Red Deer Cancer Connect (April 1 & 15)
Travel Memories (April 2)
First Thursday Concert Series (April 3) Mindfulness for Adults (April 5)
Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (April 12)
Readers’ Theatre (April 17)
Sip n’ Stitch (April 17)
Затишні Вечори: Cozy Evenings for Ukrainian Seniors (April 17)
Book Clubs (various dates/times)
Red Deer Reads 2025 (details at rdpl.org/reddeerreads)
Community Seed Library (details at rdpl.org/seedlibrary)
For full details, visit rdpl.org/events
Community News
April is IBS Awareness Month
Did you know 13-20% of Canadians live with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? This chronic gut disorder causes cramps, bloating, and bowel issues, leading to an average of 73 restricted activity days per year. IBS is the most burdensome chronic ailment reported by patients, often taking six years to diagnose. While there’s no cure, proper nutrition, like a low-FODMAP diet, can ease symptoms. Managing stress, staying active, and staying hydrated also help. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures the best approach for digestive health. Raising awareness is key to helping those with IBS live more comfortably and freely.
Book of the Month:
Martha Stewart’s Gardening Handbook The Essential Guide to Designing, Planting, and Growing.
This book is the first fully comprehensive gardening guide from the legendary Martha Stewart in more than 30 years, with everything you need to know to curate a beautiful, thriving garden. From understanding soil composition to learning about different types of plants and gardening methods, you’ll discover the secrets to creating a stunning outdoor oasis.
Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org
Words To Live By
“In this present moment there is no fear. Fear is an indicator that your mind is either in the past or the future, making up stories about moments that have already happened or are yet to come. Be truly present today and stay attuned to the safety of the moment you are already in.” – Keith Macpherson
Outreach Services
Our Outreach Department is composed of dedicated Coordinators, trained volunteers, and brokered workers who assist and encourage older adults to age in place, maintain their independence, and promote a 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. Then, a care plan is designed, which can involve referrals to Golden Circle programs or to external agencies.
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. We 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 and then matches them with clients. Reimbursement is $20.00/hr, with a two (2) hour minimum charge for housekeeping and a one-hour minimum for snow shovelling. 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]
Book of the Month:
Ready, Set, Slow: How to Improve your Energy, Health, and Relationships Through the Power of Slow by Lee Holden
From internationally celebrated Qi Gong master and beloved television personality Lee Holden comes a transformative journey filled with wisdom and practices on the power of slowing down for spiritual balance and peace amid modern chaos.
Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org
The Hearing Loss/Alzheimer’s Connection
Recent research suggests that improving hearing loss with hearing aids reduces the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In 2011, a team of Johns Hopkins medical school researchers discovered a significant association between hearing loss and the risk of developing these unwanted cognitive conditions. The worse someone’s hearing gets, the greater their risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. The researchers believe their findings could have substantial implications for individuals and public health because hearing loss is treatable with hearing instruments. These findings underscore how important regular hearing tests are as part of preventative health care.
March Events for Seniors at RDPL
Red Deer Cancer Connect (March 4 & 18)
Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (March 8)
Symphony at the Snell with Red Deer Symphony Orchestra (March 15)
Readers’ Theatre (March 20)
Sip n’ Stitch (March 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
March Trivia
1. True or False? Brown sugar is better for blood glucose levels than white sugar. 2. What vitamin is known to help maintain healthy eyesight? 3. Which mineral is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system?
Did You Know?
Basil is more than just a flavorful herb—it’s packed with health benefits! Here are 5 key benefits of basil: Rich in Antioxidants – Contains powerful antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols. Supports Heart Health – The herb may help lower blood pressure. Boosts Immunity – Basil has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Aids Digestion – It promotes healthy digestion by reducing bloating and gas.
Reduces Stress – Has adaptogenic properties that help manage stress and improve mental clarity.
