Ward 43: The Aging Population and Social...

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Ward 43: The Aging Population and Social Services November, 2008 Nitika Jagtiani Abstract (Summary): Situated in East Scarborough, Ward 43 is a physical land mass that stretches up to 16 square kilometers and is home to 19,125 families (Statistics Canada, 2001). Due to an increase in life expectancy, improved health standards, developed health care services and an improvement in the overall quality of life, there has been a dramatic increase in longevity of the average Canadian citizen. The number of citizens of age 65 and over within Ward 43 has reached 11.8% in 2001, which has siificantly increased 15.5% since 1996 (City of Toronto, 2007). During the same period, the growth of the overall population in contrast to the aging population is incomparable. Each community constantly works to and adapts to meet the needs of the changing dynamics of a neighbourhood; thus owth in the aging population is a significant contributor. This development has generated a demand for diverse social services for this demographic group. Hence, the focus of my research will concentrate on investigating current social services being provided to the seniors residing in Ward 43. Keywords: Health Care, Seniors, Social Services, Social Support

Transcript of Ward 43: The Aging Population and Social...

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Ward 43: The Aging Population and Social Services

November, 2008

Nitika J agtiani

Abstract (Summary): Situated in East Scarborough, Ward 43 is a physical land mass that

stretches up to 16 square kilometers and is home to 19,125 families (Statistics Canada, 2001).

Due to an increase in life expectancy, improved health standards, developed health care services

and an improvement in the overall quality of life, there has been a dramatic increase in longevity

of the average Canadian citizen. The number of citizens of age 65 and over within Ward 43 has

reached 11.8% in 2001, which has significantly increased 15.5% since 1996 (City of Toronto,

2007). During the same period, the growth of the overall population in contrast to the aging

population is incomparable. Each community constantly works to and adapts to meet the needs

of the changing dynamics of a neighbourhood; thus growth in the aging population is a

significant contributor. This development has generated a demand for diverse social services for

this demographic group. Hence, the focus of my research will concentrate on investigating

current social services being provided to the seniors residing in Ward 43.

Keywords: Health Care, Seniors, Social Services, Social Support

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WARD 43: THE AGING POPULATION AND SOCIAL SERVICES

Submitted to: Professor S. Bunce Submitted by: Nitika Jagtiani

Course: GGRC41

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Title Page I 2 Table of Contents I I 3 I ntroduction 1 4 Addressing the need for senior social services 5 Methodology 2 6 Housing & Home Support ,.., _} 7 Health Care 5 8 Social Recreation 6 9 Transportation 8 10 The impact of these services on Ward 43 9 11 Bibliography 11 12 Appendix A: Map of Ward 43 12 13 Appendix B: Population Profile 13 14 Appendix C: Interview Form 14 15 Appendix D: Interviewee Contact Info. 15 16 Appendix E: Consent Forms 16

Koulla Christoforou Cathy Edmunds Nancy North Nadia Tablada Annie Zawadi

***Two consent forms are still to be added once received by mail.

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WARD 43: AGING POPULATION AND SOCIAL SERVICES Submitted by: Nitika Jagtiani

''Development is the ongoing creation of personal and collective resources that enable people to fight back and to take charge. Development includes building organizations that have the knowledge to help those in need, creating the bonds of trust between people constitute community, sharing technical skills, and gaining ownership of material wealth in ways that improve the lives of those in need'' (Rubin & Rubin, 2001, p.6).

Situated in East Scarborough, Ward 43 is a physical land mass that stretches up to 16 square

kilometres and is home to 19,125 families (Statistics Canada, 2001). Due to an increase in life

expectancy. improved health standards, developed health care services and an improvement in

the overall quality of life, there has been a dramatic increase in the longevity of the average

Canadian citizen. The number of citizens of age 65 and over within Ward 43 has reached 11.8%

in 2001 (see Appendix B ), which has significantly increased 15.5% since 1996 (City (�l Toronto.

2007). During the same period, the growth of the overall population in contrast to the aging

population is incomparable. Each community constantly works to and adapts to meet the needs of

the changing dynamics of a neighborhood; thus growth in the aging population is a significant

contributor. This development has generated a demand for diverse social services for this

demographic group. Hence, the focus of my research will concentrate on investigating current

social services being provided to the seniors residing in Ward 43, particularly:

•!• What are some of the social services provided to the aging population of Ward 43? How have past concerns impacted the decisions of these organizations who continue to serve the elderly? And, how do these programs plan to adapt to the changing demographics of their neighborhood in the near future?

