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Date updated: December 18, 2017

Imagine you are in a hospital and you cannot speak-up. Protect your health care choices.
The Alzheimer Society Newfoundland & Labrador provides information and offers services and support for patients, families and caregivers.
Arthritis Society, Newfoundland and Labrador Division has information, programs, tools, and resources to manage arthritis and its symptoms. For example, there is an education program where self-management programs and guides are provided online and in person. The ease of use program lists products that make life easier for those with arthritis.
Cette boîte à outils pour une saine alimentation vous donne accès gratuitement à une grande variété de ressources, d'outils et de conseils pratiques pour faire la promotion d'une saine alimentation à travers les différents réseaux de votre organisme et de vos communautés.  Sélectionnez "Bien manger Apprenez-en plus": "Les guides alimentaires du Canada" et "Rappels d'aliments".
Start your Journey to Mental Wellness Bridge the gAPP is a province-wide online resource designed to support mental wellness. This free online mental health resource instantly connects people to self-help information, tools and local supports through a searchable service directory. Visit Bridge the gAPP for adults (18+) or connect to local services in NL.   PLEASE NOTE: Bridge the gApp has been redesigned for improved access:
  • No longer available through the Apple App Store or Google Play.
  • Website can be viewed more easily on a wider variety of devices such as a phone, tablet or computer.
  • Shortcut: Users will be prompted to add an icon to their home screen which looks and functions just like a phone app.
Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) has general information on what an OT does, specific information on topics such as "Safe driving tips for older adults drivers", features a "Find an OT" search engine (by location), and CAOT product Recognition on devices that may help seniors stay in their home (stair lifts or  handrails).
COVID-19 UPDATES: AUGUST 11, 2020 The LOCAL OFFICE(S) in NL are CLOSED.  There are no activities or programs except:
  • Daffodil Place is OPEN and can be booked for lodging
    • CONTACT toll-free: 1-888-753-6520 Potential lodgers (including caregivers) will be screened and other services altered due to COVID-19
  • Practical Support Program (i.e. turbans or wigs) will be available soon as a virtual and no-contact support.
    • To request or return a wig, please call the  Cancer Information Helpline at 1-888-939-3333.
******************************** The Canadian Cancer Society NL provides information and supports to anyone facing cancer. Support may include: Air Daffodil (air travel assistance program), Daffodil Place (hostel), and practical and emotional supports.
Canadian Deprescribing Network  members  share information  and promote the deprescribing of medication.  Deprescribing is a planned and supervised process where people reduce or stop taking medications that may no longer be of benefit or may be causing harm.
The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association, NL (CHHA-NL) provides programs and services to people who are hard of hearing and/or have hearing loss. CHHA-NL's programs: education, Resource groups, loans and purchasing (assistive listening and signalling devices), alert and alarm devices, and more. Book an appointment ONLINE, OR Book an appointment by phone or e-mail (see details below) Booking an appointment guarantees that a person can:
  • Make a/an phone, in-person or virtual appointment at a time that suits their schedule.
  • Meet with a hearing loss support specialist at a dedicated time.
CONTACT Voice:      709-753-3224 Toll free: 1-888-753-3224 Text: 709-725-3224 (see note below) E-mail:  programs@chha-nl.ca By video chat: for information and support.  Please connect with staff to learn more about this option. By text:  you can reach a staff member by texting 1-709-725-3224.  Please note: this number is intended for text only (voice calls to the text line will not be answered). E-mail: info@chha-nl.ca See CHHA-NL's online resources.   Also, The Read Our Lips online course. Read Our Lips Hearing Assistive Technology Lending Program –  where individuals can borrow hearing assistive technology for a short time (two weeks). Can purchase assistive technology at CHHA-NL's social enterprise.
Are you looking for emotional support? Call the Lifewise(was CHANNAL) Warmline Toll Free: 1-855-753-2560 Local: 709-753-2560 English Toll Free: 1-833-753-5460 French Help is Available - If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis please contact 811 (Texting is available) Check out FREE webinars available online about best practices in workplace mental health, coping with anxiety and stress, Health Anxiety, Isolation and Loneliness and more.
