Category: Community

On Remembrance Day, we remember those who served and died to preserve our freedoms. It’s also a time to remember family, relatives and friends who weren’t on the front lines but served to support the soldiers who were.

Alberta author Faye Holt spoke with residents at United’s two communities about Albertans who served in various wars bringing photos, insights and stories to punctuate the history talks. She touched on western Canadians at home and abroad who were involved in the Boer War, First and Second World Wars and Korean War.

“This time of year, it’s important to think about all of the men and women we have known, and how military service at all levels impacted them,” said Faye.

She pointed out that Canadians have a long and involved history in military service, peacekeeping functions and disaster relief.

“When we think about it, we all have stories to tell about family members who served or continue to serve in the military in various capacities, and it’s important to acknowledge those who died and the many others who have served. Think about the people who fled Europe with almost nothing to find peaceful lives in Canada. That continues today because of the war in Ukraine.”

Faye recounted some of the stories of famous Albertans who served and went on to careers after the wars ended. “There are many layers to military service. When war happens, almost everyone is affected in one way or another. For example, think about the Canadian internment camps in both world wars for Japanese-Canadians and others, and how their families were affected by the war.”

Prompted by Faye’s presentation, United residents recounted their experiences and family ties to military service, and experiences living through war times.

Resident David Ballard remembers his cousin Alfred Carter, who was born on the upper reaches of Fish Creek near Calgary, and became a flying ace during the First World War. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross after 17 missions for the Royal Naval Air Service in England. He flew the Sopwith Pup and Sopwith Camel, both biplanes, and the Sopwith Triplane, which today is housed in The Calgary Hangar Flight Museum.

“I was very surprised to see his triplane in the museum,” said David, who visited the museum as part of a United Active Living excursion. “When he came back to Canada he served as a forest fire spotter in Kananaskis, and then moved to Victoria where he started a car dealership. He passed away in 1986. He was an important part of our family, and an important person in Canada’s history, and I think about him often.”

Another resident, Hugh Balkwill, recount his family’s military service. “We had three sons serving in the U.S. military. They weren’t involved in combat and have all retired,” he said. “I also remember five cousins who served in World War Two. A couple were taken prisoner, but all survived the war.”

Residents Nick and Diane Jongeling were children in Holland during the war. “I remember the concerns of my family and neighbours that the dykes would be destroyed and flood our homes,” said Nick, who also remembers the food shortages. “I had an older brother who would go out looking for bird nests and check them for eggs,” said Diane. “We would go out to gather tulip bulbs for meals. It was a difficult time.”

“I was quite young when the war started,” recalled Nigel Way. “All of my family served in the British military. I lost a brother, who flew a Spitfire in the Royal Air Force. It’s absolutely important that we  remember those who lost their lives. I have great admiration for those in the military today. War changes a person, so it takes great courage to be part of the military and ready to serve.”

Remembrance Day services to honour the those who made the ultimate sacrifice are being held in both communities.

Photos by United Active Living. Videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

There is a vast amount of information about dementia out there and it can be overwhelming for those in the early stages of research.

At United Active Living, we recognize living with dementia is life changing, and that everyone experiences dementia differently. It should go without saying that people living with dementia deserve to have a good quality of life. What may be less obvious is how quality of life can and should look different for each person.

United Minds is a service offered at United communities for residents living with memory loss, cognitive impairment or some form of dementia. By building a genuine relationship and connection, we work to ensure that individuals are living life to its fullest.

As the team leading the way in innovative memory care practices, the United Minds team empowers individuals to make decisions throughout their day, provide meaningful opportunities for engagement, and activities reflective of their personal preferences and goals. We focus on who each person is as an individual, rather than defining them by their diagnosis.

For those diving deeper into their dementia research, there are a number of myths that can add to misconceptions and confusion.

“The number one concern among older adults is the fear of developing dementia. As a result, normal memory lapses can cause concern for individuals that fear a diagnosis,” says Amy McDonough, United Minds Manager. “It is important for family members and caregivers to understand these common misconceptions in order to prevent dementia, reduce or even reverse its effects or effectively work with a family member or friend who has dementia.”

Myth 1 – The terms dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease can be used interchangeably.

Dementia describes a group of symptoms including the loss of memory, issues with language, problem solving and other thinking functions that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. There is a wide range of causes of dementia including Alzheimer’s Disease. Although Alzheimer’s affects memory, it is a specific neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink and brain cells to die. Someone who has memory concerns may not have Alzheimer’s, but could be experiencing other underlying medical concerns.

