Seniors generally wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning, have a harder time falling asleep, and spend less time in deep, dreamless sleep. Some measures to help you sleep better include: 1) Eat a light bedtime snack. 2) Avoid caffeine for at least 3 or 4 hours before bed. 3) Avoid napping during the day. 4) Exercise regularly, but not within 3 hours of bedtime. 5) Practice relaxation techniques at bedtime. 6) Don’t watch TV or use devices while in bed. 7) Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
Community News
Searching for Your Retirement Haven?
Today’s active seniors are looking to get the most out of their retirement. When weighing the options for senior living, consider how much the senior living industry has grown in the last five years. Independent living has become a retirement haven for seniors who want flexibility and peace of mind. It is designed for the independent senior with an active lifestyle who wants to simplify their worries of home maintenance, commuting, safety, social isolation, and health. Senior living in an independent living community is designed to streamline your life to give you the time to do the things you want to do.
Dementia Support Groups
Being diagnosed with dementia raises uncertainty, fears and unknowns. The Alzheimer Society is a place to turn for a community of services, support and experts that can help ease some of these concerns.
One way to feel connected is through our support groups for both for people living with dementia and for their care partners. It’s a great way to connect, interact with and learn from others in a safe environment. With our wide variety of groups, offered virtually and in-person, you can share, laugh and help others who are on similar journeys as you.
Learn more about our support groups at Alzheimer.mb.ca.
Healthy Living, Pest-Free Homes
Protect your family’s health by promptly addressing pests in your home. Unwanted invaders like rodents and insects can spread diseases and trigger allergies. If you notice signs of infestation such as droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual odors, don’t hesitate to call a professional exterminator. DIY solutions may provide temporary relief, but a licensed expert can identify the root cause and implement effective, long-term solutions. Regular pest inspections and preventive measures, like sealing cracks and storing food properly, can further safeguard your home. Timely intervention by a qualified exterminator ensures a healthy, pest-free environment for your loved ones.
Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet
When combined with other healthy habits, eating a heart-healthy diet can help you control blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy weight, and lower cholesterol. Focus on eating fewer trans fats (fried foods), saturated fats (processed foods), high-fat meats, processed meats and cheeses, and anything high in sugar or sodium. Eat more colourful veggies and fruits; high-quality proteins (such as poultry and fatty fish); healthy fats (such as avocados, olive oil, flax seeds, raw nuts, and fish oils); high-fibre pastas, breads, or cereals made from legumes or whole grains; eggs; and dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa).
Brain Teaser Answers
1. Footsteps. 2. A Ton. 3. Your Future
How Is Your Cardiovascular Health?
Did you know that you can have cardiovascular disease without experiencing any symptoms? Many people are not diagnosed until the condition worsens to the point where they have angina, stroke, or heart failure: that’s why it is important to start taking steps towards a healthy heart and arteries today. A good screening test for early signs of disease is Digital Pulsewave Analysis (DPA). This Health Canada-approved, non-invasive method will show you how your cardiovascular system is working. This information can then be used to devise a specific program to improve your cardiovascular health before symptoms occur. Remember, what you don’t know CAN hurt you!
Blooms for Self-Love
Embrace the beauty of self-love beyond Valentine’s Day by indulging in roses throughout the year. Beyond being a symbol of romance, roses offer a daily dose of joy and self-appreciation. Treat yourself to vibrant blooms that uplift spirits and add elegance to your space. Whether it’s a single stem or a lavish bouquet, the enchanting fragrance and lush colors can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Celebrate your own presence and resilience with a gesture that echoes love. Throughout the seasons, let the timeless allure of roses be a reminder to cherish and pamper yourself, making every day special.
Relocation Stress Syndrome
While remaining at home is possible for some seniors, many others may need to move to Independent Living with Services to get the best care possible. Since moving is a major life stressor, some seniors may experience relocation stress syndrome, with symptoms like confusion, loneliness, and anxiety. To help make the transition to assisted living as smooth as possible, it’s important to: 1) avoid rushing the process; 2) focus on their well-being; 3) make their new home look familiar with personal belongings; 4) help them get involved in their new community; and 5) ensure they have frequent visitors.
Clean Eating Recipe
Easy Red Lentil Soup. Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil. 2 carrots. 1 onion. 3 cloves garlic. 2 tsp each ground cumin & turmeric. 1/2 tsp each salt & pepper. 1/4 tsp cayenne. 1 pkg. 900 ml. vegetable broth. 1 cup dried red lentils. 1/4 cup chopped parsley. 3 tbsp. lemon juice. Directions: Heat oil in large saucepan. Cook carrots, onion, and garlic until starting to soften, 3 to 5 min. Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook 1 min. until fragrant. Stir in broth and lentils; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook 25 min. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice.
February is Heart Month
Did you know that 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable through healthy lifestyle and diet. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, you can delay the onset of heart disease or stroke by as much as 14 years! You can further reduce your risk by considering these heart-healthy steps: • Be physically active • Control your blood pressure • Keep your blood cholesterol levels in check • Eat a healthy diet and look for healthy ways to reduce your stress. Talk to your professional CAREGiver™ to discuss how they can help you to make some positive changes in your life.
