Your health, close to home. Dr. Bray brings over a decade of experience in emergency and family medicine directly to our Stonemont communities, so you can get the care you need, right where you live.
— Dr. Andrew Bray
Dr. Bray’s role at Stonemont focuses on providing accessible, by-appointment medical support – bridging the gap for residents who may be awaiting assignment to a permanent family physician. His presence enhances our ability to respond to everyday health concerns with professionalism and empathy, while helping residents navigate the broader healthcare system.
With a strong background in emergency medicine and family practice, Dr. Bray brings over a decade of clinical experience across both Canadian and U.S. healthcare settings. He has served as an attending physician in emergency departments in Nova Scotia and Maine, and completed his family medicine residency at the Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency Program. His earlier service as a Medical Technician in the Canadian Forces Army Reserve speaks to his commitment to care across diverse healthcare environments.
Dr. Bray is also a published researcher, with work appearing in the Journal of Family Practice, and holds active medical licensure in both Canada and the United States. He is known for his thoughtful, patient-centered approach, emphasizing shared decision-making and respectful communication with individuals and families alike.
He earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from Saba University School of Medicine in the Dutch Caribbean, following the completion of his Bachelor of Science in Biology at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.
When he’s not working, Dr. Bray cherishes time with his wife, daughter, and their two beloved dogs. Whether it’s enjoying a good book, diving into board games, or soaking up the serenity of paddle boarding, residents may even bump into Dr. Bray and his family frequenting the Stonemont gym – though he insists the dogs haven’t quite mastered the treadmill yet.
We’ve collected the some of the most relevant health questions asked by our residents. Dr. Bray provides some plain language answers to help navigate your wellbeing.
The great thing about residing at Stonemont is that, regardless of weather or season, there is always ample space for gentle regular movement. I would encourage walking, stretching, and light balance exercises. These boost energy and mood. Start slowly and use supportive footwear. It is worth a one time consultation with a physical therapist to also be taught how to do this safely, with instructions tailored to the individual.
Take your time and intentionally choose clear pathways. Use handrails, canes, 4-wheel walkers, and supportive shoes. If you are feeling unsteady, do not hesitate to ask staff for assistance or to review your mobility aids. Staying active and hydrated also helps.
Mobility needs can change over time. A quick assessment can ensure your device is safe and comfortable. This is often best performed at the pharmacy where your device was purchased.
The most common culprits for potential interactions with your medications are alcohol or certain supplements. If you have concerns, a medication review can help identify these and lower risk.
Not everyone requires them and even vitamins or supplements are not always benign. It is best to review what you are taking with your physician or myself during your next visit.
Absolutely! A seasonal or annual medication review is a great way to ensure safety and maintain effective and appropriate treatment.
Many medications can contribute to these symptoms, as can lifestyle, nutrition and daily routines. If you have symptoms like these, bring them up so we can investigate.
Vaccines for shingles, pneumonia, flu, and COVID-19 may be recommended depending on your history and time of year. We can discuss which vaccines may be appropriate.
Monitoring routines are tailored to each individual and their health conditions. We can discuss when and how monitoring is helpful.
New or worsening symptoms from your daily baseline should always be mentioned as soon as possible to your physician. The earlier we can investigate, the more appropriately we can investigate and manage your symptoms.
Common screenings will include blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes screening or monitoring, vision, hearing, and certain cancer screenings depending on age and history. We can review what is relevant for you during your next visit.
If pain is limiting your daily life, let’s talk about it at your next appointment. In short, gentle movement, stretching, walking and topical heat (like an electric pad or rice bag) can help.
Weight changes can affect strength, balance, and overall health. Managing weight is also important to limit chronic pain and worsening arthritis. We can review your weight and discuss management strategies.
A consistent bedtime routine can help tremendously with sleep. Avoiding the use of computers, tablets, phones, televisions 1-2 hours before sleep is also helpful, a healthier alternative would be to read a book, journal and reflection, meditation, stretching. While I am not the shining example of limiting caffeine intake, doing so in the afternoon and evening helps! If sleep remains disruptive, bring it up during your next visit with your doctor or myself.
Stonemont is ripe with opportunity for conservative ways to maintain or improve mood including social connection with daily events/activities, light physical activity like walking the halls, swimming and using the gym. Meaningful daily routines also help, if you are feeling persistently low or anxious, we can explore supportive options.
Most older adults are easily prone to dehydration and should steadily hydrate throughout the day. If you have a kidney or heart condition, however, you may require a fluid restriction. If you are unsure we can review it at your next appointment.
Changes in vision or hearing are common with age and directly affect our quality of life and safety. If it has been a while since you have had either checked, or have developed concerns, screening may be helpful.
Removing clutter, securing loose rugs, improving lighting, and keeping your most used possessions at waist height can reduce your risk of fall and/or strain.
These challenges are common with age. Let your staff, family or care team know so we can explore supports that maintain your comfort and independence.