Myth 2 – Dementia cannot be reversed

While some types of dementia can’t be reversed, others can. A reversible form of dementia can be treated once the underlying medical condition can be identified. Some common causes are infections, immune disorders and other medical conditions that can be treated. It’s also important to note that our emotional state can have a significant impact on cognitive abilities. A doctor can identify medical conditions that may present themselves as dementia.

Myth 3 – Memory loss in older adults is not normal

“There is a common fear that memory concerns are automatically a sign of dementia,” says Amy. “A mild decline in memory and cognitive skills is considered a normal part of aging, and shouldn’t be a concern. An example might be forgetting a specific conversation at an event a year ago, missing a monthly bill payment or losing things from time to time. Memory loss can also occur from stress or lack of sleep. Forgetting where you put your car keys is normal. Forgetting what those keys are for, is not.

Myth 4 – Forgetfulness is the only early sign of dementia

As noted in myth 3, forgetfulness may not necessarily indicate onset of dementia. There are other signs to watch for: increased confusion, reduced concentration, personality or behaviour changes, apathy or depression, or loss of the ability to do everyday tasks. See your doctor if you’re concerned. There are many cognitive tests that can be used to diagnose onset of dementia.

Myth 5 – People living with dementia are all the same

“There is a common misconception that puts everyone who has dementia under the same umbrella. This doesn’t take into consideration different personalities and life experiences,” says Amy. Two older adults who are the same age, have the same diagnosis and who are at the same stage in their cognitive decline may have signs of dementia that are significantly different. “Often we look at the type of dementia a person has without acknowledging or considering who the person was and still is. We may not look at their life experiences or their personality traits, which can also contribute to how their dementia presents. We wrongly assume that the intrinsic elements that make someone uniquely themselves have disappeared.”

With these common myths in mind, it’s also important to remember that thinking of someone as being a product of their disease can impact the way they view themselves. A relationship-centred care approach, which United both champions and delivers, values the person first. It looks at the psychological needs of someone living with dementia, which includes comfort, inclusion and identity. As caregivers, it’s valid to consider the commonalities of persons living with dementia, however, it’s also critical to recognize the individuality of each person. “Once we begin to see the person as a person, not a disease, we stop stigmatizing their characteristics and behaviours, and begin to accept the person for who they are and have been their whole lives,” says Amy.

To help caregivers with questions, or to connect with other caregivers, United Minds Manager Amy McDonough hosts a monthly caregivers support group at both United Active Living communities. The group includes family members and caregivers who come together in a safe space to offer each other support, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, discuss emotions and receive affirmation in their role as caregivers.

Learn more by contacting Amy by email at info@unitedactiveliving.com.

Photos by United Active Living. Videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

Research shows that maintaining an active lifestyle brings significant health benefits to people of all ages and abilities. This is particularly true for adults over 75, who are frequently identified as the most sedentary of all adult age categories, and therefore most at risk of experiencing adverse health effects related to inactivity.

In its mission to bring living to aging, United Active Living understands the importance of staying active, employing Kinesiologists who work with residents to help them achieve their activity and lifestyle goals. Staying active in mind and body form the basis of a wellness-focused lifestyle no matter what stage of life a resident is in.

“For us, working with older adults comes down to kindness and patience, and understanding what the resident wants to achieve,” said Tracy Roberts, one of two Kinesiologists at United’s Fish Creek community. “The bottom line is that we want residents to get stronger so that they can perform the activities that are important to them.”

Tracy, along with fellow Kinesiologist Eldridge Abat, work with residents in group exercise programs and one-on-one sessions in either the community gym or in the residents’ suites.

Garrison Green Kinesiologist Heather Wiebe said United’s exercise programs are perfect for all levels. “For those residents who use our one-on-one services, they often address a specific or individual issue, like rehabilitation from a fall or surgery, or a chronic issue that may negatively impact their strength or daily functions,” said Heather.

“In some cases, we work closely with them to develop programs so they can work toward performing the exercises on their own in their suites to maintain or regain their independence. Some residents prefer to work with our Kinesiologists continuously to ensure they are always safe and doing the exercises correctly. For those who don’t require one-on-one support our group classes work very well for them. In group classes, we embed exercises that address all components of active and functional daily living while encouraging and enhancing the benefits of the social component while exercising.”