  • CMHA-NL offices (St. John’s, Grand Falls-Windsor, and Stephenville)
    • May offer  booth displays, workplace presentations, volunteer opportunities, physical training courses, workshops, and events
As a division of the national Canadian Mental Health Association, CMHA-NL offers public education on mental health and mental illness, along with research, advocacy, and service.
The Canadian Red Cross in Newfoundland and Labrador offers an extensive network of programs and services that actively reach out and serve local communities throughout the province. In the St. John's area, services include the Meals on Wheels program.
CancerConnection.ca is the Canadian Cancer Society's online community for information and support. Connect, learn and share your stories with people with similar experiences with cancer. It is free to register and use.
Carers Canada works together with other organizations to pool resources and combine efforts to make sure that carers are part of and included in social policy to positively impact the lives of caregivers.
In response to COVID-19, the CNIB Foundation has expanded its virtual program offerings across Canada. These programs are free and available to Canadians who are blind or partially sighted as well as their families, friends and caregivers. Celebrating 100 years in 2018, the CNIB Foundation is a national, non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. Programs and advocacy empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. The CNIB Group is made up of the CNIB Foundation, Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, and CNIB Deafblind Community Services Programs at CNIB Newfoundland and Labrador include:
  • Live - CNIB cards,  Guide Dog Program...
  • Play- Indoor and outdoors walking clubs, Tech Time Tuesdays...
  • Work- Career and Employment - Internships, returnships and mentorships...
  • CNIB SHOP at The Boulevard where people who are blind or partially-sighted can access over 70 different gadgets to help them in daily living.
  • Vision Loss Rehabilitation Newfoundland and Labrador NOTE: For more information on rehabilitation services, click here to visit their site
 
"We need social connections to thrive — no matter our age." AARP [American Association of Retired Persons] Foundation spearheaded Connect2Affect to seek out solutions to social isolation. The goal is to create a network of resources that meets the needs of anyone who is isolated or lonely, and that helps build the social connections older adults need to thrive.    
As many as half of hospital patients age 65 and older develop delirium. Once thought of as something ordinary — something that “just happens” to people as they get older — today, geriatricians and hospitals across the U.S. recognize the dangers of delirium and are increasingly creating programs and protocols to prevent, detect and treat it. Delirium refers to a change in the brain’s neurochemistry that causes a person to become highly confused and unable to think clearly. People with delirium often can’t remember recent events or where they are. The condition usually comes on quickly, but the symptoms can come and go. Besides hospitals, delirium is also common in long-term care facilities and often one of the first signs that a resident has become very ill, says Dr. Paul Takahashi, a geriatrician at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.
Dementia Friends Canada is a national campaign that’s helping Canadians to learn a little about dementia, and then turn that understanding into simple actions that can improve the lives of people living with dementia.
Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development is dedicated to providing a wide range of family-focused services with a concentration on nurturing strong, healthy communities.
The Department of Health and Community Services provides a leadership role in health and community services programs and policy development for the province. Publicly funded Health and Community Services are delivered in the province by four regional health authorities.
Individuals who have diabetes need information about the disease and its management. The Diabetes Canada (formerly known as the Canadian Diabetes Association) provides consumer information on many diabetes related topics: meal planning, exercise, insulin and diabetes medication, complications of diabetes, nutrition, and more. Are you looking for information on diabetes, Diabetes Canada programs and services, membership or donations? Call 1-800-BANTING (1-800-226-8464) or email info@diabetes.ca. Check out your regional office, in NL.
Dietitians of Canada works with members to raise the profile of the profession. The Seniors page provides posts on  healthy eating such as Shopping for One or Two (Planning), Eating Alone, and Cooking for One or Two.
