Fall contact sports (hockey, football and rugby) are quickly approaching which means now is a great time to talk about concussions. A concussion is caused by a direct blow to the head or indirect blow to the body that may result in dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and unconsciousness. A diagnosed concussion equals immediate removal from play, along with rest and sensory deprivation for 24 hours. Rehabilitation including manual therapy, visual and vestibular retraining and sport-specific readiness is part of the 5-stage protocol to obtain full clearance to return to play/sport.

When we refuse to acknowledge negative feelings and experiences and stuff them down or pretend to be happy; where does all that upset go? Every feeling that we stuff creates a level of stress within our bodies and minds. Too much stress and our minds and bodies react, with anxiousness, overwhelm, depression, aches, pains and illness. We often treat our mental health with such disregard. If it were a broken limb, we would seek help, so why not for our emotional distress? By combining coaching and tapping to release mind/body stress, for example, new perspectives and peace are possible.

You can wear ComfiHips® Hip Protectors all the time, day or night. The secret is in “the curve.” Users can sleep on their sides while wearing them and enjoy countless nights of serene, peaceful rest. The pads are lightweight, and they fit easily into concealed interior pockets of these specially designed, ultra-soft undergarments. No one will know you’re wearing the low profile ComfiHips® Hip Protectors yet wearing them will decrease your chance of injuries should a fall occur. They are especially recommended for those who are prone to nighttime falls.

Untreated obstructive sleep apnea is one of the leading causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. Obstructive sleep apnea is defined as episodes of apneas (not breathing) which last more than 10 seconds and that occur during sleep. These episodes may occur hundreds of times per night and can lead to fragmented sleep. During these events, the individual’s oxygen level can fall to dangerously low levels (hypoxemia) and may result in cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), which can at times be fatal. Also, individuals with obstructive sleep apnea are far more prone to heart attacks and strokes.

Aging happens to everyone – no matter how young at heart. What’s reassuring is that we can take steps to help us age well, stay active and live independently for as long as possible. When should you start thinking about home care? If you’ve noticed signs that a senior needs help at home, it’s likely time to start the conversation. Many people think that a senior must be frail or ill before they need professional home care, but that’s not the case. Home care includes services that are designed to lighten the workload around the home.

Seniors are invited to come to the Collicutt Centre on Tuesday, October 1 from 9 am – noon to learn about recreation and leisure opportunities available to them in Red Deer. Put on in conjunction with the Seniors Service Providers Interagency group, this event is also an excellent opportunity to meet staff from several agencies, organizations, businesses and government departments who care for the wellbeing of seniors living in Red Deer and Central Alberta. In addition to concurrent learning sessions, there will be a mini-trade show with information booths to explore. Join us – there will be lots of draw prizes to win!

Just turn 50? Over 65? Going on an exotic destination this winter? From the shingles vaccine to travel vaccines, Co-op pharmacists can help! Visit any Central Alberta Co-op Pharmacy to have all your vaccination questions answered. We can do injections and we may even be able to prescribe them for you. Flu season is fast approaching, so drop by when it’s time for your annual flu shot. Ask us if you qualify for the publicly funded pneumonia shot! Stay healthy, prevent illness – talk to your Co-op pharmacist today about all your vaccination needs.

Two 90-minute Body Rolling sessions with Anne Thiessen in Red Deer offered this fall at In Harmony Meditation & Wellness Center, Parkland Mall. Session one: Thursdays, Sep 26 – Nov 7, no class Oct 31 at 7 pm and session two: Saturdays, Oct 5 – Nov 16, no class Oct 19 at 10 am. at. Each 6-class session is only $125. Call 403.348.1741 or email [email protected] to register.

Two FREE 45-minute Body Rolling Demo classes with Anne Thiessen. Thu, Sep 19, 7-7:45 pm and Sat, Sep 28, 10-10:45 am. at In Harmony Meditation & Wellness Center, Parkland Mall. Call 403.348.1741 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot. Limit one per person.