Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people in our communities who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. This fundraiser helps Our Place Society and the Pacific Centre Family Services Association run programs that provide shelter, care, and holistic support, empowering people to step forward to independence and hope. CNOY 2025 takes place on February 22nd, 2025, drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 200 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them.
Community News
New Year: New Possibilities
With the return of buyers to our market, thanks to interest rate changes, 2025 could be your year to make a move. If you’ve lived in your home for a long time, a plan of action would be helpful in your decision-making process. This could include downsizing, house preparation, advice from specialists such as lawyers and financial advisors, and, most importantly, determining where to move! Seemingly daunting, we’ve helped hundreds of people in your position. We’d be happy to chat about your real estate needs.
Smoking Cessation Action Plan
Did you make a New Year’s resolution to stop smoking? Your pharmacist can provide advice and guide you through this journey. Here’s an action plan: *Choose a starting point—pick a date, tell your friends and family, and ask them for support. *Meet your pharmacist to help determine how dependent you are on nicotine. *Follow a personalized treatment plan; your pharmacist can prescribe a tailored solution, including nicotine replacement products. *Reward yourself when you’re progressing. Many benefits of a smoke-free life can be felt in the long term, and some benefits are almost instant, so keep on going!
Exercise & Alzheimer’s
Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.
Are You Getting Enough Sleep?
The Mayo Clinic recommends 7 or more hours of sleep per night for adults. Sleep is very important for everyone, including seniors. Not getting enough sleep contributes to a higher risk of many health issues, including *depression and anxiety, *dementia, *obesity, *cardiovascular disease, and *stroke in older adults. Sleep is as important for good health as diet and exercise. Good sleep improves our brain performance, mood, and health. During sleep, our bodies are working to support healthy brain function. Sleep is a time of healing, rest, and recovery; it touches every aspect of health.
Making a Difference Together
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Refire Kitchen for their incredible partnership in this year’s Be a Santa to a Senior program. Thanks to their generosity, nearly 200 local seniors received a hot meal this holiday season, bringing warmth and joy to our community. Visit Refired Kitchen at 100 Aldersmith Place in Esquimalt, or at 843 Fort Street in downtown Victoria. To learn more about their delicious offerings and community initiatives, visit their website at refirekitchen.ca. Together, we’re making a difference for those who need it most!
Community Profile: The Empowered Estate
Confident Planning, Lasting Impact! Planning for the future is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. The Empowered Estate offers a comprehensive way to organize essential documents, personal wishes, and legacy in one place. What makes us unique? Through interactive workshops and monthly ‘accountability parties,’ we ensure your binder gets completed while making the process enjoyable! Shelley Essery brings 20+ years as a legal administrator, combined with a heart-centred approach. Karla Kerr, a licensed funeral director, helps families document wishes and have meaningful conversations. Ready to get started? Join our next workshop today!
Dentures to Improve You Oral Health
Start 2025 with a new smile! If you’re considering dentures, now is the perfect time to improve your oral health. Modern dentures offer better comfort, a natural look, and enhanced fit, helping you feel more confident every day. Whether you need full or partial dentures, personalized solutions designed for long-lasting comfort and improved functionality are available. Ready to take the next step? Visit us today at Oak Bay Denture Clinic to explore your options and get the perfect dentures tailored to your needs. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile this year!
Neck and Shoulder Pain: A Common Affliction
Neck and shoulder pain affects millions of people worldwide, ranging from dull aches to sharp, mobility-limiting sensations. Common causes include poor posture, repetitive motions, stress, and injuries. Sufferers often experience tension headaches, reduced range of motion, and numbness in the arms. The pain can be debilitating, decreasing productivity and quality of life. While painkillers may offer temporary relief, many seek long-term solutions. Therapies like acupuncture and cupping address root causes, offering more comprehensive relief. These techniques may provide lasting results for those struggling with persistent neck and shoulder discomfort. Don’t let neck and shoulder pain control your life. Call today.
Profile: James Bay New Horizons Society
We provide accessible programs, services, and volunteer opportunities to our members and residents in general. Our goal is to help people maintain, improve, and develop new skills, interests, and social opportunities, and to enhance the quality of life of our members and visitors. Membership benefits include: *Participate in all programs, services, and special events, including games, painting, movies, music, fitness, and many more. *Borrow books, CDs, and movies at no cost. *Opportunity to become involved with volunteer work. *Meet new friends and more. Contact us today for more information!
Dentures and Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a condition that involves the salivary glands not producing enough saliva to adequately keep the mouth moistened. This lack of saliva can alter the fit and comfort of dentures, since saliva helps dentures retain their suction and stay in place and also has a lubricating effect that keeps dentures from rubbing on the gums and creating sores. Those who take certain medications, are older, use tobacco and alcohol, or snore while they sleep, are more susceptible to dry mouth. If you’re experiencing dry mouth symptoms as a denture-wearer, contact your denturist to discuss your options.
