Experience in Mental Health Support
3C Senior Care and Soul Sisters Death Doulas are new start-ups. However, we have been supporting positive mental health activities and encourage those struggling with their mental health to find added supports and treatments with a mental health professional via referral. Planning a course of action to better prepare for the loss of a loved one is beneficial.
We currently have the pleasure of working in a long-term care home as a companion with seniors with Advanced Dementia. Over the last year, Comfort, Compassion, and Connection have been the main considerations at work here. Loneliness is the number one issue for many seniors. We can assist in helping your loved one find that comfort, compassion and connection.
Community Engagement
Working for five years alongside families to care for seniors and adults with disabilities in their homes in the town of Devon was very rewarding. Over that time, we recognized that loneliness is the number one issue for our clients, and it can lower the quality of life as time passes. Facilitating COMPASS Care for the caregiver support groups was a way to support and socialize, share resources and offer grief work after their loved one had died. It was always a pleasure to visit and chat as we cleaned, did laundry, prepared meals and did any other jobs they needed assistance with. Honouring their rich histories and life experiences was a true pleasure.
Addressing Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout is real, and the professional is a very stressful job. Resources are not found all in one place; in rural communities, even more so. The COMPASS support groups were a place where resources could be shared, and when someone died, the group would offer support. We got to know so many people in the community, and it didn't ever feel like "a job" to us.
Skills & Expertise
We learned many skills that add value and knowledge to being a companion and doula. I am a WRAP mental health recovery facilitator (Wellness, Recovery, Action, Plan), helping grade 9 groups, age 16-25 groups and adult groups. The five key concepts for recovery are:
- Hope
- Personal Responsibility
- Education
- Self Advocacy
- Support
With 1 in 5 Canadians diagnosed with mental health issues (more like 2 in 5 after COVID-19) struggling with their mental health, the loss of a loved one may present new challenges. We can assist you in finding necessary treatment via referrals.
ERIN
Erin was in her early twenties when she was a caregiver for her Dad, who was battling Cancer. She stayed home with her Mom and was able to honour his wishes to die at home. She was there with her Dad until he died. Furthermore, she has also been a caregiver for her Grandma and stayed with her until she passed, and is currently a caregiver for her Aunt. Erin has courage and a beautiful soul. She carries herself with Grace and is dedicated to honouring our End of Life Doula clients' wishes and supporting their families. She has been working for AHS for years in administrative roles and feels drawn to support the elderly and the dying, which is her true purpose and passion.
PATTI
Patti has had many jobs that didn't make a full career, facilitating WRAP peer crisis planning groups for AHS and navigating the mental health system to support and advocate for herself and her children (and all their friends) is one part, next was Outreach Home Support in the town of Devon, through FCSS senior companions and people with disabilities. Seeing caregivers burnt out and their health declining, the need for support led to becoming a COMPASS Care for the Caregiver group facilitator. Currently, an in-facility companion for clients with Advanced Dementia. The last piece is the End of Life Doula calling. It brings a sense of purpose to love and honour people's last wishes. Together, these skills allow Patti to offer mental health crisis planning to families, care for the caregivers, honour and respect the dying, and treat every client with Honesty, Dignity, Integrity, and Grace.
RON
Ron is a certified accountant with over twenty years of experience, and he is a great addition to the team. He supports the whole team and has much knowledge and ideas to expand and help as many people as we can.
We have healthcare aides and companions ready and waiting for new clients. Everyone is insured and has police background checks, and vulnerable sector checks are also done.