Community partners such as the police, a local pharmacist and a drumming group were asked to write and present workshops as well as presentations from COPA (Community Outreach Programs in Addiction), Toronto Housing and Vintage Fitness. We created presentation frameworks for each of the workshop to give to external presenters. These frameworks may change to better suit the needs of the population that you are planning to work with. Presentation Framework: Module One: “ Healthy Living” Presented By: Local community health or addiction specialist charity What Older Adults should know about healthy living What Older Adults can do to stay healthy Why? What benefits will Older Adults notice? In General Healthy eating, practices, relationships and active lifestyle as part of healthy living and strategies to improve them. REAP the BENEFITS model. Try to maintain healthy living through: Relationships Eating healthy Activities Practices Making healthier lifestyle choices can improve one’s overall quality of life including physical, mental and emotional health. It is important for older adults to take care of their physical and mental health to prevent illness and manage chronic conditions. Local Resources Ideas and tips on accessing health promotion services Talk to your health care professional Opportunities to engage in the life of their community and develop natural support
relationships. Module Two: “Fall Prevention” Presented By: Geriatric health and wellness professional (specialized personal trainer, physiotherapist, recreational therapist) What Older Adults should know about fall prevention What Older Adults can do to stay safe from falls? Why? What benefits will Older Adults notice? In General How common falls are amongst older adults That falls are preventable How to get up if they do have a fall Demonstrate, practice and give exercise handbook of the best fall prevention exercise and tips Less prone to falls Feel more stable Legs should feel stronger How preventing falls will better their quality of life Local Resources Fall prevention and balance based (i.e. Tai Chi and Yoga) community classes Provide links to other local fall prevention resources erin@vintagefitness.ca Fall prevention presentation www.vintagefitness.ca Module Three: Safety tips on medications Presented by: Local Pharmacist What Older Adults should know about taking medications safely? What Older Adults can do Why? What benefits will Older Adults notice? In General What is the role of a pharmacist? Review the most common mistakes older adults make when taking For example: Check expiry dates on medications Don’t mix medications Book a pharmacist A better understanding of the services that their local pharmacist offers. A chance to start a
medications Go through the ground rules about safe medicine practices such as storing medicine Review the difference between generic and branded prescriptions Review concept of medicines interacting with other prescription medicines or other non Traditional medicine (i.e. herbal teas) consultation Don’t take medications with alcohol Try different medicine packages such as blister packs and easier to open lids relationship with their local pharmacist Local Resources List local pharmacy with contact information Question and Answer Video with a pharmacist Insert link Module Four: Creative Arts- Therapeutic Drumming Presented By: A musical or artistic performing group What Older Adults should know about creative arts? What can Older Adults can do to express their creativity? Why? What benefits will Older Adults notice? In General Art is first and foremost about self-expression and seniors can use the to create something that they can call their own. Art can be enjoyed anytime and everywhere, whether it be outdoors or indoors, rain or snow, hot or cold. Research shows that art for seniors can lead to positive outcomes. A 2010 article in the Play music Crafts Painting Needlework Dance Singing Photography Poetry Creative writing Story telling Art can be enjoyed individually, but is also a great vehicle to bring people together. Art can be shared and creates a space of acceptance and encouragement. It also gives opportunity for seniors to show
Journal of Active Aging states that “artistic endeavours target the healthy parts of the brain – areas untouched by disease…” Other benefits include reduction of anxiety and depression, increased concentration, greater social interaction and improved attention spans. Another thing to remember is that art is simply fun! their strengths and talents, but also allows for growth and learning. Art can bring older adults out of isolation and help them to be active and integrated into the community. In addition to the previously mentioned benefits, there is also positive impact in dealing with symptoms of diseases, enhancing as well as awareness of others. Local Resources Ripple Rhythm (ripplerhythm@gmail.com) Module Five: Staying safe Presented by: Local community police officer What can older adults do to stay safe on the street? Resource: RCMP Seniors Guidebook for safety and security In General Safety on the Street If street crimes (purse snatching, robberies, assaults, etc.) are a problem in your neighbourhood and you have a fear of being victimized, there are ways in which you can reduce the risk of victimization and increase your sense of personal security. Prevention tips Walk only in well-lit areas. Do not burden yourself with packages and a bulky
support relationship, friendship and identity building Local Resources Local libraries, community centres, drop-ins and senior services offer computer classes and/or internet/computer access. Ask your local librarian, social worker, housing worker for virtual opportunities and education. Technology can be used as a way to add convenience, explore and stay connected to the community. Module Seven: Best strengthening exercises for older adults Presented By: Geriatric health and wellness professional (specialized personal trainer, physiotherapist, recreational therapist) What Older Adults should know about strengthening exercises What Older Adults can do to practice strengthening exercises? Why? What benefits will Older Adults notice? In General Ask the group if they know what strength training is. Discuss Health Canada’s recommendations around strength training for older adults (2-4 times per week) Review most important muscles in the body to strengthen for older adults and why Demonstrate the best strengthening exercises including information about safety Provide handout with pictures of the exercises Better Posture Reduce risk of Osteoporosis Weight Management Feel better Prevent Falls Perform activities of daily living with ease Local Resources Insert health Canada link to Best strengthening exercises handbook What should I consider before
enough money to meet your needs? Not at all A little Moderately Mostly Completely 6. To what extent do you have the opportunity for leisure activities? How well are you able to get around? Very poor Poor Neither poor nor good Good Very good 7. How satisfied are you with your sleep? Very poor Poor Neither poor nor good Good Very good 8. How often do you have negative feelings such as blue mood, despair, anxiety, Very Neither satisfied nor Very 10. 'Tell us in your own words what this program does for you’