creating a personal directive (living will)€¦ · st. ppap trick’s ddad y ash wednesday. april...

CREATING A PERSONAL DIRECTIVE (Living Will)

January 2011

� You (the Maker) may choose to accept all measures taken to keep you alive or you may direct the medical community to take no extraordinary measures to keep you alive. � You could also be very specific about treatments.� You can detail your wishes for housing and other care.� It could also specify whether you wanted to donate your organs when you die.� It is a document that you may change if your medical situation or circumstances change. � Ensure that your Agent is responsible, trustworthy, has the time and is willing to represent you.� In order for the Personal Directive to come into effect, your incapacity MUST be proven.� A Personal Directive does NOT give your Agent authority over your finances.

A Personal Directive or "Living Will" contains your written instructions detailing the level of medical treatment you want when you are unable to express your wishes verbally. A Living Will enables a named person (your Agent) to consult with medical professionals and carry out your instructions. It can take the pressure off family to choose during a difficult and traumatic time. It can reduce conflict when family has differing values or opinions.

While you may complete a signed, dated and witnessed Personal Directive on your own, it is recommended that you seek legal advice.

CREATING A PERSONAL DIRECTIVE (Living Will)

January 2011

� You (the Maker) may choose to accept all measures taken to keep you alive or you may direct the medical community to take no extraordinary measures to keep you alive. � You could also be very specific about treatments.� You can detail your wishes for housing and other care.� It could also specify whether you wanted to donate your organs when you die.� It is a document that you may change if your medical situation or circumstances change. � Ensure that your Agent is responsible, trustworthy, has the time and is willing to represent you.� In order for the Personal Directive to come into effect, your incapacity MUST be proven.� A Personal Directive does NOT give your Agent authority over your finances.

A Personal Directive or "Living Will" contains your written instructions detailing the level of medical treatment you want when you are unable to express your wishes verbally. A Living Will enables a named person (your Agent) to consult with medical professionals and carry out your instructions. It can take the pressure off family to choose during a difficult and traumatic time. It can reduce conflict when family has differing values or opinions.

While you may complete a signed, dated and witnessed Personal Directive on your own, it is recommended that you seek legal advice.

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REGIONAL POLICE

LETHBRIDGE

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New Year’s Day

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February 2011Only use reputable online dating services that require a subscription payment. Free sites are more likely to attract dishonest people. Do your research!

Create a separate email account from the one you use everyday so that people cannot look up your regular email address to learn more about you.

Do not provide your personal informationto anyone you meet online.

Trust your instincts. If you begin to feel uncomfortable about a speci�c persondo not continue to communicate with them.

If you choose to meet someone in person,make sure you choose a public place where there are a lot of people around.

Online DatingSafety

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�Valentine’s Day

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Groundhog Day Chinese New Year

Family Day

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March 2011

Pedestrian SafetyAs a Pedestrian: • Cross at marked crosswalks or traffic lights; do not jaywalk• Make sure drivers see you before you cross – try to make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb• Do not begin to cross until all traffic has come to a complete stop – be especially careful when there are several lanes of traffic. The outside lane may not see you • Do not cross once the “Don't Walk” signal begins to flash or once the light has turned to yellow – You will not have time to get to the other side • Watch for traffic turning at intersections • Wear bright or light-coloured clothing and/or purchase reflective tape to sew on clothing• Walk on the inside of the sidewalk or shoulder farthest away from traffic – if you trip or stumble, you will not fall into oncoming traffic• Being especially alert at driveways and where there are no curbs

March 2011

Pedestrian SafetyAs a Pedestrian: • Cross at marked crosswalks or traffic lights; do not jaywalk• Make sure drivers see you before you cross – try to make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb• Do not begin to cross until all traffic has come to a complete stop – be especially careful when there are several lanes of traffic. The outside lane may not see you • Do not cross once the “Don't Walk” signal begins to flash or once the light has turned to yellow – You will not have time to get to the other side • Watch for traffic turning at intersections • Wear bright or light-coloured clothing and/or purchase reflective tape to sew on clothing• Walk on the inside of the sidewalk or shoulder farthest away from traffic – if you trip or stumble, you will not fall into oncoming traffic• Being especially alert at driveways and where there are no curbs


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St. Patrick’s Day

First Day of Spring

Daylight SavingsTime Begins

International Dayfor the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Ash Wednesday

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Ash Wednesday

April 2011

ening SafetyG a rd

Make sure you lock the front door to your home if you are working in the backyard.

