Community News
Senior Information Session – April 30, 2025

The Victoria Seniors Business Network (VSBN) is hosting a free session titled “Navigating Community-Based Resources for Seniors.” This event will occur on April 30th at St. Patrick’s Parish, located at 2060 Haultain Street in Victoria. The session will feature speakers including Chelsea Wozniak, Executive Director of Luther Court Community Health Centre; Carol Turnbull, Executive Director of Saanich Volunteers; and Anna MacKay, Outreach Services Coordinator for Oak Bay Volunteers. For more information, please call (778) 200-3387. You can register for the session on the website. 

Prepare for an Emergency

Being prepared in advance can reduce stress and increase the safety of seniors during a tsunami event. By taking the necessary steps to prepare an emergency kit, plan evacuation routes, and understand local resources, seniors, caregivers, and families can be ready for any emergency. Local Resources for Support include: *Victoria Emergency Management Agency: Offers workshops and updates on tsunami preparedness. *BC211: A community resource line that can help seniors access emergency services and support. *Seniors Services Society: Provides support and information for seniors in need of assistance with emergency preparedness. *The City of Victoria’s emergency planning website or contact local community organizations.

Seasonal Allergies and Dentures

If you wear dentures and suffer from seasonal allergies, it can be tricky to manage allergies. Allergies can cause sinus discomfort, which might affect how your dentures feel. To stay comfortable, clean your dentures often to remove allergens like pollen and dust. If you’re using allergy medication, check if it affects your oral health. Avoid smoking, as it can make both allergies and dentures harder to deal with. Also, since allergies can cause dry mouth, drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and help your dentures fit better.

Route65.ca – Seniors Living & Care Directory

Are you or a loved one looking for senior living or home care options? With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. Route65.ca is your trusted guide. Developed by the BC Care Providers Association, Route65.ca is a free resource designed to help the public navigate BC’s seniors living, wellness, and care continuum. The platform features a provincial directory of reputable retirement living, assisted living, long-term care, and home care options, along with wayfinding tools and educational resources to support system navigation and accessing services. Visit Route65.ca today to start your search. Need assistance? Call us toll-free at 1-877-955-6565 or by email at [email protected].

Plan for Your Retirement and Your Funeral

Did you know that even if you don’t require a funeral service, you will need the services of a funeral director? Planning your funeral package ahead of time is a smart financial move. It can be as low as $30.00 monthly with no money down. Pre-paying freezes costs at today’s rates, shielding you from inflation. Pre-planning lets you invest in peace of mind: your wishes are locked in, and your loved ones won’t face last-minute expenses. If tragedy strikes while making payments, your funeral package is fully insured. Contact us today to explore options that fit any budget.

Is it Time to Downsize?

There comes a point when many of us have to move to a smaller home, but it doesn’t have to be sad or stressful. When downsizing, ask yourself if a possession brings you joy; if yes, keep it. If it is great Aunt Bertha’s lamp that you kept because you felt an obligation to do so, give it away to a relative or a thrift shop. When deciding what to give away or keep, it is helpful to have an objective third party help with the decision process. Services are available to guide you and make the process easy and enjoyable.

Counselling for a Heathier Tomorrow

At CFS, We offer therapeutic counselling services to families, couples, individuals and children. We also offer life improvement programs. Fees for counselling are based on ability to pay – no one is turned away because they cannot afford to pay. Counselling is available to all regardless of their race, religion or age.

We also offer single-session-format Rapid Access Counselling in partnership with Family Service Saskatchewan so that no one has to wait to see a mental health counselor. The service is for everyone and offers a conversation with a professional counsellor that could help you identify solutions, and build on your existing strengths.

For upcoming programs and to see all that CFS offers, check our website at [email protected]

The Power of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Beneath our carpets lies an unseen realm teeming with dust mites, allergens, and bacteria that imperil our well-being. To safeguard our health, professional carpet cleaning is vital. These experts possess the tools and know-how to eliminate deep-seated impurities, surpassing regular vacuuming. By eradicating visible stains and invisible threats, they protect us from respiratory issues, allergies, and infections. Investing in this professional service ensures a clean and hygienic home, promoting a healthier environment for our loved ones. Let us prioritize professional carpet cleaning as an essential step in maintaining our well-being and upholding a pristine living space.

Health Benefits of Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds offer numerous health benefits; improved sleep quality by alleviating discomfort and reducing snoring; alleviate acid reflux by elevating the upper body; ease back pain by supporting the spine’s natural curvature; and aid respiratory issues by opening airways. Raising the legs also enhances circulation and reduces swelling, while adjusting the bed’s height aids mobility. These beds are beneficial for recovery from surgery or injury and provide customized support. However, consulting a healthcare professional before purchase is advisable, especially for individuals with specific medical concerns

Managing “Spring Fever”

“Spring fever” is a term used to describe a feeling of restlessness, excitement, or increased energy that some people experience as Winter transitions into Spring. However not always the case for everyone, for some, it may cause severe anxiety and increased mental health issues that may be exacerbated by seasonal changes or increased social activities. If someone is experiencing distress or impairment due to changes in mood or behavior during the spring season, it’s essential for them to seek professional help. Treatment centers can provide a range of services, support groups, and holistic approaches to address these concerns and promote overall well-being.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Preheat oven to 350°F. 1 Cup; Greek Yogurt; 1 Cup; Cottage cheese; ½ cup ranch dressing (or powder Ranch), ½ cup Buffalo sauce, ½ tsp each garlic and onion powder (optional). Stir in 2 cups shredded chicken and ½ cup shredded cheese. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with green onions (optional). Serve with tortilla chips, celery, or crackers. Enjoy!