PEP – Seniors Therapeutic Centre (PEP), formerly known as Perth Enrichment Program for Older Adults, was established in 2014 by Dr Bob VanNoppen and Suzanne Rintoul, who is now Executive Director. PEP was developed in response to the growing needs of the Perth-Smiths Falls communities and to fulfill mandates set out by the Seniors Strategy of Ontario’s Action Plan for Health Care. PEP will celebrate their 10th anniversary in March 2024.

Since 2018, PDCF has provided over $19k in grants to the program. This includes funding for a physiotherapist to assess clients, providing subsidies to clients in need, and funding the purchase of a sanitizing dishwasher and blinds to adjust facility lighting for on-screen presentations. Recently, PDCF supported PEP to implement a Caregiver ID program that is now being adopted throughout Lanark Leeds and Grenville.

The Caregiver ID concept began in the United Kingdom. It is a tool that can be used to foster policies and principles of family inclusion for patient and family-centered care. PEP believes that clients and patients need the support of their caregivers, as it is often those individuals who can best assist with a loved one’s social and/or health needs. Currently, there are over 4 million unpaid caregivers in Ontario. As part of its programming, PEP hosts a free Caregiver Chat once a month where caregivers can discuss any concerns they are facing and receive support from peers and staff.

PEP’s day program provides a therapy-centered approach to care. A continental breakfast and hot lunch are served to all participants. The program includes assessments by a staff physiotherapist, nurse and recreation therapist. Each day the clients participate in one hour of stretching and strengthening exercises as well as other activities that engage their bodies and their minds.

After clients have been with PEP for about six weeks, staff sit down with them privately and listen to their concerns in order to assist them with their needs. If necessary, PEP refers them to additional resources to help meet their goals, which are most often related to staying in their own homes. The most important part of this program is providing a safe, welcoming environment where clients report they “feel comfortable being themselves and don’t ever feel judged.”

PEP helps revitalize retirement for seniors who might be lonely. There is a great deal of research that indicates that loneliness can lead to many other health concerns.

If you are interested in any of the programs offered by PEP, you can find out more by visiting their website or by dropping by. PEP operates Monday to Friday from 9:30 am until 3:00 pm at 12 Elliot St in Perth.

This article is part of a series that highlights organizations, groups and individuals doing the good work of community building here in Lanark County. View all articles by clicking on the Community Builders tag.