www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday November 10, 2006 - 33 VON helps seniors remain independent I t happens to everybody. As a matter of fact, it is happening this very second. We are all getting older. And for senior citizens, age-related complications often necessitate a move from independent living to a group facility setting. For 91-year old Elspeth, remaining self-sufficient in her retirement community is very important. And while her age has not had a huge impact on her daily activities, she is legally blind. Knowing she needed a little extra help once in a while, Elspeth sought assistance from the Victorian Order of Nurses, Halton Branch, and was referred to the Friendly Visiting Program. The program provides volunteers who offer one-on-one support and friendship to frail or isolated seniors and to adults with physical limitations living in their own homes. It was through this program, that Elspeth met her now life-long friend and friendly visitor, Lisa. For more than 10 years, Lisa has been taking her out shopping, visiting her at her home and taking her out for dinner. "Knowing that I am making a difference pushes me to do more," Lisa said. "We both are getting a lot out of this." With Lisa's assistance, Elspeth has been able to remain very active. She loves to bake and ensures that her apartment is kept clean and tidy. In her spare time, she takes trips to the mall. "I'm independent, I'm not going to give up," she said. "I know what I can do and I know what I can't do." For more information about the Friendly Visitor Program, call the Victorian Order of Nurses, Halton Branch at 905- 827-8800 or visit them online at www.vonhalton.ca. ··· Victorian Order of Nurses is one of 31 member-agencies funded by United Way of Oakville. This year the United Way Community Impact Fund goal is $2.25 million. Monies raised support thousands of people right here in the Oakville area. To learn more about how United Way builds community through its member agencies and other initiatives, call 905-845-5571 or visit www.uwoakville.org. Chair Sale up to 50% off Huge savings on a large selection of high quality furniture exclusively from Italy 4600 Steeles Avenue West Woodbridge, ON T. 905.851.8844 Hours: Daily from 9am - 6pm Sundays closed MATH SPELLING GRAMMAR This preschool teaches your child to read. Oxford Learning's Little Readers Academy is a funfilled way for your three to six-year-old to get ready for school and life. TM READING WRITING FRENCH STUDY SKILLS Contact us for more information or to book your no-obligation assessment. Reduce Reuse Recycle Little Reader Fall Registration NOW OPEN 1131 Nottinghill Gate, Oakville (905) 469-1929 380 Dundas St. E. Oakville (905) 257-1207 Maple Grove Village 511 Maple Grove Dr. Suite 2, Oakville (905) 849-4027 Voted Best Learning Centre www.oxfordlearning.com