Stefano Raguseo came to Canada from Toritto, Bari more than fifty years ago to make a better life for himself and his family. Like many newcomers, he didn’t speak any English when he first arrived but was fortunate to find a job with a company owned by an Italian immigrant, where language was not a barrier. He worked there all of his life and, with the support of his wife, who also came from Toritto, was able to buy a house, raise a family and enjoy a debt-free retirement.
In 2017, Stefano was diagnosed with mild dementia and started attending the CBAO Seniors Day Program. “I am friends with everybody. I tell jokes, everybody likes me and I like everybody,” says Stefano. Three days a week Stefano spends his day with other Italian seniors cooking, doing arts and crafts, exercising and even dancing. His daughter Maria DiNardo describes how valuable the program is to her father and her family.
“For three years after my mom passed away, my dad lived on his own. He was able to cook, drive and to clean up after himself. Then one day he became lost on his way back home from church. We took him to the doctor and it was determined that he had dementia. He lived with my sister for a few weeks and now he’s living with me.
My father first started going to the centre two days a week, but he enjoys it so much that he now goes three days a week from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Joining this program has helped him to stay stable and happy. It keeps his mind active and motivated, much better than sitting in front of the television at home. He enjoys the variety of activities staff put together and engages in all of them! When he’s at home he never wants to help me with cooking, cleaning or watering the plants whereas when he’s at the centre, he does everything.
The fact that the programming includes aspects of his heritage and culture and that he can speak in Italian makes a big difference for my father. All the seniors interact in their own language and he feels more comfortable. For me, bringing him here is a stress relief. It’s an avenue for me so that I can have peace of mind. I can take a break for myself and I know he’s well taken care of. We’re really pleased with the program, and it has made a difference for him, for me and for my sister.
There’s no cure for dementia, but this program helps them stay stable. It’s a place where they can enjoy time together within their own culture. The food is wonderful and reflects our culture, the staff is great – they organize different activities for the seniors, plus special entertainment like live concerts! It’s a special program.”
Pictured: Maria DiNardo with her father Stefano Raguseo, a participant in the CBAO Seniors Day Program.
This article was featured in the COSTI Annual Report 2016/2017.