“You should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day – unless you’re too busy; then you should sit and meditate for an hour.” Zen Proverb
Community News
Words to Live By
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” -John Wooden
Practice Makes Perfect
When adjusting to new dentures you may notice minor differences in your speech. Lisping or whistling is not unusual. It may take a week or two to adjust, but natural speech will return with practice. Speaking in front of a mirror and reading aloud are excellent exercises to speed up progress. Swallowing before speaking will help to secure the denture in place. Staying hydrated is important as you may experience a dry mouth, which can inhibit proper suction and your denture may drop when speaking. If the problem is chronic, your denturist may be able to make other recommendations.
Mind Exercises for Seniors
It’s important for people of all ages to keep their brains healthy with regular workouts, but especially so for seniors. Here are five ways you can keep your mind sharp as you age: 1) Play a game. Try a sudoku, crossword, or jigsaw puzzle, or play a game of cards with friends. 2) Get moving. Regular exercise increases blood flow to your brain and increases neurons. 3) Listen to or play music. Science shows that music is a great brain booster. 4) Eat right. A healthy diet is crucial for cognitive health. 5) Learn something new. Keep your mind engaged!
Benefits of Gratitude
Gratitude can help you feel better in so many ways. Science shows that gratitude helps you to feel happier, more peaceful and more serene. An ancient Jewish practice is to thank God one hundred times a day. Try it and see how it changes the way you feel about yourself and your life. Make sure you feel the feeling of gratitude says psychiatrist David Hawkins who understood the frequency of emotions. Gratitude will help raise your emotional frequency. The higher frequency emotions include gratitude, love, peace and joy. Like playing an instrument, progress is made with dedicated, consistent practice.
Disability Tax Credit for Type 1 Diabetes
The Disability Tax Credit is a program designed to help those with disabilities or their caregivers reduce the amount of income tax they pay, offsetting some of the significant medical and treatment expenses. What diabetes-related activities are covered? According to CRA, the following activities qualify in the 14-hour-per-week calculation: • Checking blood glucose levels • Preparing and administering the insulin • Calibrating necessary equipment • Testing ketones • Keeping a log book of blood glucose levels With children, the 14-hour-per-week eligibility criteria can usually be met by combining the parent and child’s time. T1D is an expensive disease and the disability tax credit can provide some financial relief for those who qualify.
Community Spotlight: Ready Set Baby
Ready Set Baby Planners & Boutique will help you with everything from belly to baby and beyond. Ready Set Baby is owned and operated by local moms who want to help ease the decision-making for soon-to be parents, grandparents, and families. Ready Set Baby carries everything you are looking for, from diapers to feeding, toys and apparel. Are you a new mom, or expecting a bundle of joy? Sign up for classes – from childbirth, cloth diapering 101, breastfeeding and infant/childhood emergency classes, Ready Set Baby will help make the transition to parenthood much easier. They also offer equipment rentals! Rent strollers, highchairs, cars seats, playpens and more!
There’s No Place Like Home
Many seniors, whether they need short term or long-term care, prefer remaining in a place most familiar to them – their home. By removing elderly loved ones from their home we often take away years of memories, relationships with neighbors and communities which can lead to a decline in health and leave them feeling sad and isolated. If Mom or Dad is willing to explore the idea of home care, involve them in the process and remember to take it slow at first. Home is still the safest place to receive care!
The Mouth/Body Health Connection
Did you know that you cannot have good general health if you have poor oral health? Gum disease (periodontitis) is an infection of the gums that can have major impacts on your oral and overall health. The bacteria in your mouth can make its way into the bloodstream and begin to cause problems elsewhere in the body. Gum disease has been linked to lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and even to Alzheimer’s. Be sure to have regular checkups and brush your teeth and gums every day for a healthier mouth and body.
Healthy Low Sugar Summer Treats
Here are some healthier summer treat options! 1. Iced Coffee – 1-2 oz espresso or 4 oz coffee/hot chocolate cooled, few scoops vanilla coconut milk ice cream, pinch cinnamon, few ice cubes, almond milk to thin it out. 2. Fruity Popsicle – Blend watermelon with strawberries or raspberries and a splash of lemon or lime juice and freeze. 3. Creamsicle Smoothie – A few scoops frozen OJ and vanilla coconut milk ice cream, almond milk to thin it out. 4. Fudgesicles – 2 frozen bananas, 1/2-1 cup almond or cashew milk, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup.
Product Review: Norwex Reusable Masks
Norwex reusable personal facemasks are breathable and lightweight and have been tested and proven to filter 81% of .1 micron particles. They contain Baclock, an antibacterial agent embedded within the microfiber material that helps with self purification. Designed to be used in addition to other measures, including hand washing and social distancing , these washable personal use masks not only help reduce respiratory droplets from landing on surfaces they also help you avoid you touching your face in public.