ADDRESSING THE NEED FOR SENIOR SOCIAL SERVICES The Toronto Seniors Forum is a group of around 30 people that are over the age of 60,

who wish to make social change and raise social concerns for the elderly. They work with the

local government to discuss issues and improve the quality of senior services within Toronto

(Seniors Task Force, 2008). The strength of a community is dependant on how a society is

structured; but the geographic location is essential to support social bonds (Bunce, Sept. 1 0.

2008). Ward 43 is a mixed demographic population with people from different cultures and

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mixed incomes. Within the area there is a need for many social services to help each

demographic group. For seniors, West Hill Community Services provide social services to

strengthen social ties and create a sense of belonging within the community (Rubin & Rubin,

2001). To understand the area I plan to divide my study into four sections: housing & home

support, health care, social recreation and transportation.

For our Human Geography course, I chose to study senior social services as I want to

learn about the issues surrounding this particular age group, especially due to the retiring baby

boomer population. As Rubin & Rubin (200 1) explain, a community comes together to improve

the overall quality of life for its residents, provide solutions to social pressures, and work together

to secure their community through a future vision. The study of seniors is essential for the study

of social services as this demographic group is often ignored or seniors themselves are not aware

on how to voice their concerns and learn of the services being provided by the community.

METHODOLOGY

I began my research at the East Scarborough Storefront where I picked up pamphlets on

seniors services that were used as a foundation for the interviews (see Appendix F). For my

research paper, the information was primarily gathered from books. brochures, current websites

and interviews. B ooks were used to identify the issues faced by Ontario· s senior population in the

past, whereas, websites outline current problems and outreach programs directed by the

government and/or non-profit organizations. Each resource added depth to my findings and a new

dimension to the research. Websites were used more widespread as they are current and more up-

to-date. From the websites, I was able to learn about the various programs the area offers which

directed me to the names of the representatives of West Hill Community Services, some of whom

I interviewed. These interviews were conducted by obtaining informed consent from the people

interviewed by signing a letter to confirm confidentiality that no information will be disclosed to

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any third party as well as, the data collected will be labelled as anonymous for future use. The

ethics code of conduct was outlined by Professor S. B unce.

The main purpose of using diverse sources for the paper was to receive accurate

information; as well as, gain an in-depth insight on diverse issues and strategies taken towards

protecting the needs of the elderly at Ward 43. These resources have been sufficient for the

research as the issue is local and methods that can be used to explore the matter are limited.

HOUSING & HOME SUPPORT 'The growing elderly population, coupled with increasing levels of disability and decreasing fertility rates means fewer opportunities for informal or familial support within the home, and thus the option of moving into a long term care institution may become a consideration for many older Ontarians" (Maurier & Northcott, 2000, p79)

One of the main concerns for seniors is the available quality of housing as "the living and

working conditions. the physical environment, personal health practices are influential in

deterring the individual and population health" (Maurier & Northcott, 2000, p. 79). When I

interviewed Ms. Cathy Edmunds, coordinator of Pine Tree Seniors Centre, she said that out of the

120 registered in the program only 2 opted to reside in a retirement home. One of them chose to

live close to her friends while the other required assistance as an Alzheimer's patient. A majority

of the group live by themselves in their rented or owned property, and very few live with their

children and their family (interview with Cathy Edmunds, Nov. l l, 2008). The Toronto Seniors

Forum (2008) sees the need to improve the availability of affordable housing through

modification or by repairing existing structures. To respond to the needs of a culturally diverse

community, they also see the need to work around some evident barriers when expanding long-

term home care services. Within Ward 43, there are not many senior housing facilities, but at the

two locations, they have an excellent supportive housing program.

Nadya Tablada. the coordinator of the supportive housing program at West Hill

Community Services has designed a program for elders who reside at two exclusive apartment

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buildings- 4125 and 4175 Kingston Road. In order to qualify for the program, seniors have to be

living in these residences prior to requesting these services. Many residents have been l iving at

this location since these buildings were built 20 years ago. Here volunteers and staff care for

seniors 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Some of the home support programs include light

housekeeping, personal care of hygiene, preparing meals, meals-on-wheels services, reminding

medication, transportation to medical appointments (interview with Nancy North, Nov. I L

2008). However, a growing concern is meeting the growing demands of different ethnicities. One

of the main concerns is inability to cook traditional meals; hence, families are encouraged to keep

provide meals for their family so that volunteers can just help to warm their food. Many clients

also like to cook for themselves but require assistance during meal preparation, so the staff helps

them at that time. Nadya seeks to maintain the quality of service and keep up with the demands of

their ethnic clients which are predominantly of Tamil, African and Chinese origin. A strategy

Nadya used to eliminate language barriers and reduce isolation among the Tamil senior residents

is introducing caregivers that are of the same origin and are qualified to provide proper eldercare.

