Studies show that connection to community can help increase our mental and physical health and wellbeing. April brings lots of free and low-cost opportunities to connect in Courtenay and Comox area for seniors.
The month of April the 3rd Annual Poetry Walk is taking place downtown Courtenay. Shop windows will be painted with poetry and art on 4th, 5th, and 6th streets, theme is Family.
April 12, free info session by MARS Wildlife Rescue at the Comox Senior Centre. Contact d’Esterre Centre for time.
April 26, come connect with Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) at the 2025 Wellness Expo at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay.
SSNVI Workshops and Partner Events
SSNVI is hosting workshops with community partners on April 22 and May 27, from10:30 – 12:00, CV Presbyterian Church, 725 Aspen Rd.
Please be sure to check our resource page at https://ssnvi.ca/education-sessions/ for more details. Even better, get on our email list to be notified about these workshops and others at [email protected]
Income Tax Program in Full Swing
Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) is once again providing simple income tax return preparation service for seniors 55+. There are income thresholds for service, $40,000 for a single person, $50,000 for a couple. This service will run until the end of April with returns typically completed with seven calendar days. This service is only offered to SSNVI clients in the Comox Valley. Though drop-ins are welcome, we do suggest calling before coming by the office at 250-871-5940.
Simplified Medication Management
Blister packaging organizes medications by date and time, reducing missed doses and confusion. Ideal for individuals on multiple medications, those with complex schedules, elderly patients, and caregivers, this system simplifies routines and improves adherence. Shayona Pharmacy offers blister packaging at no extra cost, along with free medication delivery and same-day prescription adjustments. With a clear visual guide, patients can easily track their doses. Take control of your medication management with our convenient service. Visit Shayona Pharmacy or call us today to get started!
Top Healthy Easter Chocolates
Here are five top healthy Canadian-made chocolates for a delicious and guilt-free Easter treat: Rogers’ Chocolates, known for its Cultivate Better Cocoa initiative; Hummingbird Chocolate Maker, offering award-winning, sustainably-grown chocolate; Avanaa, featuring organic cocoa lollipops; Daniel Chocolates, creating all-natural treats; and Purdy’s Chocolatier, with a selection of vegan options. Each brand prioritizes quality ingredients and sustainability, making them perfect for those who want a healthier indulgence this Easter while supporting ethical practices.
Financial Fitness
Discover the possibilities of a Lifestyle Mortgage designed specifically for Canadians 55+. Effortlessly access up to 55% of your home’s value as tax-free cash, all while continuing to live in your home without making regular payments. Customize withdrawals to meet your financial needs—whether it’s for healthcare expenses, home renovations, travel, or relieving financial stress. Achieve financial freedom without impacting your CPP or OAS income. Take control of your future, ensure a secure retirement, and explore the benefits of a Lifestyle Mortgage for the enriching life you deserve.
2025 Wellness Expo
Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) is very excited to be a part of the 2025 Wellness Expo on April 26 at the Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenay.
From Bowser to Sayward and in between, with offices based in Courtenay and Campbell River, SSNVI hosts programs to serve our senior population. The 2025 Wellness Expo is an excellent opportunity for us to invite all members from the area to come down and say hello. Come learn about what we do.
Navigating Elder Care Challenges
Families are built on love and support. As children, our parents carefully watched over us to prevent harm. As we age, roles shift, and we begin to support our parents. Caring for an older adult can be rewarding but challenging and injuries can have serious, life-altering effects. Additionally, they may struggle with accepting help, feeling it threatens their independence. Balancing their safety with their need for independence can be difficult. This journey involves open communication, medical alert systems, and finding suitable solutions. Let’s explore these complexities and offer guidance for this important role.
Oral Health Month
April is Oral Health Month! Here are five tips for maintaining good oral health: 1) Make healthy food choices and limit sugary and highly acidic foods to avoid tooth decay and acid erosion. 2) Don’t smoke or use tobacco products, which can stain teeth, cause gum damage, give you bad breath, cause tooth loss, and even lead to oral cancer. 3) Brush twice and floss once daily. 4) Make note of any oral issues you have, including sensitivity, bleeding, pain, or strange lumps. 5) Visit your dentist regularly. We now offer VELScope Oral Cancer Screening in our practice. The exam takes about 2 minutes and is completely safe and painless.
Spring Into Freedom with Pride Mobility!
The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming – it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh spring air! Whether you’re strolling through the park or exploring new places, a Pride Mobility Travel Power Wheelchair will help you move with ease and comfort. Special Offer: Get 20% OFF all Pride Mobility Travel Power Wheelchairs now through April 30th! Don’t let anything hold you back – embrace the season and make every moment count! Why choose Pride Mobility? – Easy to maneuver. – Comfortable & lightweight. – Perfect for spring adventures. We’re here to help you stay active and enjoy all the beauty this season has to offer. Hurry, offer ends April 30th!
Local Health Spotlight:
For more than 20 years, Lesyeno Wellness Acupuncture & Herb has been a trusted source of support for our community. Specializing in Chinese medicine, their skilled practitioners offer exceptional services in internal medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. Through the use of traditional techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, foot massage, scraping, cupping, tendon pulling, and facial beauty massage, they effectively address a wide range of health concerns. With 6 treatment rooms and 8 certified TCM practitioners, they are committed to being your dependable health partners. Their ultimate goal is to guide you towards optimal health using the holistic principles of Chinese Medicine. Visit Vancouver-TCM.com.
When it’s Not Just Aging
While it’s true that some health conditions are more common with age, some symptoms should be discussed with your doctor. 1. Memory loss—this can sometimes be the result of medications, vitamin deficiencies, and some disorders. 2. Vision problems—getting treatment early for certain vision problems like glaucoma can prevent serious damage. 3. Tooth loss—regular dental care can help seniors avoid tooth loss. 4. Depression—certain health conditions and medications can make depression symptoms worse, but this problem can be treated professionally. 5. Weakness—A good exercise program can help prevent loss of muscle mass.