“Along with general health improvement, we often work with residents who have particular needs such as rehabilitation after a hip replacement,” said Tracy. “In these situations, we develop tailored exercise programs. This can be as simple as developing a program that strengthens their ability to sit down and get up from a chair, something many of us take for granted. “

Tracy noted that their work with seniors is ongoing. “They know from experience that getting active and staying mobile takes time, effort and commitment. It’s intuitive. Residents know that staying physically active is important.”

A prescription for an active lifestyle can be gratifying for Kinesiologists and residents alike, as they see and feel continuous improvements. “We’ll often see someone progress from using a walker to using a cane because their balance and strength have improved. Or we’ll suggest a resident change their electric wheelchair for a manually operated one to ensure they maintain upper body strength and mobility.”

Celebrating aging and the benefits of active living at any age is the focus of Active Aging Week, which runs October 3 to 9. It was initiated by the International Council on Active Aging, of which United Active Living is a proud member. As a host venue for the week, United Active Living is raising awareness about the importance of physical activity and offering older adults a variety of wellness activities in a supportive environment, many of which they may not have tried before.

“One of our activities is a Masters Fitness Challenge, which encourages residents to participate in 150 minutes of physical activity during the week,” said Heather. “The 150 minute goal comes from Health Canada’s recommendations, a target that older adults should try to achieve each week in order to experience continued health benefits. Through the week, United Active Living will lead a number of engaging initiatives including participation in the national Alzheimer’s Walk, line dancing, indoor golf, yoga and carpet bowling.”

“It’s all about building awareness, having fun and continuing down the road of physical strength and wellness,” said Tracy.

Photos by United Active Living. Videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

The conversation about quality of life is changing and that may mean a major culture shift. A recent webinar, hosted by the Alberta Association of Gerontology, called for a culture shift in senior living communities that will lead to an improved quality of life for residents.

According to Dr. Matthias Hoben of York University in Toronto, to undergo effective culture change, the focus of a community needs to move beyond the mechanics of health care. “Is the resident sad or happy, or are they clean and dressed? That simple shift in perspective represents a significant change in culture. Culture change should centre on the voice of the resident,” said Dr. Hoben. He suggested including direct care employees in monitoring resident quality of life and working with the care aides, families and residents to find practical solutions for improvement, such as simply taking into account the little things that make a person happy.

United Active Living’s programming is leading the way in cultural transformation required to transform the experience of living in an older adult community. Partnering with a variety of community organizations to offer engaging speakers, excursions and other cultural pursuits. United is focused on the well-being of the residents with an approach that centres on residents living life on their terms.

United Garrison Green resident Jim Dolph participated in the webinar and pointed out that quality of life is different for everyone. “Like most people, I have often said, ‘I wish I had more time’ and ‘I’ll do that when I get more time’. Now I find that time is something I have an abundance of, and so to me, quality of life is being able to fill that time in ways that continue to provide purpose and direction.”

According to Dr. Tetyana Shippee, Associate Professor, Division of Health Policy and Management with the University of Minnesota, most research has focused on clinical measures of quality. “We should include the experiences of residents, the meals and programs and other person-centred measures. Quality of life is multi-dimensional, and it is quality of life that is of most interest to residents and families.”

On the employee side of care, Dr. Sienna Caspar, Associate Professor with the University of Lethbridge, emphasized the need to educate employees and support them with strategies to put changes into practice. “Leaders who demonstrate respect for staff through recognition and responsiveness is important. This translates into trust of management and sense of family, and improved quality of work life. And in turn, this improves the quality of care. There is increased socialization between staff and residents.”

A recent United Active Living resident survey reflected high levels of satisfaction when residents were questioned about “overall staff performance” and whether “staff treat me with respect”.

All panel experts noted a change in the way they measure effectiveness should include resident perspectives. Solutions need to come from those who do the work every day. Not necessarily from the top down, but from the bottom up. Experts emphasized the need to look through a variety of lenses including the perspective of residents, employees and families.

Feedback and two-way communication is foundational to the culture of any organization and United Active Living’s approach is one of constant conversation. Through regular surveys, town hall meetings and resident-led councils that meet regularly to discuss and share ideas, United is able to dial into the changing needs and desires of residents to tailor program and service offerings.

