Nutana Legion Veteran Support Information
Compiled by Comrade Donna Flahr of RCL Nutana Branch #362
The information that is shared within this document is accurate to the best of the ability of the individual that compiled it. The Nutana Legion is not responsible for the content. All organizations listed are Legion.ca recommended, it is up to the individual gathering the information to assess that the information is appropriate for your needs. This list is not all inclusive, individual agencies listed may be sources of other resources. This information was gathered at the Legion National Convention in August 2024.
Legion Recommended Programming
This list is not exhaustive for details on additional program please visit Legion.ca
Operation: Leave the Streets Behind
This is a program developed by The Royal Canadian Legion to identify and assist homeless Veterans and those at-risk of homelessness.
Financial assistance can be provided for items such as first and last month’s rent, rental arrears, medical needs such as dental, eyeglasses, transportation to medical services, furnishings, food and clothing.
Eligibility includes any Veteran or family member in need of assistance and living in Canada as well as Veterans of Commonwealth and allied countries living in Canada. (A Veteran is any person who is serving or who has served in the Canadian Forces or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police).
For more information: https://www.legion.ca/docs/default-source/default-document-library/operation-leave-the-streets-behind.pdf?sfvrsn=ffad04f1_0
The Legion National Foundation
The Legion National Foundation was created to offer a charitable opportunity to donors. Unable to issue tax receipts directly, The Royal Canadian Legion facilitated the establishment of this charitable organization.
Donations supporting the Foundation are used to combat veterans’ issues like: homelessness, mental health and wellness challenges, financial hardship and challenges with transitioning into civilian life.
The Foundation, led by a volunteer Board of Directors, along with initiatives like Veterans Wellness, focuses on: Scholarships, Bursaries, Pilgrimages, and Remembrance Contests.
For more information click here: https://lnfcanada.ca/about-us/
Rainbow Veterans of Canada (RVC)
RVC Vision: A world in which CAF veterans who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ are given the recognition, respect, and support they justly deserve for their service to Canada.
RVC is committed to operating in an inclusive and supportive way in which we:
Practice compassion, and honesty while acknowledging the need for both individual and collective well-being
Recognize and value equally our diverse voices
Respect each other’s lived experiences, embrace comradery and offer support in times of need.
For more information: https://rainbowveterans.ca/
Veterans Affairs Canada Programming
Veterans Ombud
The Office of the Veterans Ombud reviews complaints, and challenges the policies and decisions of Veterans Affairs Canada where there is perceived to be individual or systemic unfairness. The Veterans Ombud strives to be an independent and respected voice for fairness and a champion for the well-being of Veterans and their families.
For more information click here: https://ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca/en
Veterans Affairs Programming Links
Veterans Affairs are offering new and enhanced programming for Veterans, please click the link below for information about the areas of assistance.
Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence (CPCoE) for Canadian Veterans
This Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) funded organization is designed to assist Veterans that are struggling with chronic pain challenges. Veterans, especially those with service-related injuries, can face a host of unique health challenges. A major challenge for Veterans is chronic pain. Recent Government of Canada research found that Veterans are twice as likely to suffer from chronic pain compared to others in the Canadian population. While chronic pain cannot be treated, it can be better managed. The Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans (CPCoE) was founded as a research centre in 2020 to improve the understanding of Veteran-specific chronic pain and how best to manage it.
The CPCoE fosters a national network of interdisciplinary pain management centres using research and evidence-based approaches to improve care for Canadian Armed Forces Veterans and their families.
To find out more: https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/overview
National Mental Health Service Providers
Wounded Warriors Canada
Wounded Warriors Canada (WWC) is a national mental health service provider dedicated to serving:
· Trauma exposed organizations (TExO)
· Trauma exposed professionals, and their, (TExP)
· Trauma exposed families (TExF)
WWC specializes in providing culturally informed services that utilize a combination of education, counselling and training approaches to support resiliency and recovery from post -trauma injuries. Wounded Warriors is also dedicated to the provision of PTSD service dogs.
