Unfortunately, many older adults fail to recognize the symptoms of depression, or don’t take the steps to get the help they need. There are many reasons why elderly depression is often overlooked. You may assume that is just part of aging, or you may be isolated with few people around to notice your distress. You also may be reluctant to ask for help. Of course, when you’re depressed, putting steps into action can be hard, but taking a short walk, for example, can boost your mood for the next two hours. By taking small steps day by day, you’ll find yourself feeling more energetic and hopeful again. Reach out for help if you are struggling.
Community News
Local Health Spotlight
Origin Integrated Health – leading experts in health, injury and rehabilitation. Are you tired of going for the same treatment week after week trying to get by and living with a chronic injury? You don’t have to live this way. The practitioners at Origin Integrated Health are revolutionizing the face of chronic pain and injury management! Chiropractors, Athletic Therapists, Kinesiologists, Acupuncturists, Registered Massage Therapists, and Naturopaths all under one roof collaborate and combine therapies to get you better and back to doing what you love. Join the movement at Origin Integrated Health!
Benefits of Travel Therapy
A recent study from Edith Cowan University’s Centre for Precision Health and School of Business and Law found many aspects of going on holiday could have a positive impact on those with mental health issues or conditions such as dementia. Factors like increased exercise, socializing opportunities, and getting outdoors more can make travel and tourism a good investment in health and well-being. With more research, tourism could become a form of medical intervention in the future. Contact Stu to request a copy of IG’s legacy-related workbooks and learn about 10 wealth transitioning actions you can begin to take today.
Ask The Expert
Q: I wear progressives most of the time but I take them off for reading. For my next set of glasses would it be ok to get them just for distance vision?
A: Maybe, but it sounds like you’ve adapted well to the progressive lenses and you’re probably using them a lot more than you realize – for looking at your dashboard, glancing at your watch or phone, and doing tasks around the house or workplace. You would save money by not getting progressive lenses, but you would lose convenience.
Dental New Year’s Resolutions
The new year is a great time to make positive resolutions to improve your health. Here are four dental-related resolutions you can make this year: 1) Get a new toothbrush – It’s important to replace your toothbrush every three months to ensure effective cleaning and avoid bacteria build-up. 2) Start flossing more – Flossing is an important way to keep your gums healthy and avoid cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis. 3) See your dentist – Make it a habit to book regular cleaning appointments to catch problems early. 4) Quit smoking – Avoid staining and the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Amazing Health Benefits
Amazing Health Benefits
Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oils (EVOO) are an excellent source of Biophenols, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, phytosterols, as well as vitamins K and E. They also have a high percentage of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that helps protect the heart. Add Signature Balsamic Vinegars to your meals for extra antioxidants, as well as iron, potassium, and manganese. They help to reduce hardening of the arteries, aid mineral absorption for better bone health, as well as stabilize blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Experience over 20 high-quality flavours at Signature Oil and Vinegar in Comox. For more detailed benefits visit SignatureWineCellars.ca
The Impact of Diet and Stress Reduction
Let’s explore the impact diet, activity, and stress reduction can have on our wellbeing! We already know that chronic stress impacts hormones and causes imbalances within the body; elevated stress causes a weakened immune system and poor digestion. When eating a diet high in processed carbohydrates, the body is being flooded with sugar causing further hormone imbalances, leading to body wide inflammation. Inflammation in the gut causes inflammation in the brain; research is now showing that cases of depression and anxiety are linked to brain inflammation based on the foods we eat! Take control of your health.
Gut Health
Food and beverages are the determinants of our health and the health of our gut. Human microbiome (bacteria and other micro-organisms living in our gut), probiotics and prebiotics are relatively new terms in our everyday vocabulary but their importance on human health cannot be underestimated. With microbiome status being linked to several symptoms and health conditions including mental health, practical knowledge of the management of the microbiome in our gut, gives a promise of improvement of the health of our bodies and how we feel. Our dietary choices should include prebiotics and probiotics and foods to support the microbiome.
Coldest Night of the Year
The Coldest Night of the Year is Canada’s National Walk for Homelessness. Since 2011, it has raised more than $56 million in 166 communities across Canada. The Coldest Night of the year is a winterrific family-friendly walk to raise money for local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Team up, walk, and fundraise! It’s cold out there… but there’s no place like home. The event takes place on February 25th. The event features family-friendly 2 or 5 km walks. See the website for details on how you can get involved with the Victoria event that raises funds for Our Place Society.
Cardio Testing at Home
Island Mobile Cardiology Testing offers 12-lead ECGs and Holter Monitoring in your residence, office or clinic on Southern Vancouver Island. When ordered by a physician, their services are covered by MSP. All test results are interpreted by a cardiologist. Their mission is to make cardiac testing accessible and convenient for all patients by eliminating barriers such as transportation, mobility and time. At Island Mobile Cardiology Testing, they strive to reduce stress and increase comfort for patients and caregivers.
Strengthening Bones and Muscles
Our bones play vital roles in the body, providing structural support, protecting organs, and storing calcium. It’s important to build strong and healthy bones during adolescence and imperative to take steps to protect bone health as adults and seniors. Eating certain foods high in calcium, vitamin D, protein and magnesium can strengthen both your bones and muscles. Getting these necessary nutrients can help seniors improve their physical health and mobility. Some foods that are rich in these nutrients include low-fat dairy, fortified plant milk products, nuts, leafy greens, winter squash, fish, liver, egg yolks, whole grains, beans and seeds.
