VBA Connectivity Blog

Ontario recently announced the gathering limit has increased from five people to groups of 10. Here's a quick guide to clarify some of the frequently asked questions about the new gathering limit. When you are with the 10 people do you need to be physically distancing?... Yes. According to the framework released by the government of Ontario, when gathering with people who are from outside your household you should still stay the recommended two metres apart. Is this applicable to indoors or outdoors? Both. According to a government representative, as long as a physical distance of two metres can be maintained with people who are not in your household it doesn't matter where the gathering takes place. Does it always need to be the same people? Or can the 10 people change all the time? No, it doesn't need to be the same people. You can gather with a different group of 10 people but you still need to physically distance. How is this different than double bubbling? The term 'double-bubble' or 'cohorting' refers to when two households make a pact to only hang out with each other, and agree to stay distanced from everyone else. This allows them to no longer have to physically distance from each other and they can even hug. Remember those? Double bubbling is not currently allowed in Ontario. Meanwhile, this new social gathering limit isn't restricted to two households and physical distancing measures are still required. Is this for everyone in Ontario? Yes. All parts of Ontario will be able to gather in groups of 10 as of June 12, regardless of if your region has been given the green light for stage two of reopening or not. Lastly, just remember that even with these new limits it's still important to continue to follow the other suggestions for staying safe such as regularly washing your hands, wearing a face-covering in public where physical distancing is a challenge, and self-isolating if you feel ill.

Today, COVID-19 is particularly difficult for people living with dementia, caregivers and families. For those living with dementia and are living alone, self-isolation, social distancing and changes to everyday routines may be challenging. For caregivers who are either living or supporting those who have dementia (i.e. spouse, friend), COVID-19 may have brought changes that can lead to caregivers to feel stressed, anxious and confused of where to turn for extra support. Thes...Continue reading

Good afternoon everyone! Gorgeous day! Check out this week’s video blog on how to take off gloves properly if you’re going out in the community for a little shopping spree. With an increase in COVID cases this week, it’s important to protect ourselves! Take a look at this video and feel free to share with your friends and family! #socialdistancing #weargloves #COVID #staysafe

Walking is something humans have been doing for a long time! Humans are meant to move. Yet, today, we do not move as much. I’m sure you have heard the phrase sitting is the new smoking. This is thanks to the various technologies that do the moving for us. Though technology has made things easier for us, this has also caused a great disconnect between our body and mind. Walking is crucial for the human body (especially as we age) because it can reduce unnecessary stress and... strain on our muscles and joints, increase our core strength, improve our lung health, improve balance and stability, and reduce risk of injuries. In order to get the most benefits out of your walking routine, a good walking posture is required. However, many of us tend to not think about our walking posture. Naturally, as we become older, our bodies change, as well as our health status. These changes may include arthritis, osteoporosis, orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure), changes in gait, and other chronic conditions. Knowing this, it does not hurt to have your posture assessed by either a Physiotherapist, a Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist or a Kinesiologist. Any of these professionals can assist you in correcting your posture. The diagram attached is a great template to follow if you wish to get started on changing your walking posture. What to Avoid: Don’t look down. Looking down at your feet or phone too frequently can put unnecessary strain on your neck. Don’t take very long strides. Your power comes from pushing off your rear leg. Don’t roll your hips. Your hips should stay as level as possible while you walk. Don’t slouch. To avoid back and shoulder strain, keep your shoulders down and back when walking or standing, and focus on keeping your spine elongated. Don’t walk in the wrong shoes. If you’re going to be walking for more than a few minutes at a time, be sure to wear shoes that fit comfortably, have good arch and heel support, and are well cushioned to absorb the shock of your feet hitting the ground. If you wish to learn more and be connected to any physiotherapists in your area, please do not hesitate to contact Kaitlin Garbutt by email! [email protected] Next week, I will post a video to show you a proper walking posture! Links: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-walk#benefits https://www.mayoclinic.org//proper-walking-te/img-20007670

Good morning everyone! Welcome to week two of our 12 week VBA Connectivity Blog! This week Kaitlin shares her thoughts about What the new normal could look like after COVID-19? Please participate and ask her questions or offer some insight about what you think the new normal could look like. Links to learn more Grocery stores:... https://www.ctvnews.ca//new-normal-how-covid-19-could-chan Travelling: https://www.ctvnews.ca//new-normal-rear-facing-seats-could Hand shaking: https://www.cbc.ca//handshake-coronavirus-elbow-bumping-pu Healthcare: https://www.theglobeandmail.com//article-will-virtual-hea/ Ontario’s Three Phase Plan: https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-unveils-steps-to-reopen- After COVID-19 ends, what does our 'new normal' look like? https://nationalpost.com//covid19-crisis-new-normal-corona https://nationalpost.com//how-people-over-65-can-do-more-t