Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto

INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN A FREE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INITIATIVE, SHARE FEEDBACK, AND ENTER A DRAW TO WIN A PRIZE COVID-19 infection control measures such as physical distancing and isolation meant to protect older adults with frailty may be leading to dangerously low levels of physical activity. An older person can lose 1 5% of muscle strength each day if they are not physically active. Older adults with mobility restrictions need to be especially creative when trying to ...remain active. One of the easiest ways to stay active is to add more movement in regular activities of daily living such as during eating, bathing, personal care, and more. The Regional Geriatric Program (RGP) of Toronto has received research funding from the Canadian Frailty Network to design a free and accessible indoor physical activity initiative for older adults with frailty, called Stretch, Lift, or Tap (SLoT). Download our first Stretch, Lift, or Tap (SLoT) Tool: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//SLoT-Intervention-COVID19-2020- Track your progress using SLoT. Download the tracking tool: https://urldefense.com//SLoT-Tracking-Tools-2020-06-09.doc We would like feedback from older adults in Ontario! We are looking for older adult volunteers (and their caregivers) to test out our SLoT materials (above) and participate in a before and after confidential survey to understand how this physical activity program impacts their quality of life. We are also looking for feedback on what other tools might be useful to help encourage older adults with frailty to move more indoors. The surveys will take approximately 30 minutes of your time. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw your participation at any time. We are specifically looking for older adults with mobility restrictions who are not very physically active. Participants will enter into a draw to win a $50 cash prize! Those who are especially interested in this work can also join the team and become mobility champions! Email [email protected] if you are interested OR if you prefer the phone please leave a voice message at 416-480-6026. If you know anyone who might be interested in participating in this project please forward this invitation along.

The RGPs of Ontario have launched the third offering of the Caregiving Strategies FREE ONLINE COURSE for caregivers who are providing care and support for older adults living with frailty. The course is free, and self-paced, over eight weeks. Learn more: https://rgps.on.ca/about-the-online-course/

Misinformation and information overload have been key challenges during the current COVID-19 pandemic. One of the ways we have been supporting healthcare providers during this challenging time is by curating and creating COVID-19 resources that are specific to the care of older adults with frailty. We have been sharing these resources with our network through our RGP COVID-19 Updates (approximately weekly). We also have a COVID-19 resource page on our website rgptoronto.ca. Check back there for regular updates or email [email protected] to be added to our email list.

Making time for physical activity while staying indoors is easier than you think! Check out the following resource created by Regional Geriatric Program of Toro...nto that provides links to fitness videos and other exercises you can do around your home. By spending a few minutes each day moving your body in small ways, you can improve your overall well-being! https://www.rgptoronto.ca//COVID-19-Mobilization-in-older-

The COVID-19 pandemic seems to have brought out the worst kind of ageism into the open. A recent column in the Telegraph concluded that an economic long term be...nefit could be the culling of elderly dependents". While we all understand the need to allocate resources by health status, allocating based purely on age is ageism at its most lethal. Tonight at 10pm ET on an all-new episode of theZoomer, Libby Znaimer gathers physicians and elder rights experts to discuss the impact of ageism during COVID-19. visiontv.ca/shows/thezoomer Tonights guests: David Cravit - CMO of CARP Dr. Roger McIntyre - Psychiatrist and Professor at University of Toronto Greg Shaw - Director, International and Corporate Relations at The International Federation on Ageing Dr. Barbara Liu - Executive Director of the Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto, Division Director of Geriatric Medicine at U of T Dr. Sandy Buchman - President of the Canadian Medical Association

NEW DELIRIUM RESOURCES In collaboration with delirium experts across Ontario, we have developed resources specifically in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic to support clinicians across the care continuum. Prevention and Management 2-page resource which includes evidence-based recommendations for quality delirium care, accompanied by special considerations for the pandemic context. https://www.rgptoronto.ca//COVID-19-Prevention-and-managem... Communication tips for clinicians 1-page resource which includes general tips, and ready-to use scripts for people experiencing confusion or agitation. https://www.rgptoronto.ca//COVID-19-Communication-tips-for Communication tips for virtual visits for family or caregivers 1-page resource which includes general tips and ready-to-use scripts https://www.rgptoronto.ca//How-to-prevent-and-support-deli

INFORMATION ON COVD-19 This is a challenging time for everyone, as we navigate through COVID-19 together. As always, it is important that the right care is provided, in the right place, at the right time for older adults with frailty. As a trusted leader in the care of older adults living with frailty, we want to ensure that older adults, their caregivers, and their healthcare providers have the reliable information that they need right now. https://www.rgptoronto.ca/information-about-covid-19/

