"We want to make sure that we're putting the individual right at the middle of everything, and incorporating elements of their own strengths and their own abilities that they've had throughout their life, and incorporating that narrative life history. So it comes down to little things, like how does a person like their coffee but then also the big things as well - honouring their past and who they are, and appreciating that they come with a whole history of a life."

Daphne Noonan is a long-term care leader, adult educator, and CEO and co-founder of Person-Centered Universe, with more than 20 years of experience in aging, dementia care, and person-centered practice. She is also the research program manager for SPA-LTC at the University of New Brunswick, where she has helped lead the province-wide implementation of a palliative approach to care in long-term care.

Daphne's work is grounded in a belief that older adults should be supported to live with dignity, purpose, and personhood, and that meaningful change requires translating those values into everyday practice.

Learn more about Person-Centered Universe: https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/

Learn more about the Strengthening a Palliative Approach to Long-Term Care project at: https://spaltc.ca/

"There's so much that we can do to help people maintain their independence and quality of life. Sometimes relatively small supports such as meals, transportation, social connection, exercise, or giving caregivers a break can be the difference between somebody continuing to live successfully at home or needing a higher level of care such as long-term care or a hospital."

Halliburton Highlands Health Services provides access to essential high quality clinical programs for the residents, cottagers, and visitors of Halliburton County and the surrounding areas, including several community programs. We had a conversation with Amanda Rowden, the Director of Community and Outpatient Services, and Jamie Allen Russell, the Recreation Rherapist and coordinator for Halliburton's Adult Day program. Amanda is a nurse with 23 years of experience and 10 years working as a leader in rural community healthcare. Jamie has over 23 years of experience implementing programs to serve the community with care and purpose.

Learn more about the Haliburton Highlands Adult Day Program: https://hhhs.ca/community-programs/adult-day-program

Learn more about the Strengthening a Palliative Approach to Long-Term Care project at: https://spaltc.ca/

"I'm trying to make life as simple as possible for caregivers because nobody's ever said to me, 'Caregiving is fun. I can't wait to do it.' Because it is hard, it's stressful. It's worrisome. It's exhausting. It's mentally tiring. It's difficult. So how do we make it easier in the areas where it's actually important?"

Andrew Karesa is a member of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and a proud husband and father of two young sons. After witnessing how his family coped to support his grandmother with her Alzheimer's diagnosis, Andrew realized he needed to take action. This inspired the creation of blueBell Village, aimed at restoring the personhood and independence of those living with dementia.

With Bluebell, Andrew has seen lives transformed for both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, and he is passionate about fostering a world where care is tailored to each individual's needs.

Learn more about blueBell Village: bluebellvillage.ca

Learn more about the Strengthening a Palliative Approach to Long-Term Care project at: https://spaltc.ca/