Coordinating Committee - Minutes of Meetings
Improving Seniors Quality of Life
The Council on Aging-Ottawa-Carleton
Present: Joyce Snarr, Dr. Rebecca McDermot, Hubert Frenken, Dr. Campbell Lamont, Lucie Essiambre, Sylvie Anderson, Alex Cullen, Margaret Labarge, Joan Skene, Cal Martell.
1. Welcome and Introductions
Sylvie Anderson welcomed everyone to the meeting. The members of the group introduced themselves.
2. Approval of the Agenda
The Agenda was approved. Moved by Joan Skene and seconded by Campbell Lamont.
3. Organization and Management of the Coordinating Committee
1) Appointing of a Chair.
Alex Cullen informed the group that a Chair needed to be appointed for the Steering Committee. Alex Cullen asked if there were any nominations. Margaret Labarge nominated Campbell Lamont and Joan Skene seconded the nomination. The group discussed briefly the role of the Coordinating Committee as the members looked over the terms of references, the work plan and the activities. After reviewing these materials, Campbell Lamont accepted the position as Chair. It was decided that Campbell Lamont would Chair the rest of the meeting.
2) Appointing of members for Sub-Committees: Outreach / Participation, Communications, Evaluation and Methodology
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that the Toronto Coordinating Committee had created sub-groups to work on particular tasks. Sylvie Anderson informed the group that we could also form sub-groups. The group felt that it wasn't necessary to form sub-groups. Members will volunteer to work on particular tasks as we go along.
4. Discussion of Terms of Reference
The group reviewed and discussed the Terms of Reference. Hubert Frenken requested that periodic statements of the local budget be brought to the meetings. The group agreed. Sylvie Anderson agreed to bring the local budget sheet to the next meeting. The Terms of Reference were accepted with the possibility of amendment in the future.
5. Membership of the Steering Committee
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that she had been looking to expand the Coordinating Committee but that she now felt that it was large enough. The group agreed that it had enough members and that there was a good representation of seniors on the Committee. It was decided that consulting members could be included in the future if the need emerged.
The group asked Sylvie who was on the Advisory Committee. Sylvie informed the group that the following members were on the Advisory Committee: Maureen Murphy, Florence Kelner, Marie Loyer, Murdo Murchison, Rick Wilson. The group requested that a list of the Advisory Committee members be brought to the next meeting. Sylvie Anderson agreed to provide this list at the next meeting.
6.1 Update on the Toronto Project
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that the Toronto Project has finished round 1 of their focus groups. In this round, the facilitator asked the Advisory Committee members to identify factors that affect seniors health and well-being. The factors identified in round 1 will be re-addressed in individual focus groups in round 2. For example, if transportation was identified as a factor in the round 1 focus group, a focus group in round 2 will be held on this topic. The Toronto group will have a total of 15 focus groups in round 2. They are starting their round 2 focus groups in November and will finish in mid-February.
6.2 Update on the Ottawa Project
Sylvie informed members of the group that a total of 10 focus groups will be done: 7 with seniors, 2 with service providers and 1 with municipal representatives. Sylvie informed the group that she would like to have 2 of the 7 focus groups with Francophone seniors. Sylvie also informed the group that there is a possibility that a Carleton University student could be used to do the following tasks: facilitate the focus groups, collect the data and write the reports. This University student could use this study for his or her thesis. Sylvie informed the group that she is waiting to get some feedback from Ivan Brown (Project Manager) to see if it's O.K. to use a student and to start the focus groups in January 2000.
The members of the group felt that a University student might not be experienced enough to facilitate the focus groups. The members of the group asked Sylvie whether or not this student was a Masters student or an Honors student. Sylvie agreed to check with Florence Kelner. The members of the group asked Sylvie to follow-up on finding an experienced facilitator to run the focus groups.
The group discussed the membership of the focus groups. It was suggested that a focus group be held with frail seniors in order to get a good representation of seniors. The group discussed the need to take this project further than just identifying factors that affect seniors health. The members emphasized the need to use the focus groups to go a step further in identifying how changes can be made on the policy level and in service delivery.
7. Discussion of Work Plan and Revision of Activities
The group looked over the work plan and the activities. The group asked Sylvie to bring an updated work plan to next meeting.
8. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on November 18, 1999 at 9:30 AM at the Council on Aging. The following meeting will be held on December 16, 1999 at 9:30 AM at the Council on Aging.
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Present: Joyce Snarr, Dr. Rebecca McDermot, Hubert Frenken, Dr. Campbell Lamont, Diane Meiklejohn, Sylvie Anderson, Margaret Labarge and Joan Skene.
Regrets: Cal Martell
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont welcomed everyone to the meeting. The new members of the group introduced themselves.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved. Moved by Margaret Labarge and seconded by Joan Skene.
3. Business Arising:
3.1 Update on the Toronto Project
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the group on the Toronto Project. So far, they have had 5 focus groups on the topics: housing, illness care, long-term health care, transportation and mobility and income and security benefits. Members of the group were interested in knowing what was said on these topics. Sylvie Anderson informed the group that she would pass on this information when she got it.