DoorWays counselling service is offered at many locations in the Labrador Grenfell region. Counselling can be provided through Doorways, as well as through other e-mental health options found on www.bridgethegapp.ca/. Individuals seeking services are encouraged to call their local office (see below) to discuss counselling options. This service may be available as a walk-in, telephone, or virtual counseling service. DoorWays offer single sessions on a first come, first served basis. Some of the topics that could be discussed with a counsellor include: depression, anxiety, bullying, coping, grief/loss, addictions, relationship issues and/or stress. No referral is required. For times and locations visit the website (see below) When you arrive, please tell the registration staff you are here for Doorways. DoorWays Clinics in Labrador Grenfell: Black Tickle - Contact- Cartwright Community Clinic            938-7523 Cartwright - Cartwright Community Clinic                                   938-7523 Charlottetown - Charlottetown Community Clinic                  949-0259 Churchill Falls- Churchill Falls Community Clinic                      925-3732 Flower's Cove - Strait of Bell Isle Health Centre                         456-2401, ext. 6246/6242 Forteau - Labrador South Health Centre                                         931-2450 ext. 9317231 Happy Valley-Goose Bay - Labrador Health Centre                  897-2343 Hopedale -  Hopedale Community Clinic                                         933-3388 Labrador City - Labrador West Health Centre                             285-8251 Labrador Correctional Centre, Labrador Health Centre        897-2343 Makkovik - Makkovik Community Clinic                                         923-2207 Mary's Harbour - Mary’s Harbour Community Clinic              921-6228 Mary's Harbour - Port Hope Simpson Community Clinic      960-0234 Nain - Nain Community Clinic                                                                922-2912, ext. 212 Natuashish - Labrador Health Centre                                                897-2343 Port Hope Simpson, Port Hope Simpson Community Clinic 960-0234 Postville - Makkovik Community Clinic                                             923-2207 Rigolet - Makkovik Community Clinic                                                923-2207 Roddickton-Bide Arm - White Bay Central Health Centre    457-2215 ext. 4577234 Sheshatshui - Mani Ashini Community Clinic                                 497-3628 St. Anthony- Charles S Curtis Memorial Hospital                        454-0326 St. Lewis - St. Lewis Community Clinic                                                939-2330 St. Lewis - Port Hope Simpson Community Clinic                        960-0234 To find Doorways in your area, call 811 OR Search the bridgethegapp.ca (attached website). DoorWays is not an emergency service. If mental health emergency is needed call 911 or if you are having a mental health crisis contact the 811 Health Line NEW or proceed to the nearest Emergency Department. ACCESS: Text and Video Relay Service (VRS) line are available for individuals who may be hard-of hearing, identify as having communication disability, or are Deaf. For texting, download the 811 NL HealthLine app in Apple and Google Play app stores VRS number is 1-888-834-1252
News: May 4, 2020 12:35pm see update re: Coverage for COVID-19 Medical Services to Non-Insured Individuals Prescription Delivery Service (excluding opiates such as methadone/suboxone) The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) provides financial assistance for the purchase of eligible prescription medications for those who reside in the province. There are five main plans under the program, including the 65+ Plus Plan (previously known as the Seniors Drug Subsidy Plan) . Qualifying applicants will be responsible for a co-payment depending on their income levels and drug costs or applicants will pay up front and seek reimbursement later. When calling applicants and card holders should have their MCP number available.
  • To apply, an application form must be completed. Application forms are available at pharmacies or physician offices or by calling:     NL Prescription Drug Program, Assessment Office, Stephenville  1-888-859-3535
    • The Assessment office covers the eligibility for a specific cardholder
    • Out-of-province drug coverage for beneficiaries of the program
  • For questions about their drug card (e.g. lost),  call 1-888-859-3535
  • The NLPDP Claims Processing office can be reached at Toll Free 1-888-724-7760
    • reimbursement of prescription receipts (often Seniors need to pay up-front and send in the receipts)
    • questions or difficulties associated with billing or payment process
  • The Pharmaceutical Services, Department of Health and Community Services  is responsible for operating the NLPDP on behalf of the government of NL.  Toll Free 1-888-222-0533 or local Tel: 709-729–6507
    • Pharmaceutical Services at the Department of Health is most often reached by FAX.  Doctors or Pharmacist's often FAX in requests for drug coverage (for eligible patients) at 1-709-729-2851
    • Pharmaceutical Services handles general inquiries around  drug eligibility or special authorization (including the Cystic Fibrosis and Growth Hormone programs).