Ensure that your garden is well lit; do not work in your garden if it is dark out.

Wear appropriate safety gear: gloves, eye protection etc.Always let a family member or friend know that you are working in your yard.

Bring a cordless or cell phone with you in case you need to call for help.

Passover

Administrative Professionals Day


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April Fools Day

Good Friday

Easter Easter Monday

Earth DayPassover

Administrative Professionals Day


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April Fools Day

Good Friday

Easter Easter Monday

Earth Day

Emergency PreparednessYour risk can be decreased by planning ahead

For further information,

please contact:

Canadian Red Cross

(403) 327-7117

www.redcross.ca

Public Safety Canada

www.getprepared.caMAY 2011

Basic 72 Hour Emergency Kit

At least 2 litres of water per person, per day

Food that will not spoil (replace stock once a year)

A manual can opener7-14 day supply of essential medication

Flashlight with extra batteries (or a wind up)

First Aid KitCash in smaller billsExtra keysToilet paper & other personal care items

Copy of emergency contacts

3 day supply of food for pets

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Mother’s Day

Victoria Day

June 2011

Elder Abuse AwarenessElder Abuse is……Any action or inaction by self or others that jeopardizes the health or well being of any older adult. The forms of abuse can include: financial, psychological, physical, sexual assault, neglect and medication as well as violation of Human Rights.

Older persons are less likely to be abused or neglected if they: ► Are aware of their rights► Have strong self esteem and confidence► Have positive relationships with family► Are served by well trained, well paid staff with high staff-resident ratios► Maintain social connectedness at a community level

Caregivers are more resilient when they:► Build & utilize respite supports► Maintain good health practices► Attend a caregiver support group► Seek professional help for mental health ► Learn as much as possible ► Know your own limits & set clear limits with others► Adopt stress reduction strategies► Maintain an enjoyable/creative outlet► Recognize & address early signs of burnout

June 2011


Older persons are less likely to be abused or neglected if they: ► Are aware of their rights► Have strong self esteem and confidence► Have positive relationships within family► Are served by well trained, well paid staff with high staff-resident ratios► Maintain social connectedness at a community level


June 2011


Older persons are less likely to be abused or neglected if they: ► Are aware of their rights► Have strong self esteem and confidence► Have positive relationships within family► Are served by well trained, well paid staff with high staff-resident ratios► Maintain social connectedness at a community level




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Seniors Week June 6th to 12th

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Father’s Day First Day of Summer

World Elder AbuseAwareness Day

National Aboriginal Day

JULY 2011

For more information:

http://justice.alberta.ca search Power of Attorney

Dial 310-0000 then 403 297-6541

for further information

• In choosing an Enduring Power of Attorney (POA) you plan for a person(s) to manage your financial affairs and property in the event that you are no longer able to do so.• It may come in effect at a specific future time or during special circumstances when decreased mental capacity, illness or disability makes it difficult for you to manage your affairs and/or make the best decisions to meet your needs.• When in effect, your POA is expected to make decisions for your assets and invest your assets in your best interest, for your benefit and with minimal risk.• A donor should be very careful when choosing an POA. Have confidence that the person chosen will act in your best interests and has sufficient expertise to deal with your property.• Talk to the person(s) you choose. Ensure that they are willing to and understand their role. • Also ensure that they understand your values in making financial and property decisions so that you have a quality of life that is acceptable to you.• While you are not required to have a lawyer assist you it is recommended to explain safeguards, limitations and powers so that you increase your protection from future abuse.

