Scams are big business and they’re increasingly targeting seniors, putting them at great risk of losing their assets, their independence and confidence. The lasting trauma of being ripped off can destroy their sense of trust, hope and wellbeing. The shame is overwhelming. “Seniors lost $177 million in 2023 which was an increase from $136.4 million from 2022,”  says Jim Horncastle, spokesman for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) tells Custodia.com. Overall, Canadians lost a staggering $557 million to scams in 2023. The CAFC identifies 30 different types of fraud, and the overall reported loss for the first three months of this year is $123 million. From love and financial scams to fake price and home repair fraud, research reports that seniors (60+) are 33% more likely to get conned by fraudsters compared to other age groups. In particular, the emergency grandparent scam is swindling seniors out of millions. Imagine being home alone and you get a call saying your grandson is in jail! The caller posing as a police officer demands $9,000 cash in bail money, and says not to tell anyone about it. Grandparent scams target older adults That very scenario sent Diane Lindsay of Ingersoll, Ont. into a complete panic; she immediately called her husband Ron who was curling at the time, to go and get the money. “She was told that our grandson was in an accident and drugs were found in the car. The caller knew our names, knew we had a grandson, and claimed to let her speak to him,” Ron, 83, tells Custodia.com.   Ron suspected a scam from the start and drove to his daughter’s house where he found his grandson safe and healthy. The fraudsters brazenly called back a few more times, irate and demanding the money; Ron reported the scam attempts to the police and Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. The Lindsays are lucky – many seniors fall victim to this scam and others. Recently the OPP put out a warning for Canadians to be vigilant after a senior with dementia lost $600,000 through repeated grandparent scams. She couldn’t remember the situation from the day before. “Do not react to what they say. Tell them you will handle it by calling authorities and hang up,” says Ron. “They’re aggressive and very experienced and have the answers to all your questions.” Swindled out of $75,000 for roof repairs not needed Be leery of all high-pressure pressure tactics and unsolicited offers on the phone, online and shady solicitors coming to your door pitching home renovations. “Better you contact businesses when you need something done,” he adds. Never sign anything on the spot! Beware the friendly fraudster at your door that appears to be knowledgeable and can give you a one time-special price to fix your roof, fence or driveway. They put on the pressure to sign a contract or give a big deposit and do little, poor or no work at all. Toronto retirees Judy Poirier and Robin Rushton ended up getting scammed out of $75,000 by a man who offered to cap their chimney. That $800 fee grew to $62,000 when the workers claimed extensive roof damage requiring structural repairs. The reno quote steadily climbed to beyond $100,000. Apparently, the roof was falling down. They were terrified: “He used the words that there was damp wood, rotting wood, broken wood, mould. The roof was going to collapse. It was dangerous. Winter is coming,” Judy told cbc.ca. The truth is all the roof could have used were new shingles, at a cost of around $8,500. Landlines increase vulnerability to fraud The money paid in bank drafts is gone. “I’m an emotional wreck … I can’t tell you how terrible it is,” Judy told cbc.ca. “I don’t know how, if, we’ll ever be able to build our savings up again.” It’s easy to fall victim to people who impersonate government agencies, grandchildren or other pushy people who quickly elicit trust, including investment, romance and service scammers. And fraudsters are only getting smarter and more sophisticated and employing artificial intelligence and QR Code fraud to steal. According to Horncastle, vulnerabilities in digital platforms are being exploited with “criminals commonly using caller id spoofing, search engine optimization, fraudulent online and social media ads or compromised accounts.” Having a landline makes older homeowners an added prime target. Going on websites like Canada 411 offers loads of information like someone’s phone number, name and address. Scammers search obits and social media for names of grandchildren or relatives which they employ to manipulate seniors. Don’t fall for high-pressure tactics Horncastle reports that victims are being contacted through ads on social media, telemarketing calls or through door-to-door sales persons. Ads on social media will ask for your contact information, and then after sharing, you’ll receive a call to set up an appointment at your home. “Door-to-door sales people can use high pressure tactics and can be aggressive in nature. Consumers may find themselves in a situation where they purchase a product or sign up for a service they neither need nor want,” says Horncastle, and that may come with contractual obligations. “They may claim that the victim is eligible for a grant through a government program and pressure the victim into signing a contract or prepaying for the equipment or services.” Common home service scams include: Scammed home owners end up with work or equipment that is often not worth the price paid, and in some cases that warranties are invalid, he says. “The CAFC has also received reports where victims have signed a contract and a Notice of Security Interest (NOSI) has been placed on their home.” Scammers impersonate legitimate companies Scammers are predatory! “Whether you are getting a phone call, email or social media message always confirm the identity of the person by a different method of communication,” advises Horncastle. For example, look up the official phone number for the company, agency or person and make an outgoing phone call. Fraudsters will often use the name of legitimate companies in order…
