Seniors who are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or any other special occasion can receive special greetings.
Queen Elizabeth II and the Governor General Birthday and anniversary greetings from Queen Elizabeth II can be
arranged for birthdays of 100 years or more and anniversaries of 60 years or more. Twelve weeks notice and a
photocopy of the birth or wedding certificate are required. Greetings from the Governor General for birthdays of 90
years or more and anniversaries of 30 years or more can be arranged. Nine weeks notice is required. For greetings
from the Queen and Governor General contact your local Member of Parliament or use the application form on the internet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website:http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=231
Chapter 1 I Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide Active Living page 3
Prime Minister of Canada | Greetings from the Prime Minister of Canada can be arranged for birthdays of 75 years or more and anniversaries of 25 years or more. Contact your local Member of Parliament or the Prime Minister’s office directly.
Note: The PEI Council of People with Disabilities offers assistance in filling in the CPP Disability forms and will provide assistance with an appeal if the pension is denied.
Chapter 3 Health | Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide page 35
Adult Protection Program
The Adult Protection Program provides help to adults who are unable to protect themselves from abuse or neglect.
Home care workers receive and investigate referrals of neglect or abuse under the Adult Protection Act.
Abuse and neglect are actions that cause harm to people. They can happen once, or over a longer period of time. They
may happen in trusting relationships.
• Psychological or Emotional Abuse includes behavior that causes distress, feelings of humiliation, insults, threats or manipulation of information or situations.
• Financial or Material Abuse is misuse of another person’s money, property or assets. This would include theft, forcing a person to change their will, misuse of Power of Attorney or fraud.
• Physical Abuse is the causing of physical pain, discomfort or injury by pushing, hitting or rough handling.
• Sexual Abuse is sexual contact, verbal or suggestive behavior of any kind that is unwelcome.
• Neglect is the failure to provide a safe, clean living environment, appropriate food, clothes, glasses and medications.
• Self Neglect is when the behavior of an adult threatens their own health or safety. Self neglect does not include a
situation in which a mentally competent adult, who understands the consequences of their decisions,
makes a conscious decision to do things that threaten their health and safety.
For Adult Protection Services, call the Home Care office nearest you:
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Home Care Services
Home Care Services help people live independently in their own homes. This program helps people to recover at home
after being discharged from hospital or another institution. Home Care helps support care that is provided by family and
friends. Services are offered based on assessed need and available resources. Home Care responds to requests
within one to two days. Services are provided at no charge. You are responsible for providing any materials, supplies
and equipment required for your care.
The following services of Home Care may be provided, depending on available resources:
• Nursing – services include health supervision, medication monitoring, dressing changes, ostomy care and health education.
• Home Support – Home Support Workers offer help with bathing and dressing and also provide support for a 24 hour caregiver to have a
short, planned break.
• Occupational Therapy – An Occupational Therapist provides help and training to people who are having difficulty with their daily living. They may
recommend special devices, equipment, or changes in your home to allow you to live safely and independently.
• Physiotherapy – A Physiotherapist can work with you and your family to develop a plan to maximize your independence, function and mobility.
They provide information on exercise programs and prevention of falls.
• Nutrition Services – A Dietitian will complete a nutritional assessment and work with you and your family to provide information on a healthy diet
that meets your needs. These services are available in Charlottetown and Summerside.
• Enterostomal Therapy – This service provides care and support for people who have had ostomy surgery (such as an ileostomy, colostomy
or urostomies). These services are available in Montague and Souris.
• Social Work – A Social Worker provides individual or family counseling to help cope with illness, loss, or end of life. This service can help identify
your resources and those of your family.
• Community Support – A Community Support Worker provides help to people who are having difficulty in finding the services and supports they may
need. They may also work with community groups in developing services to meet community needs.
• Dialysis – Peritoneal Dialysis is a treatment for kidney disease that is done by people in their homes with the help of family members or
other caregivers. Support for dressing and tubing changes and education is provided to patients and their families by Home Care nurses.
• Tele-Home Care – Through the use of video visits, health care professionalscan collect information about you and observe your health status.
The community mental health system includes centers that offer:
• Assessment • Consultation • Treatment • Crisis intervention • Medication • Outreach and ongoing support for people with mild to moderate mental health problems.
