New Glasgow senior living 'his way', with help from Continuing Care

Ralph Holmes’ smile says it all when you ask him about how the Continuing Care program at Nova Scotia Health helps him stay in his own home.

Ralph lives in New Glasgow in a cozy apartment filled with memories. At 93 years old, he’s lived a full life, including a 50-year career at the local steel company.  Ralph has many stories to share, but he mostly wants to talk about his wife, Dorothy.

Ralph and Dorothy were married for 71 years, sharing laughter, love, and a quiet life. However, all that changed when Dorothy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. While challenging, Ralph did his best to care for her at home. That’s when he learned about the Continuing Care program.

“They helped me through the hardest time in my life,” Ralph says. “My first care coordinator was a lifesaver.”

In 2017, Ralph and Dorothy started getting support from Continuing Care, enabling the couple to remain together in their own home for several years before Dorothy moved to long-term care. Though Dorothy passed away two years ago, Continuing Care remains a presence in Ralph’s life, but this time he’s the one receiving support. 

Due to mobility challenges and other health issues, Ralph receives support to hire private caregivers. “This has saved my life,” he says. He has caregivers who help him with everyday tasks like getting dressed, preparing meals and going to appointments.

“I’ve been blessed with amazing caregivers,” Ralph says with a mischievous smile. “If I don’t get up in the morning, they get me up. They put my socks on and make my meals. If I can’t get in the shower, they help me. You don’t have to tell them what to do, they just do it.” 

Ralph also has a personal alert device and gets help from community nurses for his medical needs. 

Care coordinators, like Alison Ellsworth-Cameron, help people like Ralph navigate the services and support their needs. “Anything you ask of them; they deliver or tell you how to do it; they're fantastic. Alison has been wonderful,”, says Ralph. 

Alison takes great pride in her work. 

“I believe Continuing Care services have a huge impact on individual lives by meeting unmet needs that help people maintain their dignity and independence by continuing to live in their homes with support,” says Alison. 

Ralph’s story highlights the importance of having help when you need it. Continuing Care supports Nova Scotians, like Ralph, who require care to remain in their homes and communities. 

If you, or a loved one, need help staying at home or support after a hospital stay, the Continuing Care team is here to help. Call 1-800-225-7225 or visit www.nshealth.ca/continuing-care. 

Photo of Alison Ellsworth-Cameron, care coordinator with Continuing Care with Ralph Holmes.