3.2 Update on the Ottawa Project
3.2.1 Advisory Committee Meeting
Ph.D. Student
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the group of the Advisory Committee meeting she had last week. She briefed the group on the Ph.D. student. Florence Kelner, the University Representative has recommended a Ph.D. student to facilitate the focus groups, collect the data, analyze the data and write the reports. Members of the group were concerned that the Ph.D. student may not have experience facilitating focus groups. Sylvie informed the members that according to Florence Kelner, the student has experience facilitating groups and is very personable. Sylvie also informed the group that she will be co-facilitating the focus groups and that the student will be well prepared with the material provided from Toronto. Sylvie informed the group of the budget available to conduct the focus groups. This amount is $1,800. Florence Kelner did not feel this was enough money for the student to conduct all the tasks identified above. She felt that the student was highly recommended and she did not want to short change her. Sylvie informed the group that Maureen Murphy from the MROC offered to contribute $1,000 to $1,200 for the student. This would make a total of $3,000. Florence Kelner felt that the student would probably accept a contract for $3,000. Sylvie Anderson is waiting to hear back from Florence Kelner to see if the student will accept.
After some discussion, members of the group agreed to accept the student as facilitator for the focus groups. However, the group did request a copy of the student's C.V.
Members of the Committee agreed that the student should be sensitive to senior's issues and should have a non-judgmental attitude towards seniors.
Focus Groups Compositions
Sylvie Anderson informed the group of the suggestions the Advisory Committee made in regards to the focus group compositions. These are noted in the Advisory meeting minutes for Nov. 8, 1999.
Members of the Committee emphasized the need to have a good cross-section of seniors for the focus groups. They identified the following criteria for the focus group participants: of different levels of physical and social activity, of different socio-economic levels and of different cultural backgrounds (2 focus group will be held in French).
Members of the Committee made the following suggestions for the senior focus group compositions: Campbell Lamont's lunch club, the Club 60, a senior's building in River Park, Hunt Club or Lincoln Heights, Unitarian House, Sandy Hill Community Centre and the Elisabeth Bruyère Day Hospital.
Members of the Coordinating Committee agreed on the Advisory Committee's suggestions for service providers (see Advisory Committee Minutes Nov. 8, 1999). As for municipal representatives, the group agreed that it would be easier to conduct individual interviews instead of a focus group. The group also agreed that it would be beneficial to interview a politician. Members suggested Alex Munter. Joyce Snarr suggested Judy Lotten. Members of the group also suggested that Sylvie Anderson ask Alex Cullen if he had any suggestions.
Focus Group Questions
Sylvie Anderson passed around an example of the questions the Toronto Project asked in their round 1 and 2 focus groups. Members of the Committee agreed that these questions were too difficult to answer. The group emphasized the need to ask the questions in simple and practical terms. For example: What can your local government do about transportation for seniors?
Diane Meiklejohn, having much experience in facilitating focus groups, informed the Committee that the focus group questions have to be well prepared. Sylvie Anderson agreed to have draft focus group questions for the next meeting. Diane Meiklejohn will review these questions. Members of the Committee will receive these questions before the next meeting so they can offer some feedback during the meeting.
Regional Chair's Forum on Seniors' Issues Report.
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the Committee about the "Regional Chair's Forum on Seniors' Issues" report. This report documents issues affecting seniors' health and well-being identified by seniors, service providers and municipal representatives. Sylvie Anderson informed the group that there are several ways the group can go about doing the focus groups: 1) the group can use the issues already identified in the report as topics for the focus groups. 2) The group can use a questionnaire developed by the Toronto Project to identify important issues, which can then be addressed in the focus groups. 3) The group can start fresh by identifying the issues in the focus groups and proceeding with the policy questions.
After discussing these options, the Committee agreed that using the factors identified in the Regional Chair's Forum Report is a good idea. It was decided that these issues would be addressed one after the other in the focus groups and interviews.
3. Focus Group Questions
This issue was addressed in item 3.2.1.
4. Focus Group Compositions
This issue was addressed in item 3.2.1.
5. Other
Nothing was added to the agenda.
6. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on December 16, 1999 at 9:30 AM at the COA Offices.
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December 16, 1999
Present: Dr. Rebecca McDermot, Hubert Frenken, Dr. Campbell Lamont, Maureen Lapointe, Sylvie Anderson, Margaret Labarge, Joan Skene, Kim Ford and Jacquie Mansell.
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont welcomed everyone to the meeting. The new members of the group introduced themselves.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved.
3. Business Arising
3.1 Update on the Toronto Project
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the group on the Toronto Project. So far, they have had 6 focus groups on the topics: housing, illness care, long-term health care, transportation and mobility, income and security benefits and promoting healthy lifestyles. In January-February, they will have four focus groups with services providers on the topics mentioned above.
3.2 Update on the Ottawa Project
3.2.1 Advisory Committee Meeting
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that during the last Advisory meeting, members had expressed concerns about using the issues identified in the Regional Chair’s Forum report. They felt that the people who had organized the forum had predetermined the issues that were discussed. This would explain why important issues such as transportation and income did not come up during the discussions. Advisory Committee members concluded that the facilitators should ask the participants to add issues they feel are missing to the list prepared.
Ph.D. Student
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that Kim Ford, the Ph.D. student has accepted a contract for this study. Sylvie Anderson passed around Kim Ford’s C.V. to committee members.
4. Focus Group Questions
Sylvie Anderson informed group members that she had prepared a draft of the focus group questions and that Advisory Committee members had revised it. Sylvie Anderson also informed the group that she, Kim Ford and Jacquie Mansell had met to discuss and revise the questions. During this meeting, it was agreed that the questions should not be used. Instead, participants will be asked in very simple terms what contributes to their health and well-being and what detracts from their health and well-being. Members of the group agreed that the questions should be used as a discussion tool rather than as specific questions to ask. The committee stressed the importance of using a simple and concrete vocabulary.
