YOUR ELDERCARE SUPPORT MAKES SMILES HAPPEN
“Anytime I see a resident smile, I always think the Eldercare Foundation is behind that smile.” This quote from therapy co-coordinator Catherine Patchell, recognizes the importance of the programs, equipment and homelike enhancements funded by the Eldercare Foundation each year. What it doesn’t acknowledge is the many compassionate people whose donations enable us to make those smiles happen.
When “Ethel” smiles, you get a glimpse of the young girl she was so many years ago. Even though her sight is all but gone, her eyes still twinkle. Ethel’s smile is most evident when she is singing or reminiscing about the many choir and solo performances she performed in her earlier days.
Today, Ethel is a resident in an extended care facility. Her short term memory is compromised but she still remembers the words to scores of old songs. Ethel’s best days are those that see the music therapist arriving with hand instruments and carefully chosen songs that draw her out of herself and connect her to other times, people and places. Those are days that Ethel’s smile really beams.
Music therapy at Aberdeen, Glengarry, Mt. Tolmie, Priory, Oak Bay Lodge and the Piercy Respite Hotel is 100 per cent funded by donations to the Eldercare Foundation.
“Frank’s” smile is a boyish one, despite his 87 years, and it’s especially broad when he recalls his days as an athlete. Both team and individual sports were a passion for Frank; he loved training and competing, always striving to improve his stamina and skill. Six months ago, he had a stroke and is now a resident in an extended care facility. He says he’s met a lot of nice people there, but he’d rather be in his own home.
Thanks to donations to the Eldercare Foundation, Frank is able to use specialized exercise equipment that has already helped to improve his balance. Now he is working hard to strengthen his muscles and regain confidence in the many activities of daily living that will enable him to go home. It’s hard work, but that old smile is on his face as he reaches his weekly goals.
Your support of the Eldercare Foundation will bring a wealth of smiles to Ethel and many like her. As Louis Armstrong sang, When You’re Smiling, the Whole World Smiles With You.