“At United, we have taken the person-centred approach a step further to embrace a relationship-centred approach,” said Kera Redlack, Director of Health and Wellness, who also tuned into the webinar. “Our care team discusses health care with the residents, but we also value what the residents hope to achieve by living here. Our culture is not about telling residents what they have to do in a day. Instead, we listen to the residents and they tell us what they want to do and what’s important to them.”

“It’s very gratifying to see this going on here,” said Jim. “I don’t want a condescending attitude, or to be treated as a failure. Many of these qualities of life are shared and pursued by other residents at Garrison Green. There is a broad spectrum of choice; something for every level of ability.”

Photos and videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

Living at one of United Active Living’s communities means living an active, interesting life. The annual United Games competition symbolizes the fun and friendship that forms the cornerstone of United’s programming.

“The games stress fun, movement, hand-eye coordination and generate a real sense of community,” said Tracy Roberts, one of two kinesiologists at Fish Creek. “The games are fabulous, and the residents are eager to test their skills, encourage each other to do their best, and most of all, have fun. Just because they are getting older, doesn’t mean they have to place limitations on themselves.”

The residents worked with United’s creative facilitators to make the props for the games. A paper plane competition encouraged the making of a variety of paper planes, which were then flown across the art studio for distance and accuracy.

An egg drop competition got everyone cheering and “egging on” the competitors. The goal was to drop a raw egg without breaking it. A lot of thought went into how to cushion the egg so it wouldn’t break when dropped from a six-foot height.

Min-golf and curling rounded out the morning’s events.

Audrey Evans moved into Fish Creek just six weeks ago. “I think the games are wonderful. They bring everyone together. Everyone has been so welcoming and the transition from my home has been an easy one. There’s really nothing like this community. It’s a 10 out of 10!”

“I think the games are terrific,” said Marilyn Lane, who moved to Fish Creek in May. “I came here because of all the programming. I’m trying everything – the excursions, sketching, pottery, the putting green and bocce ball court. I’m very independent and everyone here is so friendly.”

And Dorothy Miller, who moved to Fish Creek last November, agreed that the games are a wonderful way to get everyone together. “Everyone is so friendly. My husband and I are enjoying everything about the community. Some of our family came out today to enjoy the games. One of my favourite things to do is cook, so even though meals are provided, my full kitchen allows me to prepare our family’s favourites when they come to visit.”

“There is a strong feeling of community at United Active Living,” said Tracy. “You can hear it in the laughter and encouragement among the residents and employees.

“At the end of the day, we aren’t really looking for a winner. It is more important that the residents have a great day filled with laughter and fun memories.”

Photos by United Active Living, Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

David Ballard, who retired 27 years ago, and moved into Garrison Green with his wife Diana two years ago, isn’t letting retirement slow him down. As a former teacher, he often volunteered with community groups, and it’s no different today.

David and Diana joined the Chinook Country Historical Society, which promotes the history of this part of Alberta. Part of that promotion is Historic Calgary Week, which runs this year from July 22 to August 1. The 10-day “week” celebrates the history of Calgary and surrounding towns with more than 60 walks, talks and tours.

“I think we’ve always been involved in the community in some aspect or other,” said David. “When I retired, I wanted to stay involved. As an example, Diana was involved with CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) when the Calgary chapter started in 1995, and I became secretary of the chapter.”

His involvement in the Historical Society is one of many examples of David’s commitment to the community. “Over time, the pace of life seems to be more hectic. People’s time is stretched thin with family and work, but that also means less time to commit to the community, and I think finding time to volunteer is very important. One thing I’ve noticed is that young people are more involved in volunteer work.”

Diana passed away 18 months ago, and David remains very involved in the United Active Living community, and in the larger Calgary community. David noted how the United community came together to support him when Diana passed away. “It was very gratifying to me the way they helped her during her illness and how they supported me.”

David sees volunteering as essential to the success of any community. “They say that it takes a village to raise a child and that speaks directly to volunteering the time to do that. Plus, it’s important to be involved so that you know what’s going on around you.”

“I watched the Calgary Stampede parade on television and it really struck me how many community organizations were involved. The various communities in Calgary are very involved in the life of the city and that’s one of the things that makes Calgary a great city to live in.”

David is going to be busy during Historic Calgary Week, and United’s programming team is supporting with a series of lectures at United’s Garrison Green. For a full schedule of Historic Calgary Week programs, go to www.chinookhistory.ca and look for the Historic Calgary Week section.

Photos by David Ballard, Glenbow Archives. Videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help!