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that she, Kim Ford and Jacquie had thought that perhaps the participants could be asked at the very beginning of the focus group what issues they would like to discuss. These issues could be added to the issues identified in the Region’s report. The facilitators would then ask the participants which issue they would like to discuss first. This way, the issues that are important to the participants will be discussed. The group agreed that this is a good way to proceed.
Kim Ford agreed to prepare a discussion guide based on the committee’s suggestions.
Margaret Labarge informed the group that today’s generations of seniors are far more private. These generations were brought up to make do and to deal with their own problems. Margaret Labarge feels that this may affect what seniors are willing to talk about during a focus group. Members of the group agreed. Jacquie Mansell suggested that seniors from the Coordinating Committee could be present during some of the focus groups. This might make it easier for the participants to talk about issues that are more difficult to talk about.
Rebecca McDermot suggested that a flyer or summary of what will go on during the focus group should be sent out to participants prior to the focus group. This would allow participants to think about the issues that are important to them. It was also suggested that the flyer encourage seniors to speak to other seniors who are unable or unwilling to attend the focus groups to get their input on what issues are important to them. Members agreed that these were good ideas. Kim Ford agreed to prepare a summary explaining what will be asked of the participants during the focus groups. She will send this information to Sylvie Anderson for January 7, 1999.
5. Focus Group Compositions
Sylvie Anderson informed group members that she had prepared a draft of the focus group compositions. These compositions were elaborated with the Advisory Committee and the Coordinating Committee members’ suggestions. Sylvie Anderson informed the group of the selection criteria. These were the following: age, language, health status, socio-economic status, living arrangements, caregiver status and social status. Members reviewed the compositions. Suggestions were made and noted. Sylvie Anderson agreed to make the suggested changes to the focus group compositions.
Sylvie Anderson asked committee members if they had any contacts at the organisations identified in the focus group compositions. Some contacts were identified and noted. The first focus group is planned for January 13, 2000 at 9:30 AM at the COA Offices. This focus group will be held with Campbell Lamont’s lunch club. Campbell Lamont agreed to recruit 12 people at the lunch club’s next meeting (December 17, 1999). Maureen Lapointe will try to organise a focus group with seniors from the Lincoln Heights building for early February.
Committee members were invited to attend some of the focus groups to help facilitate.
6. Other
Committee members inquired as to what the difference was between the Advisory Committee and the Coordinating Committee. It was noted that although the activities seem similar, they are different. The Advisory Committee meets less often and gives suggestions and recommendations throughout the study. The people on the Advisory Committee will be especially useful when it comes to the action part of the project. The Coordinating Committee is more of a “hands on” committee. They meet more often and work out the details of the project.
7. Date of Next Meeting
The committee agreed to meet after the first focus group to discuss how it went. The next meeting will be held January 18, 2000 at 9:30 AM at the COA Offices.
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Present: Dr. Rebecca McDermot, Hubert Frenken, Dr. Campbell Lamont, Maureen Lapointe, Sylvie Anderson, Margaret Labarge, Cal Martell and Jacquie Mansell.
Regrets: Kim Ford
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont welcomed everyone to the meeting. Sylvie Anderson announced that Kim Ford would not be able to make the meeting.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved.
3. Business Arising:
3.1 Focus Group with Dr. Lamont's Lunch Club
Sylvie Anderson informed Committee members of the outcome of the first focus group. The discussion session was more challenging than it was expected. It became clear from the start that a structured context could not be imposed on this group. For this reason, an open style discussion was used. Participants were retired engineers, physicians, lawyers and many of them were involved with the COA on some level. Participants had no problem talking about issues that were important to them. They also had no problem discussing how to affect changes on the systematic level.
Participants identified advocacy as being an important factor to seniors= health and well being and made suggestions on how to advocate for seniors= issues. Many of the participants felt that an organisation such as the COA could make a difference in affecting changes on the policy level. It was generally agreed upon that an organised group or association has more clout than an individual. Making information accessible for seniors was also an important issue for participants. They discussed how information on seniors= issues could be more accessible (seniors information section in the paper). Participants were interested in knowing the outcome of the focus groups and offered their involvement for the action phase of the project.
Sylvie Anderson informed the group that she and Kim Ford had taken notes during the session. The session was also recorded.
Committee members felt that Campbell Lamont=s lunch club could be very useful in the action part of the project. These people could help the Committee determine the process it wants to take to affect changes to government policies and decisions.
3.2 Discussion Guide and Summary
Sylvie Anderson distributed the discussion guide and summary prepared by Kim Ford. She also informed the group that the discussion guide is a tool for Kim and is not distributed to the participants.
The group agreed that there might be a need for prodding questions in other focus groups. Kim has a list of questions prepared if there is a need for some.
3.3 Scheduled Focus Groups
Sylvie Anderson informed the group of the focus groups scheduled. A focus group will be held with seniors from the 160 Charlotte building. Posters were put up in the building to recruit 10 to 12 peoples. So far, there has been no response. Sylvie Anderson will talk to Jacynthe Mayer (Aging in Place Project) to see if she can actively recruit seniors.
The group suggested that Jacynthe Mayer attend the focus group session. They felt it would be easier for seniors to talk to a person they know. The focus group will take place at 160 Charlotte on January 24, 2000 from 1:30 to 4:00pm.
Maureen Lapointe scheduled a focus group with seniors in the Lincoln Heights building for February 9, 2000 from 10:00 to 12:00pm. Maureen Lapointe, Sylvie Anderson and Kim Ford will attend the session. Sylvie Anderson will take care of refreshments. Maureen Lapointe has already distributed the summary to the participants.