EVERYONE CAN DO SOMETHING ABOUT DELIRIUM! What will you do on World Delirium Awareness Day #WDAD2020, March 11, 2020? Delirium is a preventable medical emergency that can occur in all care settings and can lead to dire consequences, including cognitive and functional decline, and even increased risk of death. Why is it then that many healthcare providers, patients, and family caregivers do not know how to prevent, recognize or treat it?! In support of #WDAD2020, which was s...tarted by I-Delirium, we encourage EVERYONE to educate themselves and others about delirium. This seemingly small action could help save a life, or greatly improve the quality of life for an older adult. Our sfCare Learning Series has something for everyone. To learn more: https://www.rgptoronto.ca/world-delirium-awareness-day-wda/

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Executive Director Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario (RGPO), Provincial Geriatric Leadership Office As the chief representative of the RGPO, the Executive Director will provide high quality, evidence-based, patient-focused, and fiscally responsible leadership to the Provincial Geriatric Leadership office (PGLO) and partners to advance the current RGPO strategic directions, the PGLO deliverables and other appropriate Ministry priorities related to the... care of frail older adults and their caregivers in Ontario. To learn more: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//PGLO-ED-Job-Posting-2020-01-28.

New resources in our #sfCare Learning Series to help clinicians and PSWs care for older adults with frailty. Thank you to our many collaborators! WoodGreen Community Services VHA Home HealthCare Vibrant Healthcare Alliance Dr. Jill Alston and Dr. Eric Wong. Access these free resources here https://conta.cc/2GAVMKQ

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Executive Director Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario (RGPO), Provincial Geriatric Leadership Office As the chief representative of the RGPO, the Executive Director will provide high quality, evidence-based, patient-focused, and fiscally responsible leadership to the Provincial Geriatric Leadership office (PGLO) and partners to advance the current RGPO strategic directions, the PGLO deliverables and other appropriate Ministry priorities related to the... care of frail older adults and their caregivers in Ontario. To learn more: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//PGLO-ED-Job-Posting-2020-01-28.

UK Medical Officers of Health's new physical activity guidelines highlight the importance of light activity relative to sedentary time for older adults.Thanks to a research grant from the Canadian Frailty Network, we are leading the development of a program to promote more movement in homebound frail older adults. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk//uk-chief-medical

UK Medical Officers of Healths new physical activity guidelines highlight the importance of light activity relative to sedentary time for older adults.Thanks to a research grant from the Canadian Frailty Network, we are leading the development of a program to promote more movement in homebound frail older adults. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk//uk-chief-medical

Are you accidentally ageist? Find out in our sfCare December 2019 Newsletter. https://conta.cc/38Iaflf

As the year draws to a close, we wish everyone happy holidays, and extend a big thank you for working together with us to achieve better health outcomes for older adults.

Tune in to Zoomer TV on Friday Nov 29, 2019 at 2PM to learn more about frailty. Featuring - Dr. Barbara Liu, Executive Director, Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto - John Muscedere, CFN Scientific Director & CEO - Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod of BodyBreak - Heather Keller, Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo and a Schlegel Research Chair in Nutrition and Aging with the Schlegel-University of Waterloo Research Institute for Aging... - Lora Giangregorio, Associate Professor, Department of Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo, and Adjunct Scientist, University Health Network Toronto Rehabilitation Institute See more

Tune in to Zoomer TV on Friday Nov 29, 2019 at 2PM to learn more about frailty. Featuring - Dr. Barbara Liu, Executive Director, Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto - John Muscedere, CFN Scientific Director & CEO - Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod of BodyBreak - Heather Keller, Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo and a Schlegel Research Chair in Nutrition and Aging with the Schlegel-University of Waterloo Research Institute for Aging... - Lora Giangregorio, Associate Professor, Department of Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo, and Adjunct Scientist, University Health Network Toronto Rehabilitation Institute See more

November is "Fall Prevention Month" in Canada; maybe its time to rename it "Mobility Matters Month"! Our October Senior Friendly Care Newsletter provides helpful tips on promoting mobilization across healthcare sectors. Click here for our newsletter: https://conta.cc/2OSt1i5

The Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario (RGPO) and six project partners from across the province have launched new educational resources for caregivers who are providing care and support for seniors living with frailty. Caregiving Strategies consists of : - A FREE online course - The Caregiving Strategies handbook... - Tools, tips and links to great resources These resources have been designed by caregivers and health care experts to improve the skills, knowledge, and confidence of family member and friend caregivers of seniors living with frailty. Click here to access the resources and learn more about the online course: https://www.rgps.on.ca/caregiving-strategies