The health of your teeth, gums and mouth is closely linked to overall health. Current research also points to a link between gum disease and diabetes,
heart disease, and respiratory disease. As part of the Dental Assisting Program, Holland College offers a Patient Care dental clinic once per year to
provide oral health services to Islanders. Those who attend this clinic will have an opportunity to receive limited dental services from dental assistant
students under the supervision of their instructors and an on-site dentist. The clinic may refer you for further dental services if necessary. The cost
to attend this clinic is $10 and appointments are required in advance.
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Counselling Services for Seniors
Services and supports are available to help seniors who are having difficulty coping with everyday life or who may be experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety and grief. Fees depend on the client’s ability to pay.
Alzheimer Society of PEICounseling services free of charge.
There are also many private counselling services available across PEI. An hourly fee is charged for these services. Check the Yellow Pages in the phone book.
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Foot Care Clinics
Foot Care Clinics are located in local communities and are sponsored and organized by community service groups. They offer the services of a
Registered Nurse who trims toenails, pares calluses, removes corns and treats ingrown toenails. A fee is charged for the RN’s services. The numbers
listed are private numbers of the volunteer who make the appointments.
Note: Some businesses offer foot care with regular office hours and/or in-home visits. Check the Yellow Pages of your phone book for more foot care options.
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Home Equipment Loan
Short term loans of specialized equipment such as crutches, hospital beds, bath chairs and adaptive aids are available for a small fee. A referral from
specific health care professionals is usually required.
Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 902 628-6262
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Private Home Care Services
In addition to the government Home Care Program, several private businesses and organizations offer services for seniors. Seniors are responsible for paying the cost of this service. Costs vary according to the service required.
This program provides grants to support renovations to assist Islanders to stay in their homes or with family members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.gov.pe.ca/housing
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Home Support Services
Home support services may include housekeeping, help with laundry, shopping, snow removal, lawn care and other general home maintenance.
These services may be offered by businesses or individuals. Many companies advertise their services in the local yellow pages.
The Better Business Bureau advises that people purchasing services take three steps:
1. Be informed – do your homework by talking with friends and family to learn about their experiences with companies; check the telephone book’s
yellow pages for names of businesses; shop around and compare prices.
2. Ask questions – is the business licensed, bonded, have staff members undergone criminal records checks, does the company carry insurance; how
long have they been in business? Ask (and check) references from other clients. Ask questions about the cost of services.
3. Proceed only when you are comfortable – get details of your agreement to purchase a home support service in writing, including what will be
provided and what is not included and the cost. Don’t feel pressured by sales tactics to sign any contract that you do not understand. Protect your
personal information – don’t give credit card or banking information to businesses that you don’t know.
Check with the Better Business Bureau if you have questions about a company:
PEI Senior Citizens’ Housing – The federal and provincial governments provide funding for seniors’ public housing projects. There are senior citizens’ public housing units in 34 communities across PEI. A Garden Suite is a portable one bedroom unit that can be moved to the property of a family member or friend. The property must be zoned to permit installation of the unit.
People over the age of 60 and those who are 55 and older who have a disability are eligible for subsidized seniors’ housing and garden suites. Tenants pay 25% of their income in rent. Tenants are selected based on need. A rating system is used to find out which applicants have the greatest need. When assessing need, staff considers a person’s income, assets, health, age, present housing and the length of time the application has been on file.
Tyne Valley – Stewart Memorial Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . 902 831-7900
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Private Nursing Homes
Licensed nursing homes are privately owned and operated establishments that provide nursing care services for people whose care needs are greater than the family or community care facility can provide. A care assessment will determine if the individual’s needs can be met in a community care facility or in a nursing home. The assessment can be arranged by contacting any nursing home or by calling Home Care.
