Hearing loss is one of several factors that can cause falls. Individuals who have even a mild degree of hearing loss are three times as likely to experience accidental falls. Studies have shown that wearing hearing aids improves balance compared to an individual who does not wear hearing aids but who has hearing loss. There are three major ideas for why hearing loss can affect our balance: 1) hearing loss causes less awareness of our environment, which means less awareness of people or activities around us; 2) hearing loss decreases spacial awareness, which makes it harder to know where you are compared to your surroundings; and 3) hearing loss uses more brain energy, which means there is less energy for balance.

Post-holiday, treatment centers become crucial as the holiday rush can lead to awareness of substance abuse issues that become exacerbated during the holidays, or perhaps someone who was lead astray from their treatment plan. As much as the holidays can be a time of loneliness for some, others it can bring realization of issues that are amplified during the holidays. Additionally, detoxification and treatment centers help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms after the holiday season and gain control with the proper guidance and support. At Valley Hill, “Every youth deserves a second opportunity”.

Recreational therapy is a health profession using activity-based interventions to enhance individuals’ well-being. Therapists assess needs, plan personalized interventions, and employ activities like sports and arts to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. The focus is on fostering inclusion, socialization, and skill development to improve overall quality of life. Applied in diverse settings, recreational therapy benefits individuals with conditions such as physical disabilities and mental health disorders. Ongoing evaluation ensures adjustments for personalized progress, making it an integral part of holistic healthcare. A focus on Residents abilities and well-being vs. focusing on disability, promotes life with meaning.

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people experiencing homelessness in your community. This fundraiser helps YWCA Prince Albert provide shelter, care, and holistic support to women and families experiencing homelessness to heal and find hope. CNOY 2024 takes place on February 24th, 2024 – drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 190 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them. Learn more + get involved at cnoy.org/princealbert

Did you know that the pomegranate has been a symbol of love and fertility as far back as ancient Greece? and they aren’t the only fruit with a story to tell.
Other berry meanings include raspberries (kindness) and strawberries (modesty, perfection, and “sweetness in life and character”).

Ingredients
1 ½ cup almond milk or coconut milk;
1 ripe banana;
½ cup frozen pomegranate seeds;
1 cup frozen berries;
Preparation
Add the almond milk, frozen fruits, and banana to your blender.
Blend until the smoothie reaches your desired consistency.
If it’s too thin, add more fruit; if it’s too thick, add more almond or coconut milk.