If this initiative is accepted well by senior residents, she plans to diversify her team in other

programs. However, due to a lack of senior residents in the area the Toronto Community Housing

Corporation (TCHC) has now transformed these residences into subsidized buildings directed to

low income families who rent these apartments based on individual incomes (interview with

Nadya Tablada, Nov. 12, 2008).

Arising Women and the Supportive Housing program also individually work to reaffirm if

these buildings work to maintain a safe community that promotes healthy living. The executive

director of Arising Women, Annie Zawadi, often holds safety audits at senior-designated

buildings to ensure that lights, windows, other amenities and also the activities that surround

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these building do not disrupt a seniors' lifestyle and comply with the safety measures Ward 43

prioritizes (interview with Annie Zawadi, Nov. 1 1, 2008).

HEALTH CARE '·Historically. with the advent of science and the medicalization of health care, health was defined as freedom from disease. In contrast to this historical definition of health, present day definitions recognize not only medical aspects of health, but incorporate psychological, social, and spiritual aspects as well". (Maurier & Northcott, 2000, p. 45)

Initially, Ward 43 was a place where refugees gathered as the region provided health care without

the requirements of having OHIP coverage. Even though, it was challenging to induce funding

into their programs, West Hill worked to improve health standards, (interview with Nadya

Tablada, Nov. 12, 2008). Ward 43 pays special attention towards having good quality health

services keeping in mind the needs of women and ethnic groups. As women tend to live longer

than men, despite the narrowing gap between male and female mortality rates, they are more

likely to experience chronic illness and diseases than men. So, they seek health and social

services to reduce financial stress as they live "the last years of their life alone", (MitchelL 1991 ).

On the other hand, it is important to consider ethnic variations as people who have

emigrated from other countries may be exposed to various other illnesses. So the time stayed in

Canada plays a key role in shaping an individual's health and the type of illnesses they are likely

to encounter, ( Maurier & Northcott, 2000). As Ward 43 is financially weak in various parts of the

community. unhealthy lifestyle practices include smoking, and overuse of prescription

medication or alcohol also needs to be taken under consideration (Bruchley, 1991 ) .

The Scarborough Community Diabetes Program is a community based exercise program

that is directed to all residents of Scarborough who have developed Type 2 Diabetes. "Working in

participation with Toronto Rehab, this weekly program was developed to assist participants as

they improve their diabetes control and level of fitness, through a supervised exercise program"

(WHCS, 2008). With the assistance of a nurse/dietician, individual progress is monitored and

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exerc1ses are g1ven to optimize their individual strength. The main goal of the program is to

educate people with diabetes on ways to control their sugar levels. This program is successful at

its initial stages of development by helping individuals achieving their personal goals such as

weight loss, blood sugar control and overall well-being (interview with Nancy North Nov. I I,

2008). Along with a strong diabetes program, the community services has developed bridging

networks with individual's organizations that work to promote health awareness and provide

other important health care services.

"The Community Health Centre provides Doctors, Nurses, Practitioners, Social Work, Dietitian Services and Diabetes Education and Foot Care services for people residing in the catchment area, with or without an OHIP Card'" (WHCS, 2008).

Adult Day Program is specially designed for seniors who suffer from Alzheimer"s and

Dementia. The program works to improve the quality of life by inducing stimulation through

recreation and interaction. In the future, the centre seeks to improve and expand the facility

further as now there is a visible shift in women also suffering from this illness besides men

(interview with Nancy North Nov. 11, 2008).

To meet the needs of seniors, there are four buildings where seniors' health is closely

monitored to reduce the need for emergency services resulting in higher health costs. The city of

Toronto understands the value of individual well-being and thus, works to improve the quality of

health services and its availability for the community. Many a times, seniors are also victims of

physical or emotional abuse from their family members or professional caregivers� hence there is

a need to promote and educate seniors about various outreach programs that are available within

Ward 43 for their physical, emotional and psychological well-being.