Belfast – Dr. John Gillis Memorial Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 902 659-2337
78 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide Community School
More than 3,000 Islanders attend community schools each year across the province, taking courses such as guitar, arts, crafts and introductory computer. Some communities hold community school at local schools, seniors’ housing units, or manors. Most programs are held weekly for ten weeks in the winter, but a few are held in the fall. Programs can be in the morning, afternoon or evening. There is a registration fee. There is a complete listing of community schools in the newspapers in December each year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-3445
Road Scholar
Road Scholar is the name for the programs developed and offered by Elderhostel Inc., a non-profit international organization dedicated to lifelong learning. Participants, mostly over the age of 50, grow and learn through new experiences and the active exploration of subjects and interests around the world. Learning experiences include history, culture, nature and music. Outdoor learning activities include walking, cycling, golf, tennis and study cruises. There are several programs on PEI. For more information contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-454-5768 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.roadscholar.org
Genealogy
Public Archives and Records Office – This office houses a large collection of genealogical materials. The collection includes an index of census records from 1728 to 1901, passenger lists, marriage registers, selected newspapers, Meacham’s Atlas and funeral home registries. A guide titled Tracing Your Family History is available. Chapter 5 Lifelong Learning Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 79 The office is in the Coles Building on Richmond Street in Charlottetown. 368-4290 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: archives@gov.pe.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.archives.pe.ca
Vital Statistics Information – Historical records that include birth records back to 1840, marriage records back to 1886, and extracts from baptismal records from 1886 to 1919, can be searched. There are fees to search for a birth record, obtain a birth certificate, a death certificate or a marriage certificate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 838-0880 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-877-320-1253
Library Services
Membership in the Provincial LibraryService is free and includes access to all libraries and services. Library cardsare necessary, and can be obtained by filling out a registration form andshowing one piece of identification with your current address. Atemporary card can be provided without identification.
You can borrow most items for three weeks. You can borrow up to 40 items at one time. You can request books from any public library either in person, by phone or online. Overdue books can result in suspension of library privileges. The Home Library Service is available to anyone with a disability that prevents them from using the library regularly. This service delivers books, CDs, DVDs and Talking Books from the library’s extensive collection directly to Islanders.
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80 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide For a listing of libraries, check the Blue Pages in the phone book. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.library.pe.ca
Seniors’ College
This is a membership-based organization affiliated with the University of Prince Edward Island. The college offers over 130 courses per year, mostly taught by seniors, at locations in Charlottetown, Summerside, and Montague. Classes are typically eight weeks in duration, held on a weekday morning or afternoon. There are no exams or papers – the goal is to have participants share their skills, knowledge, life experiences and joy of learning. There is an annual membership fee that allows seniors to take as many or as few courses as they wish. A Registration Day is held in early September and on-line registration for courses is also available. New members can join and sign up for available courses throughout the year. Members of Seniors College receive a UPEI part-time student ID card. For further information about Seniors College check our website: www.seniorscollege.ca. To contact Seniors College, email seniorscollege@upei.ca or phone 902-894-2867. Charlottetown: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 894-2867 Prince County Coordinator: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 836-4743 Kings County Coordinator: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 583-2888
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Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 81 University of Prince Edward Island and Holland College Courses University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) Seniors may wish to audit a course as it involves taking part in classes without assignments or exams. There is a cost to audit a course. Course calendars are available in August for fall and winter semesters. Seniors’ Bursary – The Seniors’ Bursary program replaces the earlier Centennial Scholarship Program. UPEI offers one Seniors’ Bursary per year to residents of PEI aged 60 and over. The bursary allows a senior to take one full credit per year and may be applied to audited courses. Seniors’ Bursaries cannot be used for graduate studies, short courses, summer institutes, books or other fees. Seniors must follow regular admissions and registration procedures. Check the university calendar for a list of courses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 566-0439 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: registrar@upei.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.upei.ca/registrar UPEI Center for Life-Long Learning – This center offers public lectures and cultural activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 566-0336 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: lifelong@upei.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.lifelonglearning.upei.ca Holland College Seniors can take short courses during the fall and winter. The cost per course varies. Course calendars are distributed in the newspapers in August each year and are available on the college website. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-446-5265 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.hollandcollege.com (Go to Short Courses)
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Organizations
Canadian Association on Gerontology
The Canadian Association on Gerontology is a national organization established to provide leadership on matters related to the aging population. Canadian Association on Gerontology 222 College St. Suite 106 Toronto, ON M5T 3J1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-855-224-2240 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.cagacg.ca
Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging
The Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging (CCAA) is involved in research and program development for improved physical ability and healthy aging for older adults. It is a not-for-profit national research and education centre within the Faculty of Health Sciences. Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging 1490 Richmond Street London, ON N6G 2M3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 519-661-1603 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.uwo.ca/actage
Division of Aging and Seniors
The Division of Aging and Seniors provides federal leadership on seniors’ public health issues to support healthy aging. The Division is a federal centre for information and expertise in seniors’ issues. The Division strives to influence policy development, to expand and transfer knowledge, and to engage stakeholders on matters concerning healthy aging, including the prevention and control of disease and injury in older adult life. Chapter 5 Lifelong Learning Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 83 Division of Aging and Seniors Public Health Agency of Canada Address Locator: 1908A1 Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 613-952-7606 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TTY: 1-800-267-1245 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/index-eng.php
HelpAge Canada
HelpAge Canada is a non-denominational, non-profit international development organization that is dedicated to assisting elderly people living in poverty in both Canada and the developing world.
