Alzheimer’s, you will have it too.
FACT: The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada states that less than 5% of cases of the disease have hereditary causes. This does not mean that the children or grandchildren of Alzheimer’s patients should not be cautious of getting the disease. Instead, they should be sure to consult with doctors on a regular basis and look out for possible symptoms.

MYTH: Only the elderly get this disease.
FACT: People in their 30's to 50's can start to develop Alzheimer's disease which is referred to as "Young Onset Alzheimer’s".

MYTH: Alzheimer’s is not fatal.
FACT: Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s is seen as a fatal disease. Because of the nature of Alzheimer’s, the brain cells of people who have the disease slowly deteriorate. This then leads to individuals not being able to remember important information and perform their day-to-day functions. It often leaves people more prone to infection and otherwise avoidable illnesses. This does not mean Alzheimer’s is an immediate death sentence. It is a slow downward progression with no distinct timeline. However, with proper care, patients are able to live long lives.

MYTH: Alzheimer’s can be cured.
FACT: While researchers and scientists are working to cure this degenerative brain disease, there has yet to be an approved cure for Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association of Canada states, "There are currently no treatments available to slow or stop the brain damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease. However, several medications can temporarily help improve the symptoms of dementia for some people.” These medications help to increase the brain’s neurotransmitters which support brain functionality. The key to managing symptoms is early detection and medical treatment along with support and care from loved ones or caregivers.

MYTH: Memory loss automatically means Alzheimer’s disease.
FACT: While it is one of the main signs of Alzheimer’s, memory loss does not necessarily mean it is Alzheimer’s. Some people may experience memory loss as a natural sign of aging. This does not mean one should not be cautious. According to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, “If memory loss affects your day-to-day ability to function, communicate or is accompanied by a decrease in judgment or reasoning ability, it's best to see your doctor immediately.”

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
As we all get older, it is very important to be properly educated about this disease and debunk myths which could lead to misconceptions and mistreatment. The highly trained medical professionals at SCHC are always willing to help patients who show symptoms of this and any other mental health illnesses.

Our senior programs are also available to provide the much needed care and support for residents within the Scarborough community who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Click here for more information.

Who Are Primary Health Care Providers?

12/23/2019

Written by
Chandranie Roberts, Primary Care Manager

It can be quite confusing to understand the various levels of health care available and the role each practitioner plays in your health care journey. The information provided below is aimed at providing clarity regarding the role of each practitioner.

What are primary care providers?

Every year, thousands of Canadians receive their Primary Health Care (PHC) services through a primary health care provider. PHC services play an important role in disease prevention and management. Their role is particularly important in the early stages of a disease. Primary care may also be explained as the range of first full medical contact and ongoing care for a patient whose symptoms, health problems or signs have not been diagnosed.

Stopping the Flu, Is Up to You

12/10/2019

Written by
Neha Jayaram, Communications and Marketing Specialist

What Is Influenza (Flu)?

Influenza, or flu as it is more commonly known, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. It can range from a mild to severe illness, in some cases causing death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting the flu vaccine every year.

The flu virus is mainly spread by tiny droplets made when people cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouth or nose of people nearby, making them sick. A person may also get the flu by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes, though this is less common.

A Team Above All, Above All A Team!

12/6/2019

Written by
Neha Jayaram, Communications and Marketing Specialist

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”- Helen Keller

The Bhayana Family Foundation Awards recognize extraordinary contributions made by frontline staff and middle managers who are tackling #UNIGNORABLE issues at United Way Greater Toronto-supported agencies. Winners are awarded for helping people thrive through their dedication, innovation and creativity, leadership, teamwork and partnership.

On November 18th, SCHC’s Social Support Team won a Bhayana Family Foundation Team Award. The 3 team members, (pictured above, from left to right) Ilene Page, Prakathesh Rabeenthira and Shivana Sankarwere recognized for their commitment to success through excellent and consistent performance.

Falls Prevention Month

11/21/2019

Written by,
Mobility Matters, a Canadian Rehabilitation company, providing Fall Prevention exercises
to SCHC's Adult Day Program clients.

November is Falls Prevention Month!

The facts:

More than one-‐third of Canada’s elderly population (ages 65 years and older) fall each year.
Nearly half of all injuries among seniors take place at home.
It’s estimated that 50 % of those who fall will suffer moderate to severe injuries such as sprains, hip fractures, or head traumas that permanently reduce their mobility and independence.
Seniors are more likely to be admitted to hospital from an injury as a result of a fall than any other age group.
Direct health care costs relating to falls among seniors in Canada are estimated at $1 billion every year.

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Phone: (416) 642 9445
Email: info@schcontario.ca

Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
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