Blog

The Effects of Alzheimer's Disease

Jan 9, 2023 | Faces of HDGH

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada and with an increase in Canada’s aging population, it’s a good time to learn more about dementia and its most common type, Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no cure for Alzheimer-type dementia, awareness and early detection may help slow the progression for you or your loved one so you can continue living independently.

In this blog, Louise Arpin, Occupational Therapist, Geriatric Assessment Program (GAP) explains the signs and differences between cognitive aging, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Cognitive Aging is Not a Disease

As with most body parts, the brain typically works less well as we get older. Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish between cognitive aging and age-associated memory loss from dementia.

Cognitive aging is a natural process that occurs in everyone and happens when the brain works less efficiently due to the aging process. Cognition refers to not just memory, but your overall thinking and reasoning skills, such as attention, mental processing speed, language, insight and inhibition to name a few. Cognitive aging manifests differently in each person, in part due to things like genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors, therefore changes typically tend to be variable and gradual. Most importantly, cognitive aging does not involve extensive neuron (brain cell) loss from disease or serious damage.

What are the signs and effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?

In contrast to cognitive aging, dementia is associated with neurons becoming significantly damaged and eventually dying. Dementia is an umbrella term for several diseases affecting cognition and behavior which impact one’s ability to carry out activities of daily living. Although age is a significant risk factor, dementia is not a normal part of aging. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia known and affects how you think, feel and act.

Early signs of dementia might be:

• Memory loss affecting daily life – e.g. repeating questions over and over, forgetting recently learned information
• Trouble with concentration and attention – e.g. difficulty reading or following a movie
• Misplacing things – e.g. putting objects in unusual spots, blaming others of stealing
• Difficulty with familiar tasks – e.g. trouble keeping track of mail, bills, or appointments; difficulty following recipe
• New language difficulties – e.g. trouble naming a familiar object, substituting unusual words, describing objects instead of naming them and difficulty following conversations
• Becoming more withdrawn or less concerned about hygiene
• Frequent disorientation to date, day, time or place, or getting lost when driving to familiar location

The effects of Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Cognitive and functional abilities – ability to understand, think, remember and communicate is affected and can impact decision-making, planning, organizing and judgement. In Alzheimer’s disease, short-term memory loss is the most common symptom. Examples of short-term memory loss include what you had for breakfast, did you take your medications, who called on the phone yesterday, where you parked your car. Often, individuals also become more confused in unfamiliar situations or surroundings.
• Emotions and moods – e.g. loss of interest in favorite hobbies, less expressive, increased apathy
• Physical abilities – Coordination and skills to perform daily tasks such as eating, bathing or getting dressed become worse over time
• Behavior – e.g. rapid mood swings and reactions that are out of character, restlessness, hiding possessions, physical outbursts, repetitive actions or words.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are Not a Normal Part of Aging

Some signs and symptoms that should not be assumed as “normal aging” are:

• Personality changes (suspicious, anxious, fearful, depressed)
• Becoming easily irritable or emotionally volatile
• Lack of initiation or interest in activities
• Delusions
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations

It is very important to consult a health care practitioner if you notice any of the above to rule out reversible and treatable causes. While dementia is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease - meaning brain function steadily becomes worse as time goes on - early detection can help minimize symptoms, aid in obtaining suitable supports and enable you or your loved one to make appropriate changes and plans to ultimately maintain safety and lead a better quality of life.

The Geriatric Assessment Program (GAP) is here to help

GAP is a program at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare that provides in-home comprehensive assessment, recommendations, consultation, caregiver education and support. This includes identifying, monitoring and managing dementia to help optimize the health, function and independence of seniors with complex health concerns.

Throughout the assessment and consultation process we aim to include caregivers of our clients as they know them best. The healthcare team works together to address health issues such as forgetfulness, confusion, medication concerns, weight loss/gain, walking difficulties/falls, bladder/bowel problems, loss of ability to care for oneself, caregiver stress, personality/behavior changes, or driving concerns.

