Dear Resident or Family Member,

We remain committed to providing updates to our residents, families, and staff at AgeCare. As such, we are providing weekly updates to keep you all informed on what is happening at our communities and organization-wide.

1. Information and announcements – this week, we are sharing a reminder on how to recognize and prevent dehydration.
2. Recreation calendars as the need to stay active, intellectually stimulated, and socially connected never ends.
3. A weekly shout-out to celebrate the great work and activities happening at our AgeCare communities.

As we move into a different stage of the pandemic, our weekly updates will be sent from a central location rather than individually from each site. You will continue to receive them on Fridays.

We do hope that you find them helpful. Thank you all for your continued support.

Sincerely,

AgeCare Communications

Staying Hydrated

Hydration is vital in keeping your immune system functioning at an optimal level. Water helps the body flush out harmful toxins and absorb nutrients more efficiently. Staying hydrated, especially during the cold and flu season, helps the body to better defend itself against harmful germs.

Many people, particularly older adults, don’t feel thirsty until they’re already dehydrated. They may even have a decreased thirst drive, even when dehydrated. We wanted to share some tips on how to recognize and prevent dehydration.

The BEST drink to stay hydrated is water. Stay away from “diet” drinks, sugar-filled, or caffeinated beverages. Our dietician recommends that residents should drink 1.5 litres of water per day.

Recognizing the Signs of Dehydration in Seniors

The signs and symptoms of dehydration differ by age. Some indications that you or your loved one may be dehydrated are:

• Confusion or Disorientation
• Headache
• Dizziness or Nausea
• Dry Lips, Mouth or Throat
• Decreased Tears
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue, Disinterest or Boredom (Lethargic)
• Concentrated or Decreased Urine
• Weight Loss
• Sunken Eyes

Hydration Tips for Seniors

• Place water where it is easy to find and
• Encourage and remind often to take a drink when you visit or call them.
• Try different kinds of cups or water bottles.
  Consider providing a re-usable water bottle for your loved one to use.
• Ensure there is access to the bathroom when needed.
  If a person experiences urgency or incidents of incontinence, it may prevent them from wanting to drink.

Recreation Calendar

Our recreation calendars are back, and many of our regular recreational activities in the community have resumed. Residents can participate in a variety of engaging activities that enrich the mind, body and spirit, while maintaining appropriate physical distancing.

Please select your community from the list below:

• AgeCare Columbia Recreation Calendars – October 2020
• AgeCare Glenmore Recreation Calendar – October 2020
• AgeCare Midnapore Estate Retirement Living Calendar – October 2020
• AgeCare Midnapore Long Term Care Calendar – October 2020
• AgeCare Orchard Manor Recreation Calendars – October 2020
• AgeCare Sagewood Recreation Calendars – October 2020
• AgeCare Seton Recreation Calendars – October 2020
• AgeCare SkyPointe October Newsletter & Program Calendars
• AgeCare Sunrise Gardens Recreation Calendars – October 2020
• AgeCare Valleyview Recreation Calendar – October 2020
• AgeCare Walden Heights Recreation Calendars – October 2020

Weekly Shout-Out

This week’s shout-out is from AgeCare Walden Heights

We would like to give a shout-out to the various team members that are organizing and implementing the influenza vaccinations this year. With the pandemic at the top of everyone’s mind, this year’s efforts are even more important.

The Care team has worked hard to get informed about the upcoming flu season and developed a plan of action. With the support of all departments, they have prepared the community for our influenza clinic, moved furniture, and transported residents.

We are well on our way to getting the staff and residents vaccinated.