Baycrest

12 12 BrainMATTERS SPRING|SUMMER 2021 How New Approaches TO CARE & INNOVATION SUPPORT AGING IN PLACE For more than a century, innovation has been at the core of Baycrest's efforts to respond to the changing needs of older adults. Baycrest has persistently sought new and better ways to provide care and empower older adults, and pave the way for the best possible aging journey, wherever they call home. Baycrest is listening to older adults and their families, and is responding to their desire to live safely and independently in the community for as long as possible, by creating solutions, building partnerships and collaborating with others on leading- edge technologies to support them in their homes – even as they face physical and cognitive changes. AGING IN THE COMMUNITY WITH BAYCREST@HOME The recently launched Baycrest@Home initiative is a prime example of an innovative solution that is helping older adults remain at home with appropriate supports. The model leverages virtual technologies to provide a holistic approach to care for older adults with declining cognitive health, as well as support for their care partners – usually a spouse or an adult child. The process begins with a virtual visit with a clinical social worker who assesses the needs of the individual and their family. Families have access to education, clinical expertise, counselling and referrals, a home safety assessment and healthcare advice. Virtual social and recreational programs keep older adults with dementia, and their care partners, engaged, reduce social isolation, and contribute to their overall health and well-being. All Baycrest@Home services draw on the knowledge and skills of Baycrest experts in aging and brain health. Baycrest@Home is also testing sensor technology for home safety and an online learning platform to educate and support family care partners. "Innovators are working closely with older adults… to create solutions that enable them to lead the life they want."

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