If this program is something you or a loved one may benefit from, reach out to your doctor. Referrals to GAP must be made by a physician. For more information, visit www.hdgh.org/geriatricassessmentprogram

About the Author

Louise is a registered occupational therapist since 1994, working in Windsor since 1995. Her experience with the geriatric population has enabled her to gain knowledge in comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), different types of dementia, and fall and injury prevention. Louise is a certified fitness instructor who enjoys hiking in nature. Her dream is to one day become a skilled gardener and fluent in Italian.

 

Gratitude is at the Heart of Fundraising

Dec 7, 2022 | Community and Partnerships, Faces of HDGH

With December here, the Foundation team is getting ready to wrap up another year of giving and receiving. When I reflect back at all the wonderful people who supported the work we do at HDGH, it is with such gratitude. Donations are not made by faceless institutions, they are made by people. Even when a donation comes to us from a company, there is a person or group of individuals who put a great deal of careful consideration into which cause they wish to support.

Gratitude is at the Heart of Fundraising

“When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or with gratitude.” — G.K. Chesterton

Sometimes it is difficult to find a profound way to say thank you and to say it in such a way that the donor really understands our gratitude and the impact their gift has made. At the Foundation we try to convey thankfulness each and every day because we see firsthand that donations truly have the ability to change lives.

The Impact of Giving

This year alone, gifts to HDGH made it possible for us to support the bed replacement project for the third year in a row, leant support to hospital employees with $10,000 in scholarships, purchased tangible items like an ice maker machine and with the support of our community assisted with the Breaking Free Online and various client activities within the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) programs. These are only a few examples of the impact donations make at HDGH.

Paying it Forward

Much like a good deed that is repaid to others, a donation can also start a ripple effect of kindness. The staff member who receives a scholarship feels valued and uses their learnings to improve the quality of their work; the patient receiving care benefits and the family member visiting sees that their loved one is being well taken care of and can sleep better at night. There is little opportunity for the patient to understand how a donation made their care better and brought their family ease, yet there are many intangible examples of this very thing throughout HDGH.

How Does the Foundation Make Money?

Most individuals know about the large events that are hosted to raise funds, but the HDGH Foundation has a full menu of ways we work to acquire donations. We hold the Heart Breaker Challenge, Bob Probert Ride, Big Night Gala and Charity Golf Classic. There are also individuals in our community who organize their own events and simply gift us with the money they raise. For example, we have been fortunate to have Rick’s Ride and Bridge to Bridge, two events that support our programs and services for the past two years.

Another way we raise money is through donor letters mailed out to our supporters telling them about a need the hospital has identified with a request to assist the Foundation to meet this need. The most well-known of these letters is the Tree of Lights campaign that was started 36 years ago at Grace Hospital. Since then the launch event has become part of the fabric of how HDGH kicks off the holiday season.

Major Donors Give from the Heart

On our campus we have some wonderful gifts provided to us by caring community partners like an outdoor adult exercise space provided by LiUNA!625, a children’s greenhouse gifted to us by Windsor St. Clair Rotary, a healing garden provided by the Tregaskiss family and expanded by Transition to Betterness. We also have a cafeteria gifted to us by In Honour of the Ones We Love and there is still more that could be mentioned. Windsor is truly a caring and giving community.

Changing Lives Together

There is a saying from Gordon B. Hinckley that “Being humble means recognizing that we are not on earth to see how important we can become, but to see how much difference we can make in the lives of others”. With each donation to HDGH, our donors are doing this very thing, making a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to all of our donors, sponsors and to the community for all of your contributions this past year. I am lucky to be witness to this spirit of giving every day.

About Barb Sebben

Barb Sebben is the Executive Director of the Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Foundation and Academic and Volunteer Placements. She has been an employee for over 20 years, starting out as a coordinator in the Public Affairs department. Prior to joining HDGH she helped fundraise for the Children’s Safety Village and worked at Centres for Seniors Windsor (now Life After 50).

 

Can Exercise Boost Your Immune System?

Nov 28, 2022 | Faces of HDGH, Road to Recovery – Restorative Rehabilitative Care

Physical activity has been long-touted as a pillar of healthy living. Exercise can help regulate factors such as weight loss, glucose control and blood pressure. It can improve cardiovascular conditioning and increase bone density, but did you know it can also have a meaningful and positive impact on your immune system? As we approach another cold and flu season, here are a few ways daily movement can help keep you healthy.

Exercise stimulates circulation and the movement of white blood cells.

