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SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE
When long time Yellowknifer Murray Jones first heard the news that his 90-year-old mom Joan had been diagnosed with dementia and was in hospital battling pneumonia he knew there would be challenges for her in the future.

Yellowknife resident Murray Jones, right, began caring for his mom Joan after she was diagnosed with dementia at age 90. He says the Elders Circle at AVENS has helped his mom adjust. - photo courtesy of Jeff Renaud

He flew south to meet with his sisters and during that time the doctor's assessment confirmed that the Calgary resident would not return to independent living.

With no available beds, Joan was placed in a very advanced dementia care facility in Calgary. Upon seeing her just days after her placement, Murray recalls his mom saying, '"Get me out of here, I don't belong here." He adds, "she was right." After more consultation with the family, Murray retired from his government job the following week and took active steps to renovate his home for his mom's arrival to Yellowknife.

Knowing that his mom had dementia, Murray knew that a major move would be traumatic - and it was! The dream sounded good but reality quickly set in for the family. Joan had a very difficult time being cooped up and was used to being independent. With her whole routine in turmoil - loss of friends and flexibility - Joan had to learn a whole new routine and new people - not an easy challenge for anybody, especially someone with dementia.

Murray had heard about AVENS - A Community for Seniors' day program and the Baker Centre and started to bring his mom for coffee breaks and Lunch with a Bunch.

"It suited mom well because she is a very social person," says Murray.

Joan began meeting other seniors her own age and made several new friendships along the way. In July, 2011, Murray and his mom filled out an application, and completed a medical form to join the day program now known as the Elders Circle at AVENS.

Joan has thrived since joining the Elders Circle. When asked what she liked most about the program, Murray responds, "She likes getting dressed up, going out and meeting new people - it really suits her personality."

Joan is quick to add, 'Everybody is very nice and I always have a good time!"

Part of her comfort level is in the knowledge that her son is coming to get her at the end of the day. Joan says, "My son takes good care of me and makes sure I am comfortable and cared for."

For Murray, the Elders Circle at AVENS gave him some free time but also piece of mind that his mom was safe without the feelings of guilt that are often associated with being a caregiver.

"What most caregivers don't realize is how big the time commitment is to take care of aging parents who have a physical or cognitive impairment," says Murray.

"I've learned a tremendous amount about the disease in the last two years and I have seen how well my mom has done with this added support program."

The Elders Circle has recently changed some programming that includes longer hours of operation, pick up or drop-off service, and cultural wellness, with interpretive services and a Men's group soon to follow. These changes will help AVENS ensure there is something for all individuals regardless of where in the NWT they come from.

Murray says he thinks more people need to know about the program and what it has to offer.

"This program really helped my mom adjust," he says.

However, he is also quick to caution that some people will have more fear of trying something new and if they don't have someone to talk to it can be even tougher for parents.

"Sometimes people just need a friendly face and someone to talk to when family is not around and the Elders Circle at AVENS provides just that!" says Murray.

• Jeff Renaud is the chief executive officer for AVENS – a community for seniors

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