Enduring Power of Attorney

JULY 2011

• In choosing an Enduring Power of Attorney (POA) you plan for a person(s) to manage your financial affairs and property in the event that you are no longer able to do so.• It may come in effect at a specific future time or during special circumstances when decreased mental capacity, illness or disability makes it difficult for you to manage your affairs and/or make the best decisions to meet your needs.• When in effect, your POA is expected to make decisions for your assets and invest your assets in your best interest, for your benefit and with minimal risk.• A donor should be very careful when choosing a POA. Have confidence that the person chosen will act in your best interests and has sufficient expertise to deal with your property.• Talk to the person(s) you choose. Ensure that they are willing to and understand their role. • Also ensure that they understand your values in making financial and property decisions so that you have a quality of life that is acceptable to you.• While you are not required to have a lawyer assist you it is recommended to explain safeguards, limitations and powers so that you increase your protection from future abuse.

Enduring Power of Attorney


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Canada Day

Choosing a Lawyer

August 2011

The law does not force you to use a lawyer, but you may wish to consider hiring one if: your affairs are complicated, you anticipate a lengthy illness, or you think someone may challenge your wishes.

Your task is to find a lawyer best suited to you and your particular problem. Here are some questions you should ask to help you choose the best lawyer for you:

1. How long have you been in practice? 2. How long have you practiced at this particular firm? 3. How many matters like mine have you handled before? 4. In what areas of law do you practice? 5. How much of your practice is devoted to my particular problem area? 6. Do you have enough time to deal with my problem quickly? 7. How quickly can I expect a resolution? 8. When can we meet? 9. How do you charge for your services? 10. Approximately how much will your services cost me in total? 11. Do you provide your clients with a detailed written statement of fees? 12. Do you charge anything for the first meeting?

(Adapted from the Law Society of Alberta Website)

The Law Society of

Alberta’s Lawyer

Referral service can

assist you in finding a

lawyer who can provide

the legal services you

require. Dial 1-800-661-1095.


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Heritage Day

Tips for Hiring a Contractor

September 2011

• Find several contractors to bid on the work you require and compare their services.• Write down a detailed description of what you want done. Get someone who has renovations knowledge to help you. • Request a business license and ask them how long they have had it. Check this information with the municipality. • Ask if the business carries liability and property damage insurance. Ask for the name of their insurance carrier and call them to verify that their policies are current.• Ask for references. Follow up by calling and check the references, as most people will be glad to help you. Try to make sure these are not relatives or associates of the contractor.• Contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB). They keep records of complaints lodged against contractors. Remember that business names change so this may not be enough on its own.

Remember…the lowest bid is not always the best one!

Better Business Bureau of Southern Alberta Toll Free: 1-800-661-4464


September 2011





September 2011




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Labour Day

Grandparents’ Day

First Day of Fall

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October 2011

Safe Neighbourhoods

In General• Remain alert when you are walking in parking lots, streets, parks, malls.• Trust your intuition and act on it. If you feel uncomfortable, there is a reason for it. You are the first to know when something’s wrong. • Familiarize yourself with your surroundings, places you can go for help, pay phones in the area, andways to exit an area if problems arise.

In Your Car• Lock your car when leaving it and lock your car upon entering it. • Have your keys ready so that you do not need to linger before entering your car. • Check your car before entering to ensure that no one is hiding in the back seat.

At Home• Lock your door even when at home. People with questionable intentions have been known to wander into residences regardless of people being present. • Consider leaving your outdoor lights on at night in order to eliminate dark areas in your home and block; this will likely increase your monthly utility bill by about $1-$2. • Avoid putting your first name on your mailbox and on correspondence - use your first initial instead.

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REGIONAL POLICE

LETHBRIDGE


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Thanksgiving Day

Medication Safety

November 2011

Only take prescription medication that has been specifically prescribed to you by a physician.

Know the name(s) of your medication(s), the reason you are taking them,and the potential side effects or interactions.

Keep a written list of the medications and supplements you are taking andleave it with your emergency contact person.Ensure your medication is secured with a child-resistant closure.