3.4 Recruitment For Service Providers Focus Groups
Members of the group went over the focus group composition outline. It was suggested that the following be added to the list: Alzheimer=s Society, Ottawa-Carleton Housing, VON and Service d=entraide communautaire.
It was decided that Hubert Frenken would find a representative for Somerset West Health Centre (David Gibson), Villa Marconi and the Ontario Residential Care Association (Suzanne Halen). Maureen Lapointe will find a representative for Ottawa West Community Support, Multi-cultural communities and Health Department (Myriam Jameau). Dr. Lamont will contact someone from St. Patrick=s Home. Sylvie Anderson will find a representative for the other agencies. Jacquie Mansell will organise a focus group with a group of seniors from the Glebe Centre.
The group decided on some dates for the focus groups with the service providers. These are February 17 from 2:00 to 4:00pm and February 22 from 2:00 to 4:00pm. These focus groups will take place at the COA Offices. It was agreed that when organising focus groups, group members should try to keep the participants in the appropriate group (1 or 2). This will ensure that we have a good representation in each focus group. However, if a representative cannot make it for the date selected, he or she can be scheduled for the other focus group date.
4. Other
Sylvie Anderson agreed to adapt the summary prepared by Kim Ford for service providers. This summary should include the context of the study. Members of the Committee will contact the representatives and let Sylvie Anderson know who will participate. When a representative agrees to participate, Sylvie Anderson will follow up with the summary letter.
5. Date of Next Meeting
The group decided they wanted to meet after the next two focus groups. The next meeting will take place on February 15, 2000 at 9:30 at the COA Offices.
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Present: Dr. Rebecca McDermot, Maureen Lapointe, Sylvie Anderson, Jacquie Mansell (Acting Chair) and Kim Ford
Regrets: Hubert Frenken
1. Welcome and Introductions
Jacquie Mansell welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved.
3. Business Arising:
3.1 Feedback on Focus Group
Kim Ford briefed Committee members on the outcome of the four focus groups. The focus groups went extremely well. Participants didn’t need much probing. They came prepared to speak. Four focus groups were held out of the seven. One with Dr. Lamont’s lunch group, one in an anglophone seniors’ building, one in a francophone seniors’ building and one with a group of seniors at the Glebe Centre.
Kim summarised the information that was gathered during these focus groups. Advocacy and access to information was mentioned the most often. Seniors feel that the information is available but they do not have access to it. Information is not presented in a way that it can get through to seniors. For instance, a lot of information is printed. If a senior has vision problems, he or she may not be able to access the information. In this case, someone could go over the literature with the senior. For example, in the past, a long-term care facility would have a staff member go over the institution’s booklet with newly admitted seniors. With cutbacks in personnel, this is no longer possible.
Participants also identified Community Building as an issue of importance. For many seniors, neighbours and peers have a positive effect on their lives. Some have mentioned that with the cutbacks in home support, they feel they need to check up on each other. In seniors’ buildings informal support networks help seniors cope. Dr. Lamont’s lunch club also acts as a support network. Members of this club look towards each other for information regarding health and other topics.
Many participants identified the need for a seniors’ spokesperson. Some participants felt that the Council on Aging could be more active in organising seniors’ networks and disseminating information. One group suggested that the Department of Veterans Affairs could become a Department of seniors’ affairs.
Participants also identified the need for redirecting funds and resources back to the family for home care. Some seniors felt that if the appropriate resources were available to them in their home, they would prefer living at home than in an institution. Seniors want to have the choice to stay at home. Volunteers were considered to have a positive affect on seniors’ health and well-being. Seniors who receive help from volunteers feel that these contribute in a significant way to their well-being. Safety and security also came up as an important factor. Transportation and mobility was identified as a factor affecting seniors’ well-being. Many seniors have given up on Para Transpo and use other methods of transportation.
Kim Ford suggested that in writing the final report, the recommendations should be presented in three tiers: short term, medium term and long-term solutions.
3.2 Focus Groups with Service Providers
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the group of the status for the focus groups with the service providers. Ten people are scheduled for the first focus group, which is taking place on February 17, 2000. Six people are scheduled for the next focus group. A few people are supposed to be calling back to schedule a date. Members of the Committee suggested we add a physician to the service providers’ list. Sylvie Anderson will try to add one to the last focus group.
As for the focus group process with the service providers, issues identified by participants in the seniors’ groups will be addressed with the service providers to see what their perspectives on these issues are. Sylvie Anderson suggested that Kim and her should be prepared to answer questions regarding the process of the study.
3.3 Ideas for the Website
Sylvie Anderson informed members of the group that the project received $45,000 to develop and maintain the website. Ivan Brown is asking each regional site for ideas on how the website can be improved. Sylvie Anderson asked members of the group to let her know of any ideas they have. So far, the Ottawa site has a section on committee members, project activities, focus group compositions and meeting minutes. Sylvie will be submitting an update on the project’s activities.
3.4 Update on the Toronto Project
Sylvie Anderson updated members of the group on Toronto’s activities. They had 8 focus groups with seniors (one group for each topic identified by their Advisory Committee), 4 focus groups with service providers (January and February) covering 2 of the 8 topics and 4 focus groups with cultural groups. Ivan Brown provided a summary of the focus groups with the cultural groups. Sylvie Anderson briefed members of the group on the factors identified in these groups. Members of the group felt that some of these issues are relevant to seniors in Ottawa. Hopefully these issues will be identified in the service providers’ focus groups.