This Government of Canada website includes information on a variety of topics of interest to seniors including care facilities, finances and pension, health and wellness, legal matters, retirement, transportation, leisure, veterans services and other subjects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.seniors.gc.ca
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84 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide Simon Fraser University Gerontology Research Centre The Gerontology Research Centre at Simon Fraser University is committed to high quality research in the field of aging. The centre studies a variety of topics including the built environment, lifestyle, culture, health promotion and technology and aging.
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Safely Home™Alzheimer Wandering Registry
Safely Home ™ is a nationwide program designed to help find a person who is lost and help in their safe return home. Developed by the Alzheimer Society in partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the registry stores vital information confidentially on a police database. The information can be accessed by police anywhere in Canada and the United States. Registration is voluntary. For a one time fee, the registrant will receive an identification bracelet, cards and a handbook with helpful information. For further information contact the Alzheimer Society of PEI: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 628-2257 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free:1-866-628-2257 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: society@alzpei.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.alzheimer.ca/pei
Community Legal Information Association (CLIA)
This association provides Islanders with understandable, useful information about our laws and the justice system. CLIA works collaboratively with community groups, lawyers, government departments and interested members of the general public. Legal information is available on all subjects. Designed for older adults, the Putting Your Affairs in Order at Any Age series of booklets explain a number of important issues of interest to seniors including: new relationships, you and your grandchildren, preventing abuse, wills and health care directives. Services are provided free of charge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-0853 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free:1-800-240-9798 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: clia@cliapei.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.cliapei.ca
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Consumer Information and Complaints
The Consumer Affairs Section of the Department of Environment, Labour and Justice provides protection to the public through licensing and regulation of certain individuals, businesses and non-profit enterprises. The staff at Consumer Affairs will take written complaints regarding local businesses and services. They help consumers by either doing some informal mediation to resolve a problem or by directing consumers to the appropriate department or agency. They also provide consumers with information and guidance so that they can make informed decisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-658-1799
Elder Mediation
Elder mediators are specially trained individuals that apply their knowledge on aging to the issues facing older people. Through a cooperative, neutral process trained mediators or elder mediator help people to develop mutually agreeable solutions to conflicts. In addition, mediators can help facilitate an alternate process to legal proceedings. For information about this service contact Mediation PEI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-7667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: ereagh@eastlink.ca
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Health Care Directives (Living Will or Advanced Care Plan)
Health care directives, sometimes called living wills or advanced care plans, are documents in which you state your wishes about health care or treatment in case you are unable to make or communicate these decisions at a later time. You can state your wishes regarding end-of-life medical treatment as well as personal statements. Your living will allows you to name another person, as proxy, to make decisions for you if you are unable to make decisions or communicate them yourself. Medical practitioners must ask if you have a directive and are required to follow your directive unless they consider it unethical or illegal. Your PEI directive is legal in other provinces. Please ensure you have given copies of your directive to your doctor, your clergy, your closest relatives and friends and carry one if you are traveling. You cannot use a directive to request euthanasia or assisted suicide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 569-0588/902-368-6717 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: http://www.gov.pe.ca/forms/pdf/1697.pdf
Human Rights Commission
The Commission administers and enforces the PEI Human Rights Act which prohibits discrimination. Discrimination is the unequal, stereotypical and prejudicial treatment of a person. The Commission also develops programs of public information and education about human rights through seminars, publications, responses to general inquiries and a resource center. There is no cost for services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-4180 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-237-5031 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.gov.pe.ca/humanrights
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Legal Services
Lawyer Referral Services –This service is available to anyone who needs legal information. It is designed toencourage you to seek legal advice early, before yourproblems becomecomplicated and expensive. The service will give you the names of two lawyers. You choose one and arrange anappointment for an interview of up to forty-five minutes at a nominal charge of $25 (plus tax). The lawyer will tell you whether he or she thinks you have a legal problem, what is involved, how long it should take to solve the problem and approximately how much legal services would cost. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-0853 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-240-9798 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: clia@cliapei.ca
Legal Aid – Legal Aid lawyers provide representation in family and criminal law to clients who, for financial reasons, would be unable to obtain essential legal services from the private sector. Services are limited and not all types of cases are represented. Charlottetown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-6043 Summerside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Family law: 888-8066 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Criminal law: 888-8219
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Victim Services – This service assists victims of crime during their involvement in the criminal justice system. Where a victim is incapacitated or has died as a result of the crime, family members may be entitled to benefits. Assistance is available to those who feel they have been victimized regardless of whether a complaint has been made to the police or a charge has been laid. No fees are charged for this confidential service.