Weekend plans? Attend a research-based drama on ageism! Designed to help caregivers, families, and the community at large to better understand the day-to-day realities of later life. Each performance is followed by an informative audience feedback session. http://movingscenes.act2studio.ca/upcomingperformances/

Markham has just opened a boutique hotel for people living with dementia; designed to provide a luxurious and therapeutic getaway for their guests, and guilt-free respite for their family caregivers. https://www.cbc.ca//boutique-hotel-allows-dementia-patient

We are pleased to share our 2019 Annual Report with you. This report showcases two strategic priorities: transforming specialized geriatric services, and fostering excellence through senior friendly care. In synergy, these two pillars offer solutions to the challenges faced by the healthcare system. https://www.rgptoronto.ca//2/04/RGP-Annual-Report-2019.pdf

There are still a few spots left for our 15th annual GEM Conference, on October 10, in Toronto. This years theme is "Frailty in the Emergency Department: Hidden Challenges and Innovations". Click here to learn more or register: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//2019-GEM-Conference-Brochure.pdf

Mayor @JohnTory proclaims today as #RehabilitationDay. Thank you to our geriatric care teams who rehabilitate older adults. The sfCare learning Series can help with mobilization. First 10 people to comment on our mobility materials will win posters! #sfCare https://www.rgptoronto.ca/resources/search/

What are healthcare providers saying about the Senior Friendly Care Learning Series? "We love that the modules are ready-to-use, but that we can also customize them...its free...evidence-based...Ontario made...includes patient tools..." #sfCare https://www.rgptoronto.ca/resources/search/

Are you, or someone you know, a senior homeowner in Toronto who would like help around the home, companionship, and rental income? Are you a student looking for affordable housing? Learn more at the City of Torontos upcoming info sessions @TOHomeShare https://www.rgptoronto.ca/older-adults-sharing-homes-with-/

JUST LAUNCHED! Made-in-Ontario clinical education modules, patient handouts, and posters to support best practices in care for frail older adults, available at no charge! https://www.rgptoronto.ca/resources/search/

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Canadas Minister of Health, announced the release of Canadas first dementia strategy - A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. https://www.canada.ca//National%20Dementia%20Strategy_ENG. The announcement also included funding for Phase Two of Canadas largest national dementia research initiative, the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA). Baycrest is now the scientific headquarters of the CCNA. Congra...tulations to all who contributed to this important work, and continue to do so, such as Dr. William Reichman, President and CEO, Baycrest, who is the co-chair of the Ministerial Advisory Board on Dementia, and Dr. Samir Sinha, Director of Geriatrics at Sinai Health Systems Support Sinai and University Health Network. The RGP of Toronto is proud to have these organizations as network members. See more

Have you seen the new Senior Friendly Care poster? Its a great way to show that you organization cares about senior care! Available in our June sfCare Newsletter #sfCare https://conta.cc/2RaUKtu

Preparing to become an Ontario Health Team? Need help designing care that will meet the unique needs of frail older adults? The Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario can help! Learn more: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//Support-for-OHTs-to-Care-for-Ol #sfCare #OntarioHealthTeams

Consultation phase for the new provincial seniors strategy The Government of Ontario announced in its 2019 budget that the province will be developing a new cross-government strategy to improve the lives of seniors. As part of the consultation process an online survey has been created, which is primarily targeted at older adults, their family members and unpaid caregivers to hear about their experiences. We encourage you to share the survey link: https://www.ontario.ca//co...nsultation-survey-ontarios-senio, which will be open until July 19, 2019. In-person consultations will also take place in Seniors Active Living Centres across Ontario over the next 6 weeks. As a member of the Ministry of Seniors Affairs and Accessibility Liaison Committee, The Regional Geriatric Programs of Ontario will also be involved in the strategys development. For more information: https://news.ontario.ca//ontario-is-consulting-with-senior

Registration now open for RGPs of Ontario Education Day - May 30, 2019. The day will focus on "Optimizing the Integration of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Psychiatry Services". Space is limited, but open to all who are interested! https://www.rgptoronto.ca//2019-RGPO-Education-Day-Brochur #sfCare

Respecting diversity is part of #sfCare! Learn about issues facing indigenous seniors at: "Aging in the City Series: Aging, Truth and Reconciliation in the City" on March 25 with @prof_TamaraDaly @Sean_Hillier, and Indigenous Elders Frances Whiskeychan & Patrick Etherington #YU-CARE, #YorkU https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/aging-in-the-city-series-aging-