4. Other
In the project’s next steps, the committee needs to identify who should be selected for the focus group with municipal representatives. Municipal representatives should be selected according to the issues that were identified by focus group participants. For instance, since homecare is an issue, a decision-maker responsible for homecare should be included in the focus group. The Committee should also start thinking about how it will proceed for the action phase of the project. These two items will be addressed at the next meeting. Jacquie Mansell suggested that this next meeting be a joint meeting with the Coordinating Committee and the Advisory Committee.
Maureen Lapointe suggested we replace the Unitarian House focus group with a luncheon group from Olde Forge Community Resource Centre. This would allow us to have input from frail seniors who are still living at home. The group agreed that this was a good idea.
5. Date of Next Meeting
Three possible dates were selected: March 9, 9:30 am, March 14, 9:30 am or March 16, 9:30 am at the COA Offices. Sylvie Anderson will check with members from the Advisory Committee and will let the Coordinating Committee know which date was selected.
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Coordinating and Advisory Committees: Joint meeting
March 9, 2000
Present:Rebecca McDermot, Hubert Frenken, Sylvie Anderson, Kim Ford, Jacquie Mansell (Acting Chair), Murdo Murchison, Florence Kelner, Maryan O’Hagan and Lucie Essiambre.
Regrets: Campbell Lamont, Margaret Labarge and Cal Martell.
1. Welcome and Introductions
Jacquie Mansell welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved.
3. Business Arising:
3.1 Feedback on Focus Groups with Seniors and Service Providers
Kim informed members of the group of the outcome of the focus groups held with seniors. Kim Ford summarized the information collected in the focus groups. Five issues were identified: Advocacy and access to information and communication, access to health care and home care, transportation and mobility, safety and security and loneliness and alienation versus community building.
Sylvie Anderson summarized the information collected in the focus groups with the service providers. The issues identified were: access to services and coordination of services, insufficient homecare and respite care, translation for culture groups, physicians’ lack of training and education on seniors’ issues, Para transpo, housing / accessibility and education for seniors on community services.
The information collected in the focus groups will be presented and analyzed in the Quality of Life Study report. Kim Ford will begin writing the report and should be finished for April 2000.
3.2 Selection of Municipal Representatives
Committee members discussed how information should be collected from municipal representatives. It was agreed that at this point, our objective is to complete our information on the issues identified. What are municipal representatives’ perspectives on the issues identified? How do they explain the current situation of insufficient homecare services? What is the current context surrounding these issues? The approach should be gentle and inquiring. Making contact with these people should prove to be fruitful for the action phase. It was agreed that representatives from the areas identified should be interviewed or questioned to complete the information collected.
Committee members felt that it was not necessary to conduct a focus group with municipal representatives. Several reasons were brought forward to support this. Committee members felt that there wasn’t enough time to organize a focus group. Members of the group also felt that the Council on Aging is already working on many of these issues and shouldn’t duplicate work that’s already being done. It was agreed that Sylvie Anderson and Kim Ford would find out what Council on Aging activities’ are pertinent for this project.
For example, the Forum on Homecare should serve as a good start to gather information on the current homecare situation. Transportation is also something the Council on Aging is working on. Advocacy was addressed recently in a COA project. The manual developed in this project could be useful for the Quality of Life Project.
Members of the Committee suggested that Sylvie Anderson consult Alex Cullen to find out what COA activities could be useful to the Quality of Life Project.
Committee members identified what needed to be done to complete the information collected. The following activities were suggested.
- Transportation
- Read documentation/reports on OC Transpo and Para Transpo (policies and programs)
- Find out what the COA is doing regarding this issue
- Find out what the process is to lengthen traffic lights to cross the street safely
Health Care and Homecare
- Attend March 25, 2000 Community Forum on Homecare for information on current situation.
- Speak with Cal Martell (RGAP) about the current health care situation.
- Refer to the seniors’ study on seniors’ use of emergency services
General Coordination of services and Information
- Speak with Suzanne McGlashan about the CCAC’s role regarding coordination of services (How do they perceive their role in coordinating services? Central number for services)
Housing
- Speak with Maureen Murphy regarding housing for seniors (What is the region doing to address this issue?)
- Speak with Joyce Potter
Advocacy
- Find out more about the COA Advocacy Project
- Speak to groups who have been dealing with advocacy issues
- Check with One Voice to see what they are doing
- Speak to Nancy Jamed from Veteran’s Affairs about recommendation to expand Department of Veterans Affairs to a Department of Seniors’ Affairs
Long Term Care
- Speak to Carole Comeau from the Ministry of Long Term Care
- Speak to Suzanne McGlashan from the CCAC
Revise COA reports and studies on Long Term Care
- It was agreed that individual interviews with specific questions in mind should be conducted in the areas where more information is needed. Sylvie Anderson will try to get an interview with Suzanne McGlashen. The group agreed that Margaret Labarge should attend this meeting. Cal Martell could be contacted by telephone or E-Mail. Kim Ford agreed to contact him with a list of questions on health care issues. Questions such as these could be addressed: What are issues in health care? What’s the context surrounding these issues (government policies and programs)? What’s already been done about this issue? What’s the next step to progress with resolving this issue? Jacquie Mansell agreed to gather information on One Voice and to forward it to Kim Ford. Kim Ford will contact Maureen Murphy. Sylvie Anderson will speak to Carole Comeau.
3.3 Process for Action Phase of Project
Committee members suggested the Council on Aging partner with other agencies for the action phase. Kim Ford informed the group that she will be giving recommendations in her report for the action phase of the project. Sylvie Anderson will check with the other project sites to see how they are going about the action phase. She will also consult the COA Advocacy manual to see the process it recommends for action.
