How We Have Helped Others
VALERIE SAYS: Heartfelt was a dear companion to my 94 year old father living in Invermere. He struggled with Parkinson’s, which, depending on the day, could make just getting through a day, let alone keeping up to conversation and company, very trying. He looked forward to these home care visits, as the Heartfelt Companions always seemed to know when to keep the conversation going and when to give him time and space to process information.
RUTH SAYS: Heartfelt's availability in Invermere when my senior mother first had need of assistance, was welcomed. Because of their good reputation in the community and excellent certification, we were pleased that Heartfelt was available. We do not live in Invermere, so we needed someone to help with errands such as shopping, hair salon and doctor appointments. We also needed someone to check that mom had sorted her vitamins and meds correctly. Heartfelt did that and so much more. Looking back it was Heartfelt's attitude towards mom and their respectful understanding for this phase in life that I appreciated most. They never talked down to mom and always included her in conversations. Heartfelt was inspirational and anyone who has the pleasure of this senior care service to for their family member is fortunate to have her call your elder parent "friend".
A Heartfelt Message
The Heartfelt Companion was imagined in the spring of 2014 while on the path to becoming a Health Care Assistant in Invermere. It was during this time that the many gaps in senior care became obvious. Seniors become lonely; they deserve caring friendships and time one-to-one. A broken heart led to the creation of the Heartfelt Companion and our role in the lives of seniors living in care or at home.
The Heartfelt Companion puts human connection first and foremost. It is the interpersonal relationships developed between senior and companion that are so treasured in our work, and sadly, often overlooked in our health care system.
We appreciate that there are many tasks and everyday living needs that can be difficult for a senior to take care of on their own. We understand that relying on friends and family has it’s challenges. We also value that family caregivers have a tough job and need to know they are not alone.
Heartfelt can step in with a little or a lot of elder homecare and will always empower our senior client. We offer dignity, trust, friendship and advocacy in our relationships with clients and will always uphold the most kind, caring and compassionate manner.
Meet Leanne Brooks - Caregiver & Owner
- Certified Dementia Care Provider
- Certificates in Gerontology and Healthy Aging
- Dementia Foundations Certification
- Red Cross First Aid Level 1
- FOODSAFE Level 1
- Crisis Intervention Training
- Hospice End of Life Training
- Columbia House & Mt. Nelson Place Volunteer Experience
- Founder and Companion of HFCS
In my business I specialize in providing person-centered care for seniors with dementia. Person-centered care is a focus on an elder’s needs and care preferences consistent with their lifestyle. The emphasis is on building relationships by getting to know the person and their likes, dislikes, personality and life story. Person-centered care helps me provide the best experience possible during my time with your loved one. Enriching a senior’s life so that they feel valuable and happy is my mission.
The quality non-medical care and companionship I provide helps my senior friends enjoy life and feel purposeful as long as possible. I aim to promote healthy mind, body, and spirit. In addition to assisting with companionship and fresh air outings, as your loved one’s caregiver I will support their overall quality of life through physical activity, social interaction, calmness and stimulation. Heartfelt will also step in to help with errands, appointments and transportation if family is unavailable, and I will be a liaison for you to stay in contact with your loved one through phone calls or video calls. I will be there for your loved one to feel connected, valued, adored and supported. Heartfelt’s services allow family caregivers to take a break and know their loved one has a good friend looking out for them.
I believe that every individual, regardless of age or circumstance deserves to enjoy the simple pleasures, no matter how small. I love to take my senior friends for outdoor time, coffee dates, unique outings, and visits with friends at every opportunity. I am an advocate for seniors; I will always step up and communicate with staff and family to support a senior friend. I make certain they have what they need to be happy; be it food they enjoy, a more comfortable wheelchair, new clothing that fits properly or a warm jacket. This is especially important when living in a care home or when family is not in the valley and their loved one needs a friend. I have gained valuable insight since beginning Heartfelt Companion Services in 2014 and am proud to accept many community referrals. I look forward to helping more seniors and families in the Columbia Valley to enjoy life and be a supportive friend.
