Community News
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Comox Senior’s Centre

Come and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the Comox Seniors’ Centre at 1801 Beaufort Ave in Comox. Enjoy a coffee and meal at Dei’s Cafe with friends or meet new acquaintances. Check out the library for a good book, DVD or puzzle. Check out our Gift Shop. Become a member and participate in the many activities available.
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Comox Valley Elder College

It’s Fall and that’s the start of Elder College in the Comox Valley. The mission of Elder College is enhancing the quality of life in older adults in our community by offering affordable opportunities for continued learning.

Check out the Fall program schedule that includes on-campus, online (digital) and off-site courses. https://www.nic.bc.ca/continuing-education/eldercollege/

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Comox Valley Recreation

Fall is a great time to sign up for a program at your local community centers – Cumberland, Wing 19, CVRD, Courtenay and Comox. The fall programs range from swimming, pickleball, archery, dance classes, Zumba and more.

Check out the guide: https://www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/registration/recreation-guide

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Cumberland 50+ Drop In

The Cumberland Drop-In Social Club, in Buchanan Hall, is a volunteer-led initiative that welcomes mature adults (50+) of all abilities to play games, pursue favourite leisure pastimes and enjoy the company of friends and neighbours. Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am to 12pm. $3 drop-in fee, or free with a Cumberland Recreation membership
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Coach Travel Excursions

Square 1 Travel is offering two great coach trips from Comox Valley. The Tulalip Resort Halloween Getaway from October 29th includes 3 nights at this luxurious resort where you can try your luck at the casino. The Christmas Magic in Leavenworth trip from December 1st features 3 nights in this charming Bavarian town, complete with a walking tour, sleigh ride, Aplets & Cotlets Candy factory tour, and a visit to Apple Annie’s Antique Market with over 70,000 square feet of treasures. Diane Todd | Square 1 Travel & Cruise | Square1travel.com

Healthy Teeth, Happy Hearts

September brings International Week of Happiness at Work and National Seniors Day, a perfect time to focus on the dental health of our beloved seniors. A bright, healthy smile can significantly enhance their well-being and happiness. Encourage regular dental check-ups and the use of fluoride toothpaste to prevent common dental issues. Staying hydrated and choosing nutritious foods also play a vital role in maintaining oral health. This month, let’s celebrate our seniors by ensuring they keep their smiles healthy and vibrant, spreading joy and positivity wherever they go.

Summer Days of Recognition

The long summer days are winding down, students have or will soon be headed back to school, and the leaves are soon going to start to change colour as we welcome September. A month that starts and ends with important days of recognition! Labour Day on September 2nd is a Federal Statutory Holiday which officially celebrates workers and the labour union movement.

September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which honours the children who never returned home from, as well as the survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities.

At the Golden Circle we acknowledge the Indigenous traditional territories represented by Treaty 6 and 7 as the land the Golden Circle is situated on and pay tribute to the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries. A goal of the Golden Circle is to respect and work together with Indigenous and Métis peoples in building a welcoming and inclusive community.

Wigs for Cancer Patients

Hair loss due to chemotherapy is a common and distressing side effect for many cancer patients. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, leading to temporary hair loss. This can affect not only the scalp but also eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. Wigs offer a way to regain a sense of normalcy and confidence during this challenging time. Many options are available, from synthetic to human hair wigs, designed to mimic natural hair. Some organizations even provide free wigs to those in need. Choosing a wig can be a personal and empowering experience, helping patients feel more like themselves during treatment.

The Grand Parade is Coming!