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By Joanne Richard. How many times have you heard it? “I have everything – don’t get me anything.” Yes, many older folks don’t want or need more knickknacks or warm gloves, or gift cards, but there are still many thoughtful and Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors that can make their lives simpler, safer, and just more comfortable and cozy. And that just won’t sit somewhere on a shelf. With gift-giving season rolling in, the big countdown is on and there are only so many shopping days left! We’re here to help with a sleighful of thoughtful ideas that provide self-care, fun experiences, or assist with special needs – and make life that much more merry. List of Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors From sensible gifts to sentimental things to presents that make aging at home a whole lot easier, there’s something that’ll brighten Christmas morning for every special senior on your list. Explore our curated collection of the Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors and spread joy and comfort this holiday season. 1. Nest Thermostat. Get them some smart technology to keep them living in their own homes with ease and confidence. A Nest Learning Thermostat has a big, sharp display and remembers what temperature your folks prefer, learns their schedule, and programs itself to save energy. Available at major retailers including Best Buy, Canadian Tire, Lowes, and Walmart. 2. Smart Garage Door Opener. Welcome your loved one home with a Smart Garage Door Opener that lets them in and out safely and effortlessly with the simple touch of their Smartphone; lots to choose from at Canadian Tire, Home Depot, and other retailers. Consider these among the Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors, offering convenience and peace of mind during the festive season and beyond. 3. Smart Ring Doorbell Ring in the holidays with a Smart Ring Doorbell. Lets them see who’s coming and going, safely and conveniently, and even chat with visitors – even if they’re not home. A variety of models are available online and at major retailers and are super easy to install and user-friendly. 4. Heatable Slippers Spa Chic Warm their heart and their feet with the new and glamourous Heatable Slippers Spa Chic by Magic Bag. Give soothing relief of aches and pains with lavender aromatherapy slippers that hold heat for 30 minutes after warming them up in the microwave. Store in freezer and use them instead as a cold compress. The heatable inserts can be removed. Available at magicbag.com and pharmacies and retailers across Canada, along with other therapeutic Magic Bag Spa wellness products, including the Lavendar Extended Aromatherapy Wrap Spa Chic and the Eucalyptus or Lavender Aromatherapy Mask. 5. Digital Calendar Alarm Day Clock Keep them up to date with a digital calendar alarm day clock with an extra-large screen display that’s convenient and simple to read; or consider a high-resolution calendar wall clock that spells out the time, day, and indoor/outdoor temperature in 3.25-inch digits. 6. Electronic Photo Frame No technical skills are required. Connect your folks to love and fun with videos and photos on an electronic photo frame. Share the login information with family members and everyone can share their good times – manage the frame, so many to choose from, with your phone and update using apps, email, Google photos, Facebook, Instagram, and more. 7. Flipper Big Button Remote Remotes can be a major frustration for seniors – the Flipper Big Button Remote features large color-coded tactile buttons for easy use and works for up to two devices. Only six easy-to-read and easy-to-operate buttons – On/Off, Channel Up, Channel Down, Volume Up, Volume Down, and Mute. Ideal for loved ones with Dementia or Alzheimer’s or someone with low and impaired vision. 8. Cobble Hill Easy Handling Puzzle Something entertaining like a puzzle is a great way to exercise the brain, and there are options for every activity level, including those with vision or cognitive challenges. Cobble Hill Easy Handling puzzles have 275 pieces and are not only perfect for easy assembling but large pieces make the details more visible. At walmart.ca, scholarschoice.ca, and other retailers by checking outsetmedia.com. 9. Customized Photo Gift Add a special touch to a puzzle by customizing it with a favourite family photo. Not only is it a great Christmas day activity for the entire family, but it’ll warm mom’s heart over and over again. Or put that special memory on a blanket, mug, doormat, pillowcase, calendar and more at photobookcanada.com, canvaschamp.ca, vistaprint.ca and more. 10. Personalized Drawing Jigsaw Puzzle Guaranteed to melt grandma’s heart, how about a Personalized Drawing Jigsaw Puzzle? Get a grandchild or even great-grandchild to draw a picture on this blank framed canvas jigsaw puzzle, then break it apart and place it into the included gift box. It’s from Poppys Collection, a woman-run, a Canadian business that specializes in curated items for babies, kids, and families from around the world. 11. Sound Bar TV Speakers Now they’ll hear what you hear. Soundbar TV speakers clarify the dialogue and reduce the distracting background sounds so hearing-impaired seniors don’t have to turn things up so loud. The ZVOX Dialogue Clarifying Sound Bar features patented hearing technology that separates the voices from the rest of the soundtrack – and then manipulates them much like a hearing aid does. The voices literally jump out of the soundtrack and can be heard clearly. 12. Weighted Blanket Give them a much-needed hug when you’re not there. Weighted blankets could provide your loved one with a more fitful sleep, calm nerves and diminish anxiety, including those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The therapeutic effects of deep pressure simulated through the use of a weighted blanket have been documented. Proudly Canadian Hush weighted blankets get rave reviews and so too many others – check out reviews. Consider these as some of the Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors, offering comfort and relief during the holiday season and beyond. 13. Body Care Products Take mom out for lunch and personal service like hairstyling, a manicure or pedicure – something…
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By Joanne Richard. Don’t let anyone tell you that social media influencing is for the young and wrinkle-free. Spirited, fashion-forward, hashtag-savvy 60-plus-year-olds like Lyn Slater are becoming online celebrities and enjoying the fame, and for some the fortune. Age is not a barrier to expressing oneself – especially on social media. Active agers galore are sharing their energy and wit and savvy online, whether it be for fashion, fitness, food, adventure, travel and more, and are changing the perceptions of aging. Who is Lyn Slater? Instagram fashion influencer Lyn Slater is the Accidental Icon and over the past few years, she has purposefully grown her Instagram followers to 753,000 by showcasing striking couture and her bold personal style, accessorized with her steely stare or dramatic sunglasses. In a competitive social media sea of fresh, young faces, the 67-year-old embraces her grey hair and wrinkles, along with the latest trends and technology. The recently retired professor has always had edgy, head-turning style – often mistaken for being in the fashion industry, hence her moniker – and has built on her passions for clothing, culture and writing to show her wear-abouts to the world. While fading with age is seen as the norm, Slater has never been more visible or powerful. She’s worked with some of the world’s top luxury brands including Loro Piana, Kate Spade, Valentino Eyewear, Dior, Uniqlo, Gucci Beauty, Noble Panacea, LaPrairie, Bally, Maison Margiela Fragrances, Farfetch, Net-a-Porter and more. She is with a talent management agency and has a literary agent. Slater sees herself as providing her “followers with inspiration and permission to wear what makes you happy regardless of what someone else may think or choose to wear.” How does she pick her pieces? “I choose based on who I am in the particular time I’m living in, what I’m doing and the particular aspect of my identity I might want to highlight on any given day.” “I never set out to change perceptions of aging, I just wanted to express myself creatively and do something different than my work as a professor.