    • Call about Drug Eligibility for NLNPDP or need for Special Authorization Request Forms
    • Or you can search the NLNPDP Drug product Database to see if a drug is eligible
Egale, Canada Human Rights Trust, works to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and two-spirit (LGBTQI2S) people in Canada and to enhance the global response to LGBTQI2S issues. "With many advances in LGBTQI2S human rights, we are now beginning to see more LGBTQI2S seniors ‘out ‘ and proud!" For Seniors:
  • Egale's LGBTQI2S Seniors Newsletter
  • LGBTQI2S Resource Map (building a map to identify resources that welcome LGBTQI2S people)
Elizz, Canada’s largest social enterprise, provides caregiver support and home care services.  Elizz,  a Canadian not-for-profit health care organization, provides a variety of online caregiver tips and how-to articles along with virtual care services such as caregiver counselling.
Whether you are living with Alzheimer’s disease, another form of dementia, or supporting someone who is, the First Link® program connects you and your family to your local Alzheimer Society programs and other community services.
Food First NL is a provincial, membership-based, non-profit organization dedicated to improving food security for everyone in the province. Food First NL developed the Healthy Eating NL Resource Centre. They also carried out many projects and research, such as Everybody Eats. What We Heard. A provincial dialogue on food security in NL.    
Questions often asked by people who are thinking of moving into a Long Term Care Facility (Nursing Home) or Personal Care Homes (owned by private businesses). Nursing homes generally provide higher level of nursing and personal care to residents  

Guide to Programs and Services for Individuals and Families- Government of NL

This guide can help people find out what Provincial Government programs and services are available. See PDF version as link. Printed copies or alternate formats are available upon request by calling 1-866-883-6600 or via email at guidetoservices@gov.nl.ca
The HealthLine is a confidential and free telephone line staffed by experienced Registered Nurses. It is available to all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, of any age. Call 811 at any time, day or night, to speak to a Registered Nurse. They are always there for you.
Your one-stop-shop for resources to help promote and support healthy eating in Newfoundland & Labrador! This site has resources covering everything from grocery shopping on a budget, maintaining health while eating with a condition,  harvesting wild food, organizing a bulk buying club, and preserving food.  
Gives you free access to a wide variety of resources, tools, and tips on promoting healthy eating. A lot of the information is written with Parents and caregivers of children between the ages of 2-12 years in mind. Select "Eat well learn more about healthy eating": for useful tools like Food "Recalls and Safety Alerts" and Canada's "Food Guide Servings Trackers" for men or women 51 plus.
Department of Children, Seniors, and Social Development Inclusion Grants  are available to non-profit, community-based organizations to make their facilities more accessible and their events more inclusive.  These grants enhance accessibility and inclusion in communities throughout the province by: 1)  Installing ramps, accessible washrooms or visual alarms (up to $25,000). 2)  Providing American Sign Language, captioning or listening devices (up to $5,000) Information and applications are available in alternate formats.
The Kidney Foundation of Canada exists for the improvement of kidney health and the reduction and, if possible, the removal of the burden of kidney diseases.
In Labrador Grenfell Health under the  program Community Health, Home and Community Care contains many of  the services referred to as  "Community Supports in the other regions.
  • Home Support
  • Palliative Care
  • Respite Care
  • Special Assistance (SAP)
  • Coordinates financial and needs assessments required for seniors (and others) to access a variety of services (home support, long term care) and
  • Determines eligibility towards supplement toward the cost of living arrangements, home support or other services
  • Supports for "neglected adults" protected adults under the Adult Protection Act
  In Labrador Grenfell Health, there is a regional intake process for the Community Support Program. To start the process to access community supports services in Labrador-Grenfell, call their toll-free number: 1-833-284-4751
Labrador-Grenfell Health provides health and community services to just under 37,000 people and covers the communities north of Bartlett's Harbour and all of Labrador
Labrador-Grenfell Health Facilities include:
  • Hospitals
  • Long Term Care
  • Health Centres
  • Community Clinics
Community Health Programs cover all community nursing programs across the life cycle. One of these, Home and Community Care, includes services in home support; palliative care, respite care, and  special assistance (SAP).  This program coordinates  financial and needs assessments required for seniors (and others) to access a variety of services (home support, long term care). These assessments also determine eligibility for a subsidy toward the cost of living arrangements, home support, or other services.