 

Nurse Practitioner Week

Nov 14, 2022 | Faces of HDGH

Nurse Practitioner Week takes place annually in the second week of November as a way to recognize and raise awareness of the vital role and contributions they play in healthcare every day. In this blog HDGH NP Shauna Carter gives us a detailed look at her role and specifically her role here within HDGH’s Complex Medical Care stream of service.

What is a nurse practitioner?

Over the years the roles and responsibilities of the registered nurse have undergone tremendous changes and increased responsibilities. The different nursing titles can be a bit overwhelming and confusing, to say the least. A nurse practitioner (NP), also referred to as a “registered nurse in the extended class RN(EC)”, is a registered nurse with added education and a very broadened scope. The main difference between a registered nurse who is a registered practical nurse (RPN) or a registered nurse (RN), is that an NP can independently make medical diagnoses, order diagnostic tests such as x-rays and ultrasounds, and most recently, order MRIs and CT scans, along with lab tests. NPs can also independently prescribe medications.

What is the difference between physicians and nurse practitioners?

While both physicians and NPs can order medical tests, blood work, and medications, and can independently make medical diagnoses, the schooling model is still quite different. Physicians go through extensive medical schooling while NPs first must complete a 4-year degree in nursing, work for a minimum of two years full-time, and then can apply to become a nurse practitioner, at which point they need to complete a few years more at the university to become an NP. Similar to medical school, there are different specialties an NP can pursue. In Ontario, NPs can become a primary health care nurse practitioner who specializes in providing primary care for all ages across the lifespan. Some programs allow NPs to specialize only in the care of adults or the care of pediatric patients.

What do primary health care nurse practitioners do?

I am a primary health care nurse practitioner (PHCNP). As a PHCNP, my focus is on preventative care, which includes educating and providing my patients or “clients” with vaccinations throughout their life. I also ensure that appropriate screening tests are performed in my adult population. For example, breast cancer screening, and screening for osteoporosis (weakening or loss of bone density) help identify and treat illnesses earlier. PHCNPs are also responsible for the management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, COPD and skin disorders - just to name a few.

Similarly, we also manage acute or what we call episodic illnesses, those that are curable and short-lived, such as colds/respiratory infections, and muscle sprains/injuries. Even though many NPs such as myself are primary care providers, it should be known that we can work in many locations, whether it be nursing homes, hospitals, primary care clinics, walk-in clinics, or in offices with specialists and family physicians. Many of us develop sub-specialties through additional training. Although we have similar roles and responsibilities as physicians, we work collaboratively and when things are beyond our scope we consult our physician partners and specialists.

What is the role of the nurse practitioners in the Complex Medical Care (CMC) program here at HDGH?

Complex medical care (CMC) is a program designed to support individuals whose medical and functional needs cannot be safely met in the community, but no longer require the medical services of acute care. We have a variety of clients ranging from those with complex fractures who cannot physically manage in the community while their bones are healing; clients with new amputees who are not yet ready for the inpatient rehab program; and some clients who have complex medical needs such as extensive wound care, iv therapy or peritoneal dialysis who require more services than are available in the community setting. As an NP in CMC, my role is extensive, as I am involved in the client’s journey starting from the admission process, the inpatient stay, up until and including their discharge.

I work with my interdisciplinary team members to assist with the admissions of clients which involves ordering medications, performing history and physicals, and devising both medical and nursing plans of care. Throughout the client's stay, I also attend to both episodic and chronic diseases. An example of an episodic condition would be identifying, diagnosing and treating an infection. Managing and optimizing chronic diseases account for a large part of my NP role here at CMC, as complications arising from chronic diseases can often impact a client’s hospital stay or ability to return home. Because some of our clients have barriers to accessing primary health care in the community, an important part of the NP role here in a hospital setting is to ensure that client’s chronic diseases are well managed and that our clients are “tuned up” before being discharged back to their homes in the community.

Once the client has met their identified goals in CMC, the NP is also involved in the discharge process and working with the entire interdisciplinary team to ensure that client will have a successful and safe transition back to their home in their community. This not only involves ordering medications at discharge but involves the client and the team of their support of family or friends to ensure that client has the tools needed to be able to resume safe functioning in their home environment.