4. Update on the Toronto Project
This point was postponed for the next meeting.
5. Date of Next Meeting
A date was not selected for the next meeting. Sylvie Anderson will send out a notice when a date is selected.
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October 24, 2000
Present: Cambell Lamont (Chair), Hubert Frenken, Rebecca McDermot,
Margaret Labarge, Jacquie Mansell, Murdo Murchison, Joan Skene, Tara Cogan, Alex
Cullen, Rita Kendergi
Regrets: Maureen Murphy
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Minutes and the Agenda
The minutes and the agenda were approved.
Business Arising:
3.1 Review of Draft Report
The committee discussed the size of the focus groups used in
the project as well as the report’s anecdotal nature and erroneous
statements produced by participants in focus groups.
It was determined that the focus groups were intended to represent
the variety of older adults in the Ottawa-Carlton area, this purpose was
fulfilled.
In response to the anecdotal nature of the report, Jacquie Mansell
spoke to the aim of the report, which was to sum up the participants
views on factors that affect their quality of life.
In regard to the focus groups’ erroneous statements, some facts
were misrepresented by participants. Statements were made based upon
individual perceptions. There was agreement that the report was not a
position paper by the Council on Aging. A note will be added on page 2
of the document that clearly states that these views do not necessarily
represent the views of The Council on Aging.
Other changes to be made to the report are to add Health Canada to the title
page, Refine the COA mission statement, and remove ‘community-based’ as it
refers to the now defunct Owl’s Nest organization.
Final points made during the review of the draft report were in
reference to the ability to translate the document into French and
whether or not the committee will have some direction in the action
portion of the study, Phase 2. The budget will be consulted to determine
if there are funds for translation. The committee will definitely play a
role in the action phase of the Quality of Life study.
3.2 Information on Briefing Session - October 31, 2000
Alex Cullen went over the agenda for the briefing session. Following
the presentation on the Quality of Life project, there will be a
question and answer period. This time will also be used to hear ideas
from the audience regarding potential action steps for the second phase
of the study. Committee members suggested that a comment sheet be
included in the package that will be received at the door; this will be
added to the existing handouts.
3.3 Process for Action Phase of Project
Tara Cogan will check with the other project sites to see how they
are going about the action phase. She will also consult the COA Advocacy
manual to see the process it recommends for action.
4. Update Coordinating Committee Information
Information is now current on committee membership.
Other
Hubert Frenken suggested inviting new individuals to participate in the
committee prior to the next meeting. Tara Cogan will make contact with the
No Name Seniors Action Network, as well as make an announcement at the
briefing on October 31st. Concern was expressed that the group
may become to large. The committee agreed that approximately three new
members would be acceptable. Members of the Advisory committee will
be invited to attend the next meeting.
Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Thursday November 23rd, 2000
at 10:00 AM at The Council on Aging.
ACTION ITEMS FROM: October 24th, 2000
Seniors Quality of Life Project: Coordinating Committee
Minute Item - Action:
3.1 - Tara Cogan and Alex Cullen to consult budget to see if it
allows for translation of the report.
3.1 - Tara Cogan will find out if the University of Toronto
assembles a comprehensive report of the findings from the eight
cities involved in the Quality of Life project.
3.3 - Tara Cogan will assemble possible action steps based on
activities by the other cities participating in the study as well as
some additional ideas.
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November 24, 2000
Present: Campbell Lamont (Chair), Hubert Frenken, Rebecca McDermot,
Margaret Labarge, Jacquie Mansell, Murdo Murchison, Maureen Lapointe, Louise
Sevigny, Maureen Murphy, Sheila Pepper, Margo Ouimet, Joan Skene, Tara Cogan
(Project Coordinator), Alex Cullen (Executive Director)
Regrets: Abe Rosenfeld
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont (Chair) welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Agenda
MOVED by Margaret Labarge, seconded by Hubert Frenken, that the agenda be
approved. CARRIED
3. Approval of Minutes
The minutes of October 24, 2000 indicated regrets from Maureen Murphy,
when in fact the regrets were from Maureen Lapointe. MOVED by Jacquie
Mansell, seconded by Murdo Murchison that with this modification, the
minutes of October 24, 2000 be approved. CARRIED
Follow-up Item
4.1 New Membership to Coordinating Committee
Two new members have been added to the committee. Abe Rosenfeld
of Sandy Hill Community Health Centre and the No Name Seniors Action
Network, and Margo Ouimet who is a Council on Aging board member as
well as a member of various working committees.
Business Arising
5.1 Actions Suggested by Other Cities in the Project
Tara Cogan distributed handouts of the recommendations for municipal,
provincial and federal governments that relate to the determinants of
quality of life identified by Toronto and Regina, as well as information
on action steps. Handouts included a sample of Toronto’s
recommendations to government, Regina’s recommendations to government, a
sample of a booklet developed by Regina’s project committee for
self-advocacy, a summary of comment sheets from the special briefing
session on October 31, 2000 suggesting possible action steps, and a survey
tool for pedestrian safety.
5.2 Next Possible Action Steps
The first recommendation for action is a simple ‘How-to’
guide. Included can be the names and contact information of
local politicians, as well as ways in which to get them to act in response
to community needs. Also, the guide can include agencies/organizations to
contact to receive further information on how to deal with a particular
issue or situation (a ‘Where-to-start’ section). For example,
with regard to economics (determinant #4 in the study), to find
information on the Guaranteed Income Supplement the guide could list the
programs that fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government.
Committee members agreed that we must keep a ‘How-to’guide brief, and
not duplicate the Resource Book that the Senior Citizens’ Council does
so well.
