This Christmas, consider giving the gift of safety, comfort, and independence with an accessible bathtub or shower conversion. Total Tub, a Manitoba-based company, specializes in high-quality Canadian-made bathroom accessibility solutions, including Quick Tub® shower conversions, grab bars, railings, and wall-mounted benches. These upgrades promote independent living and help reduce the risk of slips and falls as 80% of which occur in the bathroom. As licensed installers and authorized dealers, Total Tub provides OBC/AODA-compliant products for both homes and businesses. Locally owned and operated, they’re small enough to listen, big enough to deliver – making accessibility the perfect gift that truly lasts.
Community News
You’re Not Alone This Holiday Season
While many of us look forward to spending quality time with family and friends during the holidays, it can also be an overwhelming time – especially for people living with dementia and their care partners.
This holiday season, the Alzheimer Society wants to remind you that you are not alone. If you need guidance, reassurance or a listening ear, the Society is here for you and can help you navigate any challenges you’re facing.
Connect anytime by emailing [email protected] or calling 204-943-6622 or 1-800-378-6699. For more helpful information, visit alzheimer.mb.ca.
Managing Dry Skin & Eczema
Cold weather and low humidity can strip the skin of its natural moisture, often worsening dryness and eczema. To protect the skin barrier, use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and apply a rich moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in hydration. Avoid long, hot showers, which can further dry out the skin. Using a humidifier indoors helps maintain moisture in the air, preventing irritation and flaking. For eczema flare-ups, applying medicated creams as prescribed and wearing soft, breathable fabrics can reduce itching. Consistent skincare and environmental adjustments can greatly improve comfort and prevent painful dryness throughout the winter season.
Holiday Joy in Community
The Christmas season is a time for connection, warmth, and shared joy. Living in an independent senior community makes it even more special. Residents enjoy festive decorations, holiday concerts, and delicious meals without the stress of preparation or cleanup. There’s always company for card games, baking, or reminiscing over cocoa by the tree. With caring staff and a vibrant social calendar, no one feels alone during this magical time of year. Celebrating together, creating new memories, enjoying traditions, and feeling the true spirit of Christmas surrounded by friends who feel like family.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much to allow normal breathing. When the muscles relax, your airway narrows as you inhale, and breathing may be inadequate for 10 seconds or longer. Your brain senses this impaired breathing and briefly rouses you from sleep so that you can reopen your airway. You may make a snorting, choking or gasping sound. You are more at risk for developing sleep apnea if you are overweight, an adult male, use drugs or alcohol, are a smoker, have a family history of sleep apnea, or if you have a certain medical condition such as Type 2 Diabetes.
Clean Eating Recipe
Cranberry-Cashew Energy Cups. 1⅔ c rolled oats; ¾ c unsalted cashew butter; ½ c unsweetened almond milk; ½ c 50% dried cranberries, chopped. 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; ½ c dark chocolate chips; 1 tbsp coconut oil. Combine ingredients (leave chocolate & coconut oil aside). Divide mixture among prepared muffin cups (about 1½ tablespoons each); firmly press the mixture into the cup bottoms. Melt chocolate & coconut oil together until smooth and spoon mixture over the oat mixture in each cup. Refrigerate, uncovered, until chilled.
Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
Christmas is a time of joy and indulgence, but it can also be an opportunity to focus on health and well-being. Start by choosing nutritious versions of festive favorites—add more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to meals while reducing sugar and salt. Stay active by taking winter walks or dancing to holiday music. Manage stress by planning ahead and setting realistic expectations. Remember to get enough sleep and drink plenty of water, even amid celebrations. Most importantly, enjoy treats in moderation. A balanced approach allows you to savor the season while keeping your body and mind healthy.
BRHC Foundation Tree of Life
For a donation of $15 or more, the BRHC Foundation will hang an ornament on our Christmas tree in the hospital atrium in memory or in honour of a loved one. Donations will go towards 5 Treatment Chairs for OCU and the Capital Campaign for the new Critical Care Centre. Also, in support of our Capital Campaign, we are running a 50/50 raffle with 50% of the pot going to one lucky winner on January 9, 2026. To purchase your ticket, go to www.brhcfoundation.ca or call the Foundation at 204-578-4227 Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director
National Influenza Awareness Month
December is National Influenza Awareness Month in Canada, a time to focus on preventing the flu and protecting public health. Influenza can lead to serious complications, especially for seniors, young children, and those with chronic conditions. The best defense is vaccination, which reduces the risk of infection and severe illness. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick, also help limit the spread of flu. Staying informed about flu seasons, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep support the immune system. Awareness and proactive measures can keep communities healthier during the winter months.
Companionship for the Holidays
The holiday season can be joyful but also challenging for seniors who may feel isolated or miss loved ones. Staying connected is key to emotional well-being. Simple activities like phone or video calls, writing cards, or inviting a friend for tea can make a world of difference. Joining community events or volunteer groups can also lift spirits and create new memories. Companionship brings comfort, laughter, and belonging — especially during the holidays. Did you know our team can help with errands or holiday shopping to make the season brighter? Visit www.hsewinnipeg.com for more heartwarming wellness tips.
Dentures and TMJ Disorders
TMJ Disorders, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, can sometimes be caused by too much space between your upper and lower teeth. When your dentures no longer fit properly because of ridge resorption and worn down tooth anatomy, this can lead to a decreased vertical dimension, which in turn can cause TMJ pain. Symptoms like headaches, popping in the jaw, pain in the jaw, neck pain, dizziness, pain in the ears, ringing in your ears, or even hearing loss could occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your denturist to see how they can help with this issue. Make sure to get your dentures checked regularly to prevent further problems.
