Seniors Advocate – The Journey Begins

In March 2014, the BC government appointed Isobel Mackenzie as the Seniors Advocate. Ms. Mackenzie has a broad mandate to monitor and review system-wide issues affecting the well-being of seniors and raise awareness about resources available to them. The Advocate will also make recommendations to government and those who deliver seniors’ services related to health care, personal care, housing, transportation and income support.

We had the privilege of meeting Isobel Mackenzie at the BC Chapter of the Canadian College of Health Leaders. We were thrilled to hear that her background is administration in both home health and higher levels of care. She understands the issues from the inside.

In October, Isobel Mackenzie stated that “We Can Do Better” and released her first report, Together We Can Do Better. Click for PDF.

The Seniors Advocate is seeking seniors to participate in Seniors Councils throughout the province. Application deadline is December 4, 2014. Seniors Advocate Council of Advisers Website.

 

Karen Baillie elected to SafeCare BC Board

Karen Baillie, CEO of Menno Place was elected to the SafeCare BC board to serve in the position of Vice Chair. SafeCare BC was established in 2013 as an industry funded, non-profit society that works to ensure injury free, safe working conditions for long term care (LTC) workers in BC. SafeCare strives to be the industry leader in advancing injury prevention and safety training for LTC workers.

Karen Baillie, CEO, congratulates Bryan Gay, 2014 Western Regional Winner, Professional Caregiver Category – Canada Cares

Western Regional Professional Caregiver Award

Each person’s caregiving journey is unique, but there is always a common thread: the willingness, patience and dedication that surrounds their commitment to care.

We are pleased to celebrate the 2014 Western Regional Professional Caregiver Award Winner for British Columbia, Bryan Gay.

Bryan is a professional caregiver who provides skilled care and compassion at the Menno Home in the East 1 Lounge and Chalet. He is dedicated, committed and seemingly tireless in his efforts to provide the essential physical and emotional care for the residents who suffer from dementia.

Bryan’s reluctance to be publicly acknowledged stems from his deep belief that professional caregivers work best in teams. He knows that whatever he does in caring for the residents is done in conjunction with team members who are skillfully managing and caring for other residents in the same unit. Bryan

Bryan was presented his recognition award by Canada Cares in Banff, Alberta on November 4th. He was given a complimentary registration by Canada Cares to the Canadian Home Care Summit, “Reaching New Heights” as an expression of appreciation for his services in caring for residents. With over 80 presentations on priority topics ranging from client and family centered care to integrated care, Bryan was in his “happy place” – learning and learning and learning.

Menno Place is proud of the excellent care our caregivers provide for our residents. We are actively seeking out ways to recognize our staff for their compassion and skills.

If you are aware of an opportunity to nominate a caregiver, or would like to suggest a caregiver for future nomination, please drop a line to us and we’ll continue to nominate our care staff for awards that showcase quality, safety, excellence and compassion.