Continuing Connections
The Continuing Connections Program assists individuals between 18 and 65
years of age who are residing in a long-term care centre and who have complex
care needs since they are dealing with both long-term physical health issues and
mental health issues.
The objectives of the program are to increase the clients’ confidence and to
facilitate healthy living while restoring hope. These individuals may be experiencing
hopelessness, isolation or boredom. Individuals participate in therapeutic recreation activities and outings offered by the program, are linked and accompanied to
programs in the community and receive regular social visits from volunteers.
A partnership program with Alberta Health Services, Continuing Connections is
available at Bethany Care Centre, Carewest Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre, Glamorgan
Care Centre, and new this year, at Garrison Centre.
CMHA CLIENT:
“
The group experience, sharing with others, and supporting each
other were valuable. I learned about boundaries, communication, to
help yourself and your loved one.”
‘Oh, you’re the light of my life. I’m so
glad you’re back,’” Whitney says.
The woman has since graduated from
the Continuing Connections program
after turning 66 (the program works with
adults age 18-65), but Whitney continues to visit her. Whitney has also been
paired with a new client in Continuing
Connections.
“I definitely think it’s been a very positive experience at least for myself, and
I definitely hope so for the people I’m
visiting as well.”
In 2012-2013:
59
individuals benefited from the program, an increase of 13 from last year
95%
of clients reported improvements in
their wellness due to the program
86%
of clients reported the program helped
decrease their isolation
A n n u a l R e p o r t t o t h e C o m m u n i t y 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 15