Block Therapy™ is a self-care practice that uses a wooden block to release deep fascia restrictions in the body. By lying on the block and using gentle pressure with focused breathing, adhesions from injury, stress, or poor posture begin to soften and release. This improves circulation, reduces pain, and supports cellular healing. Unlike traditional massage, it works with gravity to reach deeper tissue layers. You’ll need enough mobility to safely get onto the floor and back up, as some positions are done on hands and knees. No block? A rolled-up towel can be a simple substitute.
Health Benefits of Copper
Copper has been valued for over ten thousand years for its remarkable health benefits. As an essential mineral, it plays a key role in red blood cell production, supports immune function, and contributes to overall vitality. Because the body cannot produce copper on its own, incorporating it into daily life is important. Many people turn to copper jewelry as a simple, natural way to benefit from its properties. It may help reduce inflammation, ease arthritis pain, and promote better circulation and energy levels. Copper is also linked to improved brain function, stress balance, and healthier-looking skin, making it a valuable addition to a wellness routine.
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
May Events for Seniors at RDPL
After the Garden by Jeremy Robinson: New Play Reading (May 3)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (May 5 & 19)
Travel Memories: China (May 6)
First Thursday Concert Series (May 7)
Wellness Exchange (May 6 & 13)
Readers’ Theatre (May 21)
Sip n’ Stitch (May 21)
Затишні Вечори: Cozy Evenings for Ukrainian Seniors (May 21)
Jigsaw Puzzle Competition (May 28)
Roots and Branches: Genealogy at the Library (May 30)
Bike Repair & Tune-Up Café (May 30)
Book Clubs (various dates/times)
For full details, visit rdpl.org/events
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 Workes and 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? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at: Phone: 403-343-6074 or Email [email protected]
Outreach Services
Our Outreach Department comprises 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?
Do you need home maintenance and Yard care services? Are you looking to relocate and need a Housing Resource List? Do you 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, such as 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, involving referrals to Golden Circle programs or external agencies.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
I finally got my head together— but now my body is falling apart.
Words to Live By
“Slow down and soak up each experience releasing the need to be somewhere else or with someone else. See the gift of this moment.” Keith Macpherson
Spring Clean Your Energy
Spring is not just for tidying. It is a perfect time to refresh your home and your energy. In Feng Shui, clutter blocks the natural flow of energy, leaving spaces feeling heavy and draining. Seasonal decluttering helps restore balance, clarity, and harmony in your environment. Crystals such as clear quartz, selenite, and black tourmaline support this process by cleansing and stabilizing energy wherever they are placed, including entryways, windows, and workspaces. When you combine decluttering with crystal energy, your home feels brighter and calmer. Enhance your spring refresh by using the VitaJuwel Treat Series for space clearing, laundry, bed and bath, paired with the AüRAUM ShelTURRETed JEMiSt spray. Register for Bi-monthly online sales and information evenings at auraum.ca
Hearing Loss and Balance
Hearing loss is one of several factors that can cause falls. Individuals who have even a mild degree of hearing loss are three times as likely to experience accidental falls. Studies have shown that wearing hearing aids improves balance compared to an individual who does not wear hearing aids, but who has hearing loss. There are three major ideas for why hearing loss can affect our balance: 1) hearing loss causes less awareness of our environment, which means less awareness of people or activities around us; 2) hearing loss decreases spatial awareness, which makes it harder to know where you are compared to your surroundings; and 3) hearing loss uses more brain energy, which means there is less energy for balance.


