Garden for Life: Strategies for Easier, Greener, More Joyful Gardening as We Age by Rhonda Fleming Hayes. Garden for Life will help older gardeners evaluate their garden situation, suggesting ways to redesign an existing garden or to design a new one when downsizing (or “right-sizing”), new techniques and tools to make gardening easier, how to select appropriate plants, and also how and when to ask for help to lighten the load.
Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org
Community News
Connections Matter on Father’s Day
Father’s Day offers a poignant reminder of the vital role mental health plays in the lives of our aging parents. For seniors residing in independent living homes, the benefits extend beyond physical care. These communities foster crucial social interactions that can stave off the loneliness and depression often faced by those living alone. Friendships formed in these environments provide emotional support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Celebrating Father’s Day in such a setting underscores the importance of a strong support network. By prioritizing companionship and mental well-being, we honor our fathers not just with gifts, but with the invaluable gift of connection
Copper Benefits for Dad
Copper has been valued for thousands of years for its health benefits. As an essential mineral, it supports red blood cell production, immune function, and overall vitality. Since the body cannot produce copper naturally, many people incorporate it into their wellness routines through copper jewelry. Copper may help reduce inflammation, ease arthritis discomfort, and improve circulation and energy levels. It has also been linked to better brain function, stress balance, and healthier-looking skin. This Father’s Day, consider the lasting benefits of copper as a simple way for men to support their health and well-being naturally every day.
Hear Every Precious Moment
This Father’s Day, give Dad something that truly improves quality of life: better hearing. Many men ignore the early signs of hearing loss, from turning up the television to struggling in conversations, but untreated hearing issues can affect relationships, mental health, balance, and overall wellbeing. A professional hearing check is quick, painless, and an important part of men’s health care, just like regular eye exams or blood pressure checks. Modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and designed to keep fathers connected to family moments that matter most. Encourage Dad to hear every story, laugh, and memory clearly this Father’s Day.
June is Men’s Health Month
Strong Men, Healthy Lives
Men’s Health Month is a great reminder to focus on prevention and overall wellness. Many men put off routine checkups, but regular screenings can help detect concerns like high blood pressure, diabetes, and prostate issues early. Staying active, eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and managing stress all support long term health. Mental health matters too, and speaking openly or seeking support is a sign of strength. Talk to your pharmacist about medications, vaccinations, health screenings, and everyday wellness questions. This June, take a proactive step toward better health.
Clean Eating Recipe
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad INGREDIENTS: 1 ½ cups quinoa, 2 ¼ cups water, 2 Tbsp fresh mint, leaves only, chopped, 2 Tbsp fresh basil, leaves only, chopped, 15 cherry tomatoes, halved, ⅓ cup finely diced red onion, 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest, 1½ Tbsp lemon juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt. DIRECTIONS: Place water and quinoa in a medium pot. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 8 to 9 minutes, until tender. When cooked, remove from heat and spoon into a mixing bowl to cool. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
If my body were a car, I would trade it for a newer model. Every time I cough, sputter, or sneeze, my radiant leaks and my exhaust backfires.
Words to Live By
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein
Importance of Social Connection for Seniors
Social connection is a vital health priority for seniors, influencing both physical and mental well-being. Regular interaction with family, friends, and community members helps reduce the risk of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Staying socially active can also support cognitive function and may lower the risk of conditions like dementia. Simple activities such as group exercise, volunteering, or shared hobbies create a sense of purpose and belonging. Strong social ties are linked to better heart health, improved resilience, and longer life expectancy. Prioritizing connection helps seniors maintain independence, confidence, and a higher overall quality of life as they age gracefully.
May is Celiac Awareness Month
During this month, help us spread awareness for Celiac disease. Celiac disease is a chronic digestive and immune disorder that damages the small intestine. The disease is triggered by eating foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Over time, this reaction damages your small intestine’s lining and prevents it from absorbing nutrients. The intestinal damage often causes diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and anemia, and can lead to serious complications. Your doctor will explain the gluten-free diet and may refer to you a registered dietitian who specializes in treating people who have celiac disease.
Book of the Month:
Finding Flora by Elinor Florence
A rollicking historical novel set in turn-of-the-century Alberta about a young woman on the run from her abusive husband who uses a legal loophole to claim a homestead in the Wild West. Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org