The Labrador-Grenfell Health Grief and Bereavement Regional Palliative Care Coordinator:
  • Does not provide Individual Counselling directly but will help individuals navigate local grief resources and access support like counselling
Grief and Bereavement Support Groups (8 week program) or Information sessions have been presented in the past by Mental health and Addiction Referral and Support. Grief and Bereavement Support may be provided by the Mental Health and Addiction Community Counselling Services and The Doorways Program Please contact Vanessa Bartlett Regional Palliative Care Coordinator Telephone: 709-454-0665 E-mail: vanessa.bartlett@lghealth.ca or your local health care provider.
Labrador-Grenfell Health long term care services include:
  • Regional assessment and placement
  • Recreational therapy
  • Planning and direction for long term care beds in St. Anthony, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador City, and Forteau
There is a single point of entry.
NOTE: The Consumer Health Awareness Network of Newfoundland and Labrador, formerly known as CHANNAL, will now go by the name Lifewise Mental Health Peer Services. Lifewise is run for and by people with mental health and addiction issues. Lifewise is proud to offer Peer Support services throughout Newfoundland & Labrador in a variety of formats. Facilitated by trained staff, Peer Support is the act of supporting one another through the connection of similar experiences, with no hierarchy or power dynamics. Peer Support OFFERED: Shared support (group discussions), Wellness Workshops, Peer Group Support (In Person or Virtual), Family Support Groups, Individual 1:1 Support, The Warmline, Community Peer Support, Public Education and Doorways (in partnership with the Regional Health Authorities). There are both In Person and Peer Support Virtual Groups.  Peers can register on the day of the virtual group by emailing virtualgroup@lifewisenl.ca   A separate e-mail must be sent to attend each group. Lifewise Warm Lines Toll Free: 1-855-753-2560  English Local: 753-2560 (St. John’s metro) English Open 7 days a week, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (midnight) Toll Free: 1-833-753-5460 French  
Are you experiencing Meniere's, Tinnitus, or Both? Want to ask questions about your symptoms, or talk about options that might benefit you? 1.Join the ongoing conversation about Meniere’s and Tinnitus in the Resource Group Facebook Group. 2.Call and talk with a Staff Person 3.Ask to be added to the CHHA-NL e-mail listserv or the Meniere’s and Tinnitus sublist (e-mail listserv) for Announcements, Information, Education and Resource opportunities. 4.Videos and Webinars about  Meniere’s and Tinnitus   Book an appointment ONLINE, OR Book an appointment by phone or e-mail (see details below) Booking an appointment guarantees that a person can:
  • Make a/an phone, in-person or virtual appointment at a time that suits their schedule.
  • Meet with a hearing loss support specialist at a dedicated time.
CONTACT Voice:                       709-753-3224 Toll free:                1-888-753-3224 Text:                        709-725-3224 (see note below) E-mail:                  events@chha-nl.ca By video chat: for information and support. Please connect with staff to learn more about this option. By text: you can reach a staff member by texting 1-709-725-3224. Please note: this number is intended for text only (voice calls will not be answered).    
Are you having finding the mental health and addiction system too difficult to navigate or connect with? It is often difficult to find Information on and contact to resources needed. The Mental Health and Addictions Provincial Systems Navigator helps improve the client’s mental health journey by
  • increasing knowledge/awareness
  • problem solving to figure out next steps;
  • consider options to help find the right mental health or addiction service; and/or;
  • help make connections.
