Finding the Right Circle of Care

No one person can usually fix your problems, unless you have a fairy godmother or a genie 😉 Those that are most successful addressing issues, usually have a team of support. But how do you find this right team and who should it include?

For many seniors as health needs change, new diagnosis arise and mobility changes many questions pop up:

• When do I get help?  
• When should I start planning?
• Who do I contact? 

There is also often a lot of external pressure with differing options and motives. From family members trying to be supportive to friends giving advice on what they did. It can all be a lot of navigating. Here at Solva we work best when we have opportunities to collaborate with lots of different professionals and love giving out referrals. Here is a list of five professionals you should get to know in your journey through aging.

1. Social Workers: Social workers can be found in many different disciplines and have a wide range of services they can provide. Social workers’ roles are to listen to your needs, understand what is important to you and guide you through the process. Some social workers are specifically trained in counselling and can provide counselling support as well. 
2. Occupational Therapists: Your job is what you do for a living but your occupation is what you do during your day. For many seniors their occupation includes many different tasks. Occupational therapists can be amazing resources for things like assessing your environment to ensure it’s as safe as possible and suggesting ergonomic improvements like appropriate locations for grab bars, or support aids like a bathing chair or a walker.
3. Physiotherapists and Kinsiologists: Keeping moving is vital for healthy aging and to maintain mobility. Physiotherapists can provide resources and support to help overcome an injury and Kinsiologist can provide support to help maintain mobility. 
4. Home Care Nurses and Personal Support Workers: Mobile nurses and personal support workers can provide care and services within your home to help maintain independence. These types of services are used by many seniors whether it is a couple hours a week helping with a shower or 24/7 care. 
5. Nutritionists. We are what we eat! A diagnosis of any type does not mean that diet can be overlooked. It is often believed that a healthy diet can help prolong life and provide energy to get through the day. A nutritionist can help you understand having to adopt new ways of eating – like for diabetes or a heart healthy plan. 
6. Housing Advisors: Your living situation can play a dramatic role in your wellbeing. It’s important to ensure you’re in the best living environment for your situation – remaining healthy and safe. Working with a senior living housing advisor can help ensure you have options that are specific to you; looking at today with the future in mind. At Solva we assist you for free, and provide full support and advocacy while helping you navigate the myriad of options available.

Finding the best circle of care may take time and be ever changing but it is important to know what services are available and who provides them. If you are looking for a particular service or feel there is a gap in your circle of care, connect with us at Solva and we can help you find the missing piece!