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OK Boomers – You’re Next!

By Pat Irwin | May 20, 2020

The statistics are there – there are more Canadians over age 65 than under age 15. The pandemic has provided horrific images of isolation and neglect that’s made every Baby Boomer vow, ‘that will never be me’. So how can Boomers be sure? Take charge of yourself, your health, your financial affairs, even your relationships,…

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Should We Even Go to Emergency?

By Pat Irwin | May 20, 2020

I hear so many horror stories about long waits in Emergency rooms. Is there any point in even taking my elderly parents there? How can I be sure they are seen quickly? It’s important to understand how Emergency departments are run, the alternatives, and some tips for preventing a health crisis. Here are some guidelines:…

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Should I bring Dad Home from Long-term Care?

By Pat Irwin | May 19, 2020

  On TV, in the news, on Facebook and Twitter – those poignant scenes of families blowing kisses through windows, glimpses of a frail silhouette, horror stories of multiple illness and death in long-term care homes all over the country.  Politicians, and even doctors, boldly  stated, ‘if you have family in long-term care, get them…

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Supporting Personal Support Workers (PSWs)

By Pat Irwin | May 19, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has us banging pots every night to honour the front-line workers. But who exactly are these heroes? Many of them are Personal Support Workers (PSWs). What exactly is a PSW? Personal Support Workers are trained in caregiving protocols and techniques. Their training may range from months in private training academies or years…

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How can I be sure my Mom’s nursing home is safe?

By Pat Irwin | May 18, 2020

  You are right to get all the information you can to make the best decision. First, find out what to avoid: Book a tour and consult a checklist such as https://torontonursinghomes.com/nursing-homes/toronto.html They advise using your senses and intuition – how does the place, look, smell, sound and generally feel. Check government reports – your…

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No Easy Fix for Long-Term Care

By Pat Irwin | May 18, 2020

Long-term care homes across the globe have suffered unduly from COVID-19; residents in Canada’s system seem to be suffering more than others with 80% of COVID-19 deaths being among seniors. Experts call it ‘benign neglect’ and admit “Nobody set out to plan a system that will hurt older adults.” While policy-makers and politicians have vowed…

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“Every aspect was perfectly done – the cleaning up and sorting, packup, the move, the setup of my mother’s new room, etc. She is incredibly efficient. I would not have survived this experience without Pat (nor would my mother.)”

Ginnie Welsman

VP Audit Services, SunLife Financial

“Pat Irwin has been a godsend. Faced with trying to assess available care facilities when it became apparent that my aged parents could no longer cope with independent living, I emailed Pat early one morning. She responded within hours, saw my parents that day and had them placed in a week. My mother loved her.”

David R. Allgood

Executive Vice-President & General Counsel Royal Bank of Canada