Community News
Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

The Mayo Clinic recommends 7 or more hours of sleep per night for adults. Sleep is very important for everyone, including seniors. Not getting enough sleep contributes to a higher risk of many health issues, including *depression and anxiety, *dementia, *obesity, *cardiovascular disease, and *stroke in older adults. Sleep is as important for good health as diet and exercise. Good sleep improves our brain performance, mood, and health. During sleep, our bodies are working to support healthy brain function. Sleep is a time of healing, rest, and recovery; it touches every aspect of health.

Making a Difference Together

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Refire Kitchen for their incredible partnership in this year’s Be a Santa to a Senior program. Thanks to their generosity, nearly 200 local seniors received a hot meal this holiday season, bringing warmth and joy to our community. Visit Refired Kitchen at 100 Aldersmith Place in Esquimalt, or at 843 Fort Street in downtown Victoria. To learn more about their delicious offerings and community initiatives, visit their website at refirekitchen.ca. Together, we’re making a difference for those who need it most!

Exercise & Alzheimer’s

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

Dentures to Improve You Oral Health

Start 2025 with a new smile! If you’re considering dentures, now is the perfect time to improve your oral health. Modern dentures offer better comfort, a natural look, and enhanced fit, helping you feel more confident every day. Whether you need full or partial dentures, personalized solutions designed for long-lasting comfort and improved functionality are available. Ready to take the next step? Visit us today at Oak Bay Denture Clinic to explore your options and get the perfect dentures tailored to your needs. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile this year!

Profile: James Bay New Horizons Society

We provide accessible programs, services, and volunteer opportunities to our members and residents in general. Our goal is to help people maintain, improve, and develop new skills, interests, and social opportunities, and to enhance the quality of life of our members and visitors. Membership benefits include: *Participate in all programs, services, and special events, including games, painting, movies, music, fitness, and many more. *Borrow books, CDs, and movies at no cost. *Opportunity to become involved with volunteer work. *Meet new friends and more. Contact us today for more information!

Exercise & Alzheimer’s

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

Caregiver Compassion Fatigue

Caring for others is often driven by motivations of love and understanding. Over time, some caregivers may find themselves going through the motions of caregiving without taking time out to focus on their own needs—often to the point of physical and emotional exhaustion. They may experience compassion fatigue. Here are a few steps to return to feeling positive about caring for loved ones. *Practice a self-care regimen: a balanced diet, regular exercise, and consistent sleep. *Carve out time to spend with friends and maintain social connections. *Find a caregiver support program. Comfort Keepers® can help.

Health and Wellness Programs in Victoria

Creating Community Wellness Society (CCWS) is a charitable
organization providing health and wellness programs in
Victoria. The Victoria Community Health Centre (VCHC) is
located at 200-1075 Pendergast Street. From this location in
Cook Street Village, we run a nurse led Community Health
Centre. Our full-scope Registered Nurses provide a wide array
of services including health assessments, injections, wound
care, blood pressure monitoring, ear cleaning, and referral and
assistance with virtual Dr. visits. We also provide wellness
sessions with topics selected by the community. Contact us for
more information.

Exercise & Alzheimer’s

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys brain cells, causing thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging and is irreversible. While it’s difficult to predict symptoms, the order in which they will appear or the speed of their progression, there are some warning signs you can look out for. Sudden changes to your loved one’s personality are often another sign that something is not right. These changes can include anxiety, paranoia, depression, and socially inappropriate behaviors, as well as sudden mood swings and physical aggression.