“ With a calm, refined, uncluttered social media presence, bare on hashtags and big on upscale collaboration, she shows aging in a vibrant, self-accepting way. She is comfortable in her own grandma skin – there is no retouching. “I never set out to change perceptions of aging, I just wanted to express myself creatively and do something different than my work as a professor. Inadvertently I ended up showing that the future of aging is not to be feared but can be a time of new experiences and adventures,” says Slater, who retired two years ago as a professor of social work and law at Fordham University. Her newest adventure is a restoring an old house after moving out of New York City and enjoying having access to nature as well as living in a smaller community. No country bumpkin for her though – she’s brought along her Prada, Dior and more. She especially loves her second career of creating content for social media, which she does a few times a week, and is busy studying photography and growing her passion for writing non-academic essays. During the pandemic, she’s been ruminating about her life and aging, and it’s resonating with her followers. In a recent blog, she writes: “I’ve accepted that I’m old and feel no shame, no despair about it. In fact, I decided to inhabit it completely and explore it as an unknown territory, much as I would a city I’ve never been to before.” There’s nothing you can do to control aging, so try to be the best you can be. Just like her jeans, her very favourite clothing item – “I love that they become better as they age” – she too is doing the same. “Even as we are fading and becoming even more worn, we continue to create new narratives and add more value to ourselves with each passing day,” she blogs. Slater’s platforms crush dowdy stereotypes. “We need more positive representations of aging in the media. Let’s get rid of the fear and make people actually look forward to getting older,” says Ari Seth Cohen, a celebrated photographer and author whose Advanced Style project is devoted to featuring senior street style on Instagram @advancedstyle, and in his photos, film and books. In a world that promotes aging as ugly and needs to be fixed, Cohen beautifully celebrates and empowers stylish seniors. “We are told that wrinkles are wrong because the beauty industry makes huge profits off of our fears and insecurities. I have always loathed the term anti-aging. Anyone who is lucky enough to get to an older age should be embraced, celebrated and made to feel worthy. “I started Advanced Style in celebration of my grandmother Bluma who was my best friend. My perspective is that we should all have the permission and freedom to be and express whatever we want no matter what age we are,” says Cohen, author of Advanced Style: Older and Wiser.   He encourages seniors to share their energy and experiences lives online, just like two of his book models and Instagram favourites, @saramaijewels and @lesleyhasmanyhats. To have an online presence, you need authenticity and originality, along with “having a point of view and connecting with your audience in a way that creates a conversation beyond just style.” Slater figures her popularity comes from her honesty, and keeping things real: “Older people are very diverse and aging is an individual experience. I’m just showing how I as one woman am approaching aging. Aging has both good and not so good aspects to it… I’m not on a crusade about it. I believe that showing gets much better results than telling.” While Slater adores fashion, social media doesn’t get the same rave reviews. She’s been tech savvy for many years as her training in social welfare policy taught her to forecast cultural phenomenon. “I owned the first laptop computer ever made by Apple and was an early adapter of…
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March is a great month to celebrate women of all ages – from change-makers and senior trailblazers to entrepreneurs and women who live out their dream jobs. “I found it invigorating being the only woman in the room” International Women’s Day is March 8 and let’s honour women who pave the way for others and break down barriers to gender equality. This year’s theme for IWD is #ChooseTo Challenge and these senior trailblazers chose to challenge in their own way, before feminism was an object of cultural discourse. In the 50s when women were relegated to the kitchen or secretarial roles, Jean Davey fearlessly entered the world of finance, and triumphantly climbed her way to the top of the stock market in an industry dominated by sexism, disapproval and disparagement. Davey, who turns 90 in June, became Canada’s first woman to be a licensed stockbroker and VP at a major finance company. “I found it invigorating being the only woman in the room,” says Davey. The Only Woman in the Room: The Making of a Stockbroke is the name of her book and it follows her inspiring and remarkable ascent on Bay Street. Davey’s career in finance spanned 50 years, through the era of three-martini lunches and the impenetrable old boys club to putting major cracks in the glass ceiling when, at age 73, she was appointed VP and director of Scotia McLeod. Own your successes and aim higher. Through the highs and the lows, that’s what Davy did, and she wishes she could do it all over again. “Life and working hard is a hoot!” Her advice: Own your successes and aim higher. Through the highs and the lows, that’s what Davy did, and she wishes she could do it all over again. “Life and working hard is a hoot!” “If he is doing it, you can do it. Get rid of the idea that you are not great.” From her humble start stuffing envelopes at General Motors in Grade 12 to learning to type and read financial reports as a secretary to the president, the trailblazer went on to rule the trading floor. “I climbed as high as the number two salesperson out of 200 colleagues. I just went for it and didn’t think about it being hard or easy. I went for what I wanted,” says Davey, who lives