About Shauna

Shauna Carter is a PHCNP who currently works in the Complex Medical Care department (CMC) at HDGH and the Pelee Island Nursing Station for VON Canada. Shauna has been an NP for 13 years and previously an RN for 7 years. Shauna helped launch the NP-led outreach program to help decrease ER visits in long-term care facilities and had worked as an NP at the Village at St. Clair for 6 years. Shauna is a board director at Assisted Living Southwest Ontario (ALSO) and a member of the annual clinic day planning committee for the Essex County Medical Society (ECMS). Shauna was also the 2013 recipient of the Lois Fairley Community service award and the 2017 recipient of the HDGH Outstanding Contribution to the Patient Experience award.

2022 Spiritual Care Week at HDGH

Oct 24, 2022 | Faces of HDGH, Spirituality, Heritage

When and where Spiritual Care Week started?

Did you know that Spiritual Care Week started in the United States in the 1980s and in the early 90s it started in Canada and beyond?

Spirituality is….

“Spirituality [refers to the way] people understand meaning and purpose in their lives. It can be affected by illness or loss, and it can be experienced in many ways — not just religion, but nature, arts, humanities, and rational thinking. Some say it is God, some say it is family, and some find it in nature.” Puchalski. Research has demonstrated the impact of religious, spiritual, and existential beliefs, values and practices on people’s life choices, interactions with others, moral decision-making, way of life, and the ability to transcend suffering… practicing spirituality brings a sense of meaning purpose and connection to our lives. You can say that spirituality affects our well-being.

What is Spiritual Care?

Spiritual care is the provision of assessment, counselling, support, and ritual. In matters of a person’s beliefs, traditions, values, and practices enabling the person to access their spiritual resources. “When spiritual needs are recognized and responded to as an integral part of person-centered care an essential contribution is made to people’s health and wellbeing”. It has been proved that “when spiritual needs are unmet, patient’s rating of their satisfaction and quality of care are notably low”.

Spiritual Care at HDGH….

Here at HDGH we believe in and promote the value of Spiritual Health. The values of spiritual, religious, existential and/or cultural practices are taken very seriously and responsibly by our Spiritual Care Providers Sarah and Hilton. They try as much as they can to be available to our patients/clients, their families, and our staff as well. Serving across the organization and providing a friendly presence wherever they go.

There was a time when this patient that we are going to call Joe, said to them “it would be ‘unbearable’ to be here without the support that I have received, not only to me but also to my family as well.”

Another patient told us once,

“This hospital and you guys have helped me to have my health back, but also my dignity, my life, my family, and my faith back. Thank you!”

During the critical pandemic years, a staff came to one of them and said

“thank you for being here with us facing the danger of this pandemic every day. Seeing you guys was a way of knowing that somehow God is around us, God is by our side.” These are some of the testimonies that our Spiritual Care team has experienced working at HDGH.

The SHA (Spiritual Health Association) published a survey done among patients and found that 87% of the patients/clients indicated that receiving spiritual care was a positive experience and it met their needs. Beliefs, Traditions, Values, and Practices guide the work and dedication of our Spiritual Care frontline workers.

Celebrating and recognizing the importance of the Spiritual Care Department and the work they do in our Organization during Spiritual Care Awareness Week, is another way our patients, families, visitors and staff can find support.

Spiritual Care Week is celebrated this year from October 24 to 28 and this year’s theme is Healing the Moral Injury (harm that arises from a betrayal of one’s core values). This week showcases the power that faith holds in our lives. We recognize that faith plays an integral part in the healing process and that when one's faith is damaged and one’s core values feel threatened holistic healing cannot happen. Come by and visit us to learn more about the spiritual care program and the ways that we help support the patients, clients, family members, and staff.

If you wish to contact our spiritual care team, you can email or call them and send/leave a message at:

Sarah Stockford
Spiritual Care Assistant
[email protected]
519-257-5111 ext: 73647

Hilton Gomes

Chaplain
[email protected]
519-257-5111 ext: 74817

International Youth Day

Aug 12, 2022 | Mental Health, Faces of HDGH

August 12th is International Youth Day. For this Blog, we have a very special Q&A session from Malek Mekawi, HDGH Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Member as well as Student Trustee for the Greater Essex County District School Board. If you had any fear about the future of our world, you will fear no longer after reading more about this bright, talented, and driven Gen Z. Enjoy and breathe a little easier knowing our future is in good hands with youth like Malek!

