Community News
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, its impact, and the importance of early detection. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, and early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Self-exams play a crucial role in early detection; they help individuals become familiar with their breasts and notice any unusual changes, such as lumps, swelling, or skin changes. By regularly performing self-exams and staying informed about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, individuals can take proactive steps toward their health and potentially save lives.

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.

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

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.

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!

September Events for Seniors at RDPL

NEW! 55+ Social Club (Sept. 30)
Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m.)
Collicutt Walk & Talk (every Thursday at 11:30 a.m.)
First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month)
Travel Memories (first Wednesday of each month)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (Sept. 3 & 17)
Money Matters: Food & Finance (online event, Sept. 10)
Bring, Brag, Break with the Alberta Genealogical Society (Sept. 14)
Sip n’ Stitch (Sept. 19)
Readers’ Theatre (Sept. 19)
Lindy Hop Story Dance Workshop (Sept. 21)
Local Author Fair (Sept. 22)
Books Clubs (various dates & times, see rdpl.org/bookclubs)
Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign: Commemorative Quilt Reception (Oct. 5)

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.