Many of us rely on skincare products to help us look our best. Unfortunately, many contain toxic ingredients that should not be put on our skin. These toxins can trigger or exacerbate an array of problems including allergies, hormone disruption and even act as irritants or carcinogens. Palm oil is a common ingredient in skincare products because it is inexpensive. Scientific studies have shown a link to dementia. Don’t be fooled by terms such as “natural”, “pure” or “hypo-allergenic”. Examine the ingredients and look for words that you can read and understand. Look for brands that are truly transparent.
Community News
Fall Prevention Tips
Falls in the home are all too common and making a few modifications in the home can prevent dangerous situations, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Visit each room in your home. Then look at the space objectively and ask: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a falls risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.
Happy 1st Anniversary Duncan Pharmacy
On August 1, 2020, Duncan Pharmacy celebrates their first anniversary. Neel and Rupal Tanna, the husband and wife pharmacist/owner team are very happy to be part of the Duncan community. They have spent the last year building relationships with their customers, neighbours and members of their community. As Remedy’s Rx pharmacists, they believe in investing in the best possible pharmacy care. Duncan Pharmacy offers free Blister Pack service, flu shots, travel vaccines, diabetes education, and free prescription delivery. They plan to continue their efforts to go above and beyond customers’ every expectation.
Protect and Nourish Your Skin
Summer has finally arrived! Here are some tips to keep your skin nourished and protected. *Wear a mineral-based, chemical-free sunscreen with at least SPF 15. *Drink extra water and eat hydrating foods. Green tea has a potent antioxidant boost that can help protect and recover from sun damage. *Vitamins C and E, selenium, and grape seed extract help to prevent and reverse sun damage and oxidative stress. *Apply aloe vera and lavender essential oil after sun exposure or sun burns. *Apple cider vinegar or cooler chamomile tea make a good compress to soothe and heal tender skin. Have a wonderful summer!
When a Loved One Has Dementia
Loving someone with dementia can be a challenging task, one that puts a lot of pressure on a caregiver. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind: *Be realistic when it comes to expectations for yourself and for your loved one. *Develop a routine. Those with dementia can struggle with confusion and frustration. Especially as the disease progresses, it is important to create a solid routine and schedule to provide some predictability and help keep some peace of mind. *Focus on nutrition. There is a strong connection between lifestyle choices such as diet and memory diseases.
What Defines Addiction?
Addiction is known to be a primary, chronic issue that occurs in the brain. It is a condition that causes a person to engage in behaviours or the use of a substance for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behaviour, despite detrimental resulting consequences. There is scientific evidence that the addictive substances and behaviours share a key neurobiological feature—they intensely activate brain pathways of reward and reinforcement, many of which involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some studies show that there are possible genetic factors, making some people more susceptible to addiction. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction and looking for help?
Monitor Headphones to Prevent Hearling Loss
According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion 12 to 35-year-olds, risk irreversible hearing loss from exposure to loud sounds such as music played on their smartphone. To prevent noise-induced hearing loss and related conditions such as tinnitus – commonly experienced as a ringing sound inside the ear – monitor how loud, and for how long, you listen to music. Sound is measured in units called decibels or dBA. Music through headphones at maximum volume measure 94-110 dBA. Sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Test your hearing today at NexGen Hearing!
Community Event – HUSTLE for Hospice!
Bike, swim, hike, dance, kayak, backyard game, garden tour or whatever your way through this community fundraiser for Nanaimo Community Hospice. Register online as an individual or as a team, pick up your registration package and complete your “Hustle for Hospice” activity before August 28. Be sure to follow all the current Provincial Health guidelines while doing your activity. Record your activity and post the image or videotape online. Prizes awarded for the most creative costume or “Hustle for Hospice” activity. Dare to be different! Join the virtual “Hustle for Hospice” Celebration on September 12th. Full information on our website.
Ozone Therapy Increases Oxygen Utilization
What makes us healthy and invulnerable to disease? Discover this for yourself right now. Hold your breath for 60 seconds. What happened? Clearly there is absolutely nothing as critical to our health as oxygen metabolism. Oxygen utilization is the single most important predictor of your risk for degenerative disease and premature aging. As we get older our cells become less able to efficiently use the oxygen we breathe, some as much as 50%! Ozone therapy activates the immune system, prevents free radical damage and helps the body detoxify, the ultimate preventative tool to stay healthy and happy into old age.
Loneliness and Isolation Can Affect Senior Health
For seniors, maintaining social connections and staying in touch with loved ones not only improves quality of life, it improves health. Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation. Socialization has been shown to slow Alzheimer’s and Dementia patient’s decline. Having care givers can help stem the existence of loneliness in the lives of our seniors. We enjoy conversations, daily walks, shopping, cooking and folding the laundry together. These can be moments of joy when done together in the right way. Comfort Keepers engage the human spirit.
Recognizing Caregiver Stress
The effects of the pandemic is felt by everyone; even more so by those caring for loved ones. Over 4.5 million Canadians play a role in caring for a family member and caregiver stress and burnout is a significant issue. Caregivers need to be honest about how much care they can realistically provide. While most caregivers want to be present 24/7, this is impossible while juggling other family and career responsibilities. Today’s caregivers deserve respect and gratitude. Whether motivated by love, duty or simply a selfless desire to help others, they play an invaluable role in the care of our senior population.