For supportive information: www.woundedwarriors.ca
The Burns Way
The Burns Way is supported by Wounded Warriors and is a new and innovative initiative that brings together partners from across the veteran community to improve access to mental health support for all veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP. The Burns Way seeks to build trust in the availability of services and puts the veterans in control of their journey to wellness.
The Burns Way is a not-for-profit corporation that is operated by a Board of Directors and represents all members of the veteran community, including Indigenous, non-Indigenous, 2SLGBTQI+ and minority veterans. The Burns way is committed to offering accessible, culturally safe, reliable access through a veteran peer support network.
The Burns Way was named in honour of the late Earl Burns Sr., a Canadian veteran who died protecting his family during the 2022 James Smith Cree Nation massacre.
“Any veteran seeking support must have the opportunity to connect anonymously with someone who understands their experience first-hand,” said Bob Thibeau, president of the Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones (AVA).
“Soldiers are a breed who know soldiers. Strong connections to the ‘Fire Team’ have always been used to look after each other. The Burns Way will draw on the unique perspectives and compassion of veterans who, through their shared experiences, are uniquely positioned to provide support.”
For more information click here: www.theburnsway.ca
Health Care Resources
Nutana Legion Health Care Information Library
Compiled by Donna Flahr RN (Ret) BSN MSc
The information that is shared within this document is accurate to the best of the ability of the individual that compiled it. The Nutana Legion is not responsible for the content. All organizations listed are Saskatoon based resources, it is up to the individual gathering the information to assess that the information is appropriate for your needs. This list is not all inclusive, individual agencies listed may be sources of other resources.
Access to healthcare services in Saskatoon:
· Hospital-based care is through Emergency services or by specialty services appointments within the three different institutions. Many services (nursing, therapy) are directed through physician referral, individuals can self refer for support services.
· Client Patient Access Services (CPAS) - 306-655-4300
o CPAS offers support for discharge planning at all three hospitals in Saskatoon, if you or a loved one are hospitalized, ask to speak to a CPAS coordinator before you go home, they can arrange for the necessary community support you require for recovery.
o CPAS has a community-based office at 310 Idylwyld Dr North. They are the gateway to access most community-based health care. They can provide referrals to Home Care for Nursing (no charge), Client Care Aide care for in-home respite and to assist with activities of daily living (e.g. dressing, bathing, meal prep, laundry). These services are subsidized by the government for those individuals that meet the care criteria. CPAS also can refer clients to Community Therapies like Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, Dietitian and Speech Language Pathology.
o CPAS coordinators complete Long Term Care assessments both in hospital and in homes. If you or a loved one think you require Long Term Care services CPAS is your contact point.
o CPAs can assist in accessing Day Programs for individuals living at home with Dementia.
o If you are looking for Personal Care Home or Seniors Assisted Living resources, CPAS can provide a list of options to you. You are responsible for contacting the individual homes or subsidized apartments on your own.
Healthy Aging
The SK Authority offers a guide to Seniors’ Heath. The attached link facilitates decision-making by directing you through options for health management.
Services for Seniors “mission is to provide home support services to Saskatoons’ seniors and physically challenged which maximizes independence and safety in their homes.”.
http://saskatoonservicesforseniors.ca/
Saskatoon Council on Aging (SCOA) “mission is to promote dignity, well-being and independence through education, programs, and support services for older adults. SCOA is an advocate for age-friendly policies that support healthy and positive aging within Saskatoon and the broader Saskatchewan community.” https://www.scoa.ca/
This Directory of Services and Activities is a comprehensive list of supportive health care agencies/businesses in Saskatoon that has been compiled by SCOA and is updated on an annual basis. There is a hard copy of this directory available in the Nutana Legion Office as well as this online version. file:///C:/Users/Admin/Downloads/Directory+of+Services+2023-2024_3%20(1).pdf
The Caregiver Orientation Guide and Toolkit is a document that outlines the basics of navigating the health care system, guides you through assisting family members, giving health and safety as well as legal tips. There is a hard copy of this directory available in the Nutana Legion Office as well as this online version. file:///C:/Users/Admin/Downloads/Caregiver-Orientation-Guide-and-Toolkit%20(1).pdf
Alzheimer’s (Dementia) Resources:
Definition: Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia.
