My Passion is Fueled by My Personal Story.
My Nona (grandmother) and I were always extremely close and there wasn't anything that I would not do for her. After a fire left her in a long-term care facility unable to care for herself, we began a four year journey together: her transition from ICU hospitalization to permanent placement in a long-term care facility. As a university student completing a degree in Gerontology (the study of aging) I understood the complexity of care required as a result of the onset of dementia. I escorted her to all of her appointments, acted as her liaison with medical staff and played an active role in annual care conferences. I also provided ongoing reports to family about her condition/issues. While on this personal and academic journey I became very familiar with the community resources available (social workers, administrators, therapists, mental health practitioners and others). I visited my Nona almost every day, kept her up to date on what was going on in the world, family news, and made sure I was there when she needed something or just someone to talk to. It was very difficult and heart wrenching at times. However, I cherished her good days - when she knew who I was. On her bad days, I was just happy that I could be there for her to do whatever I could. My Nona was my inspiration and I am proud to have been a resource and comfort to my family. It is my hope that I can help my clients and their families in the same way.
My History with Seniors
- My extensive background caring about seniors and other individuals with dementia began as a teenager, serving meals to residents at a retirement home and has evolved from that role to, Recreation Coordinator, a fast paced position working with seniors one-on-one and in groups. The delivery of cognitive exercises to clients of a private company spurred me on to create my own company, Cognitive Care Services Inc. Today, in my role as founder of Cognitive Care Services my goal is to exceed the expectations of every client by providing peace of mind for them, their families and loved ones.
Personal Touch
- Jaime offers a personalized connection with each of her clients, and as a result is able to bring out the best in each one. She is an empathetic listener whose goal is to ensure that her clients are comfortable with her, able to express their own opinions without fear of being judged, and that their uniqueness as an individual is allowed.
- Jaime is an unbiased professional, who has the best interest of her clients in mind at all times.
My Education
- Bachelor of Arts Degree in Gerontology (Lakehead University)
- Practical Dementia Care (Alzheimer Society of Calgary)
- Best Friends Approach Workshop (Alzheimer Society of Calgary)
- Support Group Facilitator (Alzheimer Society of Calgary)
- Cognitive Therapy Certificate
- Interdisciplinary Certificate in Dementia Studies (Lakehead University)
- Interdisciplinary Certificate in Palliative Care (Lakehead University)
- Member of the Gerontology Association - Calgary Chapter since 2005
- Volunteer with the Alzheimer Society of Calgary since 2011
How I Enrich the Lives of My Clients
Here is an example of the services that I offer. I have a client who has had a stroke, and as a result has many difficulties that include aphasia and apraxia. Her confidence was at an all time low. I took the time to gain my client's trust and I've slowly introduced the following ways to enhance and enrich her life:
- Involvement with volunteering (an activity she used to love to do)
- Involvement with a day program where she was able to interact with other seniors
- Regular involvement with family and friends despite her disability (assistance with writing letters, etc.)
- Arrangement of medical appointments and advocating on her behalf during these appointments
- Communication with distant family members including current activities and any concerns (Sending photos and updates to far away family members)
- Cognitive Exercises
I was a shoulder to cry on and my client's very own cheering squad. I was there when my client felt she couldn't talk to anyone else about what she was feeling and going through.
I've met so many families who are balancing their own young families, careers and having to worry about their aging parents/grandparents on top of everything else in their life. There are so many ways CCS can assist you and your loved ones. I invite you to take advantage of the many services that we offer!