Photo by William Crooks
Healthcare officials gather at the CLSC of Cowansville to discuss the range of elderly care services available in the Eastern Townships, including home care, rehabilitation programs, and mental health support.
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS held an editorial table on Oct. 17 at the CLSC in Cowansville to discuss services available to the elderly in the La Pommeraie and Haute-Yamaska regions. The meeting emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining autonomy for seniors. Officials highlighted various services offered across the region, with a focus on accessible healthcare, support for caregivers, and innovative plans to address future demographic changes.
Planning for future demographic changes
The CIUSSS and its partners are preparing for the increasing aging population in the region. From 2018 to 2024, interventions for elderly individuals have doubled, rising from 62,000 to 125,000. An official explained, “This increase reflects not just more clients but a higher intensity of services being provided.” The focus remains on maintaining autonomy at home, with officials stressing the importance of collective responsibility: “It takes a village not only to raise a child but also to support an elderly person.”
To address the expected rise in elderly residents, the CIUSSS is working on expanding home care services further. This includes increasing the availability of support staff and enhancing coordination between various service providers, such as local community organizations and healthcare professionals. The future plan emphasizes supporting elderly individuals in their preferred environment—their home—through comprehensive and accessible services. This strategy aligns with the findings that seniors prefer to remain at home for as long as possible before requiring institutional care.
Officials also acknowledged that the rising cost of living and closures of elderly residences have made this approach even more vital. The focus will remain on using available resources efficiently to address the evolving needs of the elderly population while ensuring collaboration with municipal authorities to maintain accessible infrastructure, such as safe sidewalks to prevent falls.
Noteworthy services
Beyond the well-known services, there are several innovative and lesser-known offerings aimed at enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents in the Eastern Townships:
1. Day Centres for Alzheimer’s Patients: The Société Alzheimer Brome-Missisquoi offers day programs tailored to individuals with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments. These programs provide stimulating activities that promote socialization while also offering respite for caregivers. This service enables caregivers to take time for themselves, knowing their loved ones are engaged and well-cared for. As one official remarked, “These services not only help the patient but also allow caregivers to recharge and maintain their own health.”
2. Inhalotherapy Services: The CLSC provides a home-based inhalotherapy program, which includes oxygen therapy and management of ventilators for patients with chronic lung diseases. Professionals install the equipment and conduct regular follow-ups to ensure patients manage their conditions effectively at home. This specialized support allows many elderly residents to avoid hospital visits, enhancing their independence and comfort.
3. Geriatric Psychiatry Clinics: The geriatric psychiatry clinic offers specialized mental health services for seniors experiencing depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline. This service aims to provide psychological and social support, helping seniors manage their conditions while staying in their familiar environments. An official explained, “These clinics are designed to offer more than just medical care; they provide a comprehensive support system for both seniors and their families.”
4. Respite Services and Home Assistance Programs: Several organizations, such as the Maison de soutien aux aidants, provide in-home respite services for caregivers. These services are designed to prevent caregiver burnout by offering temporary relief, allowing caregivers to attend to personal matters or simply rest. The CIUSSS also offers support for daily activities, such as hygiene and mobility assistance, through their home assistance programs. These initiatives are supported by a network of volunteers and professional caregivers, ensuring seniors receive the help they need.
5. Vaccination and Screening Programs: The CIUSSS offers influenza, COVID-19, and shingles vaccination campaigns at local service points. Additionally, they provide colorectal cancer screening services for individuals aged 50 to 74. These preventive services are easily accessible and play a vital role in maintaining the health of the aging population. An official encouraged, “People should take advantage of these services to stay ahead of potential health issues.”
6. 811 Info-Santé and Info-Social Lines: The CIUSSS has set up a 24/7 helpline (811) with options for physical and psychosocial support. The Info-Santé service connects callers with nurses who provide health advice, while Info-Social offers immediate intervention for psychological or social issues. These services are easily accessible, requiring no referral, and are available to both seniors and concerned neighbours who may notice someone in need of assistance.