Reitman Centre CARERS Program
COVID-19: Information for Reitman Centre patients and visitors
The health, safety and well-being of our patients, their families and our staff is our highest priority at the Reitman Centre. Some of our patients and their families are high risk for getting very sick from COVID 19.
In an effort to minimize the potential risk of exposure to COVID 19, the Reitman Centre Team is expanding patient and caregiver program delivery methods to include phone visits and/or video conferencing technology.
In addition, we are exploring ways to disseminate accurate health information, resources and online events using our www.dementiacarers.ca website. Please contact us with your questions and suggestions.
CONTACT US
- Telephone: 416-586-4800 ext. 5882
- Email: [email protected]
Unique to the Cyril & Dorothy, Joel & Jill Reitman Centre is the CARERS (Coaching, Advocacy, Respite, Education, Relationship, Simulation) Program; an 8 session skills-based group for family caregivers. The focus is on practical skills based tools and emotional supports needed to provide care for family members with dementia. Sessions are run out of the Reitman Centre offices located at Mount Sinai Hospital and are free of charge.
Caregivers will:
- develop more effective problem solving skills;
- develop practical skills to improve communication and manage dementia related behaviours;
- are given the opportunity to learn new skills by practicing them with the help of standardized patients who are professional actors trained to work with caregivers to simulate specific challenging situations encountered at home;
- receive guidance and coaching by expert clinical staff through individualized role playing scenarios in order to learn new and more successful ways to cope with common caregiving dilemmas;
- have the chance to process their emotional reactions to caregiving;
- develop an enhanced sense of capability, feel less isolated and can continue to provide care in the community.
How do I get involved?
Caregivers are welcome to self-refer or to be referred by a health care professional by calling 416-586-4800 ext. 5882 or emailing [email protected], or health professionals can fill out and send the referral form.
All services require an initial assessment at Mount Sinai Hospital and are free of charge with a valid Ontario health card.