Ontarios Specialized Geriatric Services See Opportunities in the Peoples Health Care Act, 2019 TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2019 /CNW/ Leaders from across Ontarios Regional Geriatric Programs (RGPs) and Specialized Geriatric Services, clinicians who provide health care to older adults living with frailty, are very encouraged by the Ontario governments introduction of Bill 74, The Peoples Health Care Act, 2019. The Acts intention is to improve access to healthcare services and patient experience by breaking down barriers to better patient care. Click here to read more: https://www.newswire.ca//ontario-s-specialized-geriatric-s

Can you name 6 things that everyone can do to prevent delirium in older adults? Check out our Jan sfCare Newsletter for a print-ready poster on delirium. https://conta.cc/2FVBqNj #sfCare #WDAD2019 @iDelirium_Aware

Are you attending @CanGeriSoc Annual Scientific Meeting in Halifax on May 2-4? This years theme: Frailty: The Joy of Geriatrics. Early bird registration now open https://thecanadiangeriatricssociety.wildapricot.org/2019-/

Our December 2018 sfCare Newsletter highlights 3 no-cost gifts every healthcare provider can give. Dec 2018 sfCare Newsletter: https://conta.cc/2CjUVNv

JOIN OUR TEAM AS A STRATEGY LEAD! This role includes analysis, planning, implementing, evaluating, and reporting on projects that support the RGPs work. You will lead, coordinate, and implement plans for a number of initiatives including: Enhanced role transition activities, Ontario Senior Friendly Care (sfCare) Strategy and Geriatric Services Quality Improvement Committees. Success in this role demands a strong strategic and analytical orientation coupled with exceptional communication skills as well as a highly developed collaborative nature. Applications will be accepted until Dec 21, 2018. For more information about this dynamic role, please see: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//Strategy-Lead-Sept-2018-closing

Toronto study looked at disturbance in sleep, mobility, nutrition and mood during hospital stay and found increase risk of readmission or ED visit by 15.8%

JOIN OUR WEBINAR on Dec 7 from 12-1pm Comprehensive Parkinsons Care - A new approach to an old problem - NYGH Parkinsons Program Presenters: Dr. Joyce Lee, Care of the Elderly Physician, NYGH & Greta Mah, Geriatric Pharmacist, NYGH... Parkinsons disease is a neurological disease which mainly affects seniors and 90% of patients are over 60. The number of Canadians with Parkinsons disease is expected to double by 2030. While Parkinsons disease is mainly characterized by physical symptoms (tremors and slow movements), its often the non-physical symptoms that have the greatest impact on quality of life. North York General Hospital Physician Dr. Joyce Lee says Parkinsons disease can affect a persons mood, anxiety levels, how they think, and even their sleep. Blood pressure and bowel habits are often also affected. Dr. Lee stresses the importance of understanding the disease, and seeking support to better manage the symptoms in order to live well with Parkinsons. Click here to register or for more information: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kWzGQuUaQGe6UrEI20QMtA

The SF7 Toolkit supports clinical best practices for healthcare providers across the sectors of care and includes self-management tools for older adults and their caregivers. The toolkit provides a common practice framework that complements the unique skills and practices of the various care providers helping older adults. SF7 focuses on seven clinical areas that support resilience, independence, and quality of life: cognition (particularly delirium), mobility, social engagem...ent, continence, pain, nutrition, and polypharmacy. The integration of resources for healthcare providers across the sectors of care and for older adults and their caregivers in one package is unique; it transforms the traditional sector-silo approach in evidence-based clinical practice tools. This novel approach provides opportunities for greater understanding and collaboration across the continuum of care by focusing on informing and empowering older adults and their caregivers, and promoting relationship-centred partnerships. Thank you to the 200+ people (older adults, caregivers, healthcare providers, and clinical subject matter experts) who contributed to the SF7 Toolkit by generously sharing their insights and expertise, and to the many who are now involved in the creation of version 2 which will include additional focus on caregivers and personal support workers. The SF7 toolkit is available by individual topic, or bundled together. Click here to access the SF7 Toolkit: https://www.rgptoronto.ca//uploads/2018/04/SF7-Toolkit-V1-

The Retired Teachers of Ontario Foundation is inviting proposals for research, interventions and innovative programming to address Canadas #1 emerging issue for seniors social isolation. https://conta.cc/2QJLGe9