Maintaining relationships and spending time with others is essential to our emotional and mental well-being. It can help prevent depression which affects 20 percent of the population over 70 years of age. Socializing also keeps the mind active and improvements are greater when the person is involved in fun interests with other people. Plan regular get-togethers with friends, such as a weekly lunch date or coffee with another senior or loved one. Scheduling social interactions give us something to look forward to on a regular basis. For those who are truly adventurous you can enjoy new experiences and meet new people by signing up for travel tours, book clubs, and much more at your local community centre.
Community News
Medication Safety Week
April 1–7, 2024, is Medication Safety Week. It promotes safe and responsible medication use and is a reminder to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prescribed medications. Following directions carefully can lower your risk of serious side effects and potential dangers such as interactions with other drugs or incorrect dosages. It is important to take the correct dosage at the right intervals and to finish the medication that is prescribed. Using a blister pack, available from your pharmacy, can help keep medications organized and ensure that they are taken on the correct day and time.
Search for Meaning
Depression and anxiety are experiences for many individuals. These conditions can create challenges that feel overwhelming and insurmountable at times. One way to approach this is through existential approaches to counselling. In Victor Frankl’s book Man’s Search for Meaning, he writes how we can fill our lives with meaning by incorporating three main pillars: 1) the freedom to will—choosing your own path to follow; 2) the will to meaning—finding what is personally meaningful; and 3) the meaning to life—one’s personal meaning brought forward by the work or deed and their connection to others.
Balance your Body’s Hormones
The endocrine system of the body contains many glands. These include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive glands. All the endocrine glands produce hormones that direct the metabolic functions of the body. We absorb stress from the world into our endocrine system. This stress can create a hormone imbalance that can sometimes mimic a nervous breakdown and contribute to chronic fatigue. An endocrine massage helps cleanse the endocrine system and balance the body’s hormones using Young Living essential oils and crystals. It helps to realign the energy centres of the body. Book your massage today!
Theatre: All In the Timing
This production consists of witty, absurd, and funny sketches written by David Ives. Each story is engaging and intelligent. Using small bites of pure humanity, Ives is a master at recognizing our foibles and presenting them on a silver platter for our pleasure. From construction workers perched on a skyscraper in Mere Mortals to a laboratory with precocious primates in Words, Words, Words, All in the Timing takes the audience on a multi-levelled dive into humour and intellect. Adult language is to be expected in one or two of the sketches because Ives writes as we speak, with frustration, kindness, curiosity, and joy.
Relationships are Important
Relationships are so important! Hard, too, at times, especially in the relationships we have with those with whom we are closest. What makes a good relationship? While many may say things like “common interests and/or personality,” “chemistry” for intimate relationships, or a sense of humour, there are some that create more meaningful connections. These include an ability to stick with it through thick and thin (except when there is abuse), a willingness to be emotionally vulnerable, mutual respect, and a desire to deeply understand each other. Sometimes we get stuck and need a third party to help us turn our conflicts into a genuine connection.
Staying Active, Really?
The old saying “If you don’t use it, you lose it” has some truth to it. If you are active, you are doing yourself a huge favour to stave off falls, increase independence, and help prevent illnesses like stroke, diabetes type 2, and osteoporosis. But what if you don’t like to exercise? Find something that you like to do! Walking with a friend, dancing, biking, and even mowing the lawn count. Start slow and enjoy it. Comfort Keepers can help you stay active and get your life back on track.
World Immunization Week
This month, we shine a light on the importance of immunizations during World Immunization Week (April 22–30). Did you know that you can get immunized or vaccinated at any age? Even though most immunizations are given in childhood, you always have the option to catch up on any immunizations you may have missed! Immunizations and vaccines provide the longest-lasting protection against diseases. Just make sure you speak to your doctor first to ensure you’re a good candidate for a particular vaccine. It’s really important for everyone’s health!
Seniors’ Advocacy Services
We see the impact that today’s economy is having on local seniors every day. Many struggle to afford necessities like food and medication. Others are unable to pay their bills or afford the upkeep of their homes. SOS Seniors’ Advocacy Services assist low-income seniors with accessing government benefits and tax refunds that they may not realize they are eligible for. With community support, we have been able to recover $118,000 in back pay for local seniors since July 2023. Get in touch with us if you know a senior who could use our assistance. Financial donations are gratefully accepted online, by phone, or in person.
Acupuncture for Blood Sugar Balance
Acupuncture, an ancient practice of inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, can be a valuable complementary approach to managing blood sugar levels. 1. Regulates Insulin: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins and improve insulin sensitivity, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. 2.Reduces Stress: Acupuncture promotes relaxation by releasing tension and reducing stress hormones, aiding in glycemic control. 3. Enhances Digestion: Improved digestion can lead to better nutrient absorption and more stable blood sugar. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical advice or medication. Consult a healthcare professional to discuss how acupuncture may help you.
Plant New Beliefs for a Joyful Life
April is here! Are you ready for some spring cleaning? Spring is a good time to clean out those beliefs that no longer serve you and to plant joyful intentions! Your intentions should be positive, uplifting, and in the present tense. When you state your intentions, do so in a positive tone. Avoid using any negative words. Intentions are what you want, not what you do not want. Are you ready to plant joyful intentions for your life? If you are not yet ready, book a Realigning Beliefs or Body Code session to release those negative beliefs and get joy back in your life.
