Community News
The Grand Parade is Coming!

Will you walk with us on September 21st? You may recall reading about it in the August edition of the Wellness News, so you already know that we are participating in The Grand Parade (TGP) this year. For those of you who don’t know what TGP is, it is a family-friendly fundraising walk for local charities who support seniors and their families. It’s the only walk that’s uphill, both ways! Plus – once the walk is done, fundraising event that ends in a walk, a lunch and some musical entertainment! If you participated in our walk in 2022, you’ll know that TGP is so much fun – truly a celebration of seniors with every single step. You can find our event page online at https://thegrandparade.org/location/reddeerdowntown (If you Google “The Grand Parade + Red Deer Downtown” that’ll get you there, also!) I know that the thought of a walk can be intimidating, given that some of us are less mobile than others, but the good news is, TGP is a very inclusive event! You can walk, wheel, roll, or sit and cheer! The walk isn’t even the important part, though, it’s the fundraising because all of the funds raised will go towards supporting the important work the Golden Circle does!

TGP will not be a success without your support, community! We need walkers, donors, and volunteers too. As a peer-to-peer fundraiser, the way it works is that Team Captains recruit walkers to their teams then solicit donations and we are hoping that there are some of you out there who will join our efforts and be Team Captains!

The Grand Parade makes participation easy. You register online, invite others to join in through the website and begin raising money together for this important cause. On September 21, Captains make sure their teammates check-in, stick together, and of course, have tons of fun.
For over 45 years, the Golden Circle has been redefining what it means to embrace the golden years with joy, purpose, and a whole lot of heart and we would love to have you join us in supporting our efforts.
Will you join us? You can register at https://thegrandparade.org/register
We hope to see you online and here at the Golden Circle on Saturday, September 21!

Summer Days of Recognition

The long summer days are winding down, students have or will soon be headed back to school, and the leaves are soon going to start to change colour as we welcome September. A month that starts and ends with important days of recognition! Labour Day on September 2nd is a Federal Statutory Holiday which officially celebrates workers and the labour union movement.

September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which honours the children who never returned home from, as well as the survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities.

At the Golden Circle we acknowledge the Indigenous traditional territories represented by Treaty 6 and 7 as the land the Golden Circle is situated on and pay tribute to the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries. A goal of the Golden Circle is to respect and work together with Indigenous and Métis peoples in building a welcoming and inclusive community.

Disability Tax Credit for Arthritis

During Arthritis Awareness Month, it’s essential to recognize the challenges that those with arthritis face, particularly in walking and dressing. These daily activities can become daunting tasks due to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Fortunately, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is available to help alleviate some of the financial burden. As a DTC specialist, I assist individuals in navigating the complex application process, ensuring they receive the support they deserve. This tax credit can make a significant difference, offering financial relief that can be used toward medical treatments, mobility aids, and adaptive clothing.

Boost Kids’ Gut Health

Support Your Child’s Health with MetaKids™ Probiotic. Nutrition is a top priority early in life, and children may not get the beneficial bacteria they need for good gut health from diet alone. MetaKids™ Probiotic offers a simple solution. As Noelle shares, “These made a HUGE difference for our 6-year-old within a week. No complaints of tummy aches, difficulty with bowel movements, or congestion.” This vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO product supports a healthy intestinal environment. Beat the back-to-school rush with 20% off MetaKids™ Probiotic. Regular immunity and gut maintenance mean fewer sick days and a healthier school year ahead. 

Wigs for Cancer Patients

Hair loss due to chemotherapy is a common and distressing side effect for many cancer patients. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, leading to temporary hair loss. This can affect not only the scalp but also eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. Wigs offer a way to regain a sense of normalcy and confidence during this challenging time. Many options are available, from synthetic to human hair wigs, designed to mimic natural hair. Some organizations even provide free wigs to those in need. Choosing a wig can be a personal and empowering experience, helping patients feel more like themselves during treatment.

Book of the Month:

Best Day Hikes in Banff National Park by Brian Patton. Details 39 easy walks, short hikes, and day trips in one of the world’s most spectacular national parks. Each trail is described in detail and accompanied by easy-to-understand symbols, a walking map, and colour photography. Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org

Outreach Services

Our Outreach Department is composed of a team of dedicated Coordinators, trained volunteers and brokered workers who assist and encourage older adults with aging in place, maintaining their independence, and promote positive quality of life. And the best part? We come to you!
Need help applying for Alberta Seniors Benefit? Have Government forms you need help filling out?
Need Home Maintenance and Yard care services? Are you looking to relocate and need a Housing Resource List? Need transportation to and from medical appointments?

The team is ready and able to assist – call the front desk at 403-343-6074 to make an appointment to be connected and to have an assessment done.

Referrals can be received from individuals needing assistance, their family, friends, neighbours, caregivers, other agencies or medical professionals. Clients are paired with an Outreach Coordinator who completes an intake appointment to assess the individual’s situation and a care plan is designed which can involve referrals to Golden Circle programs or to external agencies.

I Hear You

Ensuring effective communication is crucial for valued relationships. Here are five reasons to prioritize a hearing test: 1. Enhanced intimacy and build trust through shared stories. 2. Create lasting memories by actively participating in social gatherings. 3. Improve happiness by avoiding frustration and anger caused by hearing difficulties. 4. Make moments count by eliminating the need for repeated conversations. 5. Demonstrate love by addressing hearing concerns and acknowledging others’ worries. Contact us today for a free consultation and hearing test to strengthen your connections.

Boost Kids’ Gut Health

Support Your Child’s Health with MetaKids™ Probiotic. Nutrition is a top priority early in life, and children may not get the beneficial bacteria they need for good gut health from diet alone. MetaKids™ Probiotic offers a simple solution. As Noelle shares, “These made a HUGE difference for our 6-year-old within a week. No complaints of tummy aches, difficulty with bowel movements, or congestion.” This vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO product supports a healthy intestinal environment. Beat the back-to-school rush with 20% off MetaKids™ Probiotic. Regular immunity and gut maintenance mean fewer sick days and a healthier school year ahead. 

August Events for Seniors at RDPL

Summer Reading Bingo for Adults 
Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m.)
Collicutt Walk & Talk (every Thursday at 9:30 a.m.)
First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month)
Happy Ever After Book Club (last Monday of each month)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (August 6 & 20)
Sip n’ Stitch (August 15)
Lit Line: Call 403-342-9100 to Become a Zucchini Expert in 31 Days!
For full details, visit rdpl.org/events

Stay Active Safely in the Heat

It’s important to stay active all year long, but in the heat it’s especially important to do it in a safe way. Refrain from strenuous physical activities in hot/humid conditions outdoors, particularly if you are not used to the conditions or are not used to being physically active.

Make sure to wear loose fitting, lightweight, clothing outdoors, and stay hydrated. As we get older, we do not notice thirst as much which increases the risk for dehydration which can be very dangerous! Don’t wait until you feel thirsty, drink lots of fluids, especially during exercise.
And if you’re out and about and need a cool spot to take a break, come join us in our air-conditioned facility – we always have activities and events on the go!