AMHERST – David Christie has many fond memories of working as a teen for his father at the former Christie Bros. & Company Ltd. “Back in those days there were two major industries in Amherst that had whistles. The Robb Engineering whistle would sound at five to eight and Christie’s had the same whistle that … Read more
Hearing a group of older adults in their late 70’s to 100 years old singing old standard songs is heartwarming. The performance becomes even more touching when you discover that many of the singers suffer from memory loss. Music is a well-known therapeutic tool, helping relieve stress and improve mood. Now the Joyful Hearts Senior … Read more
Paul Taylor Globe and Mail, Toronto Question: My father is going deaf, but he refuses to wear a hearing aid. Is there any way to make him come to his senses? Answer: Your father is certainly not alone. Many older adults, especially men, resist treatment for hearing loss. Unfortunately, they may be doing themselves far more harm … Read more
Lois Ann Dort Guysborough Journal Whether small town or big city, the closure of any business is always a blow to the people who call themselves customers. This past month has seen a number of local business closures, starting with Central Building Supply in West Cooks Cove. As Christmas drew near, news spread that both … Read more
Amherst News/Citizen Record With an aging demographic and Canadians living longer, we are confronting the reality that the numbers of seniors who will be at risk of developing dementia will further tax our already overburdened health care system in the years to come. Last month, we were reminded that the numbers will grow exponentially. The … Read more
Andrea Martin Globe & Mail, Toronto One of the biggest shocks for someone with dementia comes the day a doctor says, “I’m sorry, but you can’t drive any more.” For older adults who depend on their cars to get around, it’s the equivalent of banning a millennial from using a smartphone ever again. Driving is … Read more
Do the penguin walk Bend slightly and walk flat footed Point your feet out slightly like a penguin Keep your centre of gravity over your feet as much as possible Watch where you are stepping Take shorter, shuffle-like steps Keep your arms at your sides (not in your pockets!) Concentrate on keeping your balance … Read more
Lynn Curwin Truro Daily News Colin Bagnell started providing services to seniors when he was 12 years old. Now he’s doing it through his own business. Bagnell formed Home Care Online Lifestyle Support Services about a year and a half ago, to help those who live in their home get quality service. “When I was … Read more
Sharon Murphy Chronicle-Herald, Halifax A few months ago, I read an interesting article in your paper by Brian Gifford (“Federal tax reforms will help Nova Scotia and Canada,” Sept. 28) on tax fairness. It made me think of the financial situation of the elderly and people involved in precarious employment. I thought I would reflect … Read more
The Casket Antigonish For the more than a decade, Zoe Hayes has been making a splash with her students. The retired psychology professor continues to teach – but now aqua-arthritis is the subject – with the St. F.X. Alumni Aquatic Centre serving as her classroom. “Zoe is incredibly generous – she is selfless and gives … Read more