at Amica Senior Lifestyles in Toronto. That’s her advice to women everywhere: “Don’t worry about barriers, because life is a barrier. Let it be known what you feel about yourself,” says Davey. “If you think you are smart at something, say it, do it.” “The one thing I wish I had done was be a director of a publicly-owned firm. I never asked because I thought I am a female, it is all men, and they don’t want a woman – I talked myself out of it and I regret it.” While attaining power in her profession was hard fought, her book candidly details personal challenges and triumphs too, including ending an unhappy marriage in which she felt controlled and belittled, and then finding the love of her life and remarrying at age 65, showcasing the resilience and fortitude of senior trailblazers. Regrets? Not many: “The one thing I wish I had done was be a director of a publicly-owned firm. I never asked because I thought I am a female, it is all men, and they don’t want a woman – I talked myself out of it and I regret it.” Whatever you dream, you can do it – “I didn’t realize this until later,” adds Davey, mom of two. “If he is doing it, you can do it. Get rid of the idea that you are not great.” Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors Meanwhile, Mona Sager was flying high in a different way while Davey was making a name for herself in the financial world. Sager, 92, became a private pilot more than 70 years ago – she was just 17 and in high school when she started working at the Oshawa Flying Club, and signed up for flying lessons at $11.50 an hour. With hard work and dedication, it wasn’t long before Sager gave up club chores to pilot sightseeing tours around the city in a single-engine Aeronca aircraft. Then came the aerobatics! Sager was unstoppable: She entered a spot landing competition and won. The contest focused on training for emergency landings and entailed flying to a certain height, cutting the engine and making a safe landing on a target. She not only won the Oshawa Flying Club Spot Landing Competition but that day, amongst her all-male competitors, she met her future husband and they married three months later. Sager adds that her passengers’ reactions varied when they boarded for a flight: She had passengers literally disembark after seeing a female at the controls while others specifically requested her to fly them places. “Just do it, don’t worry about what people will think or how they will react. If you want to do it, get up and do it.” Sager recalls having a teacher in school say to her: “You will never amount to anything.” Mona proved her wrong. Her advice to young girls: “Just do it, don’t worry about what people with think or how they will react. If you want to do it, get up and do it.” She went on to work at Oshawa Engineering and have two children. She lives at Amica in Whitby. By Joanne Richard.

By Joanne Richard. The coronavirus outbreak hasn’t worsened ageism – instead it’s magnified our harmful ageist culture that has gone unchallenged for far too long, activist Ashton Applewhite tells Custodia. And that exposure is a good thing: “The crisis has brought age, aging and oldness out of the dark corners and into the centre of the damn room,” says the ageism disruptor and author, “and it’s giving us an extraordinary opportunity to build on that awareness – to mobilize against ageism and change its course. I just wish it hadn’t taken this hideous human cost…” We live in a society that barrages us with negative messages about how truly awful it is to age and our only value is in being young. This discrimination divides us, costs us lots of money, fills us with terrible dread, and cripples our personal and professional lives. “You’re more likely to live longer – an average of 7 ½ years longer – walk faster, and recover from illness and injury quicker” “Our fears about aging are way of whack with reality, and knowing the facts about getting older leads to a happier, healthier approach for society,” says Applewhite. Reject age shaming. Get off the treadmill of age denial. Stop the hand-wringing! You’re aging yourself, literally. “Our attitudes towards aging affect how our minds and bodies function on a cellular level – ageism makes us sick and shortens lives,” says Applewhite, author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism and blogs at thischairrocks.com. She recommends adopting a fact-based rather than fear-based attitude towards aging. And here are the facts about having the facts: You’re more likely to live longer – an average of 7 ½ years longer – walk faster, and recover from illness and injury quicker, says Applewhite. “Aging is not a problem to be fixed or a disease to be cured,” she says. “It is a natural, powerful, lifelong process that unites us all.” Older people with positive self-perceptions are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s, even if we have the gene that predisposes us to that disease, she says. “Actually, dementia rates are actually falling fast. All age-related diseases are declining.” All the worrying and the irrational fear of memory loss generate debilitating anxiety, and this makes us more vulnerable to exactly what we fear the most, she says. The fear is bad for our health and bad for our lives. It’s not all diapers, depression and dementia! “We’re terrified at the prospect that we’ll be drooling in some institution someday, yet only around 3% of older Canadians are living in nursing homes,” says Applewhite. In Canada, 92% of men and women aged 65 and over live at home. “People are happiest at the beginnings and the ends of their lives.” While our fears are real and legitimate, not all of your darkest fears are going to come true. Most “olders” are not falling apart, nor are they train wrecks. Most of us are likely to fall somewhere in the messy middle of the pizza, she says, muddling along just fine – and most people really like getting older. “People are happiest at the beginnings and the ends of their lives. If you don’t want to take my word for it, Google ‘U-curve of happiness.’ Even as age strips us of the things we cherished – physical strength, beloved friends, toned flesh – we grow more content,” Applewhite writes in her Manifesto. But that’s not the way it’s spun by the beauty or medical industries – they profit from pathologizing this natural transition, says Applewhite. We treat it as a disease, we treat it as a social problem, and that’s because no one makes money from satisfaction. Think hard about your attitudes towards age and aging. Where do they come from, who profits from your fears, are they based on observable reality? “Aging is not a problem to be fixed or a disease to be cured,” she says. “It is a natural, powerful, lifelong process that unites us all.” Ask yourself why does aging well mean struggling to look and move like younger versions of ourselves? “It’s embarrassing to be called old until we stop being embarrassed about it!” Unfortunately, our youth-obsessed, sexist, misogynistic, capitalist culture idealizes those who appear not to age, says Applewhite, like older people running marathons or jumping out of airplanes. “Hey, if they inspire you, fantastic, but never forget they are outliers, they are not typical. There should be zero shame if you don’t want to jump out of an airplane, or can’t or can’t afford to jump out of an airplane.” Or you can’t climb stairs or drive at night. Her definition of successful aging: “If you wake up in the morning, you’re aging successfully.” “By having friends of all ages, you will educate and inform yourself organically and help dismantle ageism.” Enjoy the older years by saving for retirement, taking care of your health, and making friends of all ages. “Think of something you want to do and find a mixed-aged group to do it with. By having friends of all ages, you will educate and inform yourself organically and help dismantle ageism.” Ideally, intergenerational living in the form of affordable, age-friendly housing enriches us all. Aging in place is fine as long as we have a way to be socially connected to people and get the help we’re going to need, she says. “Sure, it’s scary to realize that we’re not going to be able to shovel our driveway one day, so do you have a plan for who is going to shovel for you? It’s not about old, sad people needing help – it’s about all ages being in contact with each other.” Tackling ageism requires collective action by companies, communities, and all of us making noise. “Autonomy requires collaborators. We are social creatures: all of life is interdependence. Let’s acknowledge our lifelong need for helping hands and reach for them gratefully and without shame.” Shifting our attitudes and national priorities is critical…
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Once life goes back to normal and people are getting out again and returning to work, there could be some post-COVID pet regret along with our new best furry friends facing a lot of unfamiliar alone time. Pandemic puppy purchases may be in the moment, but pet ownership is a long-term commitment. Pandemic Puppy demand is soaring. Humane societies and animal rescue organizations across Canada report a spike in new adoptions and fosters, so much so that supply is low. And the tremendous ongoing demand from over-eager consumers has sent puppy prices skyrocketing with several Kijiji listings asking $3,000 and upward for a mutt – with no guarantees of health, breed or temperament. While craving companionship is understandable, the end result could be more than you bargained for. According to Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, Canadian veterinary medical advisor for Rover, “while it’s important for everyone to have the opportunity to experience the joy and love of pet companionship, especially during a time of heightened stress and loneliness, it’s also vital that folks consider everything before rushing into a decision.” Lonely seniors have been disproportionately kept away from loved ones during the pandemic, and the companionship, sense of belonging, and stress relief that pets can offer could be hugely beneficial – but in the right situations, said Greenstein, chief vet and owner of Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital at kleinburgvet.ca.   Pets have an unmistakable allure, especially in uncertain times and as birthday and Christmas gifts, but they are not a toy or a novelty gift. “Owning an animal is a tremendous responsibility over the entirety of its lifetime – in the case of some birds, this could mean decades of care,” Greenstein said. Seniors need to make an honest assessment of their own mobility and physical fitness: Are you able and willing to go for long walks several times a day? If your large dog gets hurt, could you realistically lift him or her into a vehicle by yourself? Another key consideration is the cost of pet ownership. Routine veterinary visits, food, and grooming all add up. Emergency medical bills can run into the thousands so it’s essential to consider pet insurance and to set aside funds as early as possible, Greenstein added. Check out Food For Good Mood. In addition, consider your lifestyle and home circumstances. “Once the pandemic ends and you’re busy socializing again, do you have the time to devote to pet care? While certain pets can be happily kept in an apartment, other active breeds need pace like a backyard or park to run about so take stock of your home and be honest about where it ranks on the pet-friendliness scale.”  While there’s a good reason we call them man’s best friend, canines are not appropriate for all people under all circumstances, stressed Greenstein. “Smaller, calmer, and more sedentary breeds are likely a better choice for seniors but thorough research is a must before bringing a fur baby home!” According to Greenstein, cats are another good choice. Unlike dogs, they don’t require the same amount of physical activity and most cats thrive indoors only. “Just be sure that no one in the home has allergies and remember that cats can live to over 20 years of age, so you’re in it for the long term.” Fish are an often overlooked pet. They are colourful and beautiful and some non-tropical species are fairly easy to care for. “Studies have shown that even owning a goldfish as a pet can have significant health benefits as an owner,” she said. What are the best dogs for seniors? Consider smaller, calmer breeds with less exercise requirements includingminiature poodles, bichons, yorkies, shih tzus and maltese. Some of these can bark a lot, require a lot of grooming and have a variety of common health issues so be sure to do your research beforehand, advised Greenstein.  What are the best to avoid these dogs if you’re a senior? German shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans are beautiful dogs but require a lot of exercises and intense training. Herding breeds like Australian shepherds are intelligent but need a lot of physical activity and attention. Golden Retrievers are kind, loyal, and wonderful family pets but might be a little too destructive, especially as puppies, and need significant space and exercise. If adding a new family member is feasible both short-term and in the future, the added companionship can be a major factor in boosting mental wellbeing, she said. In fact, a recent Rover survey found that nine out of 10 dog owners say that since the pandemic began, their dog has played a role in positively impacting their mental health.  “Welcoming a new pandemic puppy to your family is a financial and emotional commitment that shouldn’t be taken lightly – but ask any pet parent and they’ll tell you, the love and joy they bring to your life is priceless.”