Preparing for an emergency is important and it is something that every Islander can do. The Office of Public Safety advises all residents to take three simple steps to become better prepared to face a range of emergencies and reduce the impact on yourself and your community. 1. Know the risks – although the results of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to this region (such as what to do in the case of hurricanes, storm surge and power failure) can help you better prepare. 2. Make a plan – every Island household needs an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do if disaster strikes. 3. Get an emergency kit – during an emergency you need some basic supplies and to be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. To receive your copy of the Emergency Preparedness Guide or the Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities or Special needs go to www.getprepared.ca or call the toll free seniors line at 1-866-770-0588.
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Medic Alert – When seniors sign up for the Medic Alert program, an emergency health record and contact information is completed. The member’s medical record contains information on existing medical conditions, allergies, implants, devices and medications. The senior receives a Medic Alert medical identification product engraved with the member’s key medical information, the member’s ID number and the Medic Alert 24-hour Emergency Response Hotline number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free:1-800-668-1507 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.medicalert.ca
Personal Emergency Response Services – Emergency alert services are available for those who live alone and are at risk. These privately owned services allow seniors to live in confidence and security in their own home. A device is worn that can be activated for medical, fire, and police emergencies. Family or neighbors will also be alerted in the case of an emergency.
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Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives permission to someone to look after your financial affairs if you cannot do this yourself or if you wish someone to do it for you. This document is usually written with the help of a lawyer and allows the person named to take care of your financial and legal business. A Power of Attorney does not give someone authority to make decisions about your health care. You can appoint your spouse, partner, friend or family member. The person you choose must be 18 years or older, be mentally capable and someone who will accept the responsibility and understand what it means to have Power of Attorney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-4561 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: rllandry@gov.pe.ca The Community Legal Information Association (CLIA) has a booklet that provides more information on power of attorney. Contact CLIA for a copy of Putting Your Affairs in Order: Powers of Attorney or view this booklet online: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free 1-800-240-9798 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.cliapei.ca
Public Guardianship Program
Individuals are recommended for guardianship when they are incapable of managing their personal affairs such as: health care, legal proceedings, social contacts, and or training. Legal guardianship is recommended when an individual has no family or trusted friends willing or able to assume responsibility for them. The Public Guardianship Program is responsible for all Public Guardianship Orders ordered by the courts. Individuals are recommended for legal guardianship by two physicians. Two Certificates of Incapacity to Manage Personal Affairs must be signed by physicians. There is no cost for the service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-6506 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: jaharper@ihis.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Website: www.gov.pe.ca
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Public Trustee
The Public Trustee is a person appointed by the provincial government to help people who are unable to look after their own financial affairs. The Public Trustee gets involved when you have no trusted family or friends who can do this for you, and no Power of Attorney has been signed. The trustee is usually appointed after you have been declared incompetent, if you made no arrangements about your financial affairs and/or where there are concerns about how your power of attorney is being used. They have the power to take over administration of your finances if your attorney has not been acting in your best interest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-4552 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: mlgallant@gov.pe.ca
Seniors Safety Program
This program provides personal and home safety information to isolated and vulnerable seniors. This information, delivered to seniors in their own home, is designed to help reduce fear of crime, vulnerability to frauds and scams and susceptibility to unscrupulous sales people and contractors. The main areas of the program are: – Home Security Program – Frauds and Scams – Video Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 940-6702 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.seniorssafety.ca
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Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 95 Accessible Parking Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Ambulance Services – Ground and Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Bus Lines and Shuttle Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Driver Refresher Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Health Coverage When Traveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Transportation – Private and Public . