For many people, a loved one’s dementia diagnosis not only means a loss of shared memories, but also a decline in the experience of personal, meaningful conversation. At its most fundamental level, conversation brings people together and helps establish and develop relationships. A research study conducted by Western University and McCormick Dementia Research looked at […]

Gary Dallner’s journey as a McCormick Home volunteer came as a natural extension of the time he spent visiting the home to see his father back in 1983. During these visits, the now-retired high school teacher took notice of those residents who had no friends or family to connect with and began to casually strike […]

Now that summer has finally arrived, many of us begin to dream of traveling. Vacations provide a wonderful time to get away from daily routines and escape some of life’s demands. However, for some people, traveling may not always be possible.

The gift of music knows no bounds – not even those imposed by Alzheimer disease. And the experience of Barb and Jon Baskerville is certainly no exception. Despite Jon’s Alzheimer diagnosis, the husband-and-wife singing duo unwaveringly continue to share their talents and love of music with others.

With the summer months upon us at last, many of us look forward to making vacation plans to visit family, friends or a favourite destination. If you are a caregiver of someone with dementia, you may find that the idea of traveling presents some challenges. However, there is no reason to give up traveling altogether.

There is no doubt that making the decision to live in long-term care can be stressful. It’s not uncommon to hear from families who need help – help with how to tell someone that they are moving into long-term care.This story is about Joseph, a new resident to McCormick Home. Joseph didn’t expect to be […]

When behavioural changes occur in a person with dementia, you may think to yourself, "That must be the disease.” While sometimes that may be the case, on occasion there may be an underlying medical reason for behavioural changes.

“This course is perfect for what we are going through.”“You’ve made a huge, positive difference in my life.”“I’ve learned so much…I’m feeling better now that I’ve learned some new techniques.”These are just some of the comments on a new program at McCormick Dementia Services that is helping caregivers learn practical, hands-on ways to care for […]

I was recently reflecting on the 2018 Olympics in PyeongChang and the amount of work involved in making the Winter Games happen every four years. It brought to mind the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” To achieve a positive outcome, it really is all about collaboration.

Caring for an ill or disabled loved one is one of the most noble and rewarding things you can do. It can also be one of the most stressful—physically, mentally and emotionally. There are, however, many strategies and resources that can help you take care of your own health and enjoy life all while giving […]

Helen Jevnikar has helped many people over the years in her role as social worker. While she has been involved in offering several excellent programs to help those living with dementia in her work at McCormick Dementia Services, her genuine enthusiasm for a new program being offered for caregivers of people with dementia is exceptional.

To celebrate the successes in realizing our corporate values, the McCormick Care Group Employee Values Award was established by the organization’s Quality of Work Life Action Team to recognize employees who exemplify true compassion, accountability, respect, excellence and collaboration in their day-to-day work.

This summer, Carolyn Denstedt, a volunteer at McCormick Home, set up a butterfly display in our main common room for the second year in a row. We are very fortunate to have Carolyn, who is certified by the Ministry of Natural Resources, provide our residents with such a unique programming experience.