Pet therapy is a great form of compassionate care that has been popularized over the years, primarily on school campuses and across communities. The research on pet therapy’s effect on our aging population is remarkable. Pet therapy has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety. By providing connection and comfort through animals, pet therapy is extremely beneficial for feelings of stress and anxiety. Some studies even show positive results on mental functioning through pet therapy. Playing with animals is also a fun way to increase mobility as we age.
Community News
Grief Therapy for Children & Teens
Therapy plays a crucial role in helping children cope with grief and loss and provides a safe environment for them to explore and process their emotions. Grief is a complex emotion that is expressed very differently in children than it is in adults and parents often express how challenging it is to help their children. Through specialized techniques such as play therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, therapists assist children in expressing their feelings and developing effective coping strategies to promote resilience and healing. Therapists collaborate with parents to create a supportive network that acknowledges the unique experiences of each child and empowers them to move forward positively, fostering emotional well-being and growth.
Are You Having Fun?
As an older adult, you’re likely aware of the importance of staying active for optimal mental and physical health. Amidst all your activities, it’s crucial to ask yourself: Are you truly having fun? Fun and joy are essential components of a fulfilling life, making us feel alive, engaged, and connected to others. When we embrace laughter and play, the world becomes more vibrant and inviting. Every senior deserves to pursue enjoyable pastimes that transport them, making them lose track of time or feel like a carefree kid once again. The good news is that many of the best activities for senior citizens are low-cost or even free. So, why not explore activities that reignite the youthful spirit within you?
Aging Well Expo – June 19, 2024
The Volunteer Cowichan Aging Well Expo which will take place in the Cowichan Community Centre in Duncan on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. The Expo is open to the public with free admission. Whether you are an older adult, a young adult, a caregiver, or someone interested in learning more about the healthy aging resources available in the community, you are encouraged you to attend this exciting event. The Expo will feature 35+ vendors, offering information about health, financial, legal, and physical-care services and products available in the Cowichan Valley. It will also offer workshops and door prizes.
Avoid Denture DIY
Trying to adjust or repair your denture yourself can easily cause irreparable and permanent damage and negatively affect how they fit. If you break your denture, if a tooth falls out, if you notice they’re cracked, or if they’re simply uncomfortable and you’re feeling like they need an adjustment, a professional denturist can help. Denturists will ensure that any repairs are completed properly, eliminating any problems that could occur if you try to fix your dentures yourself. Most adjustments can be made while you wait, and today’s modern technology means that many repairs can be completed within an hour.
The Alchemy of Gathering Festival
Set amongst the majestic Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, this wellness and spirituality festival will focus on gathering in the community to share ideas on wellness, connection, creativity, healing modalities, and more. The Alchemy of Gathering offers an array of experiences to further and heighten the human journey. Set in the Sunset Gardens, attendees can expect over 40 exhibitors with products and services, six different interactive stations, and live music on stage throughout the event. In the barn, 10 wellness workshops will be presented on both days. Also, experience the Ocean Labyrinth, food trucks, and 24 acres of woodlands to wander through.
Make Self-Care a Priority
Stress is a natural part of everyday life. But are you aware that stress is among the number one causes of all kinds of health concerns, including sleep deprivation, changes in appetite, illness, anxiety, and depression? One of the greatest ways to combat these stress symptoms is to implement a self-care plan that is done regularly in your life. Self-care strategies include doing activities that you enjoy regularly. Like when a flight attendant does the safety brief and asks you to put on your oxygen mask first before helping others, it is important to ensure your health and wellness are a priority.
What is the EESystem?
The EESystem is a groundbreaking technology that is revolutionizing the field of energy healing. Combining science, innovation, and ancient wisdom, this cutting-edge system taps into the body’s energy field to promote healing, balance, and overall well-being. The technology is based on the understanding that everything in the universe is made up of energy. By harnessing this energy, the EESystem can support the body’s natural healing processes, supporting physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. It works on a cellular level, promoting deep regeneration throughout the body. Contact us to book your first session at half the price of a regular session!
Pre-Planning Services
Pre-planning for a loved one’s burial is crucial to honor their final wishes and ease the stress of decision-making during grief. By planning ahead, personalization becomes possible that reflect their preferences. Moreover, pre-planning relieves the burden on family members, especially those far away or occupied with other commitments, by handling financial and logistical responsibilities. It also ensures completion of legal formalities without delays. Additionally, pre-planning allows time for research, enabling informed decisions. Lastly, it offers emotional support to loved ones by sharing final wishes and providing reassurance. Our pre-planning services aim to make the process stress-free and provide a peaceful resting place.
Support for Seniors
Many local seniors are struggling to afford necessities like food and medication, and others are unable to pay their bills or afford the upkeep of their homes. SOS Seniors’ programs are working to ensure seniors can age in place, overcome financial emergencies, and stay connected with others. Get in touch with us if you know a senior who could use our assistance. Support these programs with a donation to the SOS Impact Campaign. Financial donations are gratefully accepted online, by phone, or in person. Thank you!
The Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan starts on May 1, 2024. Everyone who qualifies could have at least some coverage. You should have received a letter from the government and/or an ID card from Sun Life. Sun Life administers the program for the federal government, and they have set out coverage percentages and fees. The fees set out are not based on the Denturists Fee Guide and may not reflect the actual cost or percentages covered. Please visit our website for more details and to book a free consultation so that we can begin the required preauthorization and additional paperwork.