SOCIAL RECREATION

"Social integration and participation of older adults in society are frequently seen as indicators of productive and healthy aging and it is widely accepted that social support has a strong protective effect on health'", (BC Ministry of Health, 2004. p.3 ).

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A 'highly mobile' society decreases the likelihood of seniors to become helpless victims

of isolation, loneliness and untimely death (BC Ministry of Health, 2004). Social integration, by

providing informal support through instrumental activities, is essential to community members,

(Maurier & Northcott, 2000). Ward 43 recognizes the emerging issue of isolation among seniors

due to poor socialization, lack of mobilization, and even language barriers for immigrants. Yet

the community of Ward 43 encourages seniors to socially interact with each other for healthy

living. In the long run, this also reduces financial costs for the community due to a decrease in

demand for health care services (interview with Koulla Christoforou Nov. 1 1, 2008).

West Hill Community Services is highly involved in organizing recreational programs

keeping in mind the needs of their community. One of the many branches of West Hill

Community Services is Pine Tree Seniors Centre which has a rented space located in a church

basement where events and services are organized for recreational purposes. The centre has 120

people over 65 years of age registered for various activities such as Acrylic art class, drama and

choral groups in the field of Arts. Fitness programs including Dancercise, Yoga, and General

Fitness have more than 30 health-conscious members over the age of 80. Seniors can also opt for

a day trip or can request transportation to shop with their friends at Scarborough Town Centre or

Pickering Town Centre, while a few may choose to explore their spiritual side through meditation

discourses or yoga seminars. Most of these services have a basic fee which can be waived

depending on a senior's financial situation (interview with Cathy Edmunds, Nov. 11, 2008).

An interesting service that I would like to spotlight on is Congregate Dining where

seniors come together to enjoy their meal while socializing with others and take part in activities

such as Bingo. After their meal, seniors have the option to also watch a featured movie.

Congregate Dining takes place every Friday and helps seniors to network with other residents

which help them increase their interaction outside the centre. Nonetheless, the interviewees feels

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that there is still room to promote their services as many seniors that live at home are unaware of

its availability and benefits (interview with Nadya Tablada, Nov. 12, 2008).

West Hill"s Supportive Housing Program, in collaboration with Canadian Mental Health,

also plans social recreation programs for their residents to enhance their well-being. Fitness

programs with lower-pace exercises along with discussion groups are part of their agenda. The

discussion groups are planned by the senior residents themselves so that they arc keen to

participate in them (interview with Nadya Tablada, Nov. 12, 2008).

Arising Women collaborated with East Scarborough Storefront also provides free self-

fitness programs for senior women who cannot afford to go to a gym. The program is funded by

Ontario Trillium Foundation which helps women reduce stress and encourages physical activity.

Belly dancing and yoga are the two programs that are specifically directed towards seniors; these

programs have improved the physical ability of women and have reduced issues related to

breathing and stress. Annie Zawabi says that "I am proud of our program because it has improved

seniors' well-being and reduces isolation," (Nov. 11, 2008)

TRANSPORTATION Transportation services have contributed to a 'senior-friendly' environment where the

"seniors felt the services were vital to their lives and indeed their health and well-being" (Senior

Task Force, 1999, p.37). In a recent report, the Seniors Task Force outlines that language

barriers, hidden disabilities, and impatience among other passengers and drivers contribute to

seniors' limited mobility. Yet transportation is important as "a typical senior rider makes 84% of

her trips on the TTC for personal, medical, shopping, work or school purposes", (Seniors Task

Force, 1999, p.3 7). Hence, there is a need for more 'senior-friendly' services. Even though, West

Hill Community Services provides transportation they give priority to medical appointments.

Besides medical purposes, Pine Tree Seniors Centre has reserved Mondays as a day when seniors

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get a ride to the Town Centre where they shop and have lunch. Supportive housing, as welL

requires transportation assistance for shopping at the two locations, (interview with Nancy North,

Nov. 11, 2008). The Toronto Senior's Forum is currently working on improving transportation

access to non-medical appointments and to places where seniors go for recreation, (Toronto

Senior's Forum, 2008). With a growing demand of these services, Nadya is concerned if seniors

are becoming more dependant, as this might alter their lifestyle in an unhealthy way. Thus, there

is a need to limit its availability so that seniors are able to feel as "contributing members of

society" (interview with Nadya Tablada, Nov. 12, 2008).