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Chapter 7 Transportation and Travel 96 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide Accessible Parking Permits The Designated Parking Permit Program is offered by the PEI Council of People with Disabilities. A designated parking permit allows eligible permit holders to park in specially designated parking spots. These parking permits are for those unable to walk more than 75 meters without serious difficulty or danger to safety or health. To apply for a permit, have the written approval of your doctor and fill out an application form. There is a fee for parking permits. It is valid for one calendar year. Temporary permits are also available. Charlottetown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-9149 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: info@peicod.pe.ca Montague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 838-5878 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: montague@peicod.pe.ca Summerside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 436-9259 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: summerside@peicod.pe.ca To access an application form: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.peicod.pe.ca/programs_parking.php Chapter 7 Transportation and Travel Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 97 Ambulance Services – Ground and Air 911 – A province wide 911 Emergency Response System is in place. Callers are linked to the appropriate emergency service provider: police, fire or ambulance. Ground Ambulance – Emergency and non-emergency ground ambulance service is provided on PEI through a contract between the Health PEI and Island EMS, the ambulance operator. There is no fee for emergency ground ambulance services for senior citizens, 65 years of age and over. Emergency ambulance services include medical situations where a call to 911 would normally occur. There is a standard charge of $150 for non-emergency use of ambulance services. The maximum cost of $150 per patient per day applies when multiple transports are made within a 24 hour period. In certain circumstances when there are transfers between hospitals within a 24 hour period, the hospital is responsible for payment of the user fee. Out-of-Province Medical Transport Support Program – PEI residents requiring medical care outside PEI, who are deemed medically to require transportation by ambulance and attendance by a paramedic, are not charged a user fee. The following requirements apply: – The patient must be under the care of an attending physician as an admitted patient or from the emergency department of a PEI hospital. – The attending physician has arranged for the transfer of care to an attending physician at a facility outside PEI. – The ambulance trip originates from a hospital in PEI. Non-residents pay the cost of this service. Air Ambulance – PEI is part of an Emergency Air Ambulance Service with NS and NB. Emergency air ambulance is used when critical or specialty care is Chapter 7 Transportation and Travel 98 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide required out of province immediately. The decision to use this service is made by the doctors in consultation with medical control doctors at specialty hospitals out of province. Residents of PEI are not charged a patient user fee for these services. Nonresidents pay the full cost of the service. Emergency Health Services Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-6719 Island Emergency Medical Service (EMS) for Non-Emergencies – EMS offers non-emergency ambulance services across the province and within the Atlantic region. The provincial user fee for non-emergency transport is $150 for a one-way transfer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-9995 (for billing inquiries) Bus Services and Shuttle Services Maritime Bus – For bus fares and schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 566-9962 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.maritimebus.com Advanced Shuttle Service – Transportation daily between PEI and Halifax, NS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-877-886-3322 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.advancedshuttle.ca Greyhound Canada – Transportation between PEI and other places in Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-800-661-8747 Chapter 7 Transportation and Travel Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 99 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.greyhound.ca PEI Express Shuttle – Transportation daily between PEI and Halifax, NS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-877-877-1771 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: peiexpress@yahoo.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.peishuttle.com Via Rail Canada – Transportation across Canada. The connection to Via Rain is through Maritime Bus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-888-842-7245 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.viarail.ca Driver Refresher Course 55 Alive/Mature Driving Program Recommended by the Canadian Association of Retired Persons, the 55 Alive/Mature Driving Program is a refresher course designed to help Canadians 55 years and over maintain their independence and retain their driving privileges. With aging, changes occur in hearing, vision, flexibility and reaction time. This course teaches participants to adjust their skills to compensate for physical changes. The six-hour program is conducted in a classroom setting using a PowerPoint presentation, student workbooks, and group discussions guided by the instructor. The course is offered in both French and English at various location across the Island. A fee of Chapter 7 Transportation and Travel 100 www.gov.pe.ca/seniors Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide $10 per person covers the cost of the course manual and refreshments. To register or for additional information, please call the PEI Senior Citizens’ Federation. The 55 Alive/Mature Driving Program is a joint initiative between the PEI Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal and the PEI Senior Citizens’ Federation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-9008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-877-368-9008 Health Coverage When Traveling Additional Medical Insurance While Traveling Residents visiting other countries are advised to obtain private medical insurance for the period they are absent from PEI. Coverage for Out of Province Medical Services Health PEI will pay the full cost of insured medical and/or hospital emergency services obtained within Canada, except Quebec. Coverage extends only to those services medically required at the time of an emergency or sudden illness. The coverage is provided at PEI rates. Medical and hospital services for which the prior approval was obtained may be provided out of province. Residents can apply for prior approval through their physician. Each approval may cover a period of not more then 12 consecutive months. Applications may be approved in the following circumstances: • The medical and/or hospital service is not available within the province. • There is only one medical practitioner in the required specialty. • Adequate service is not available within the province. • Extenuating circumstances exist that permit services to be provided in another province or territory.