Ask your pharmacist whether you should avoid certain foods, activities or other medications while taking a prescription.

Ask your pharmacist about the expiration date and properstorage of your medication.

Try to take your medication at the same time daily; A set routine will help you remember to take your medication.

When in doubt, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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you are taking them,

S E N I O R C I T I Z E N S A S S O C I AS E N I O R C I T I Z E N S A S S O C I A T I O NT I O NNORD-BRIDGNORD-BRIDGEE


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Remembrance DayDaylight SavingsTime Ends

December 2011

Preventing Slips, Trips and FallsEat According to the Canada Food Guide: Eat well andenjoy a variety of foods to maintain your vitality.

Be Active: Regular activity and stretching exercises keep muscles and bones strong.

Have Regular Health Check-ups: Changes in your vision, hearing and muscles could lead to a fall. Visit your doctor regularly.

Light Up Your Path: Use night-lights to brighten dark hallways, bathrooms and stairways.

Remove Clutter: Ensure objects are cleared away from stairs and traffic areas.Stairways: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of stairs. Keep steps in good repair and make certain that carpets are firmly attached. Have good lighting at the top and bottom of stairs.

Stay In-doors During Icy or Snow Conditions: Have friends, family or neighbours help you with shopping and errands. Exercise indoors, use walking aids correctly, fit canes or walkers to your height and adapt your cane for icy sidewalks.

Secure Rugs: Small rugs or mats could easily slide or bunch up and cause someone to trip. Bare floors are best.

Don’t Rush: Rushing increases your risk of falling. Take your time.

Do a Home Safety Check: Basic home safety features include secure handrails, well lit stairs, night-lights, non-skid bath mats and grab bars for tubs.

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New Year’s Eve

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

First Day of Winter

Boxing Day

Hanukkah

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Lethbridge Elder Abuse Reponse NetworkOur Mission:The Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network (LEARN) is a collaboration of human services organizations that provides education, awareness and advocacy for network and community members in Lethbridge and area. The Network helps reduce elder abuse by building a strong, effective network responding to elder abuse.

We are in the very early stages of building relationships and strengthening the collaboration. Our future hope is to develop and receive support for a model that includes intervention, support and case management for older persons and their families experi-encing abuse.

The following organizations are proud members of LEARN:

Alberta Brain Injury NetworkAlzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest TerritoriesCrossroads Counselling CentreAlberta Health Services:Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitation Unit-Unit5A, CRHSeniors Mental Health Outreach TeamCity of Lethbridge, Community and Social DevelopmentLethbridge CollegeLethbridge Housing Authority & Lethbridge & Region Community HousingLethbridge Family Services - Counselling Outreach & EducationLethbridge Family Services - Immigrant ServicesLethbridge Regional Police Service – Diversity TeamLethbridge Senior Citizens Organization - Support Services DepartmentLethbridge Society for Meals on WheelsNord-Bridge Senior Citizens AssociationOffice of the Public Guardian (Alberta Seniors and Community Supports)Paradigm Wellness & Support ServicesSeniors Information Services (Alberta Seniors and Community Supports)University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health SciencesYWCA Lethbridge & District - Harbour House Women's Shelter, Outreach Program and Residence Program

Lethbridge Elder Abuse Reponse NetworkOur Mission:The Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network (LEARN) is a collaboration of human services organizations that provides education, awareness and advocacy for network and community members in Lethbridge and area. The Network helps reduce elder abuse by building a strong, effective network responding to elder abuse.

We are in the very early stages of building relationships and strengthening the collaboration. Our future hope is to develop and receive support for a model that includes intervention, support and case management for older persons and their families experi-encing abuse.