Contact Barry Hewitt by phone at 709-752-3916 or 1-877-999-7589 or by email at barry.hewitt@easternhealth.ca. video relay service (VRS) calls are welcome
The Mental Health Crisis Phone Line is a free, confidential service available province-wide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Toll Free 811 ACCESS: Text and Video Relay Service (VRS) line are available for individuals who may be hard-of hearing, identify as having communication disability, or are Deaf. For texting, download the 811 NL HealthLine app in Apple and Google Play app stores VRS number is 1-888-834-1252  
MyGrief.ca, an online support for people working through grief and loss or supporting someone who is grieving. MyGrief.ca is also an educative tool for those working in health care.
NICE has Tools (information and tips) on Caregiving, Dementia, End of Life Issues, Elder Abuse, and more.
Osteoporosis Canada works to educate, empower and support individuals and communities in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis (a disease in which the bones become less dense increasing the possibility of bone fracture).
This section describes the various government-related entities or individuals that have a focus on seniors as part of their mandate.
Parkinson Canada provides support services and education to people living with Parkinson’s disease, their families, and the health care professionals who treat them.
The toll-free Gambling Help Line 1-888-899-4357 (HELP) is a 24-hour support for individuals impacted by their own or someone else’s gambling.  
Caregivers, doctors, nurses, counsellors, and other health workers, responding to emergency situations such as natural disasters or terror attacks, sometimes need to be reminded that a nonstop response can lead to physical and emotional wear and tear. Without attention to self-care, caregivers' usefulness and finally their health will suffer.
Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum is a group from different levels of governments created to share information, discuss new and up-and-coming issues related to seniors, and work together on key projects.
It is the responsibility of Health Professionals to prevent harm from medication incidents. Consumers can also play a vital role such as reporting mistakes made by doctors, nurses, or pharmacists to the government.
The Seniors and Aging Division works with other government departments and agencies to promote healthy aging across the lifespan and acts as a centre of knowledge on seniors and aging.
Do you want to Stop Smoking? Wish to make a quit attempt? There are several Smoking Cessation Programs available: 1.Quit Smoking & Vaping Program (Medication Therapy Services Clinic) is a pharmacist-led clinic will offer smoking cessation services including medication and counseling. For more information, call 709-864-2274 and leave a brief message or e-mail: mtsclinic@mun.ca NOTE: This program often has a wait list. Administrators regularly review the list and may close the list to new referrals on a temporary basis from time-to-time. Please check the website or call the clinic to see if they are accepting new clients. https://www.mun.ca/pharmacy/pharmacy-practice-community/medication-therapy-services-clinic/quit-smoking-and-vaping-program/ Do you want to quit smoking nicotine but NOT ready to set a quit date? They will also help you with that. 2. NL Smoking Cessation Program for Individuals with Low Income (Department of Health and Community Services) The Newfoundland and Labrador Smoking Cessation Program assists with the cost of medications (Champix® and Zyban®) and nicotine replacement therapy products (nicotine patch, gum, lozenge, inhaler and Quick Mist) that are proven to help with quitting smoking. Eligible: Adults aged 18 years and older, under the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP) Access, Foundation (Income Support), or 65+ Plans of the NLPDP are eligible for coverage under the Smoking Cessation Program. https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/files/PSCP-Client-Brochure-1.pdf
The Thyroid Foundation of Canada is a volunteer organization whose mission is to support thyroid patients across Canada through awareness, education, and research.
There are shelters for abused women and their children in this province.  These shelters have an emergency crisis line and helpful staff. The Transition Housing Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (THANL) website provides 1-800 crisis numbers, local phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for local shelters in NL.  
Video series: Dementia and Caregiving. Family caregivers share their personal experiences and talk about the importance of social connections.
Violence Prevention Labrador is one of ten Regional Coordinating Committees that work to increase awareness of all forms of violence. The provincial Violence Prevention Initiative Services (through the Office for the Status of Women) supports the RCCs through a grants program and other activities. It is a non-profit, volunteer committee, made up of individuals from both government and community. They meet regularly in Labrador to discuss issues relating to violence. CONTACT by Telephone: 709-899-3231 or E-mail: coordinator@vplabrador.ca    
The Humberwood Centre offers a program of recovery and personal growth to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. There is no fee for NL health card holders, MCP.  It has many years of experience treating people with addictions to alcohol, drugs and/or gambling. Call 709-634-4506

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