By Joanne Richard. Loneliness has long been a growing public health concern in Canada and globally, and COVID-19 is making the loneliness epidemic even worse, especially for the elderly. Older adults are particularly harmed — virtual hugs and kisses don’t cut it. NORC at the University of Chicago found the pandemic has made about a third of adults 70 and older lonelier than usual. “Increased insolation has lead to many seniors worrying about not having enough time left to see there families and connect,” said registered psychotherapist Joshua Peters. And the “upcoming holiday season will  be especially difficult for seniors who worry about the number of holidays they have left in their lifetime.” The enforced isolation in care homes and assisted living facilities has been particularly traumatic – “this can result in an out of sight, out of mind experience that leaves seniors vulnerable,” said Peters, Clinical Manager the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships (CFIR). Social disconnect isn’t just a problem for the elderly. Anyone, anywhere, of any age can experience loneliness, and with it much pain and suffering, according to Dr. Ami Rokach, a York University professor and clinical psychologist specializing in treating and researching loneliness. “All of us want, and need, is to belong and to be loved.” Rethink Aging With Colin Milner COVID-19 fallout is seeing many older people closed off from family and friends, and bombarded with messages that they are vulnerable, on their way out, and should be extremely cautious, Rokach said. “While they need to be cautious, all that, together, isolates them, physically and socially, and for those who translate social isolation to loneliness, it is frightening, alienating, and creates uncertainty.” Loneliness is debilitating mentally and physically: “It is known to weaken the immune system, lengthen the period of illness, slow recovery, contribute to heart attacks, high blood pressure, dementia in the elderly, and may even hasten death in the old,” Rokach reported. Loneliness leaves the person believing that s/he is not important, unlovable, and does not belong, he said. “Being confined to home, as many elderly may be, feeling like they are forgotten and even abandoned, can clearly affect their mental health.” Peters is optimistic that most seniors will bounce back from this experience assuming that some state of normalcy returns. “Seniors are a hardy and resilient group. They have lived through many world events that have challenged their way of life and survived,” he said. Connecting with family and younger generations is essential to older adults’ wellbeing, Peters stressed. “This allows for social connection and meaning as well as contributing to a sense of generativity — the need to nurture and guide younger people and contribute to the next generation. Generativity is one greatest predictors of wellbeing in older adults.” Safeguarding their wellbeing requires support and community: “Likely we’re headed in the wrong direction if we push seniors into facilities that encourage an outsourcing of care when we have opportunities to provide it elsewhere.” Ageing in place allows seniors to stay where they feel most comfortable and makes visits from family easier, added Peters. It also allows seniors greater independence as well as the ability to stay close to the networks they’ve create over a lifetime.  “These networks are essential during times of crisis to provide support and connection,” Peters said. “A sense of community can combat the loneliness that many seniors may experience. These communities also provide space where seniors can share their wisdom with future generations.” Unfortunately, many seniors facilities do not have the resources to create this type of community, he said, adding that they are less comfortable places to visit, which can make it harder to maintain connections According to Peters, in order to get through this crisis, we need to ensure that we do not forget how vulnerable seniors are to being neglected and connect as much as possible. “In caring for seniors, it is also important to ensure they are given as much independence as possible. Respect should be given for their experiences and the lives that they have lived.”  Key Ideas Being alone does not, necessarily, mean being lonely, according to loneliness expert Dr. Ami Rokach. It just means being alone. “It may arouse boredom, some anxiety, and a wish to see and interact with others, but that does not loneliness make. “Just like when we feel we wish to taste a piece of chocolate or a sweet treat does not mean that we are hungry.” Perception of the situation is very important. Rokach offered these tips for seniors dealing with loneliness: What Can You Do? Mental health expert Joshua Peters offered up this advice for families, friends and neighbours to help seniors cope with isolation and loneliness:

Conquer The Great Indoors Indoor activities for seniors are important, especially in autumn and winter months, when the weather is typically cold and rainy. So make the most of your time indoors with these 5 autumn activities you can do around the house. 1. Play Mobile Games A new trend boosting the wellbeing for seniors is digital and mobile games! That’s right, a recent study by North Carolina State University found that seniors who actively played digital games reported better feelings of well being than seniors who don’t play digital games. Digital games also happen to be excellent indoor activities for seniors. In addition, the study found that seniors who play digital games are less likely to feel depressed, and also reported higher levels of social functioning. Become a mobile gamer, use your mobile device to download a few games and try them out. Don’t worry if you do not enjoy the game, after trying it out you can always uninstall the game and try another. Your favorite mobile game is waiting for you to discover it! Play Words with Friends Word with friends is a fun mobile game that can be played with friends and family. It is available for Android devices in Google’s play store or on IOS devices in Apple’s app store. Download words with friends to challenge your friends and family to a digital version of Scrabble! Play 2048 2048 is an interactive number puzzle created by Gabriele Cirulli in 2014, and it is incredibly simple – yet satisfying to play. The objective is to swipe numbered tiles together, adding their values to reach a total of 2048. Also available for Android devices in Google’s play store or on IOS devices in Apple’s app store. 2. Practice Indoor Tai Chi Tai Chi promotes balance, and has been proven to lead to better sleep and clearer cognition. It involves slow performed movements while standing, and can be a powerful fall prevention exercise if performed safely. Learn Tai Chi Tai Chi is practiced all over the globe. Someone in your social circle may know Tai Chi, and be able to teach you. Or you can learn online by watching tutorial videos on YouTube. Get started learning Tai Chi by watching this 5 minute video for beginners, and try your best to follow along. Watch a Video Tutorial on YouTube 3. Create A Gratitude Wall Did you know that showing gratitude has scientifically shown to reduce stress and encourage a more rested sleep? Building a gratitude wall is a simple and cost effective way to show a little bit of gratitude each day. Start by putting up a large sheet of paper on the wall in your living room, and write down what you are grateful for. Don’t forget to encourage any friends or family in your social circle to do the same when they come to visit. Need Gratitude Wall Ideas? Take a look at this amazing collection of gratitude wall images by Jill Schoenherr on Pinterest. Get Inspired with Gratitude Wall Ideas. 