Community News
Better at Home: Campbell River

Residents in Campbell River who are 65 years of age and older, and who meet the program’s objectives can access the Better at Home services within the program’s resource parameters. Becoming a Campbell River Better at Home client involves an initial meeting with our Better at Home Program staff to discuss the program, confirm eligibility, and complete registration forms. For more information or to contact Campbell River Batter at Home, call: 250-830-8709, or email: [email protected]

Springtime Activities for Seniors

As the winter frost melts away and flowers begin to bloom, springtime brings a renewed sense of life and energy. This means an opportunity to engage in various activities that promote physical, mental, and social well-being. From gardening to outdoor walks, here are some springtime activities specifically tailored for seniors.

Gardening is an excellent way for seniors to reconnect with nature and stay active. Whether they have a small balcony or a spacious yard, gardening provides numerous benefits for seniors. Engaging in this activity can improve physical health by promoting movement, strength, and flexibility. It also allows seniors to be mentally stimulated and fosters a sense of purpose as they watch their plants grow.

Outdoor walks are a great way for seniors to enjoy the mild spring weather and stay physically active. A leisurely stroll through a park or nature trail not only improves cardiovascular health but also offers an opportunity for mental relaxation and a change of scenery. Being outdoors allows seniors to soak up some vitamin D from the sun, which can boost mood and strengthen bones. Moreover, walking with a group of friends or family members can enhance social interaction and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Another enjoyable springtime activity is birdwatching. With the arrival of spring, birds return from their winter migration and fill the air with their delightful songs. Setting up a bird feeder or installing a birdhouse in their backyard can invite various species and provide seniors with a relaxing and entertaining pastime. Birdwatching promotes mindfulness as seniors observe the different behaviors and colors of these fascinating creatures. Seniors can even join local birdwatching clubs or participate in bird counting events organized by conservation organizations, which not only enhance their knowledge of avian life but also offer a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.

For those with a creative streak, springtime crafts are a wonderful way to express artistic talents and engage in an enjoyable activity. Painting, pottery, and flower arrangements are just a few examples of crafts seniors can pursue during this season. These activities can provide a sense of accomplishment, enhance cognitive skills, and boost confidence. Participating in community art shows or sharing their creations with family and friends can also foster a sense of connection and pride.

Springtime also offers seniors the opportunity to volunteer in their community. Many organizations and non-profits rely on the help of volunteers to carry out their initiatives. Whether it be assisting in community gardens, participating in park clean-ups, or offering their skills and knowledge in workshops or mentorship programs, seniors can make a meaningful contribution to their community while staying active and engaged.

Oral Health Concerns

National Oral Health Month serves as a crucial reminder to assess your dental well-being. Aging introduces heightened dental challenges, encompassing issues like missing teeth, gum diseases, root decay, and dry mouth induced by medications. Older adults confront increased risks, as poor oral health correlates with cardiovascular problems, strokes, diabetic control issues, and respiratory infections. Establishing healthy habits—such as reducing sugar intake, regular brushing, flossing, and consistent dental check-ups—proves pivotal. It’s imperative to prioritize oral health as an integral part of your routine for overall holistic well-being.

Balance your Body’s Hormones

The endocrine system of the body contains many glands. These include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive glands. All the endocrine glands produce hormones that direct the metabolic functions of the body. We absorb stress from the world into our endocrine system. This stress can create a hormone imbalance that can sometimes mimic a nervous breakdown and contribute to chronic fatigue. An endocrine massage helps cleanse the endocrine system and balance the body’s hormones using Young Living essential oils and crystals. It helps to realign the energy centres of the body. Book your massage today!

Live a Good Life

Here is some advice on how to live a good life. *Concentrate on what you can do rather than on what you can’t do. *Ask for the senior’s discount. It is always great to save money. *Stay in touch with friends and family. Never complain that they don’t come to see you or call you often enough. *Keep learning. It will help your brain stay healthy. *Let go of that grudge. It only hurts you. *Make your life bigger than your aches and pains. *Appreciate the little things in life and laugh as often as possible.

Search for Meaning

Depression and anxiety are experiences for many individuals. These conditions can create challenges that feel overwhelming and insurmountable at times. One way to approach this is through existential approaches to counselling. In Victor Frankl’s book Man’s Search for Meaning, he writes how we can fill our lives with meaning by incorporating three main pillars: 1) the freedom to will—choosing your own path to follow; 2) the will to meaning—finding what is personally meaningful; and 3) the meaning to life—one’s personal meaning brought forward by the work or deed and their connection to others.

Make Social Interaction a Priority

Maintaining relationships and spending time with others is essential to our emotional and mental well-being. It can help prevent depression which affects 20 percent of the population over 70 years of age. Socializing also keeps the mind active and improvements are greater when the person is involved in fun interests with other people. Plan regular get-togethers with friends, such as a weekly lunch date or coffee with another senior or loved one. Scheduling social interactions give us something to look forward to on a regular basis. For those who are truly adventurous you can enjoy new experiences and meet new people by signing up for travel tours, book clubs, and much more at your local community centre.

Medication Safety Week

April 1–7, 2024, is Medication Safety Week. It promotes safe and responsible medication use and is a reminder to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prescribed medications. Following directions carefully can lower your risk of serious side effects and potential dangers such as interactions with other drugs or incorrect dosages. It is important to take the correct dosage at the right intervals and to finish the medication that is prescribed. Using a blister pack, available from your pharmacy, can help keep medications organized and ensure that they are taken on the correct day and time.

Theatre: All In the Timing

This production consists of witty, absurd, and funny sketches written by David Ives. Each story is engaging and intelligent. Using small bites of pure humanity, Ives is a master at recognizing our foibles and presenting them on a silver platter for our pleasure. From construction workers perched on a skyscraper in Mere Mortals to a laboratory with precocious primates in Words, Words, Words, All in the Timing takes the audience on a multi-levelled dive into humour and intellect. Adult language is to be expected in one or two of the sketches because Ives writes as we speak, with frustration, kindness, curiosity, and joy.

World Immunization Week

This month, we shine a light on the importance of immunizations during World Immunization Week (April 22–30). Did you know that you can get immunized or vaccinated at any age? Even though most immunizations are given in childhood, you always have the option to catch up on any immunizations you may have missed! Immunizations and vaccines provide the longest-lasting protection against diseases. Just make sure you speak to your doctor first to ensure you’re a good candidate for a particular vaccine. It’s really important for everyone’s health!

Your Personal Pharmacist

Do you have a personal pharmacist on your wellness team? A personal pharmacist pays close attention to your needs and provides personalized care. Whether it’s managing your diabetes, heart health, or another chronic condition, they are invested in your health. Your personal pharmacist can help make sure your medication is the right fit and introduce you to tools that make day-to-day medication management easier. With the expanded role of pharmacists, they can assess and prescribe medication for certain minor conditions that do not require a doctor’s visit. When you have a minor condition, book an appointment with your pharmacist for a free assessment.