Resources:
· Alzheimer Society of SK Inc. 306-683-6322
https://alzheimer.ca/sk/en/about-us/alzheimer-society-saskatchewan
o The Alzheimer Society of SK offers individual and family support to those diagnosed with or living with someone diagnosed with Dementia. They offer educational programs for family members along with a number of supportive services.
· Saskatoon Council on Aging
https://www.scoa.ca/caregiver-resources/
o Dementia helpline 1-877-949-4141
· Dementia Assessment Unit – is a 5-bed unit for dementia assessment at Parkridge Center in Saskatoon. It was established for the support of individuals with behavioural issues related to dementia.
Advance Care Planning
Resource: My Voice - is a SK Health Authority resource designed to help individuals plan for future health care decision making. The attached link will take you to a PDF of the guide for further direction.
Alcohol and Substance Use
Alcohol use in Canada is significant¹ and alcohol abuse in older individuals and women is on the increase². The SK Health Authority offers some information to help individuals establish if alcohol use might be an issue and how to find assistance in the link below.
https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/your-health/conditions-diseases-services/healthline-online/ug4806
¹ Canadian guideline for the clinical management of high-risk drinking and alcohol use disorder.
https://www.cmaj.ca/content/195/40/E1364, accessed January 17, 2024
² Kirkey Sharon. Doctors To Screen For Risky Drinking. Saskatoon Star Phoenix. January 17, 2024. Pg. NP1
Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular disease is a general term for conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels. Some of the more common cardiovascular problems are outlined below:
· Heart Failure
Definition: Heart failure is a chronic condition that can result after heart attack or as a result of untreated high blood pressure. The result can be fatigue, swelling in the legs and abdomen and shortness of breath, often caused by fluid in the lungs.
· Stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Definition: can be called a brain attack and is the result of a blocked blood vessel (usually from a clot) or a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage and long-term disability.
· High Blood Pressure or Hypertension
Definition: Blood pressure is a measure of how hard the blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. It's normal for blood pressure to go up and down throughout the day. But if it stays up (140/90 or higher), you have high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other problems.
Resources:
· SK Health Authority Chronic Disease Management 306-655-2136 https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/your-health/conditions-diseases-services/chronic-disease-management
This SK Health Authority department includes a group of health professionals that provide education and support to individuals living with all forms of cardiovascular issues.
· SK Heart and Stroke Foundation 306-244-2124
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/how-you-can-help/volunteer/join-us/saskatchewan
Provide education and support for individuals with cardiovascular issues.
· Cardiac Rehabilitation –306-655-0800
SK Health Authority: you will work with a team of health professionals that will provide education, exercise and emotional support for individuals recovering from heart issues.
· Saskatoon Stroke Recovery Association (SSRA) – for individuals and families of individuals that have suffered a stroke. This group meets on the first Monday of every month for education/fellowship/fun/food at 2 pm at St. Martin's United Church, 2617 Clarence Avenue S. For more information please contact: John Peters at 306-713-9234.
· Stroke Rehabilitation 306-655-0800
https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/your-health/conditions-diseases-services/healthline-online/zp3369
Stroke Rehabilitation is a process that helps you to recover, prevent further complications and regain skills you have lost or help you make the most of those your skills that remain.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Definition: COPD is a common lung disease that can cause breathing problems. It is sometimes called emphysema or chronic bronchitis. In individuals with COPD, the lungs can get damaged or clogged with phlegm. Symptoms of COPD include cough, sometimes with phlegm, difficulty breathing, wheezing and tiredness.
Resources:
· Lung Saskatchewan offers information on COPD medication use, prevention of infection, rehabilitation to maximize your breathing ability and support groups.