 

Tell us about yourself

My name is Malek Mekawi, and I am currently headed to the University of Windsor for Engineering this fall. Throughout the past few years, I’ve come to gain a deep concern, understanding, and passion for issues in need of social awareness. This led me to join not only the Youth Advisory Council at HDGH, but also seek the position of Student Trustee for the Windsor-Essex public board; GECDSB. I’ve come to meet many individuals across WE that have shared similar concerns and a drive to take action. Aside from my roles in youth advocacy, I am involved with several extracurricular activities in my school community, including student council, mock trials, and helping plan a series of fundraisers for those in need. I’m almost always talking and tend to be an outgoing individual, which allows me to better connect with my peers. Aside from that, I enjoy any and all Italian food and spend most of my free time binge-watching any action thriller I can find on Netflix. 

Tell us about YAC and your role on YAC

I first joined the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) in the fall of 2019. A grade ten student at the time, I sought out opportunities to put my leadership and deep awareness of advocacy to use. I served as a Communications subcommittee member. Given the council was still relatively new, we worked collectively to spearhead our social media presence and promote the role of the council across Windsor-Essex. Over the course of two years, our committee worked to promote topics related to our mandate of social justice, mental health awareness, substance misuse and poverty in our community. YAC is comprised of three subcommittees that all complete unique tasks to drive change, though we’re all working towards one larger cause: youth awareness and advocacy. Working alongside other subcommittees and the council as a whole, communications shed light on all YAC initiatives, notably the Wellness Through Grace event held in May of 2021. Most recently, I moved from a communications subcommittee member to one of the Events committee co-chairs. This committee is more focused on the planning and execution of our initiatives. Through consultation with our partners, committee members, and youth, we work diligently to host engaging and informative events for students. The Youth Photo Voice Project was the first events-related task I had the honour of working on. The event enabled youth to capture issues across the community through a cinematic and photographic lens. Shedding light on issues that may be overlooked or surrounded by stigma. Students worked for several weeks to capture the perfect picture to help raise awareness on topics from climate change to mental health adversities. The events committee is also working alongside YAC committees, toward hosting our second Wellness Through Grace event in the fall of 2022. The event aims to promote key issues youth in the community value as students hear from notable speakers and experts from across the community.

Why do you think it's important for hospitals to involve the voice of the youth?

Most people will often make note that youth are the future, while simultaneously overlooking their critical insight and opinions. It’d be an understatement to say youth hold a unique outlook on life. The input of youth is unlike anything else, given our deep understanding of current trends and issues. As health care continues to progress, institutions like hospitals are required to uphold greater responsibility in the community. Beyond simply serving the emergent medical needs of community members, it is vital that those in positions to engage in preventative care by sharing their knowledge, like health care professionals, work to engage with the communities they serve. There is no better way to truly understand the needs of the constantly evolving generation than to involve them. Involving youth in health care settings helps bring awareness to stigmatized issues that may be evolving within our generation, issues only we can truly understand and work to resolve. The Youth Advisory Council works to do just that, echo the voice of youth in a health care setting. Issues evolve and adapt to the times, so the way some issues are approached needs to change too. Inviting fresh ideas and insight from youth allows hospitals to uphold their vow to truly protect and serve their communities.

YAC has an important annual event coming up, tell us about this event

What is the goal of Wellness Through Grace? How can Windsor Essex Youth participate?

The theme of the 2022 International Youth Day is Intergenerational Solidarity. What do you see to be some important ways to foster collaboration between generations?

This year’s theme for International Youth Day reiterates the idea that no one should be left behind, by inviting collaboration amongst all generations, to foster a better future for all individuals. Creating a world for all ages is more than just inviting ideas from across the board. We must work as a collective to hear each other out, truly learn one another’s perspective, acknowledge the work that needs to be done and work towards formulating a solution where all are treated equally, with respect and integrity. Now, more than ever, controversy divides our communities, usually stemming from our lack of understanding for one another. As the leaders of tomorrow, it is up to our youth to prevent that continuous cycle.

