“Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back everything is different.” C.S. Lewis
Words to Live By
“We are not the survival of the fittest. We are the survival of the nurtured.” – Louis Cozolino
Who and When to Ask for Help
If you or a loved one are finding that a situation is affecting your physical or mental health, and making you feel less in control and more isolated, it may be time to ask for help. Forgetfulness can also be an indication that something is wrong, when it comes to things like missed appointments or missed medications. It can be hard to accept change, but asking for help is a sign of strength, not of weakness. Getting assistance can help make your or your loved one’s day easier, safer, and healthier. In-home care can be a great option!
Great Socks for Travel
Many of us have compression socks for travelling. On the day of travel, put them on when you get up; that is when your legs are less swollen. This allows your body to adapt to the socks. Make sure to leave them on for a few hours after you land to again allow your body to adapt. Wearing the socks for the extra time can reduce any swelling of the legs much more effectively than if they are taken straight off. Compression socks do not work unless you wear them. Voxxlife socks provide comfortable compression that clients love to wear.
Denture Adhesive; Friend or Foe?
While denture adhesives offer a temporary boost to denture stability, it’s essential to be mindful. Relying too heavily on adhesives might inadvertently hide underlying issues with your dentures. This may delay crucial dental check-ups and adjustments that your dentures need for optimal comfort. Improper adhesive application can lead to discomfort, affect the taste of the food that you eat, and present cleaning challenges that may impact oral hygiene. Remember, adhesives can’t replace regular denture check-ups. Keep those friendly appointments with your denturist to ensure you maintain your smile, stay comfortable, and that your mouth remains healthy for the long run.
Community Health Centres in Victoria
The Victoria Community Health Co-operative is currently offering Nursing services based on a Community Health Centre model. Services are available at no cost with a BC MSP card. We are located in Cook Street Village at #200-1075 Pendergast Street. Our nurses are able to assist you by providing a nursing assessment and recommendations. We provide navigation services to assist you to connect with other healthcare providers as required. In keeping with the principle of community well-being, we offer wellness sessions on a regular basis. Contact us or visit our website to find out more.
Fall Prevention Clinic: Feb 16, 2024
Please join Comfort Keepers for a free fall prevention clinic on February 16th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Victorian at McKenzie, 4000 Douglas Street. The clinic includes presentations from: Heather Fudge, a retired VIHA fall prevention specialist; Jeff Campbell, owner of Ears To You, a mobile hearing clinic; and Gina Martin, owner of DiverseAbilities, who coined the phrase “Having a disability does not change who you are. It changes your interaction with the world.”. The clinic also includes free hearing tests by Ears To You, a question and answer period, onsite tours, and refreshments from the kitchen at The Victorian at McKenzie.
Community Event – CNOY
Have you registered to walk in the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk? This family-friendly walk helps Our Place Society and the Pacific Centre Family Services Association run programs that provide shelter, care, and holistic support, empowering people to step forward to independence and hope. There is no registration fee to enter. Team up, walk and fundraise! If you raise $150, you will receive one of this year’s amazing toques. The event takes place on February 24th and features family-friendly 2 or 5 km walks. See the website for details on how you can get involved. Join tens of thousands of Canadians in over 180 communities who are participating to support their local community.
Sleep Changes & The Elderly
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.
Falls Can Be Serious
Falls are the cause of 85% of injury-related hospitalizations among Canadian seniors; between 20% and 30% of seniors fall each year. These result in $2 billion a year in direct healthcare costs. Over one-third of seniors are admitted to long-term care following hospitalization for a fall. (Seniors’ Falls in Canada, Phac-Aspc.gc.ca) As we age, the severity of falling is immense, and the outcome can be devastating. A broken bone for a senior can lead to many other health issues, long-term disability, and the possibility of losing independence. Comfort Keepers believes prevention is the best measure to stay safe, mobile, and continue your best life.
Sleep Changes & The Elderly
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.