Saskatoon Office: 306-343-9511
https://www.lungsask.ca/lungs/lung-diseases/copd/copd-resources-and-support
· SK Health Authority Chronic Disease Management 306-655-2136
This SK health authority department includes a group of health professionals that provide education and support to individuals living with COPD.
Diabetes Resources:
Definition: Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by increased levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar), which can, over time if not well controlled, cause serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves.
At this point in time there isn’t a cure for diabetes, but maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and being active can help with blood sugar control. Take your medicine(s) as prescribed and keep health care appointments: managing diabetes is all about taking control of your own health.
Resources:
· Diabetes Canada offers educational and disease management resources to individuals living with diabetes – https://www.diabetes.ca/how-diabetes-canada-helps
o Financial support for individuals living with diabetes https://www.diabetes.ca/learn-about-diabetes/your-rights/financial-assistance
· SK Health Authority Chronic Disease Management 306-655-2136
This SK Health Authority department includes a group of health professionals that provide education and support to individuals living with Diabetes.
Fall Prevention and Management Information
While anyone can inadvertently trip and fall as we age falls become more likely to result in health impairment. Falls can be a marker of frailty, immobility, causing acute and chronic health impairment in older persons. Falls in turn diminish function by causing injury, activity limitations, fear of falling, and loss of mobility. Most injuries in the elderly are the result of falls; fractures of the hip, forearm, humerus, and pelvis usually result from the combined effect of falls and osteoporosis. Falls often result in hospitalization and Long-Term Care placement may often be triggered by a fall so prevention is key.
Avoid Falls
The attached link to SK Health Authority website titled: “Preventing Falls in Older Adults” outlines things you can do to limit your likelihood of falling.
Fall Assistance Options
· Lifeline Saskatoon or Fall Assure Saskatoon are examples of companies that, for a monthly fee, will organize a direct contact to emergency support for individuals who cannot get to a phone. You wear a button on a lanyard around your neck or on a wristband. Pushing this button if you require assistance will initiate a call for help.
· Steps to Safety 306-975-7715
o This national program promotes fire and fall safety. The goal of the program is to help older adults eliminate fire and fall hazards in their environment so that they can stay in their homes as long as they would like. Through the program older adults are also taught what to do in the event of a fire and how to get up off the floor if they have fallen and are not hurt. Home visits and group presentations are offered as part of this program.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Definition: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
Resources:
· Government of Canada Mental Health Services - Counselling and compensation for your mental health needs, such as PTSD or depression.
· OSI-CAN - Operational Stress Injury/Post Traumatic Stress Support Initiative and partner of the Canadian Mental Health Association Saskatchewan Division and the Royal Canadian Legion (Saskatchewan Command). OSI-CAN Saskatchewan can be found at 306-552-3801 or 1-888-495-6068
· Canadian Mental Health Association – SK Division: offer counselling, medication information and support groups for PTSD. Saskatoon Branch 306-384-9333
· Saskatoon Crisis Intervention 306-933-6200
· SK Health Authority PTSD Support phone 306-655-0800
Cancer in Seniors
Definition: Cancer is a disease in which some of the body's cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.
Seniors are living longer and having to face more challenges than before. A healthy lifestyle can help protect you from cancer and keep you at your best. Prevention is important, avoiding cancer causing substance exposure e.g. cigarette smoke, and screening for early recognition and prevention are fundamental in the management of cancer risk in all age groups.
Resources
· Seniors Guide to Cancer https://www.asbestos.com/cancer/senior-cancer-guide/
· Sask Cancer Agency http://saskcancer.ca/
· Govt of SK – Cancer – Diseases and Treatment https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/cancer
· Sources of Help – Cancer https://saskhealthauthority.libguides.com/cancer/sourcesofhelp
Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada
Vision loss can occur for a variety of reasons. If you are struggling with diminished vision and you are a Veteran, Veterans Affairs Canada can assist. Please go the following link to access information on vision loss rehabilitation, programs and products.
· Veterans | Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada can be reached through this link or by calling: 1-844-887-8572