THE IMPACT OF SENIOR SOCIAL SERVICES ON WARD 43: For my research, I explored on the issue of housing, health care, transportation and social

support individually to be able to gain a holistic view of the quality of senior programs that Ward

43 aims to provide. And, it is evident that this is a strong community that seeks the benefits of

others. For many representatives, this is just the beginning as Ward 43 strives to improve its

social services to reduce burden on society (interview with Nadya Tablada, Nov. 12 2008).

In the future, West Hill Community Services does not consider a proactive approach to be

efficient to plan the availability of these services but rather seeks the need to focus on senior

issues at that time. The community's strategy is of outreach by asking volunteers to visit door-to-

door to educate the residents of the programs and services and learning about the issues of the

neighbourhood which becomes the mandate of Ward 43. By addressing these issues to the City

of Toronto, various service coordinators and agencies contact sponsors for funding (interview

with Koulla Christoforou, Nov. 12, 2008). One of the concerns evident in the interviews is the

increase in dependency by seniors on these services (such as, home support services) that might

have detrimental effects on one's health leading to further costs to the Ward 43 community

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(interview with Nadia Tablada, Nov. 11, 2008). In the long run, these agencies might not be able

to support the increasing demands of the senior residents.

In order to increase housing availability, the community is always looking for financial

stability \Vhile considering existing structures that have ihe potential to be convertl'd into seniors·

home so that Lhey are able to expand the Supportive Housing Program. For the community. a

good building is one with the maximum amenities and fiKilities organized f()r the seniors who are

to need eldcrcarc in th�:.· future. (GolanL 1972). As !lodge rightly puts it:

''The challenges to a rural municipality regarding its aging population are both insistent and difficult. as we learn from the survey. The first is to recognize that the elderly, most of whom are very long-time residents, are a population with special needs in health care, housing, support services, and transportation. The second is to mobilize very limited local resources to meet seniors' needs in areas of municipal jurisdiction. The third is to encourage other sectors of the community to support seniors. The fourth is to lobby other jurisdictions for services and facilities required by local seniors", (Hodge, 1993, p.6).

Ward 43 is an area where social mobilization has encouraged people to act together through

direct action and the social production of many services help those in need (Rubin & Rubin,

2001 ). They have been successful in implementing many strategies that have contributed to the

well-being of seniors as it has the community building capacity fundamental to increase their

social capital essential for a strong neighbourhood. West Hill Community Services has strong

bridging networks to modify the quality of their programs through appropriate funding and even

through the provision of good quality staff. While researching health care services, I was able to

look at various large-scale partners (such as Ontario Trillium Foundation) that help Ward 43

prioritize its mandates of eldercare (Bunce, Nov. 5th, 2008). OveralL as a planning student I

have been able to understand the importance of having social services in community development

and through research it is evident why Ward 43 is a perfect example of a strong community.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Books, Journals, Articles:

Bruchley, S. (Ed.). ( 1991 ). The Elderly in America. New York, Garland Publishing.

Galant. S. ( 1972). The Residential Location and Spatial Behaviour of the Elderly- Canadian txample. Chicago, University of Chicago Printing Department.

Jlallman, H. ( 1984). Chapter 1: Introductory Concepts in: Neighbourhood�·: Their Place in Urban LVe London, Sage Publications. p. 1 1 - 17.

Hodge, G. ( 1993). Canada's Aging Rural Population: The Role and Response ofLocal Government. Toronto, ICURR Press.

Maurier. W. & Northcott, H. (2000). Aging in Ontario: Diversity in the New Millennium. Calgary, Detselig Enterprises Ltd.

Minister of Senior Citizens Affairs. ( 1985). Elderly Residents in Ontario: d(flerences by Marital Status with Particular Focus on those who are Single. Ottawa, Minister of Senior Citizens AtTairs.

Mitchell, S. ( 1991) . Raising the Issue: A Discussion Paper on Aging Women in Ontario. Toronto, Ontario Advisory Council on Women's I ssues.

Rubin, H. & Rubin, K. (2001 ). Chapter 2: Resolving Social Problems through Organizing in: Community Organizing and Development. Boston, Allyn and Bacon. pp. 23-51.

Rubin H. & Rubin K. (2001). Chapter 5: Understanding Community in: Community Organizing and Development Boston, Allyn and bacon. p. 97- 1 16.

Smock, K. (2004). Chapter 2: Models of Community Organizing in: Democracy in Action: Community Organizing and Urban Change. New York City, Columbia University Press. pp. 1 0-33.