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Services Received Outside Canada
If you require hospital or medical services for emergency or sudden illness while outside Canada, you may either pay the total cost yourself and then claim reimbursement for the insured amount, or you can arrange to have the insured amount paid directly by the PEI government. Be sure to get a detailed invoice and proof of payment for the services you receive and submit your original claim to the Department within six months of the date of services. Services for emergency or sudden illness, obtained outside of Canada are paid at PEI rates, in Canadian currency. You should be aware that the charges for services may be much higher outside Canada. Payment for any difference between the fee charged and the department payment is your responsibility. If you are referred by a PEI physician to an out of country hospital or physician for a service not available in Canada, all charges for insured medical and hospital services may be paid in full by Health PEI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368-6516 Out-of-Province Liaison Program – If patients and their families must travel out of province for medical treatment, this program provides a person to contact concerning their care. The program provides links to health care professionals and assistance is given with discharge planning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 473-7398 Transportation – Private / Public
Private Transportation
Donna’s Transport Ltd. – This service transports seniors as well as people with mental and physical disabilities between Charlottetown and Summerside for medical appointments.
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 436-3394 Montague Rotary Bus Service – The bus transports seniors to church, doctor’s appointments and shopping. Call ahead to book this service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 838-2412 Pat and the Elephant – This service offers specialized transportation anywhere in the province or the mainland. The service is provided for persons with any mobility impairments (visual, physical, etc). Non emergency stretcher service available. Service is available outside Charlottetown and province by arrangement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 894-3339 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: pat.e@pei.sympatico.ca Transportation West Inc. – This service provides transportation in the West Prince area and is available for seniors. All buses are wheelchair accessible making this service available for persons with disabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 856-0081 / 856-0080 Taxi Services Taxi services are offered in several communities across PEI. Fares depend on the distance traveled. Most companies help the senior to the door, if necessary, and may offer a discount fare for seniors. Some companies also offer discounts for prepaid tickets. Check the Yellow Pages of the phone book under Taxis. Public Transportation Public transit buses provide service within the city of Charlottetown (Monday to Saturday), within the city of Summerside (Monday to Friday), connections between Cornwall, Stratford and Charlottetown (Monday to Friday) and areas between Summerside and Charlottetown (Monday to Friday). Transit passengers
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may transfer between the Charlottetown and Stratford transit systems once they have paid the fare. The fare for Charlottetown, Summerside, Cornwall and Stratford transit is currently $2.25 with special rates available for frequent travelers, seniors and students. The one way fare between Summerside and Charlottetown is $9, to Hunter River is $7 and to Kensington is $5. There are both high and low floor transit buses. There is no transit service on major holidays including : New Year’s Day, Islander Day, Good Friday, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Remembrance Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. For schedule information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 566-9962 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.triustransit.ca
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How to Find Government Services
Access PEI – Located across the Island, these centers are a place to obtain information about provincial government programs and services. You can pay property tax, get a drivers licence or arrange to have your water tested. Centers are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the winter and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the summer.
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Island Information Service (IIS) – IIS offers a bilingual telephone information service, answering inquiries regarding programs and services offered by the provincial government. This service distributes reports and documents from provincial government departments, agencies, corporations and commissions. IIS is located at 11 Kent Street, Charlottetown, and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the winter, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the summer.
