Community News
Volunteer Drivers Needed!

Do you have your own vehicle, a clean driving record, a clear vulnerable sector criminal record check, and a flexible schedule? Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that gives you the chance to spend time with older adults while supporting their health and well being?

The Golden Circle recognizes the need to provide transportation to older adults aged fifty and up (50+) in Red Deer, Red Deer County and surrounding rural communities who do not have other means of transportation. This service is provided by volunteer drivers using their own vehicles and is available to clients for Medical appointments, for Escorted Grocery Shopping and to attend programs at the Golden Circle to address social isolation. Supportive transportation is available Monday through Friday between 8:30am and 4:30pm. In order to be registered for the supportive transportation program, individuals must first be assessed by an Outreach Coordinator.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer driver, please contact Megan Schapansky; Program and Volunteer Coordinator for more information at 403-343-6074 Email: [email protected]

Brokered Workers Needed!

We have been fortunate to receive grant funding to expand our Outreach Programming beyond Red Deer and into Red Deer County and surrounding rural communities and are looking for Brokered Workers in these communities to help support older adults to age in their homes.

The Golden Circle’s Brokered Worker program is administered through the Outreach Department and involves housekeeping, home maintenance, and yard care services. Some of the services provided are:
• Light housekeeping
• Lawn and garden work
• Minor handyman repairs
• Snow shovelling
• Painting
• One time cleaning

The Golden Circle screens and interviews the Brokered Worked, then matches them with clients. Reimbursement is $20.00/hr with a two (2) hour minimum charge for housekeeping, with a one hour minimum for snow shoveling and clients pay the Brokered Worker directly.

Are you interested in becoming a Brokered Worker through the Golden Circle? Connect with Kelly Thompson to answer any questions you may have. Phone: 403-343-6074 or Email: [email protected]

Recognize Hearing Loss Signs

October is National Protect Your Hearing Month, a perfect time to recognize signs of hearing loss. Keep an eye out for these warning signs: frequently asking others to repeat themselves, needing to turn up the TV or radio volume, or experiencing persistent ringing in your ears. Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, missing everyday sounds, or having trouble hearing when your back is turned to someone are also key indicators. Speaking too loudly or finding phone conversations challenging may also signal hearing issues. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, so prioritize your hearing health this month and schedule a free assessment with your local Beltone clinic.

Essential Bone Health Duo

Boost your bone health with Ortho Molecular’s Vitamin D3 with K2 Liquid. Each serving delivers 10 mcg of vitamin K2 (MK-7) and 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 in an easily absorbed MCT base. Vitamin K2 works with vitamin D3 to help bind calcium to your bones and prevent its buildup in organs and arteries. Unlike vitamin K1, K2 supports stronger bones and better overall calcium use. New research highlights the benefits of this combination for bone strength and immune health. Make Ortho Molecular’s Vitamin D3 with K2 part of your daily routine for optimal wellness.

Wigs and Awareness

As October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, many of us reflect on our blessings, including the comfort and confidence that wigs provide. For those undergoing treatment, wigs can be a vital source of support, allowing individuals to embrace the holiday season with renewed self-esteem. Downtown Wigs offers a wide range of high-quality options, helping clients feel their best. This Thanksgiving let’s express our gratitude for the small but significant ways we can enhance our celebrations and support those in need. A wig can be more than a cosmetic accessory; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope.

October Events for Seniors at RDPL

Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign: Commemorative Quilt Reception (October 5) Money Matters: Christmas without Credit (October 8)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (October 1 and 15) Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (October 12) Readers’ Theatre (October 17) Sip n’ Stitch (October 17) Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale (October 23-27) Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m.)
Collicutt Walk & Talk (every Thursday at 11:30 a.m.)
Travel Memories (first Wednesday of each month). First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month) Book Clubs (various dates/times)
For full details, visit rdpl.org/events

Talking About Hearing Loss

Onset hearing loss is usually gradual, so it can take a long time for people with hearing impairment to realize there is a problem. While starting a conversation with a loved one experiencing hearing loss may be difficult, it’s a key step towards a solution. Strategies for having productive conversations include: *Aim to have serious discussions early in the day, before navigating daily activities. *Ask helpful questions to create an open dialogue and make everyday communication easier. For examples: “Should we have this conversation in a quieter location?” *Focus on facts and specific symptoms and encourage them to get a professional evaluation.

September is Arthritis Month

Arthritis includes over 100 diseases that cause inflammation in joints or other areas of the body. These diseases are grouped into two different categories: osteoarthritis (most common, causes a breakdown in cartilage) and inflammatory arthritis (autoimmune disorder). Arthritis can involve almost any part of the body, though it most often affects hips, knees, the spine, and fingers. It’s a chronic condition, affecting people on a constant or recurring basis over months, years, or even a lifetime. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can lead to disability over time. Talk to your pharmacist about how they can help!

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.