4. Make Art Pumpkins As fun as it is, pumpkin carving can be dangerous. According to UPI’s Health News, over 3000 people in the U.S were injured carving pumpkins in 2017. In an academy news release, Dr. L. Reid Boyce Nichols, spokesman for the AAOS stated “Pumpkin carving is a fun activity, but it can result in serious cuts on the hand and injuries to bones and tendons,”. With this in mind, you should ditch the dangerous knives this fall, and pick up a paint brush and some art supplies instead. Painting and creating art has been shown to increase resistance to stress in adults over 65, and most importantly artistic and creative exercises are fun indoor activities for seniors. So use your imagination and have fun, and if you get stuck, just head over to Pinterest to get inspired by 100s of painted pumpkin ideas!  Art Pumpkin Ideas Check out this creative collection of painted pumpkins by Debby Peery on Pinterest. Get Creative with Painted Pumpkin Ideas. 5. Watch a Scary Classic Movie According to Psychology Today, nostalgia is a positive emotion, and has the ability to uplift your mood. Nostalgia can also increase a sense of meaning in your life, and boost self-esteem. Watching a classic scary movie is a perfect way to get nostalgic during the fall and winter months, and the best part is you can enjoy a movie alone or in the company of your friends and family. Get the projector out, and hit the lights. Try revisiting some nostalgic classic movies like Hitchcock’s Vertigo, Anthony Perkin’s Murder on the Orient Express, or re-watch some Twilight Zone episodes. Try a Streaming Service If you don’t subscribe to one already, try out a reputable streaming service like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Hulu. Each service has 1000s of TV shows and Movies that are available for you to watch 24/7. Our Seniors Support At Custodia we aid seniors, their families, and seniors support organizations. We make sure seniors can live more independently, and are comfortable in the safety of their home. Custodia Seniors Support provides access to reliable information and affordable professional services. We do it all from safety and accessibility feature installations, to general labor, and handyman services, to seasonal home services like, snow removal, lawn maintenance, gutter cleaning and more! Contact Custodia Seniors Support today. Canada’s choice for senior’s home management Service. Call 1-833-410-HELP any day at any time or email us at services@custodia.

Boosting Your Brain Health Boost your brain health with our simple exercises. Boosting your brain health is an essential part of maintaining your cognitive abilities, charm, and quick wit. 1. Learning and Brain Health A Neurology study, first published June 10, 2015, found that learning activities can help slow down symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and maintain quality of life for a longer period of time. Learning about something of interest is fun, and has many benefits for your brain.  In an article by CCSU, the author discusses how learning something new can make your myelin more dense (your brain’s white-matter). The article shows that increased myelin (more dense) stimulates your brain’s neurons, and will create pathways that are neural that let electric impulses move quicker. Try an Online Course These days there are plenty of online education options to choose from, but we recommend you only subscribe to trusted providers like Skillshare, Masterclass, or Lynda.  2. Brain Games and Brain Health According to a 2016 study in International Psychogeriatrics, brain stimulating games can improve critical thinking skills that can diminish over time, like speed, planning, reaction, decision-making, and short-term memory. In a Health Harvard interview, Dr. Brody-Magid states “Also, your *cognitive* reserve may even help provide resilience against age-related memory loss and dementia,”. This leads Dr. Brody-Magid to believe that brain stimulating games also help your memory by growing your cognitive reserve. Your cognitive reserve is like a savings account that your brain makes a withdrawal from when you need to think quick. Play a Classic or New Brain Game There are many great brain games, from newspaper classics like crossword, sudoku, and spot the difference, there are also new science backed digital brain games from companies like peak, luminosity and happy-neuron. 3. Light Exercise and Brain Health Did you know that light exercise has been proven to relieve stress, increase energy, reduce tiredness, improve sleep, and also reduce cholesterol? A study by the US National Library of Medicine found that regular exercise provides all these mental health benefits and more! The study also finds that aerobic workouts, like walking, going for a swim, riding a bicycle, gardening, and dancing to your favourite music reduce anxiety and depression. The findings state that the improved mood is a result of the exercise-induced increase in blood circulation to the brain. Find an Exercise for You Although exercise has many mental and physical health benefits, it can also be quite dangerous if you do not pick a suitable exercise routine! Avoid heavy exercise while alone, and avoid exercising in areas that may lead to slips or falls. Here are a few safe exercises that you can try in the safety of your home. 4. Puzzles and Brain Health A recent study by The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shows that solving puzzles is not only affordable, but also a motivating cognitive leisure activity. What makes a puzzle special is that it’s a great solo activity that can also be played with others in a group. The study also shows that when puzzles are solved with others it combats the feeling of loneliness. In a Reader’s Digest interview with Clinical-Neuropsychologist, Susan Vandermorris of Baycrest Health Sciences shares her belief that any kind of puzzle is good for your brain. She puts an emphasis on the stress related benefits of puzzles, stating that while building a puzzle, you are disconnected from your normal thoughts, instead engaged in the task of the puzzle. Build a Real or Digital Puzzle Grab an old puzzle off the board game shelf, or head to Amazon to buy some new puzzles. You can also give one of the many digital puzzles a try. Digital puzzles are available online, on Google’s Play store, or in Apple’s App store. Take a look below to get started: 5. Reading and Brain Health Evidence in a 2016 study from Yale’s school of Public Health shows reading can lead you to enjoying a longer-life. The study found that readers had a 20% reduction in risk of death over 12 years, compared with non-book readers. A different study from multiple researchers, and published by the US National Library of Medicine used MRI’s to scan the brains of readers and non-readers. The research confirms that improving your reading ability will strengthen your brain’s network of circuits and signals.  Join a Book Club In the current Covid-19 environment it may not be safe to meet with others for unessential reasons like a book club. But luck for us there are plenty of virtual and online book clubs to choose from! Take a look at some of the book club options below, and find one that you like best. Contact Custodia Seniors Support We help seniors enjoy longer and happier lives, in the safety of their home, by helping seniors access trusted information and affordable services that they need to stay in their homes for as long as possible. We do grab bar installations, handyman services, seasonal yard cleaning, tree trimming and removal, snow removal, window washing, gutter cleaning and more! Get in touch with Custodia Seniors Support professionals today – your 5 star home management service, call 1-833-410-HELP. Bundle and save: 5% with three services, 10% with four or five services, and 15% with over five services.

