We help seniors, their families, and their financial, legal and health care advisors make sense of the eldercare system and navigate the gaps within it.

You need only one number to call to begin to find the answers you need. That number, and the person you speak to, will be by your side until every issue is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions about elder care and seniors in general

Q: What services are available to keep my aunt at home?

A: There are both public and private health care agencies that can be brought in to assist your aging aunt. A care manager from IRIS Consulting for Seniors will help you put a plan together and ensure the correct services are being delivered.

Q: How can I arrange placement for my father?

A: If your father needs nursing care in a nursing home, he must go through an application process with a government agency. If he wants to live in a retirement home, check with friends, the yellow pages or the web to see what is available in his area.

Q: My father is diabetic and forgets to take his medication.  What can I do?

A: Often using a container that has the times and days of the week on it will be enough of a reminder for your father to take his medication. If he has a memory problem, it may be necessary to have a nurse from a government agency in his area make visits to ensure his medications are taken. You could also call him to remind him.

Q: My parents have memory problems. What can I do to make their lives more manageable?

A: Memory problems are difficult to manage because most of the time the person does not recognize they have a problem. A doctor can make a diagnosis and there are medications that can be given, especially in the early stages. You need a plan and the best resources and services for your parents. You also need to monitor them to make certain your parents get the necessary services.

Q: My mother lives in another province and when I call her she says she is fine but doesn’t sound fine.  What can I do?

A: Distance caring can lead to great frustration and anxiety. If you know a neighbour or friend of your mother's you trust, call that person and ask them for assistance in checking on your mother. You could also call your mother's doctor and ask to be directed to a caregiver who lives in your mother's area.

Q: My uncle is in hospital and I am his only relative. They want to discharge him but say he cannot go home to a 2-story house. What can I do?

A: Speak to the Discharge Planner at the hospital to inform them of the situation. Find out what type of care he needs. Perhaps he needs to go into a retirement home. If he needs nursing care, the hospital can help you with the application process.

Q: My mother's car has a lot of dents and I think she should not be driving. How can I convince her to give up driving?

A: Discuss this with your mother's doctor. If the doctor feels she is not safe to operate an automobile, they are required by law to notify the licensing body and your mother will lose her license. This problem may be a signal she needs help in other areas as well.

Q: How can I move my elderly mother from her home of 45 years?

A: Moving can be traumatic at any age. For older people it can be overwhelming. You might need someone to guide you through the whole process. ElderMoves, our senior friendly, complete relocation service will help you choose what to take, pack and unpack and take care of things you no longer need or want. To find out more about moving, visit the ElderMoves page.