Intergenerational solidarity starts with a conversation. I encourage all my fellow youth to consider an issue they value and use it to evoke conversation with those from previous generations. As opposed to simply researching the headlines, look into how these issues have evolved, from one generation to the next. Consider how and why previous generations have failed to resolve the matter. To truly work towards an everlasting solution, we must equip ourselves with the knowledge of those before us. Generation Z is strong, resilient, and smart. So, to Gen-Z, use that to embark on a journey of social justice and awareness. However, such an initiative should be inclusive of the intersectionality that exists. Next time any of you decide to step up and take action, do so by inviting help from your parents, cousins, friends, teachers, mentors and so forth.

Lastly, to promote solidarity across all generations, it is important to continue to be understanding of one another. Ahead of jumping to conclusions when a controversial conversation is struck, try to uphold respect for others and be understanding of their perspective, regardless of how difficult that may seem. If we can continue to host valuable conversations and pinpoint arguably outdated ideals, we can work towards fostering a system that will grow and prosper for all. We should be working as one, to ensure one generation's errors are everyone’s responsibility, otherwise, we will never truly evolve as a society.

What do you feel as some great characteristics, skills and attributes of your generation?

We may not be able to control the time era we’re born into, but we can surely make the most of it. I’m finally heading to university next year, and if there’s anything 18 years of being part of “Gen-Z” has taught me, it’s that nothing is truly impossible. My generation embodies the spirit of true natural-born leaders, in all forms. There are no overlooked issues, no tolerance for harmful outdated ideals and certainly, there is no such thing as giving up. The leaders of tomorrow are unlike anything the world has seen before. Our commitment to resolving the issues of previous and current generations is evident. This generation can band together in seemingly impossible situations, to be heard, be seen, and enact true change. My generation was born to fight, overcome and make noise.

 

10 Things That Made Us Happy

Aug 2, 2022 | Patient Stories, Faces of HDGH

A little-known fact about August – it’s Happiness Happens Month! This month is meant to remind us that happiness happens in small moments. It’s our job to recognize those moments when they happen. In this Maison Dieu Health Blog, we are recognizing those moments with “10 Things That Made Us Happy.” We hope they also make you smile!

1. Music Heals the Soul – an uplighting performance from 4th Wall Music Windsor for patients, visitors, and staff.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (@hdghwindsor)

2. Canadian Spirit by HDGH Outpatient Rehab Staff

No matter the occasion, patients, their loved ones, and staff can always find the perfectly-canvassed walls leading to the outpatient rehab reception decorated in full recognition spirit. The leading lady behind these creative designs… Certified Rehab Assistant, Sonia Ferrante. Thanks, Sonia, for taking the time, energy, and bringing happiness to everyone entering Outpatient Rehab.

3. Lights, Camera, Popcorn – TNI Movie Day for our mental health patients

Patients of the Toldo Neurobehavioural Institute (TNI) were able to safely return to one of their favorite pastimes of enjoying an afternoon movie in our Brown Auditorium.

 

4. An inspirational Message from our President & CEO, Bill Marra

Check out this inspirational message that our President & CEO, Bill Marra, posted on his LinkedIn

5. Changing Lives, Together – “Reasons to Love Therapy” Messages from Outpatient Rehab Patients

6. Celebrating the accomplishments, leadership, and contributions of our HDGH People at the Annual Service and Retiree Recognition Event

It had been a few years since we were able to host our annual recognition event but the 2022 evening was worth the wait. More than 500 of our HDGH gathered at the Ciaciaro in early June. The energy, smiles, food, and laughter made for a very happy night.

7. Officially Celebrating the Retirement of Former President & CEO Janice Kaffer

It was the perfect celebratory farewell for Janice. The afternoon open house celebration welcomed staff, patients, community partners, family, board members, and friends to celebrate Jan’s more than 30 years of healthcare leadership.

8. HDGH Staff taking time to regroup, recharge and remain healthy with lunchtime walks

We often hear that our HDGH Campus is one of the most beautiful well-kept, peaceful places in the city. “It doesn’t even feel like a hospital” are usually the words from patients and visitors. Our HDGH Team takes their own opportunity to enjoy the campus groups and surrounding nature with lunchtime exercise – the perfect way to stay healthy, balanced and moving.

