What’s New
This is where I share news about Hello Darlene and my own personal thoughts.
Advance Care Planning
I have been chatting with clients about Advance Care Planning for 2 years now and have learned that most times it is not something that many of us have thought about. It can also be a difficult conversation to have not only with yourself but also with others. It requires some thoughtful reflection and consideration of personal values and wishes. But normalizing this type of conversation and having good communication with family members who may need to care for you in the future is so critical.
Plan A or Plan B
Be aware of all things that could potentially go the wrong way and consider what your wishes would be if that were to happen. Consider things like needing to move out of your home, the monthly allowance that you can afford for your next living accommodations, or whether you could afford private home care.
What is an Eldercare Planner?
An Eldercare Planner is not influenced by family dynamics and can provide a fresh set of eyes on any scenario.
Eco-Friendly Downsizing
Most move managers, transition support advisors, professional organizers, or estate or auction sale companies are well connected to their communities and know who is looking for what at any time. They are also very aware of what sells and does not sell and have multiple selling strategies to assist with the removal of items.
Eldercare Planning 101
Eldercare Planners or advisors can assist with helping you to strategize, navigate, communicate, advocate, or help facilitate with family to help resolve potential challenges, transitions, medical emergencies, relocation, aging at-home support, or homecare services. Phew that was a lot – and that is exactly how families feel!
Getting Your Mindset Ready to Downsize/Right-Size
Downsizing is often called ‘right-sizing’ which has a less negative connotation and helps to develop the right -mindset. Once we have taken the first step, each one thereafter can and often does become just that little bit easier.
April 16th is Advance Care Planning Day
Advance Care Planning Canada is an amazing online resource that includes free downloadable and printable documents to utilize and get you considering your Health Care Wishes.
Senior Talks & Tea
Caregivers often need a few hours of respite so that they can recharge and participate in activities that help them stay physically and mentally well. At Hello Darlene, we pride ourselves on the individually tailored plan for activities during visits to keep your loved one entertained and engaged while you are away.
The Impact of Clutter on Mental Health
Ideally, home is a place where we can rest and relax; however, clutter can make it hard to do that. One study found that women who reported more clutter in their homes had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol throughout the day compared to women who had less clutter.
Testimonial: A Tale of Downsizing, Decluttering, & Relocation
“In early September, our 80-year-old mother found a one-bedroom apartment in a seniors’ building near the town where she grew up. She had been thinking about moving back to that area for a few years but had made no real preparations. Suddenly, the race was on to sell...
Contact Us
Email
info@hellodarlene.ca
Telephone
705.492.8281
Hours
Monday–Friday:
9:30AM–4:30PM
Saturday & Sunday:
by appointment only
Northern Ontario Specialist, Serving:
may apply.
Virtual Services Available
Darlene represents Northern Ontario as a Member of Eldercare Planning. Our members are experts in senior living navigation and placement, and also assist families with downsizing, estate planning, eldercare planning, transitions, home safety, and much more.
Darlene is a Trained Professional Organizer through Organizers In Canada and holds several certificates from the Institute of Chronic Disorganization.
Darlene is a Senior Home Safety Specialist. This certificate empowers professionals with actionable ways to better help educate clients, older adults and their family members on the serious issues of home safety, fall prevention, financial exploitation and personal safety.