Quality of Life Program

 Quality of Life programs allow residents and clients of Carewest to participate in activities that contribute to the enjoyment of living, social engagement and well-being. 

 Music Therapy is similar to occupational and physical therapy. It consists of using music for therapeutic treatment to address physical, psychological, cognitive and/or social functioning. Because music is a powerful and non-threatening medium, unique outcomes are possible. These may include improved cognitive awareness and social interaction, decreased pain and increased comfort, enhanced dignity and quality of life.  Music therapy was introduced in all Long Term Care programs, Hospice and Geriatric Mental Health programs in 2005 with extremely positive reviews. 

 The Carewest Art Partnership Program commenced in 1995 with five continuing care centres participating in the program. Currently all eight Carewest centres offer this weekly painting program. Funding for this program enables up to 20 residents from each Carewest site to participate by purchasing art supplies, and cover the cost of instruction. It includes three semesters per site which are ten weeks in duration, and one Annual Spring Art Show. 

 The Woodworking Program has been a part of the Carewest Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre since its opening in 1978. As an addition to Occupational Therapy services, the shop is a unique woodwork facility with adapted tools and equipment for use by individuals with a varying degree of physical disability. The program is currently serving 56 Fanning Centre residents, 12 Carewest residents from other sites, and 2 community clients with disabilities for a total of 70 visits per week.  The community clients attend the program on a fee for service basis. In addition to providing therapeutic programs to the residents, the program promotes socialization, increased self-worth, self-esteem, and a feeling of purpose.  

 This program allows residents to participate year-round in planting and maintaining personal green spaces. Each spring the sites host a “First Planting” celebration. Residents, families and friends gather together in the garden spaces to plant seeds, and bedding out plants to enjoy outside in the warmer weather. Residents maintain their small garden spaces with the help of volunteers and horticulturists. In the winter months each site continues this program through the use of indoor greenhouses. This program is important for social interaction and physical activity, as well as the sense of pride taken in caring for these gardens and planters. 

 Recreation Therapy and Leisure activities are a major component of the Quality of Life program and can include receiving regular hair cuts, attending sporting events, and visiting churches or Legion meetings. Bus outings, Mother’s Day Teas, Father’s Day Brunches, and birthday parties are also important activities in the daily lives of residents and their families. 

Outdoor spaces are equipped with BBQ’s and patio furniture so that during the warmer months they can be used for recreational activities as much as possible. Occasionally, staff will hire entertainment such as a band or magician which adds to the experience for the residents.

Furniture in common areas, family rooms, and outdoor patios enhance the homelike environment. Residents and families gather to visit in these spaces and they require refurbishing from time to time.

Televisions are located in a variety of common areas and the current TVs have smaller screens and typically are set into a cabinet. Replacement of the televisions with larger, flatscreens would provide better quality viewing and take up less space. DVD’s also require replacing periodically for weekly ‘Popcorn and a Movie’ nights.  Nintendo Wii units and games are used for activities that promote socialization and exercise. Portable Computer Labs allow residents to connect with family and friends and catch up on current events.