United Way of Greater Toronto. (2005). Strong Neighborhoods: A Call to Action Toronto, United Way of Greater Toronto. pp. 1-44. Toronto City Summit Alliance. (2007). Strong Neighborhoods: Supporting the Call to Action. Toronto, Toronto City Summit Alliance. pp. l-20.

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Websites:

Brenda Roche & Joan Roberts. (2007). The East Scarborough Storefront Project: A Succes.�fill Inter-organizational Service Collaboration. Retrieved October 2011\ 2008 from Westley Institution. <http://www.wellesleyinstitute.com/files/interagencycollaboration/7- East Scarborough.pdf >

British Columbia Ministry of Health. (March 2004 ). Social I solation among seniors: An Emerging Issue". Retrieved November Iih, 2008 from Children's, Women's and Seniors Health B ranch. http://www.health.gov.bc.callibrary/publications/year/2004/Social Isolation Among Seniors.pdf

City of Toronto. (2006). Kingston Galloway Priority Area Profile. Retrieved October 1011\ 2008 from City of Toronto. <http://www.toronto.ca/demographics/pdf/priority2006/area kingston full.pdf>

City of Toronto. (2007). Ward 43 Scarborough East Profile. Retrieved October 811\ 2008 from City ofToronto. <http://www. toronto.ca/wards2000/ward43.htm>

Ministry of Ontario. (2007). Ontario Establishes Two Priorities to Improve Confidence in Heallh

Care. Retrieved October 1 1th' 2008 from Queens Printer for Ontario.

http://www.health.gov.on.calenglish/medialnews releases/archives/nr 08/apr/nr 20080423.html

Seniors Task Force. (September 1999). B uilding a City for All Ages. Retrieved November 1 2'11•

2008 from City of Toronto- Seniors Task Force. < http://www.toronto.ca/seniors task force/pdf/seniors task force report.pdf>

Toronto Senior's Forum. (2008). Toronto Senior's Forum- Making things happen. Retrieved November 2 15\ 2008 from <http://www.toronto.ca/seniors/seniorsforum.htm>

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APPENDIX A: Map of Ward 43

ED Scarborough East 1'

City of Toronto. 2008. Ward 43 Map. Retrieved November 2151, 2008. <http://www. toronto.ca!wards2000/i mages/ward43 .gif>

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APPENUlX B: POPULATION PROFILE

POPULA"TION --····· · ·

3,450 3 855 3A80 3,795 3,825 3,805 9,075 7,675 8,295 8.950

7,265

No. 156,.285 136.0-55

- 14 131,135 133,720 t62,855 446,340 369,445

Population by Age Group - 2001

18%

16%

14%

12%

10%

8%

6%

4%

2%

0%

No. 143,510 149,&35 140,675 143,275 165,140 41302()

<5 5-9 10-14 15-1 9 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64

•ward 43 •Toronto

Source. Stalistlcs Canada. 2001 Census Produced by Urban Development Services. City Planning. PolJCY and Research, September 2003

City of Toronto. 2008. Population. Retrieved: Nov. 20, 200�. <hnp://www.tgron_to.caLwards2000/pdf/ward43 QOpulation.Qdl>

65+

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APPENDIX C: INTERVIEW FORM

1265 J\:1ilitar) Tntil. Scarborough Ontario. Canada MlC L\.-1

Title of Project: A Study of East Scarborough

GGRC41: Current Topics in Human Geography

University of Toronto at Scarborough

We are students taking Geography at the University of Toronto at Scarborough who is studying the community of East Scarborough (Ward 43) for the purposes of a third year Geography course. Through this project we will be exploring these issues: what social services are being provided for children, youth, women, seniors and the issue of harm reduction.

We believe that someone with your knowledge and experience can provide valuable insights on this topic.

and would, therefore, like to invite you to participate in this study.

We will ask you fairly specific questions about your experience on this issue and how you feel about your specific situation. We will ask you questions regarding the following areas: Social services (i.e. Housing, health care, transportation, social support/ home and social/ recreation) provided to the aging population of Ward 43.

We anticipate that the interview will take about 15 minutes. We will be happy to schedule the interview at your convenience. The information you supply will be used to write a report that we will submit as pa11 of the requirement of this class.

You can reach us to schedule an interview or ask any questions about this study and our course by email at: nitika jagtian i (a>vahoo.com. You can also contact our professor, Dr. Susannah Bunce with any questions at 416-287-7156 or by email at: scbuncer(�utsc.utoronto.ca

Thank you very much for your time.

