Community News
Winter Weather Tips

Baby, it’s cold outside! Be sure to protect yourself against the weather and slippery conditions during these chilly months. Older adults tend to be more susceptible to the cold because of reductions in body fat, so please make sure you dress warmly if you’re venturing out. Also, wear waterproof shoes or boots with good soles that will keep you from slipping on icy surfaces. Be mindful of space heaters in your home, as they can be a fire hazard. Better wear that fetching sweater you’ve been saving! We’ve just had fall prevention month, so let’s keep that going all winter long!

What Does Health Mean to You?

What is your definition of health? It can be different depending on your goals, ability, current health status, and other aspects of your life. Health incorporates mental, physical, and social health, just to name a few areas that impact our overall health and what we consider health to be, look like and feel like. Before you make your next health goal, define what health means to you. Research, reflection, and coaching can all help set goals, formulate plans, and the all-important maintenance phase of all changes that come with goal setting. I can help.

Health Benefits of Music

Music can enhance the quality of life during the dark days of January and all year. According to a 2013 research study, “The Power of Music in the Lives of Older Adults,” music is potentially valuable for the improvement of the well-being and health of the elderly. Music therapy and music-related activities foster enjoyment, socialization, well-being and the improvement of mental health in older people. During the winter months, the elderly can be prone to depression and isolation. Musical activities such as live concerts, singing and playing instruments are part of the many activities that we offer our residents.

Make Fall Prevention a Priority

With colder weather comes slippery sidewalks. Falls prevention is key to maintaining health and longevity. Keep your body active to keep your balance. Take a look at your rugs, flooring, lights, and stairs. If the rug is curling, fix it or get rid of it! If the lighting is poor, install higher-wattage bulbs. If the stairs are not safe, install a railing or look into a stair lift. Monitor blood pressure, stay hydrated, and take medications as directed. When venturing outside, be sure to wear sturdy, well-fitting footwear. Prevention is always better than recovery. Call Comfort Keepers today; we can help!

Experience Healing and Stress Relief

Feeling stressed or tired after the holidays? The Energy Enhancement System (EESystemTM) can help. It generates life-enhancing energy fields that can promote healing. The possible health benefits include improved immune function, pain and stress relief, detoxification of the body, elevated moods and increased energy levels. It combines body, mind, spirit and science to help you achieve peak performance and reach higher states of health, consciousness and self-actualization. The future is here. Experience the EESystemTM while relaxing in a recliner, where your body will reach a meditative state. Be sure to enter the January contest for a chance to win two free sessions.

Welcome 2024!

Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to concentrate on health and wellness? The WellnessHub, our local, online Health and Wellness resource has great information to help you with your health and wellness journey. It features hundreds of health tips and articles on a variety of health and wellness topics along with a directory of hundreds of local businesses and practitioners offering services and products. It is easy to search, access and share information. Let’s stive to make 2024 the best year yet! Happy New Year!

Socks for Healthy Circulation

Today’s travel often involves long flights in cramped seats that can be very hard on your circulation. Wearing socks with mild compression will comfortably help increase circulation and reduce the risk of swelling. The compression steadily squeezes your legs, helping your veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. They offer a simple, safe and economical way to keep blood from stagnating. Others things that will help you during long flights include getting up and stretching every hour while flying, staying hydrated and flexing your ankles every 30 minutes.

Supporting Our Communities

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people in our communities who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. This fundraiser helps Our Place Society and the Pacific Centre Family Services Association run programs that provide shelter, care, and holistic support, empowering people to step forward to independence and hope. CNOY 2024 takes place on February 24th, 2024, drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 180 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them.

Dentures Don’t Need to be Uncomfortable

The cause-and-effect relationship between denture sores and ill-fitting dentures is real. Ill-fitted dentures can create friction and pressure points on the gums, leading to painful sores and irritation. When dentures don’t conform properly to the oral contours, they can cause uneven stress, resulting in sore spots that make wearing them a challenge. Discomfort from poorly fitting dentures not only affects daily life but also underscores the importance of seeking professional adjustments to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Minimize the risk of persistent denture sores and enhance overall oral well-being by making an appointment for a denture adjustment. We can help.

Free Nursing Services with a BC MSP Card

The Victoria Community Health Co-operative is currently offering Nursing services based on a Community Health Centre model. Services are available at no cost with a BC MSP card. We are located in Cook Street Village at #200-1075 Pendergast Street. Our nurses are able to assist you by providing a nursing assessment and recommendations. We provide navigation services to assist you to connect with other healthcare providers as required. In keeping with the principle of community well-being, we offer wellness sessions on a regular basis. Contact us or visit our website to find out more.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

January marks the beginning of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month 2024 and the Alzheimer Society of BC invites you to join them in challenging dementia stigma. While one in two British Columbians believe that a dementia diagnosis means the end of a meaningful life, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is an opportunity to spotlight people on the dementia journey who continue to find joy and purpose. Want to help change the conversation about dementia during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month 2024? See the Alzheimer Society of BC’s website for information.