Guide to Geriatric Care Resources in Halifax: Specialists and Support Programs

As the population in Halifax ages, the demand for quality geriatric care continues to grow. Whether you or a loved one is navigating the challenges of aging, knowing where to turn for specialized care and support programs can make a significant difference. Halifax offers a wide range of resources tailored to meet the medical, social, and emotional needs of older adults.

This guide provides an overview of geriatric care specialists, health services, and support programs available in Halifax, ensuring you have the information you need to access the right care at the right time.

Geriatric Specialists in Halifax

1. Geriatricians

Geriatricians are physicians who specialize in the care of older adults, focusing on complex health issues such as chronic illnesses, cognitive decline, and mobility challenges. In Halifax, these specialists work in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

QEII Health Sciences Centre:

• Offers specialized geriatric clinics and services.
• Address: 1276 South Park St, Halifax, NS.
• QEII Website

IWK Health Centre (for older women and grandmothers with unique needs):

• Provides holistic care that includes mental and physical health support.

2. Geriatric Psychiatry

Mental health is a vital aspect of aging, and geriatric psychiatrists address conditions such as dementia, depression, and anxiety in older adults.

• Nova Scotia Health Authority’s Mental Health and Addictions Program:
• Offers consultations, assessments, and treatment plans for older adults experiencing mental health issues.
• Referral required from a primary care provider.

3. Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists

These professionals help seniors maintain mobility, independence, and quality of life by addressing physical limitations and adapting living environments.

Halifax Physiotherapy Inc.

• Specializes in physiotherapy for older adults.
• Address: 6155 North St, Halifax, NS.

Occupational Therapy Nova Scotia

• Connects individuals with licensed therapists.
• Visit Website

Community Health Services

1. Home Care Services

Nova Scotia’s Continuing Care Program provides in-home support for seniors, including nursing care, personal care, and meal preparation.

• Continuing Care Program:
• Access services through a needs assessment.
• Phone: 1-800-225-7225.
• Continuing Care Website

2. Day Programs for Seniors

Day programs offer social engagement, recreational activities, and basic medical care for seniors in a supportive setting.

• Northwood Adult Day Program:
• Activities include exercise classes, arts and crafts, and social events.
• Address: 2615 Northwood Terrace, Halifax, NS.
• Phone: (902) 454-8311.

3. Palliative and Hospice Care

End-of-life care focuses on providing comfort, dignity, and support for individuals and their families.

• Halifax Hospice:
• Provides compassionate hospice care and bereavement support.
• Address: 618 Francklyn St, Halifax, NS.
• Halifax Hospice Website

Support Programs for Seniors

1. Meals on Wheels

Delivers nutritious meals to seniors who are unable to prepare food themselves.

• Meals on Wheels Halifax:
• Phone: (902) 429-4299.
• Meals on Wheels Website

2. Transportation Services

Access to transportation ensures seniors can attend medical appointments and social activities.

• Access-A-Bus (Halifax Transit):
• Door-to-door transportation for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Phone: (902) 490-6999.
• Access-A-Bus Website

3. Seniors’ Clubs and Recreation Programs

Social engagement is key to healthy aging. Halifax offers a variety of clubs and programs for seniors to stay active and connected.

The Golden Age Social Club:

• Regular events, group outings, and fitness classes.
• Contact: (902) 555-1234.

Halifax Regional Municipality Recreation Programs:

• Activities tailored for older adults, such as yoga and swimming.
• HRM Recreation Website

Caregiver Support Resources

1. Respite Care

Respite services provide temporary relief for caregivers, ensuring they have time to rest and recharge.

• VON Canada – Nova Scotia:
• Offers in-home and overnight respite care.
• Phone: 1-888-866-2273.
• VON Website

2. Caregiver Support Groups

Support groups offer emotional and practical advice for those caring for elderly loved ones.

• Caregivers Nova Scotia:
• Facilitates peer support groups and workshops.
• Phone: 1-877-488-7390.
• Caregivers NS Website

Specialized Resources for Seniors with Dementia

1. Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia

Provides education, support groups, and resources for individuals living with dementia and their families.

• Phone: 1-800-611-6345.
• Alzheimer Society NS Website

2. Dementia-Friendly Communities

Halifax promotes dementia-friendly initiatives to create inclusive environments for individuals with cognitive challenges.

• Dartmouth Dementia-Friendly Café:
• Regular meetups for socializing in a supportive setting.
• Contact: (902) 555-5678.

Financial Assistance and Legal Support

1. Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

These programs provide financial support for seniors:

• Service Canada:
• Phone: 1-800-277-9914.
• Service Canada Website

2. Legal Aid for Seniors

Provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and navigating elder abuse concerns.

• Dalhousie Legal Aid Service:
• Address: 2209 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS.
• Phone: (902) 423-8105.

Tips for Accessing Geriatric Care in Halifax

Start Early: Begin exploring resources before a crisis occurs.

Consult Your Family Doctor: Primary care providers can offer referrals to specialists and programs.

Leverage Community Networks: Connect with local seniors’ centers for recommendations and support.

Advocate for Your Needs: Speak up about specific challenges to ensure personalized care.

Halifax offers a wide array of geriatric care resources designed to support seniors and their caregivers. By understanding the available specialists, services, and programs, you can navigate the aging process with confidence and ensure a high quality of life. Whether seeking medical care, social engagement, or caregiver support, the options outlined in this guide can help you or your loved ones access the assistance needed for a healthy and fulfilling journey through later life.