N itika Jagtiani

15

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APPENDIX D: INTERVIEWEE CONTACT I NFORMATION

ANNIE ZA WADI (Arising Women -Executive Director) 4125 Lawrence Avenue East Suite 101 Scarborough, Ontario POSTAL CODE (416) 281-6662 akzfi1;svmpatico.ca

WEST HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES CATHY EDMUNDS (Pine Tree Seniors Centre- Coordinator) 41 3 0 Lawrence A venue East Scarborough, Ontario M1E 2R8 ( 416) 283-9822 cedm unds(a)\vt?sthi 11-cs.on .ca

KOULLA CHRISTOFOROU (West Hill Community Services- Manager) 3 545 Kingston Road Scarborough, Ontario MIM 1R6 ( 4 16) 84 7-412 1

---- kchristoforou({i),"vesthill-cs.on .ca

NADIA T ABLADA (Supportive Housing Program- Coordinator) 4175 Lawrence A venue East Scarborough, Ontario MIB 3 E2 41 6-284-5309 nJablaga(awesthill-cs.on.ca

NANCY NORTH (Adult Day Program- Manager) 4637 Kingston Road Scarborough, Ontario M1E 2R8 (416) 286-7774 nnorthfc[Jwesthill-cs.on.ca

16

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APPENDIX E: CONSENT FORMS

1265 Militm1 Trail, Scarbomugh

Ontario, Canada i\llC I A4

TITLE OF PROJECT: A Study of East Scarborough

Course Assignment for GGRC41: Current Topics in Human Geography

This interview is a part of a course designed to develop participants' research skills through work on a common case study topic. The case study topic this year is Urban Community and Neighbourhood Geography, A Study of East Scarborough. The students are responsible for explaining to you the nature of their research topic and questions.

There are no known risks or benefits to you for assisting with this project. Your response will be kept confidential unless you give the students permission to quote you directly. You may request that any part of the interview must remain confidential even if you agree to be quoted directly. Participation in this interview is voluntary and you are free to withdraw at any time. All interview transcriptions will be stored in a secure place by the students. in confidence. until the end of the course, at which time they will be shredded. You may request and receive a copy of the research results. Please give your address to one of the students so that we may send you the report once it is written.

1 acknowledge that the topic of this interview has been explained to me and that any questions that I have been asked have been about this project. I understand that I can withdraw from the interview at any time. I have been assured that the notes or conversation relating to me will be kept confidential and that no information will be released or printed that will disclose my personal identity unless I specify otherwise. Only the students and professors in the course will have access to the information that I provide and this information will be destroyed in a timely fashion once the course is over. I have been given a copy of this consent form for my records.

I agree to be quoted directly in the final paper

I agree to be tape recorded

Name (Please print)

Signature

Student: N itika Jagtiani (I1jJi.h<tj<tgti?ni@y<tb()cl,{;QrD)

Course Instructor: Professor Susannah Bunce Department of Social Sciences University of Toronto at Scarborough Email: scbunce(7i:utsc.utoronto.ca 416-287-7156

Yes No

Yes No

Date

17

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1265 Trail, Scarborough Ontario, Canadu M l C I A4

TITLE OF PROJECT: A Study of East Scarborough Course Assignment for GGRC41 : Current Topics in Human Geography

This interview is a part of a course designed to develop participants' research skills through work on a common case st udy topic . The case study topic this year is Urban Community and Neighbourhood Geography, A Study of East Scarborough. The students are responsible for explaining to you t he nature of their research topic a nd questions.

T here are no known risks or benefits to you for assisting with this project. Your response will be kept confidential unless you give the students permi ssion to quote you directly. You may request that any part of the intervie w must remain confidential even if you agree to he quoted d irect ly . Participation in this i n terview is voluntary and you arc free to withdraw at any t ime. Al l interview transcriptions will he stored iu a sec ure place by the students, in confidence, until the end of the course, at which time they wi l l be shredded. You nwy request <md receive a wpy of the research results. Please give your address to one of the studen ts so that we may send you the report once it is written.

l ack nowledge that the topic of this interview has been explained to me and that any questions that I have been asked have been about this project. I understand that I can wi thdraw from the interview at any time. I have been assured that t he notes or conversation relating to me wil l be kept confidemial and thn t no information will he released or printed that w i l l disc lose my personal identity unless I specify otherwise. Only th e students and professors in the course will have access to the information that I provide and this information wil l be destroyed in a timely fashion once the course is over. I have been given a copy of this consent form for my records.

