On October 24th, the annual Care by Design Long-Term Care Conference celebrated the kind of collaboration that continues to transform long-term care in Nova Scotia.
Held at the Halifax Convention Centre, the event welcomed more than 150 attendees from across the province. Originally created for family physicians providing primary care in long-term care, the conference has evolved over the years to attract a broader audience.
“This conference is about much more than policies and education; it’s about the people. The residents, professional caregivers, industry leaders, and families,” said Janelle Richer, Health Services Manager for Primary Health Care in Central Zone and Care by Design planning committee co-chair.
Sessions throughout the day blended clinical learning with real-life storytelling. Presenters shared real-life case studies that informed and transformed, sharing how moments with patients have shaped their own practice and inspiring attendees to take those insights back to their own teams.
One of the day’s most memorable sessions, MAiD in Long-Term Care, led by RN Erica Maynard, explored the process through the eyes of patients and families. One participant shared: “Such an amazing session that shone a light on the value of providing patient and frailty-centered care.”
Another session, Movement as Medicine: Designing Spaces that Encourage Activity, showcased how Northwood is creating dementia-friendly environments that promote mobility, reduce falls, and improve sleep and cognitive health.
“As our society continues to age, long-term care becomes a growing necessity,” Janelle shared. “It’s our responsibility to ensure that the most vulnerable members of our communities receive compassionate, high-quality care.”
Other sessions, like Delirium Recognition and Infectious Disease in Long-Term Care, offered practical takeaways, like tools and strategies attendees could bring back to their facilities to improve assessment, treatment and outcomes.
“In our time together each year, we envision the future of long-term care and strive to shape a sustainable, innovative, and holistic experience for every individual in need,” Janelle reflected. “It’s a pleasure to be both a planner and participant in this accredited event.”
The Care by Design program is certified by Dalhousie University Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education and is a professional learning opportunity for those working in long-term care.
Photo of (L–R): Gillian Reid, Brittany Sullivan, Rehab Mariam, Nicole LeBlanc, Jacqueline Stewart, David LaPierre, Carol Conrad, Ufuomanefe Odunsi, Melissa DeSouza, and Janelle Richer.
