Community News
Transitioning to Assisted Living

It can be hard to know when the “right” time is to move a senior loved one into an assisted living community, but there are some important signs. If your senior loved one is having trouble keeping up with personal hygiene, cleaning their home, preparing meals, remembering to take medications, or is experiencing falls, it might be time to discuss a transition to assisted living. Your loved one will benefit from being in a safe environment, having more opportunities to socialize, getting adequate nutrition, having someone assist with medication schedules, and accessing transportation for a variety of outings and errands.

Make Social Interaction a Priority

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.

Prevent Hearing Loss

Protecting your hearing is the best way to prevent hearing loss. Custom hearing solutions are available to match any lifestyle. For example; *Water Enthusiasts – Swimming or simply taking a shower can result in water trapped inside the ear canal, potentially resulting in irritation or infection. Custom hearing protection keeps the water out. *Hunters – A single gunshot can cause permanent hearing loss. Custom hearing protection is specially designed to prevent against impulse noise. *Music lovers – Listen to music with custom hearing protection that maintains the sound quality and allows you to enjoy rich, natural sound.

Better at Home Services

Better at Home supports seniors by meeting their non-medical needs. By providing assistance with these simple, day-to-day tasks, Better at Home assures seniors continue to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. Services vary from community to community but may include the following: • Friendly Visiting. • Transportation. • Light Housekeeping. • Grocery Shopping. To find out more about the services, please contact Mariam at 604-536-9348.

Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table

The Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table is a group of individuals, self-advocates, and representatives from various levels of government, non-profit agencies and businesses that are concerned with the inclusion and wellbeing of older adults living in the White Rock / South Surrey community. Once a month, the members of the Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table meet to discuss the issues that are relevant to our older population, share information and take action. To Join our events please email us at [email protected]

Seniors Center Without Walls

If you are someone who is experiencing difficulties getting out of their home for activities or would like to stay socially connected with other people, look no further. SCWW is a free interactive telephone based program that connects seniors 55+ in a variety of recreational activities, health and wellness talks and friendly conversations. With activities like Mindfulness Meditation to Brain Teasers, SCWW focuses to improve cognition and keep the brain healthy. To receive a program schedule, please contact Edwin Chau at 604-531-9400 ext. 205.

Join Today!

Brella Society allows individuals to stay engaged in the community even if it is from the comfort of their own home. We offer programs that stimulate individual’s cognition, provide emotional support, food security and have them engaged in physical activities. Our priority is the well-being of the seniors in our community; therefore, we take initiative in advocating for them and assisting them in navigating support. Visit ComeShare.ca or SHAREvirtually.com for a list of our programs and events.

Keep Living Your Best Life

A good retirement residence is not just a convenient place to live, it’s an environment in which you can pursue your passions, thrive and continue living with purpose. It may be daunting to think about moving into a retirement home, but have you considered how your life might improve by making this change? Meet a new network of friends, build new relationships, and take part in activities you once enjoyed, or commit to learning something new! Leave the worrying behind when it comes to home maintenance, meal preparation and your own safety – and have us do it for you!

Prevent Hearing Loss

Protecting your hearing is the best way to prevent hearing loss. Custom hearing solutions are available to match any lifestyle. For example; *Water Enthusiasts – Swimming or simply taking a shower can result in water trapped inside the ear canal, potentially resulting in irritation or infection. Custom hearing protection keeps the water out. *Hunters – A single gunshot can cause permanent hearing loss. Custom hearing protection is specially designed to prevent against impulse noise. *Music lovers – Listen to music with custom hearing protection that maintains the sound quality and allows you to enjoy rich, natural sound.

Fitness Classes with the City of Surrey

It is not too late to start your New Year resolutions with an exciting and engaging virtual fitness class! Brella Society has collaborated with the City of Surrey, who will have trained instructors ready to guide you through the workout and make modifications for you, as you require them. All adults ages 55+ are welcome to join from the comfort of their home; all that is needed is a computer! If you do not have access to technology, please contact us to get set up through our technology-lending program. Visit sharevirtually.com to register today and we hope to see you there! For additional support contact Isaiah Clemente at [email protected] or call 604-531-9400 Ext. 220.

June Events

Fit 55+ Online Fitness Class– June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29.
Zoom Bingo – June 28, @1:00-2:15
Zoom Trivia – June 29, @1:00-3:00.
Caregiver Support Group – June 1, 15, 29 @ 1:30 PM.
Caring Conversations Webinar, topic is Advanced Care Planning – June 7 @ 1:30 PM.
Caring Conversations Webinar, topic is Home Care Agencies vs. Private Caregivers – June 21 @ 1:30 PM.
Fresh and Lively Luncheons at Kent Street – June 3, June 17.
Semiahmoo Seniors Planning Table – June 16 (BCCRN event), June 29 (Zumba Chair by Mary Lou Rust)
Visit brellasociety.ca for more!