National Do-Not-Call-List

Caitlin, our Community Service Representative, has been out in the community giving presentations on Senior Fraud Protection this month. According to the federal government (Public Health Agency of Canada), telemarketing fraud is one of the most common types of crime committed against older adults. Telemarketing fraud comes in many forms but usually involves merchandise or investment scams.

One thing we suggest to is for people to add themselves to the National Do-Not-Call List (DNCL). The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has a national DNCL that limits the number of unwanted calls from telemarketers.

People may register their residential telephone number for free by phoning 1-866-580-3625 or online at www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/insnum-regnum-eng. You must call from the number you wish to register and your number will remain on the list for 5 years.

A attendee at one of the recent presentations said, "I've put myself on this list and the number of calls did go down but I still receive some unwanted calls." So keep in mind that when you register on the National DNCL, you will receive fewer telemarketing calls, but there are some exceptions including:
• registered charities
• political parties and candidates
• opinion polling firms or market research firms conducting surveys
• newspapers calling to sell a subscription
• organizations that have a business relationship with you, for example: you’ve done business with the organization in the last 18 months or you’ve inquired about the organization's products or services in the last 6 months.

Also, whether or not you're registered on the National DNCL, you can reduce the number of telemarketing calls by adding your number to individual telemarketers’ do not call lists. For more information on Senior Fraud Protection visit ProtectSeniorsFromFraud.com or call our office at 204-953-3720.

Memory Walk Awards

Julie with her children Daylon and Danica at the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba Memory Walk Awards on September 20. We were happy to learn that Home Instead Senior Care was the winner of the Spirit Award for Top Community Team!

Danica, with the help of her brother, raised $972 dollars by going door to door and asking for donations. She walked for her grandma and all of our Home Instead Senior Care clients affected by Alzheimer's Disease.

Thanks to everyone who supported or team by either donating, walking or simply giving words of encouragement! We hope you can all join us again next year!

Grocery Shopping Tips

In a previous post we shared 10 Warning Signs That a Senior Is Not Eating Properly. Dietary issues are a real concern for caregivers and seniors alike.

Meeting your senior loved one's nutritional needs starts with the grocery shopping. Here are some tips to help make your next trip to the grocery store a successful one:

• Make a List - Sit down with your senior and make a list of what she wants to eat that week. This pre-planning can cut down on the time and money you spend at the store.
• Don't shop hungry - Shoppers are always tempted to buy more when hungry, so share a snack before hitting the aisles.
• Review store ads, clip coupons and organize them at home - You'll save money, time and hassle at the checkout stand.
• Invite a friend - Have mom or dad bring a friend along. The resulting companionship makes the task of grocery shopping easier and more fun. If a senior can't shop alone, arrange for a grocery delivery or a caregiver companion to go along for help.
• Sign up for a store's bonus/discount card - Seniors can reap additional savings and take advantage of grocery store specials by signing up for special programs.
• Try store brands - The most costly brands are often placed at eye level. Store brands that may be cheaper and just as good are often placed higher or lower on the grocery shelves.  
• Shop the perimeter of the store - That's where most of the fresh, healthier foods are located.
• Stock up on sale items - Choose only as much as your senior can use in a timely manner. Buy in bulk for quality and value, but serve healthy portions.
• Use your food budget wisely - For the price of a large bag of chips or box of cookies, you can buy a good supply of apples, bananas, carrots, potatoes, peppers and other healthy foods.

CAREGiver of the Month: September

Our CAREGiver of the Month for September 2012 is Mary Rose! Mary Rose is thoughtful and compassionate when she's caring for her clients. She always goes above and beyond and does what it takes to ensure the client is receiving the best possible care.

What has been your favorite moment with a client?
I have many favorite moments and so enjoy being "in the moment" with my clients. Such as being out walking in the park enjoying nature, singing & dancing together, having ice cream - the simple things in life.

Why did you decide to become a caregiver?
I am an only child and have always been around older adults and have always wanted to work with seniors and give them the best possible care that I can give.

What advice would you give to a new CAREGiver?
My advice to a new caregiver would be: treat clients as you would like to be treated. Always have a positive attitude, a sense of humour and last but not least, S-M-I-L-E.

Thanks Mary Rose!