A Place of Peace at The Salvation Army London Village

For more than 50 years, Sylvia gave her time to help others. A former teacher and lifelong volunteer, she devoted herself to her children and grandchildren, her community, and causes close to her heart, including hospice care.

Small changes in Sylvia’s behaviour would begin to affect her day-to-day life. Around 2019, the first sign came when Sylvia spent several hours wandering around a store in London, Ontario

“At the time, I had no clue what was going on,” recalls her husband of 53 years, Neil. Over the next couple of years, those small signs started happening more often. In February 2022, after a series of assessments and a CAT scan, Sylvia was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at age 71.

As her condition progressed, Neil became her full-time caregiver, eventually realizing it was no longer safe to leave her alone. Seeking answers and support, Neil connected with the Alzheimer’s Society in late 2023.

Through them, he learned about The Salvation Army London Village’s Adult Day program that supports individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia. Participants benefit through a variety of therapeutic recreation activities, which promote social interaction and meet their spiritual, cognitive, physical, and emotional needs.

At first, he was hesitant about the idea of leaving Sylvia in a place she didn’t know. That changed when they visited and met with the caring staff in January 2024.

“We came in, and Sylvia was calm. She was accepting all of this,”,” Neil recalls.

A Calm Welcome and a Fresh Start

Program supervisor Katelyn Rozenveld remembers that first visit and the initial anxiety Sylvia felt.

“Sylvia was quiet. When she first came, she stood at the back, but by the end of the day, we could get her into the room, and it’s been smooth sailing ever since.”

The foundation of the Sylvia comes to the program four days a week.

“She’s happy. She loves coming here. There’s never a question of where we’re going, she knows. She’s got friends here,” Neil says.

Though her verbal communication is limited, Sylvia’s personality is shown through her creativity.

“She loves to do art, colouring and painting. She enjoys looking at her reflection in the mirror and dancing,” Katelyn says.

Neil says that while they can’t carry on with a conversation, he has noticed an improvement in Sylvia since she started attending the program.

“Her demeanor is better; her anxiety is lower. This has given us huge happiness,” he says. “I honestly can’t even think about how bad it would be without this.”

Support That Changes Everything

The experience has also been life-changing for Neil, as he can pursue his hobbies and meet up with friends, knowing that Sylvia is safe and in good, caring hands. His connection with the staff has become a meaningful part of both of their lives. Neil has found peace in knowing Sylvia is content and surrounded by individuals who care.

“I say it just about weekly. I thank them tremendously. I bring them snacks all the time,” Neil says. “They are warm and welcoming. I have zero concern with her being here. We’re just so appreciative. I’m just hopeful this can continue for years. It’s been a godsend.”

Your contribution ensures vital Salvation Army programs and services support people like Sylvia. Donate today online at www.SalvationArmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.