Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre has partnered with Happipad, the developer of Canada’s first web-based companion housing platform, to expand affordable shared housing opportunities specifically for vulnerable population segments including seniors, students, people with disabilities, and recent immigrants. This partnership is supported in part by funding from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) under the National Housing Strategy Demonstrations Initiative. To learn more, go to https://www.goldencircle.ca/happipad-what-is-it/

Golden Circle Outreach services connect people who need help to our basket of services or other services in the community that will make their life easier and safer. Our staff have helped apply for the Action Bus, connect them to Red Deer Meals on Wheels, so that they can get a hot meal delivered at noon Monday to Friday. We help them get a Lifeline system from the Friends of Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. Help with Alberta Senior Benefits and income tax. Staff have helped people fill out application forms for CPP and OAS as well as AISH. We are here to help people get the supports and services they need to remain independent. Please reach out, ask your questions and we will help you get the information that you need. We are only a call away at 403-343-6074.

Spring is finally here, and that means seasonal allergies will be on the rise. Seasonal allergies develop when the immune system overreacts to something in the environment, like mold spores or pollen. Do you have any of the most common symptoms – runny nose, sneezing, itchy & watery eyes, itchy sinuses, throat, or post-nasal drip? You are most likely experiencing allergies. Your pharmacist will be happy to discuss preventing seasonal allergies and minimizing the severity of your symptoms. They will help you choose the right medication for you, how it works and how to use it.

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), research links social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for certain physical and mental conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer’s disease. Many things can contribute to isolation, including the death of a spouse or partner, separation from friends or family, retirement, loss of mobility, and lack of transportation. Studies show that engaging in meaningful, productive activities with others can help people live longer, maintain their wellbeing, improve their cognitive function, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose.

Spring is about all things green and at Mortar and Pesto we have plenty of amazing green products to help you maintain and improve your overall health and wellbeing. We carry sprouting kits that allow you to grow nutritious microgreens in your own home, perfect for adding a nutrient-dense boost to your day. We also have greens powders, sea veggies, and high-potency broccoli capsules for those who want to achieve therapeutic doses for epigenetic support. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, spring is also liver season – a great opportunity to check out the many plant-based products we have to help the gallbladder and liver!