9. 10 Years of Impact at the Final Probert Ride

One of the most recognized regional fundraising events has officially parked its bikes. With more than 1.2 million dollars raised to support our HDGH Foundation, the Probert Family along with more than 1200 bikers, sponsors and fans celebrated a decade of contribution to local healthcare in the 10th and final year.

 

 

10. RCC Staff Celebrating The Wins of Our Children and Youth

Of course, nothing makes us happier than knowing we have positively impacted our young people. Below is a happy moment shared by a member of our RCC Team:

“I was working with a family who ended up transitioning to another community service that best fit their needs. I wasn’t able to have a celebration session to end our treatment together so I mailed the child (10 y/o) a letter with some stickers praising her for her hard work. Mom emailed me thanking me for the letter and shared that the child put it up in their room.”

 

Fluid Intake: Myth vs Fact

Jul 5, 2022 | Faces of HDGH

Fluid Intake: Myth vs Fact

June 21 officially marked the first day of summer and boy have Windsor/Essex residents been feeling the heat! With record-breaking temperatures hitting our region, sun and heat safety is an important part of staying well during hot summer months. In July’s Maison Dieu Health Blog, HDGH Registered Dietitian and Manager of Food and Nutrition Services Tania McNamara confronts some myths and facts about fluid intake during these scorching summer days. Stay Cool, hydrated, healthy and happy reading!

It Is Recommended You Drink Eight 8 Oz Cups Of Water per Day

Myth 

Instead of focusing on how much water you drink, look at how much FLUID you drink in a day. Fluid needs are based on age, gender, physical activity level, and medical condition. Spending time outside in hot weather can also increase fluid needs. Daily fluid recommendations for the average man is 13 cups and for the average woman is 9 cups. BUT water is not the only source of fluid in the North American diet. Other sources of fluid can include milk, juice, coffee, tea, fruits, vegetables, and soup.

Caffeinated Beverages Such As Coffee, Tea, and Cola Do Not Count Towards Your Daily Fluid Intake

Myth

If you are new to caffeinated beverages, they can have a diuretic effect on your body (i.e., cause your body to urinate more compared to non-caffeinated fluids). However, your body quickly adapts to the effects of caffeine and this diuretic effect becomes very mild with extended caffeine use. If you have always drank caffeinated beverages, they count towards your total fluid intake.

Monitoring the Color Of Your Urine Is A Good Way To Determine If You Are Drinking Enough Fluids

Fact

Light-colored urine is usually a sign you are drinking enough. If you aren’t visiting the washroom often throughout the day and your urine is dark yellow with an odor, you likely need more fluids.
Exception: Be aware that some vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements can change the color of your urine shortly after you take them.

The Elderly Are At Higher Risk Of Dehydration Due To A Decreased Sensation of Thirst

Fact

Individuals 65 and older require a minimum of 1.5 to 2 litres of fluid per day, however, their thirst mechanism doesn’t always cue them to drink when they need it. It’s important that elderly individuals monitor the volume of fluids they drink and the color of their urine to ensure they are meeting their fluid needs.

It Is Possible to Drink Too Much Water

Fact, but Only in Rare Cases

Drinking more water than your kidneys can handle is called water intoxication. Water intoxication is rare and usually occurs when a person drinks a large volume of water without correctly accounting for electrolyte losses. Reported cases of water intoxication are related to ultra-endurance sporting events and intense military training, or a condition called psychogenic polydipsia (compulsive water drinking related to serious mental illness). It is difficult to accidentally drink too much water. If you are a recreational exerciser and consuming foods and other beverages in addition to water throughout the day, you will prevent water intoxication.

By The Time You Are Thirsty, You Are Already Mildly Dehydrated

Fact

Thirst is your body’s way of telling you to drink fluids. Signs your dehydration is progressing can include confusion, dizziness, headache, dry lips and mouth, flushed skin, and dark yellow urine with a strong smell. The best way to prevent dehydration is to consume water and other fluid sources consistently throughout the day.

For reliable nutrition information, please visit www.unlockfood.ca.

 

About The Author

Tania McNamara graduated from Acadia University with a degree in Nutrition & Dietetics in 2003. After completing her dietetic internship in Halifax, she accepted a job at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital in August 2004. Tania worked as a community dietitian in Windsor until joining Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare as an inpatient dietitian in October 2014. In August 2020, Tania accepted a management role in HDGH Food and Nutrition Services.

