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.
Community News
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
December Book Club
Lighter: Let Go of the Past, Connect With the Present, and Expand the Future. An empathetic and wise book that will guide you on a journey toward a deeper understanding of self. In Lighter, Yung Pueblo demonstrates how we can all move forward in our healing, from learning self-compassion to letting go to becoming emotionally mature.
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.
NEW Local Business Spotlight
UROSPOT Brings Its Pelvic Floor Revolution to Winnipeg. UROSPOT is a Canadian-owned pelvic health clinic helping women and men overcome bladder leaks, urgency, frequency, night waking, prolapse and sexual dysfunction – without surgery, pain, or downtime. Clients remain fully clothed while sitting on a specialized chair that uses Health Canada and FDA-approved technology to strengthen the pelvic floor – delivering a year’s worth of Kegels in a single, 30-minute session. No doctor referral is required. Join thousands of Canadians who have regained their freedom at UROSPOT. Visit UROSPOT.com or call (204) 318-8866 to book your complimentary consultation.
Keeping Pets Safe at Christmas
The holiday season brings joy, but it can also pose hidden dangers for pets. Keep Christmas trees secure to prevent tipping, and avoid tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Decorations like ornaments and lights should be placed out of reach, as they can be choking or electrocution hazards. Many festive plants, including poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to animals. Keep chocolate, alcohol, and rich holiday foods away from curious pets. Provide a quiet space for them to retreat from guests and noise. With a little planning, you can keep your furry friends safe and enjoy a happy Christmas together.