I agree to he quoted directly in the fina l paper

I agree to be tape recorded

····-----�!l..tL__c_!JJ.!.J.l{,!&tt:tz ________ ·······-······-·····-·--Name (Please print)

.// ".Y/�v / 7 �f/,';?L.a /. "'Y"'

Signatui/ )

Student: Nitika Jagtiani (nitil<lU�[email protected])

Course Instructor: Professor Susannah Bunce Dt�partment of Social Sciences Uni versity of Toronto at Scarborough Emai l : scbunce ({.!l utsc.lltoronto.ca 4 1 6-287-7 1 56

Yes_J<� No

Yes._ . . _ No ?{. _ _

ll!..J <./ li J () f --nale

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1 265 Mil itary Trail. Sca rborough Ontario. Canada l\11 C l A4

TITLE OF PROJECT: A Study of East Scarborough Course Assignment for GGRC41 : Current Topics in Human Geography

This interview is a part of a course designed to develop participants' research skills through work on a common case study topic. The case study topic this year is Urban Community and Neighbourhood Geography, A Study of East Scarborough. The students are responsible for explaining to you the nature of their research topic and questions.

There are no known risks or benefits to you for assisting with this project. Your response will be kept confidential unless you give the students permission to quote you directly. You may request that any part of the interview must reriuiin confidential even ifyou agree to be quoted directly. Partic ipation in this interview is voluntary and you are free to withdraw at any time. All interview transcriptions wiU be stored in a secure place by the students, in confidence, until the end of the course, at which time they will be shredded. You may request and receive a copy of the research results. Please give your address to one of the students so that we may send you the report once it is written.

[ acknowledge that the topic of this interview has been explained to me and that any questions that I have been asked have been about this project. I understand that I can withdraw from the interview at any time. I have been assured that the notes or conversation relating to me will be kept confidential and that no infonnation wlll be released or printed that will disclose my personal identity unless I specify otherwise. Only the students and protessors in the course will have access to the infonnation that I provide and this information will be destroyed in a timely fashion once the course is over. I have been given a copy of this consent form for my records.

1 agree to be quoted directly in the final paper

l agree to be tape recorded

Name (Please

Ca.t� Signature �

Student: Nitika Jagtiani (nitika jagtiani({i;yahoo.com)

Course Instructor: Professor Susannah Bunce Department of Social Sciences University of Toronto at Scarborough Email: scbunce(ci.utsc.utoronto.ca 4 1 6-287-7 1 56

Yes

Yes� No '

No� Nov. t l/0 .��

Date

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TITLE OF PROJECT: A Study of East Scarborough Course Assignment for GGRC4 l : Current Topics in Human G eography

T" . interview is a part of a course designed to develop participants' research skills through work on a topic this year is Urban Commun ity and N eighbourhood

(_ography, A Study of East Scarborough. The students are responsible for explain ing to you the nature of their research topic and questions.

Tnere are no known risks or benefits to you for assisting with this project. Y our response wil l be kept c - -,fident ial unless you give the students permission to quote you directly. You may request that any part o ! H_ interview must remain confidential even if you agree to be quoted directly . Partkipation in this interview is voluntary and you are free to withdraw at any time. All interview transcriptions will be stored it 3 secure place by the students, in confidence, until the end of the course, at which ti me they wil l be shredded. You may request and receive a copy of the research results . Please give your address to one of ti">"' students so that we may send you the report once it is written.

I acknowledge that the top ic of this interview has been explained to me and that any questi ons that I have b �n asked have been about th is project. I understand that I can withdraw from the interview at any time. I hu-.re been assured that the notes or conversation relating to me wil l be kept confidential and that no information w il l be released or printed that wil l disclose my personal identity unless 1 specify othenvise. C ly the students and professors in the course wil l have access to the information that I provide and th is illformation wll1 be destroyed in a timely fashion once the course i s over. I have been given a copy of this c 1sent form for my records.

'--l agree to be quoted directly i n the final paper

I agree to be tape re-corded

ANNIE KA SHAMURA ZAWADI

���� S �nat ure

S 1dent 1\-,..;.ika Jagtiani (n · ·

C ursc Instructor: p ... -- fessor Susannah Bunce [ rAH1ment of Social Sciences L-ni versity of Toronto at Scarborough Email : ;;. �. c 1) ,

4 6-287-7 1 56

Yes X No

Yes X No

Date