Strategies for Managing Persisting Symptoms after Concussion

Jun 7, 2022 | Faces of HDGH, Road to Recovery – Restorative Rehabilitative Care

June is Brain Injury Awareness Month and according to the Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation (ONF), concussion is one of the most common brain injuries experienced by people of all ages.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that results from a blow to the head or mechanical force to the brain from a fall, assault, exposure to an explosion, or a sudden stop in a high-speed collision. This injury usually results in functional changes to how the brain operates (software) rather than structural changes to the brain (hardware).

After a concussion, people might experience physical symptoms (headaches, dizziness, fatigue, sleep problems, tinnitus, noise & light sensitivity & poor balance), cognitive symptoms (slowed thinking, poor concentration, memory problems, impulsivity & word-finding difficulties), or emotional symptoms (irritability, anger outbursts, anxiety, & depression). Everyone’s experience of concussion is different and not everyone will experience the same symptoms. These symptoms are normal after a concussion and not a sign of worsening brain damage. The good news is that these symptoms will gradually resolve over a few days to a few weeks, especially with symptoms management strategies. 

What to Do After a Concussion

At one time, healthcare providers recommended that people rest until their symptoms resolved. Yikes! Turns out that the research shows that this advice was wrong and we now know that after a concussion, rest is only needed for 1-2 days. People benefit from gradually resuming their normal activities and by alternating periods of activity with periods of rest (i.e., pacing). As long as symptoms do not get worse, it is O.K. to increase the length of time and the intensity of an activity every few days over several weeks and gradually decrease the rest periods. Staying connected with others and doing things you enjoy is important to your physical and mental health so text your friends, watch some T.V., and go for a walk, but start off with brief manageable bits of these activities that do not make your symptoms worse.
Persisting Symptoms After a Concussion
 
The ONF reports that about 10-30% of people with concussion continue to experience persistent symptoms for several months. Again, the symptoms are not a sign of a worsening brain injury but rather that your brain functioning has “gotten stuck” or other factors may be prolonging your symptoms. These symptoms do not only occur after concussion but can also result from other conditions that affect how the brain functions (i.e., pain, sleep disturbance, substance use, and the stress of having persisting symptoms).
 
If you continue to have symptoms after 4 weeks, it may be time to get some specialized help. A recent review by researchers (Mollica et al, 2022), recommended prioritizing treatment of dizziness and balance problems, posttraumatic headache, sleep problems, depression and anxiety as these symptoms may contribute to other persistent symptoms.
 
So how can healthcare providers help you with these persisting symptoms? Your family physician or nurse practitioner can review your pain medication use and determine how to best manage your headache pain as well as refer you to other health care providers. Physiotherapists can treat balance problems and vertigo (as well as a neck injury that can contribute to headaches) and also coach you through graded exercise programs. Occupational therapists can help with pacing and prioritizing activities to find that “sweet spot” of activity that does not make symptoms worse and offer strategies to help get things done easier. A psychologist or social worker can provide psychotherapy to deal with sleep problems, depression, and anxiety s well as by changing unhelpful illness beliefs and reducing avoidance behaviour.
 
It can be discouraging to deal with persisting symptoms but individuals can continue with their recovery by finding the “sweet spot” of activity level that does not make the symptoms worse; by gradually returning to activities and exercise; and, by targeting problematic symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbance and depressed mood.
 

For more information, check out these resources & references:
https://concussionsontario.org/
https://www.uhn.ca/Krembil/Canadian-Concussion-Centre/Education
Mollica et al. (2022). Neuropsychiatric treatment for mild traumatic brain injury: Nonpharmacological approaches. Seminars in Neurology.
CogSmart – Traumatic Brain Injury: A Guide for Patients. VA San Diego Healthcare System.
 

About the Author

Dr. Anne McLachlan is a clinical neuropsychologist at HDGH who has provided psychological services to the rehabilitation programs for over 25 years. Always open to different perspectives, she has a passion for learning from her patients, students, and colleagues. Outside of work, she is a community volunteer, amateur cook, and weekend gardener.