Community News
Hearing Loss and Balance

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.

February Trivia

1. Cupid has what name in Greek mythology? 2. What brain chemical is known as the “cuddle” or “love hormone?” 3. What tune did Billboard name as the top love song of all time?

Seniors & Heart Health

Maintaining heart health is crucial for seniors, as aging increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health in older adults. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, strengthens the heart and lowers cholesterol. A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps manage weight and blood pressure. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are essential. Seniors should monitor heart health through routine check-ups, addressing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure promptly. Early detection and healthy habits promote longevity and overall well-being.

February is Heart Health Month

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often goes unrecognized and untreated because there are no symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke, by: 1. Reviewing your medications, helping you take them as prescribed and managing potential side effects. 2. Teaching you how to use a blood pressure monitoring device properly and testing your blood pressure regularly. 3. Advising you how to maintain a healthy weight, and a diet that’s low in sodium. and 4. Guiding you through a step-by-step quit smoking plan. Learn more about how to keep your blood pressure under control by speaking with your pharmacist.

Vital Collagen Benefits

Collagen, constituting 90% of the body’s protein, plays a pivotal role in skin, bones, muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments, acting as a joint-binding glue. As age advances, the body’s natural collagen production diminishes, exacerbated by factors like sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet. Collagen supplementation gains popularity for addressing concerns such as wrinkles, cellulite, stretch marks, and joint health. Depletion of collagen may result in joint issues and visible signs like sagging skin. Recognizing collagen’s potential in supporting joints, bones, and skin underscores its widespread appeal as a versatile protein. Its multifaceted benefits make collagen a focal point in health and wellness discussions.

Book of the Month:

Sleep Drink Breathe: Simple Daily Habits for Profound Long-term Health by Michael Breus. Millions of people are suffering from the effects of poor sleep, hydration, and oxygenation – burnout, reduced immunity, cognitive issues and so much more. Dr. Breus reveals how fixing our poor sleeping, drinking, and breathing habits can immediately improve our health, lower our risk of disease, decrease stress hormones, and access new clarity and energy. Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org

February Events for Seniors at RDPL

Red Deer Cancer Connect (February 4 & 18). Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (February 8). Readers’ Theatre (February 20). Sip n’ Stitch (February 20). Travel Memories (first Wednesday of each month). First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month). Book Clubs (various dates/times). Red Deer Reads 2025 (details at rdpl.org/reddeerreads). For full details, visit rdpl.org/events

Disability Support For Canadians

The Disability Credit can significantly reduce income tax payments and generate a one-time lump sum refund. It caters to individuals experiencing difficulties whilem walking, dressing, or preparing food. Eligible medical conditions include those that affect vision, mobility, hearing, feeding, dressing, elimination functions, and mental capacities crucial for daily life. For a list of eligible medical conditions, as well as comprehensive information on applying for this substantial program, contact Brett Scott – 1-844-453-5372

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys brain cells, causing thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging and is irreversible. While it’s difficult to predict symptoms, the order in which they will appear or the speed of their progression, there are some warning signs you can look out for. Sudden changes to your loved one’s personality are often another sign that something is not right. These changes can include anxiety, paranoia, depression, and socially inappropriate behaviors, as well as sudden mood swings and physical aggression.