Service Canada – You can get information about federal government programs and services from Service Canada. When you phone you get personal service, not a recording between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll-free: 1-800-O Canada (622-6232) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: www.servicecanada.gc.ca
Appendix Tips
Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide www.gov.pe.ca/seniors 107 Using Telephone, Internet and Email Many people are unfamiliar with using voice mail, Internet and Email. Here is some information and tips to help you use them. Telephone Voice Mail – Voice mail is a recorded message that is often used when the person you are calling is on the phone or unable to take your call. Many government, business and community organizations use this service. Voice mail allows you to leave a message for the person you are calling. It is also called an answering machine. Tip: • Although it may seem unnatural to talk to a machine, leave your name and number and a brief message so the person can get back to you. Telephone Automated Voice Response System – This system asks you to choose from a list of options. Many businesses use this type of service to direct your call to the correct person or department. Many of these systems do not allow you to leave a message. Tips: • Take your time to listen to all the options before choosing one. Press the number of the one you want. • If you press the wrong number, return to the main menu and start over or hang up and call back. • Usually, there is a number you can press to speak to someone in person. Email – Email is a shortened version of the words ‘electronic’ and ‘mail’ and is the electronic version of a letter. Email is one of the most popular services on the Internet. Email lets you exchange messages around the world.
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Internet – The Internet is a world wide network which allows computers and people to share information. No organization or individual owns the Internet but countries can regulate certain aspects of it. A history of the Internet can be found at www.nethistory.info. Many public libraries have Internet services available at no charge. Computer courses are available to help you learn to use Email and the Internet. Seniors College, Community School and Holland College are a few places that offer computer classes specifically designed for older adults. Tips: • You can find information on almost any topic by searching on the Internet through Google, the most commonly used search engine. In the address box, type www.google.com and hit the enter button. When the Google search engine appears, type in what you’re looking for in the briefest terms, and the search engine will direct you to many websites where you can explore further. • When finding information on the Internet, look to see if: • The resource is credible; • The content is suitable; • The information is relevant to you; • It is up to date; • There are clear caution statements; and • The site is easy to use.
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When to use Emergency versus Non-Emergency Services Emergency Room – The Queen Elizabeth Hospital has developed these guidelines to decide whether to go to an Emergency Room or to an After-Hours Clinic when you are not feeling well. In most cases, your family doctor is the best person to see if you are not feeling well. After-hours service for medical problems that cannot wait until the next day, but are not life threatening, are provided by after-hours clinics and outpatient departments. Use the after-hours clinics for non-urgent care if your doctor is on holidays or if you do not have a family doctor.
Go to the nearest Emergency Department when you have:
• Discomfort or tightness in the chest • More than usual shortness of breath • Abdominal pain • Prolonged and persistent headache • An injury that may require stitches or may involve a broken bone. • Experienced a major crisis, and as a result, feel helpless, hopeless and have nowhere to turn. When to call 911 – Call 911 when you are in an Emergency situation: • Immediate Police assistance is needed when reporting a crime in progress or a life-threatening or violent situation. • Immediate Fire assistance is needed when reporting a fire at home or any other location. • Immediate Ambulance assistance is needed when immediate medical attention or transport is needed for victims of serious accidents or illness such as a heart attack.
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The Prince Edward Island Seniors’ Guide includes information about programs and services provided to seniors by the federal and provincial governments, community organizations and service providers.
This guide provides a general introduction to programs and services, as well as
contact information.
We organized the guide into seven chapters and an appendix. For information about a program, check the table of contents at the front for the general area and then look at the detailed chapter contents. To find a specific program or service, look at the index in the back.
Some contact information includes an Email address and website. If you are unfamiliar with voice mail, Email or internet websites please review the tips in the Appendix.
Visit our website www.gov.pe.ca/seniors | Seniors toll-free line …..1-866-770-0588
We welcome your comments on how to improve this guide and make it more useful. For printed copies of this guide, or to give comments, please contact the
Seniors’ Secretariat
Department of Community Services and Seniors
11 Kent Street, 2nd Floor Jones Building
PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8 Phone: 902-569-0588 Toll-free: 1-866-770-0588
Fax: 902-894-0242
Email: seniors@gov.pe.ca
