Senior Support North Vancouver Island is looking for volunteers for all our programs. Would you like to visit with a lonely or isolated senior? Or assist someone with accessing services in the community? If so, please contact us to learn more about providing support in your community. We offer training monthly so there are minimal delays in getting started. Live in Campbell River? We have programs there too so you can volunteer close to home! Volunteers are provided with regular education sessions. Contact us today to get started! [email protected] or 250-871-5940.

Diabetes can significantly impact dental health, increasing the risk of gum disease, dry mouth, and infections. High blood sugar levels can lead to more bacteria in the mouth, which may cause plaque buildup and inflame the gums. Diabetics are more prone to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss if untreated. Dry mouth, another common issue in diabetes, can lead to sores, infections, and tooth decay. Practicing good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits—can help manage these risks. Keeping blood sugar levels stable is also crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

The Board of Directors and Staff of Senior Support North Vancouver Island wish everyone a calm and healthy 2025! Moving into a new year provides an opportunity for us to acknowledge the remarkable community that SSNVI works with.

Thank you to the Comox Valley community for its incredible support and entrusting CVSS to work with seniors who call the Valley home. We have been honored to serve Campbell River Seniors this year too and look forward to securing relationships in that community as well.

The ongoing relationships CVSS enjoys with LUSH Valley Food Action Society, Better at Home, Geriatric Support Services, Community Health Services, the Comox Valley Transition Society, United Way British Columbia, Home Instead, the Comox Valley Presbyterian Church, and so many more all hi-light the power of collaborative community efforts. We thank each of our social sector friends and supporters for their work and commitments as we move into 2025.

We could not do the work we do without the 140 volunteers who work with SSNVI, supporting 300 seniors per month in the Comox Valley and Campbell River. They willingly provide their skills, commitment, passion, and their time and we are very thankful for you!

To our community’s most fabulous residents, the hundreds of seniors we come across every year… Thank you for letting us assist you. We look forward to continuing to work with you in 2025.

Keep your eyes open for the North Island Seniors Resource Guide coming in early 2025. 10,000 copies of this spiral bound guide are being created in partnership between Senior Support North Vancouver Island Wellnessnews and will be available free of charge.

Trip #1: May 9-12. Blue Jays Vs. Mariners, Enjoy 3 nights in downtown Seattle, 3 baseball game tickets, all transportation via BC Ferries, and daily made-to-order breakfasts. Evening cocktail reception included.
Trip #2: APRIL 29 – MAY 5. 5-day Pacific Coastal Repositioning Cruise aboard the Caribbean Princess. Fully escorted from Comox Valley with flights to Los Angeles, a pre-cruise hotel stay, shuttle to the ship, and a mini tour of LA. Includes bus and ferry transportation from Vancouver to Comox, Courtenay, and Qualicum.

Diabetes can significantly impact dental health, increasing the risk of gum disease, dry mouth, and infections. High blood sugar levels can lead to more bacteria in the mouth, which may cause plaque buildup and inflame the gums. Diabetics are more prone to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss if untreated. Dry mouth, another common issue in diabetes, can lead to sores, infections, and tooth decay. Practicing good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits—can help manage these risks. Keeping blood sugar levels stable is also crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

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.

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.