Will you walk with us on September 21st? You may recall reading about it in the August edition of the Wellness News, so you already know that we are participating in The Grand Parade (TGP) this year. For those of you who don’t know what TGP is, it is a family-friendly fundraising walk for local charities who support seniors and their families. It’s the only walk that’s uphill, both ways! Plus – once the walk is done, fundraising event that ends in a walk, a lunch and some musical entertainment! If you participated in our walk in 2022, you’ll know that TGP is so much fun – truly a celebration of seniors with every single step. You can find our event page online at https://thegrandparade.org/location/reddeerdowntown (If you Google “The Grand Parade + Red Deer Downtown” that’ll get you there, also!) I know that the thought of a walk can be intimidating, given that some of us are less mobile than others, but the good news is, TGP is a very inclusive event! You can walk, wheel, roll, or sit and cheer! The walk isn’t even the important part, though, it’s the fundraising because all of the funds raised will go towards supporting the important work the Golden Circle does!

TGP will not be a success without your support, community! We need walkers, donors, and volunteers too. As a peer-to-peer fundraiser, the way it works is that Team Captains recruit walkers to their teams then solicit donations and we are hoping that there are some of you out there who will join our efforts and be Team Captains!

The Grand Parade makes participation easy. You register online, invite others to join in through the website and begin raising money together for this important cause. On September 21, Captains make sure their teammates check-in, stick together, and of course, have tons of fun.
For over 45 years, the Golden Circle has been redefining what it means to embrace the golden years with joy, purpose, and a whole lot of heart and we would love to have you join us in supporting our efforts.
Will you join us? You can register at https://thegrandparade.org/register
We hope to see you online and here at the Golden Circle on Saturday, September 21!

Workplace Wellness with Flowers

Brightening your office with fresh flowers each week isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a boost for mental well-being too. Studies show that being around flowers can reduce stress, enhance mood, and increase productivity. The vibrant colors and natural beauty bring a sense of calm and happiness to your workspace, fostering creativity and positivity. Flowers also improve air quality, making your environment healthier. Whether you’re aiming to create a more welcoming atmosphere or simply want to lift spirits, ordering weekly flowers is a small yet impactful way to promote mental wellness and joy in the workplace.

Boost Kids’ Gut Health

Support Your Child’s Health with MetaKids™ Probiotic. Nutrition is a top priority early in life, and children may not get the beneficial bacteria they need for good gut health from diet alone. MetaKids™ Probiotic offers a simple solution. As Noelle shares, “These made a HUGE difference for our 6-year-old within a week. No complaints of tummy aches, difficulty with bowel movements, or congestion.” This vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO product supports a healthy intestinal environment. Beat the back-to-school rush with 20% off MetaKids™ Probiotic. Regular immunity and gut maintenance mean fewer sick days and a healthier school year ahead. 

September Events for Seniors at RDPL

NEW! 55+ Social Club (Sept. 30)
Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m.)
Collicutt Walk & Talk (every Thursday at 11:30 a.m.)
First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month)
Travel Memories (first Wednesday of each month)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (Sept. 3 & 17)
Money Matters: Food & Finance (online event, Sept. 10)
Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (Sept. 14)
Sip n’ Stitch (Sept. 19)
Readers’ Theatre (Sept. 19)
Lindy Hop Story Dance Workshop (Sept. 21)
Local Author Fair (Sept. 22)
Books Clubs (various dates & times, see rdpl.org/bookclubs)
Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign: Commemorative Quilt Reception (Oct. 5)

Disability Tax Credit for Arthritis

During Arthritis Awareness Month, it’s essential to recognize the challenges that those with arthritis face, particularly in walking and dressing. These daily activities can become daunting tasks due to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Fortunately, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is available to help alleviate some of the financial burden. As a DTC specialist, I assist individuals in navigating the complex application process, ensuring they receive the support they deserve. This tax credit can make a significant difference, offering financial relief that can be used toward medical treatments, mobility aids, and adaptive clothing.

What is Sell n’ STAY®?

Sell ‘n STAY® is an exciting solution that provides additional, previously un-thought of housing options for seniors. Safe, simple, and private, it is an option for homeowners who want to unlock the equity in their home to fund a better life, all without having to move out of their home. Through the Sell ‘n STAY® program, seniors sell their home to an investor buyer. The senior then enters into a lease agreement with the new owner. Although created with seniors in mind, Sell ‘n STAY® is a valuable option for a variety of circumstances, for homeowners of all ages.