Baycrest

NATIONAL BALLET SCHOOL AND THE TORONTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Partners such as the National Ballet School and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra joined Baycrest's mission to virtualize recreation that would empower older adults to explore and engage in the programming and activities they love. From singalongs to dance classes, older adults are able to choose from a variety of virtual activities to keep their minds and bodies active, while putting smiles on their faces. INNOVATIVE PROGRAMMING The cancellation of all large group activities on campus left a noticeable gap in the lives of Baycrest residents and patients accustomed to regular, in- person social engagement and recreational programming. A diverse range of innovative, digital programming has been developed to fill this void. ART Research shows that artistic creativity promotes brain health, increases feelings of confidence and self-esteem and enriches relationships. One initiative launched at Baycrest is a series with Ian Leventhal, acclaimed artist and Baycrest Foundation staff member, who leads virtual art classes. COOKING With many more individuals spending time in their kitchens these days, the popularity of online cooking classes has surged. The same is true at Baycrest, where Red Seal certified Baycrest Chef Derek Martens has hosted two virtual cooking demonstrations for patients, residents and donors. PET THERAPY Pet therapy has long been touted as valuable programming for older adults, helping to lessen the effects of anxiety, decrease risks of depression, and reduce feelings of loneliness. Due to physical distancing measures, Baycrest's volunteer department has helped launch a virtual pet therapy program through FaceTime. BEYOND OUR CAMPUS Baycrest is helping older adults in the community as part of the North Toronto and North York Ontario Health Teams (OHTs). Over the past several months, Baycrest has led a COVID-19 Community Response team that has established clinical spaces in a number of Toronto Community Housing buildings to support their Senior Housing Unit, which houses close to 16,000 seniors across the city. The team is working to redeploy specialized geriatric services and primary care physicians to tenants, provide primary health care services, support social distancing practices and infection prevention and control among older adults while mitigating unnecessary emergency department visits in North Toronto. Other solutions being supported include virtual care capabilities for tenants who may not have access or aptitude with digital devices but can still interact with health professionals. The team is optimistic that these efforts will help "flatten the curve", narrow the digital divide afflicting many older adults in the community, and provide much-needed support to our health care system. To find out more, subscribe to our email list for news and information about free webinars and expert resources. Visit baycrest.org/signup BrainMatters FALL|WINTER 2020 13

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