The following organizations are proud members of LEARN:

Alberta Brain Injury NetworkAlzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest TerritoriesCrossroads Counselling CentreAlberta Health Services:Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitation Unit-Unit5A, CRHSeniors Mental Health Outreach TeamCity of Lethbridge, Community and Social DevelopmentLethbridge CollegeLethbridge Housing Authority & Lethbridge & Region Community HousingLethbridge Family Services - Counselling Outreach & EducationLethbridge Family Services - Immigrant ServicesLethbridge Regional Police Service – Diversity TeamLethbridge Senior Citizens Organization - Support Services DepartmentLethbridge Society for Meals on WheelsNord-Bridge Senior Citizens AssociationOffice of the Public Guardian (Alberta Seniors and Community Supports)Paradigm Wellness & Support ServicesSeniors Information Services (Alberta Seniors and Community Supports)University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health SciencesYWCA Lethbridge & District - Harbour House Women's Shelter, Outreach Program and Residence Program

Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network

2011 Lethbridge Senior’s Safety Calendar is proudly supported by the following:

2011 Lethbridge Senior’s Safety Calendar is proudly supported by the following:2011 Lethbridge Senior’s Safety Calendar is proudly supported by the following:

2011 Lethbridge Senior’s Safety Calendar is proudly supported by the following:

REGIONAL POLICE

LETHBRIDGE


S E N I O R C I T I Z E N S A S S O C I A T I O NNORD-BRIDGE

The information in this calendar is brought to you by:

Marlene Van Eden, Support Services Coordinator Lethbridge Senior Citizen’s Organization

(403) 320-2222 ext. 25

Sgt. Dan Walton, Community Resource UnitLethbridge Regional Police Service

(403) 330-5035

Dawn Vickers, Family & Community Support Service CoordinatorCommunity & Social Development Department

City of Lethbridge(403) 329-7396

My Important Phone Numbers

My Doctor: _____________________________________ My Specialist: ___________________________________ My Pharmacist: __________________________________My Optometrist: _________________________________ My Dentist: _____________________________________My Church: _____________________________________Emergency Contact 1: ____________________________Emergency Contact 2: ____________________________Other Important Telephone Numbers: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My Important Names & Phone Numbers

SENIOR SERVICE GUIDE

Community LINKS Elder Abuse Information (LEARN)

Bus Services Access-A-Ride

Chinook Health Access Centre Health Link Seniors Mental Health Outreach Team

Lethbridge Senior Citizens Org. Nord-Bridge Senior Citizen Assoc. Meals on Wheels

General Inquiries Public Library

AB Seniors Information Line

Federal Information Line

Emergency

Crisis

Information and Referral

Transporation Services

Seniors Health Information

Senior’s Centres and Support

City of Lethbridge

Government

Emergency (Fire, Police, Ambulance) Fire/Ambulance Teletype TDD Police Teletype TDD Police (General Inquiries)

911(403) 327-3336(403) 328-4445(403) 327-2210

Distress Line Crisis Team Pager Number Abuse Hotine

(403) 327-7905(403) 329-5630

(403) 310-0000 or (403) 310-1818

(403) 328-5465(403) 330-5133

(403) 320-4978(403) 329-6464

(403) 320-2222(403) 329-3222(403) 327-7990

(403) 388-6608(403) 388-6380

1-866-408-5465(403) 752-3316

(403) 329-7355(403) 380-7310

1-800-642-3853

1-800-OCANADA(1-800-622-6232)

1-800-277-9914 (English)1-800-277-9915 (French)

Income Securities Program

The information in this calendar is brought to you by:

Marlene Van Eden, Support Services Coordinator Lethbridge Senior Citizen’s Organization

(403) 320-2222 ext. 25

Sgt. Dan Walton, Community Resource UnitLethbridge Regional Police Service

(403) 330-5035

Dawn Vickers, Family & Community Support Service CoordinatorCommunity & Social Development Department

City of Lethbridge(403) 329-7396

My Important Phone Numbers

My Doctor: _____________________________________ My Specialist: ___________________________________ My Pharmacist: __________________________________My Optometrist: _________________________________ My Dentist: _____________________________________My Church: _____________________________________Emergency Contact 1: ____________________________Emergency Contact 2: ____________________________Other Important Telephone Numbers: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My Important Names & Phone Numbers

creating a personal directive (living will)€¦ · st. ppap trick’s ddad y ash wednesday. april...

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