The Committee discussed the difficulties inherent in getting
information into the hands that need it. Suggestions for distribution
included involving individuals who have regular contact with older adults
and that are trusted and respected. Potential sources are doctors,
pharmacists, Meals-on-Wheels workers, and religious organization
representatives.
Committee members discussed the need to form partnerships, there is no
need to work in isolation. For work on safety and mobility, if the
Committee chooses to do a ‘fall inventory checklist,’ there are groups
such as the former Winter Cities Association who previously
developed materials as well as the Falls Prevention Coalition, No Name
Seniors Action Network, and Ottawalk to work with.
Other recommendations included conducting focus groups to have older
adults review any new documents in order to verify that they are practical
and will be used. This would involve older adults in the process of
action, which is a goal of the project. With regard to political
intelligence the Committee could arrange for a ‘watch-dog’ on local
government. The agenda for city council meetings could be consulted for
topics of interest and designated individuals could attend to provide a
community voice. It was mentioned that it is important to remember that
older adults are heterogeneous and that the next action steps must address
the needs of a variety of people
6. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting is Thursday January 25, 2001 at 10:00 AM at The Council on
Aging.
ACTION ITEMS FROM: November 23, 2000 Seniors Quality
of Life Project: Advisory and Coordinating Committees
Minute Item - Action:
5.2 - Tara Cogan to complete revisions of the draft report
"Promoting Quality of Life and Building Healthy Communities for
Seniors in Ottawa-Carleton.
5.2 - Tara Cogan to prepare draft of guide.
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January 25, 2001
Present: Campbell Lamont (Chair), Hubert Frenken, Rebecca McDermot,
Margaret Labarge, Jacquie Mansell, Murdo Murchison, Maureen Lapointe, Sheila
Pepper, Margo Ouimet, Tara Cogan (Project Coordinator), Lise Ladouceur
(Executive Director)
Regrets: Abe Rosenfeld
Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont (Chair) welcomed everyone to the meeting. Lise Ladouceur
(Executive Director) was introduced to the Coordinating Committee.
2. Approval of the Agenda
MOVED by Maureen Lapointe, seconded by Rebecca McDermott, that the agenda
be approved. CARRIED
Approval of Minutes
MOVED by Hubert Frenken, seconded by Maureen Lapointe that the minutes of
November 23, 2000 be approved. CARRIED
Follow-up Item
4.1 Quality of Life Guide
The first draft of the guide was reviewed by the Committee. It
was suggested that the format be changed from a list of resources
separated by identified determinants of quality of life to a question
and answer format separated by important topics. Comments were also
made with regard to keeping the language appropriate for the audience
we are trying to reach, as well as using short sentences for greater
impact. Before printing we will circulate draft copies for feedback.
4.2 Fall Prevention Action
The Fall Prevention Initiative, a joint effort headed by Health
Canada and Veterans’ Affairs was briefly described to the Committee.
It was determined that as a follow-up action step to the Quality of Life
Project, we will become involved in the Fall Prevention Initiative.
Rebecca McDermot and Tara Cogan will represent the Committee at
meetings.
4.3 Sign-Off on Revised Copy of the Quality of Life Report
The Committee Members indicated that they were still dissatisfied
with portions of the report. Comments included the need for an Executive
Summary, the language being verbose and repetitive, and that the
approach taken in focus groups eliciting mostly negative feedback. Tara
Cogan discussed how the report had been adjusted and edited as much as
possible while remaining true to what had actually occurred in the first
phase of the project. She also told the Committee that the other cities
involved in the project had not produced a thorough report for the first
phase of the project, but rather had incorporated feedback from the
focus groups into their final reports. The Committee agreed that this
report will remain internal. There will be a stamp placed on the cover
indicating that the report is for internal use only. Information from
this report will be used to formulate portions of the final report that
will be written in March. The final report will be made available to
individuals that participated in the focus groups and are interested in
learning what was done with the information gathered.
Business Arising
5.1 Recommendations to Government
Committee Members agreed to each bring several recommendations that
can be made to various levels of government. The recommendations will be
based on information obtained through the focus groups regarding issues
that impact on seniors’ quality of life.
5.2 Other Action Steps
The Committee felt that a presentation regarding transportation
issues to City Council and possible another at Queen’s Park would be a
positive action step.
6. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting is Tuesday February 20, 2001 at 9:30 AM at The Council on
Aging.
ACTION ITEMS FROM: January 25, 2001 Seniors Quality
of Life Project: Coordinating Committee
Minute Item Action:
4.1 Tara Cogan to prepare second draft of Quality of Life Guide and
mail-out prior to next meeting.
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February 20, 2001
Present: Campbell Lamont (Chair), Rebecca McDermot, Murdo Murchison, Cal
Martell, Louise Sevigny, Hubert Frenken, Tara Cogan (Project Coordinator),
Regrets: Maureen Murphy, Maureen Lapointe, Lise Ladouceur
1. Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont (Chair) welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Agenda
MOVED by Rebecca McDermot, seconded by Louise Sevigny that the agenda be
approved. CARRIED
3. Approval of Minutes
MOVED by Rebecca McDermot, seconded by Cal Martell that the minutes of
February 20, 2001 be approved. CARRIED
4. Follow-up Item
4.1 Quality of Life Guide
The second draft of the guide was reviewed by the Committee. It
was quite well-received. The Committee Members felt the format and
language were appropriate. They had 13 great suggestions for
fine-tuning of the document.
Suggestions included:
Less emphasis on community health centres as first contacts because
they are not available to everyone and are at times not accepting new
patients.