According to Statistics Canada, 1 in 3 seniors over 65 are likely to fall at least once in a year. For many, these falls can lead to injuries requiring hospitalization. In fact, each year, 85% of injury-related hospitalizations in seniors are due to falls. The Public Health Agency of Canada say that over one-third of these seniors are placed into long-term care as a result of their fall injury. These numbers are frightening. But, with a safer home, they can be avoided. First, consider whether someone is at a higher risk for a fall. The CDC states that risk factors for falling can be vision problems, difficulty with balance, sedative medications, vitamin D deficiency, foot pain or poor footwear, and general body weakness. There is a higher risk when the home is cluttered, has uneven stairs, low lighting, or unsecured throw rugs. The bathroom is a very common spot for falls to occur; the slick, flat, slippery surfaces are dangerous to even the most able-bodied people. When you consider how many fall hazards there are around the home combined with the statistics on seniors falling, it’s frightening. With more and more seniors opting to age in place at their own homes, it is imperative that their space be made as safe as can be. One easy way a safe home can be achieved is with the simple installation of mobility devices like grab bars. Grab bars are typically used in the bathroom to assist with entering and exiting the shower/tub, and to help with getting on/off the toilet. However, they can be installed all around the home wherever a little extra stability assistance is needed. Grab bars can be easily installed on your own, but when someone is relying totally on them, its best to have it done the safest possible way by a professional. Different Types of Grab Bars When it comes to grab bars, there are 3 main differences in installation. Some are installed vertically, some horizontally, and some on an angle. You could also install two bars together to create an L-shape. Each bar supports differently. Vertical bars are typically better for standing positions, like stepping in and out of the shower, while horizontal bars are better for use when lowering and raising the body. Angled bars are typically more similar to horizontal, but can combine the two. Within these types of bars, there are also many other differences. Some bars are textured, some are installed by suction rather than screws, and some even serve other functions in the bathroom as well. It’s a confusing space to navigate. To help make the choice easier, we have narrowed down what we think are the 7 best grab bars easily available for purchase in Canada. The 7 Best Grab Bars Best Overall – Moen SecureMount 18 inch Click here to view on Amazon Canada This sleek stainless steel grab bar is simple and effective. It’s textured to assist with grip, is rust-resistant, and can withstand up to 500 pounds of weight when installed properly. It can be installed vertically, horizontally, or on an angle, and the screws are concealed for a cleaner look. Best Suction – Mommy’s Helper 17 inch Safe-er Grip Click here to view on Amazon Canada A suction grab bar option is great for when drilling isn’t possible. However, it can be a little finicky. It must be applied to smooth, clean, flat, non-porous surfaces. It will not work over grout lines or textured surfaces. It must be reattached and tested before every use, as the suction could have weakened since the last use. Once it is clean and reset, it is very strong, though it’s still not recommended that full body weight be placed on it. Best Angled – ROVATE 17 inch Angled Grab Bar Click here to view on Amazon Canada This is an excellent angled option. It is sleek stainless steel, will not rust, and can withstand 300 pounds of weight when installed correctly. The screws are concealed for a sleeker look. Best Flip-Up – Moen 30 inch Flip-Up Grab Bar Click here to view on Amazon Canada This option is wonderful for small spaces, as it flips up out of the way when not in use. This style of bar is especially great for installation by the toilet. It will support up to 300 pounds, or 500 pounds when installed to a wall stud. It is stainless steel and will not rust. Best for Small Space – DELTA Corner Shelf with Assist Bar Click here to view on Amazon Canada This beautiful stainless steel multifunction corner shelf is a great option for small spaces. It holds your toiletries and offers your support! It is more designed for assistance rather than placing entire body weight on, but will still support 250 pounds when installed correctly. Best Standing Bar – Stander Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar Click here to view on Amazon Canada The most expensive item on our list, this bar is secured to the ceiling and floor and can be used all around the house as well as in the bathroom to assist with standing and sitting, or stepping in and out of the shower/bath. It is adjustable at 7-10 feet tall and will support up to 300 pounds. It is important to note that it will not work on a curved or textured ceiling. Best Multi-Use – Moen Home Care Grab Bar Toilet Paper Holder Click here to view on Amazon Canada This is a marvelous option for someone who may not like the look of grab bars, and just wants a little assistance getting on or off the toilet. This toilet paper holder, when installed correctly, will support up to 250 pounds. It’s a wonderful subtle option, but not for those who would need to apply their full body weight. Installation is easy with Custodia It’s simple: grab bars make the home a safer place for seniors to live. Whatever style of bar you choose, adding grab bars…
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