In Health section: consult the yellow pages under ‘physician,’
include to look for one who is close to home, and to be sure to ask if
they are taking new patients, do they have after hours service, and do
they do house calls.
Include a phone number for an exercise program
Include to ask for referrals to doctors from friends, neighbours,
family members
When banking help is needed- ask the bank for help. Some have
programs in place to help seniors with their banking.
Phone Messages - emphasize speak slowly, spell name and listen if
you can press "0" to get an operator to bypass machine
messages.
Give a phone number for an after-hours pharmacist
Make more mention and explanation of CCAC’s
Mention that visiting can be arranged through religious
organizations
Remove specific organizations listed for activities - leave general
numbers for various groups to contact to find where to go to connect
with others (The City of Ottawa information number, numbers for
various ethnic/linguistic groups)
Explanation for Citizens Council - that they provide information on
everything.
Mention Community Information Centre on St. Patrick - they are a
great resource
Mention some other publications in guide section such as newspaper,
magazines, and newsletters
4.2 Recommendations to Government
Suggestions were made with regard to the recommendations to various
levels of government. Areas covered include health, housing,
transportation, and community.
4.3 Presentation to City Council
Margaret Labarge, Rebecca McDermott, and Margo Ouimet agreed to be
involved in preparing a presentation to City Council on the issue of
transportation for older adults.
The focus of the presentation can include that a new transportation
model is required. Lise Ladouceur discussed with the Committee how Para-Transpo
is attempting to limit the number of individuals who qualify for
services by making it more difficult to qualify. Money is desperately
needed to improve service not limits to the number of individuals
receiving services. This is another potential focus. Also, the need to
encourage independent seniors groups to develop transportation for their
clients.
5. Other
5.1 Speaker’s Package
One objective of the Quality of Life project was to provide resource
materials that will allow seniors’ groups across Canada to carry out a
similar process of identifying and acting upon health determinants. In
response to this Tara Cogan prepared a Speaker’s Package that includes
the basics steps in conducting a Quality of Life project, the goals,
method and purpose of this study and a set of presentation notes that
can be used by anyone to inform others of the process, findings and
actions undertaken by the Ottawa Quality of Life project.
5.2 Regional Geriatric Assessment Program Website
Cal Martell informed Committee Members that the Regional Geriatric
Assessment Program has a new website and he would very much appreciate
any comments and feedback The website address is
6. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting is Monday March 12, 2001 at 9:30 AM at The Council on Aging.
ACTION ITEMS FROM: February 20, 2001 Seniors Quality
of Life Project: Coordinating Committee
Minute Item Action:
4.1 Tara Cogan will make some modifications to the draft of Quality
of Life Guide and mail-out prior to next meeting.
4.2 Tara Cogan will prepare a draft document of the recommendations
for government and mail-out prior to next meeting.
4.3 Tara Cogan will prepare some initial thoughts on the
transportation presentation for City Council.
4.4 Tara Cogan will produce a first draft of the final report and
mail-out prior to next meeting.
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March 12, 2001
Present: Campbell Lamont (Chair), Rebecca McDermot, Murdo Murchison, Cal
Martell, Louise Sevigny, Hubert Frenken, Tara Cogan (Project Coordinator)
Regrets: Maureen Murphy, Maureen Lapointe, Lise Ladouceur
Welcome and Introductions
Campbell Lamont (Chair) welcomed everyone to the meeting.
2. Approval of the Agenda
MOVED by Rebecca McDermot, seconded by Louise Sevigny that the agenda be
approved. CARRIED
Approval of Minutes
MOVED by Rebecca McDermot, seconded by Cal Martell that the minutes of
February 20, 2001 be approved with the modification of using the full guide
title - A Seniors’ Guide: Living Well in Ottawa. CARRIED
Follow-up Item
4.1 Presentation of A Seniors’ Guide: Living Well in Ottawa
Several final comments were made regarding various pieces of
information in the guide. It was mentioned that the Health Department
has an editing service that may agree to edit the final draft.
4.2 Recommendations to Government
Presently the recommendations to government are quite general,
several more specific recommendations will be included.
The Future of the Committee
Committee Members agreed that no additional meetings were required for
this project. Some Committee Members will pursue ideas that evolved throughout
the Improving the Quality of Life of Ottawa Seniors project by joining new
committees or working groups. Committee Members thanked Dr. Campbell Lamont
for his role as Chair of the Coordinating Committee during the past two
years.
Other
6.1 Working Groups
Hubert Frenken informed the Coordinating Committee that the Board of
Directors of The Council on Aging of Ottawa has approved the re-creation
of transportation and housing working groups. Margaret Labarge, Rebecca
McDermott, and Margo Ouimet will be invited to participate in the
transportation working group, which will pursue the preparation of a
presentation to City Council on current transportation issues.
6.2 Conference
Cal Martell informed Committee Members of a conference that will likely
take place in the next eighteen to twenty-four months. The World Health
Organization and several partners are interested in developing a
conference on, ‘Dimensions of Successful Aging’ which will
involve discussions regarding the shift in health care away from a
dependency model.
ACTION ITEMS FROM: March 12, 2001 Seniors Quality of
Life Project: Coordinating Committee
Minute Item Action:
4.1 Tara Cogan will complete A Seniors’ Guide: Living Well in
Ottawa and submit a draft copy to the Executive Committee for final
approval.
Tara Cogan will complete the Speaker’s Package and submit a draft
copy to the Executive Committee for final approval.
Tara Cogan will complete the project final report and submit a
draft copy to the Executive Committee for final approval
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