We all need to be proactive about our own health and safety and to have options in place so that help can be summoned in an emergency. Some folks let neighbours know they are up and about each day by simply opening the blinds. A daily scheduled phone call is also a good way to ensure that someone knows you are safe. These systems can be developed with neighbours and family. Nanaimo Lifeline can offer additional help. We provide wearable waterproof buttons that can be pressed in an emergency to get you the help you need.
Community News
Sores in the Mouth
Mouth sores can be caused by infections – bacterial, viral or fungal, a loose orthodontic wire, an ill-fitting denture or a sharp edge from a broken tooth or filling. Some of the most common mouth sores are: *Canker sores, small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border, *Cold sores are groups of fluid-filled blisters, *Candidiasis, occurs when the yeast Candida albicans reproduce in large numbers. Mouth sores may also be symptoms of an underlying disease or problem. So, if you’ve had any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer, it is a good idea to get your dentist to check it out.
Live Life to It’s Fullest
A senior once said to me, “The secret to having everything in life, is believing that you already have it.” There is something to that. Many seniors will tell you that the things that you thought mattered in your younger years were not really what mattered. It’s not the ‘things’ that matter. It’s the people, the experiences, the memories that you carry with you throughout your lifetime. Retirement communities are great places for retirees to continue to make new friends, have new experiences and make more wonderful memories. We should all strive every day to learn something new or meet someone new – it’s what keeps us young at heart!
Help Keep Kids Active this Fall
Now that kids are back in school and routines have resumed for the fall and winter, many families are challenged with how to provide affordable activities for their children. That’s where SOS comes in. SOS provides numerous free programs, including a nurturing environment for early learners to build social and emotional skills while parents/caregivers take a much-needed break. Child and youth programs inspire confidence, connections and provide mentorship and healthy food. The SOS Recreation Assistance for Children & Youth program helps families with registration costs for other local programs. Support these programs and help SOS rebuild capacity by donating to the SOS Project Rebuild Campaign.
The Canadian Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines
The Canadian Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines were released in September. They include. Guideline 1: Gamble no more than 1% of household income, e.g.: $60,000 annual gross income = $50/month. Guideline 2: Gamble no more than 4 days per month = roughly once a week. Guideline 3: Avoid regularly gambling at more than two types of games, including lotteries, sports betting, table games, slot machines, scratch tickets, horse racing, bingo, video lottery terminals (VLTs), and online gambling. See more at gamblingguidelines.ca . Mental health & addictions, gambling type and reasons for gambling can make these guidelines difficult to follow. Reach out at VI Gaming Support! We’re here for you!
Selective Hearing?
Would you know if your hearing was impaired? Those with hearing loss are often the last ones to recognize it. Unless related to physical or medical trauma, hearing loss generally occurs slowly over time. The process presents itself as people mumbling, unclear voices, or difficulty hearing through background noise. Friends and family are usually the first to notice when they aren’t being heard, or when they are consistently asked to repeat themselves. You may be tempted to brush it off as selective hearing. But if those close to you have said they suspect you have a hearing loss, it’s time to get your hearing checked.
Options for Complex Care
Residential Care provides medically complex and specialized services for individuals suffering from chronic health issues and functional limitations. If you or your loved one is physically dependant with medical needs that require professional nursing care, look for a residence that provides personalized attention and compassion while respecting the individual’s dignity and independence. When choosing residential care for a loved one, it is important to maintain their quality of life. Look for one with comfortable living space and an individual care plan with 24 hour support in place.
You Can Live Independently in Your Home
We all want an independent lifestyle in the familiarity of our own home; as we age, it may become more difficult. Home care services can help. There is a range of services available which include companionship, homemaking services, personal care and nursing care. The services are easy to initiate with a phone call. At an appointed time, a nurse who adheres to all Covid safety protocols, will come to your home to provide an assessment of your needs. The assessment is free with no obligation to purchase. One or more of these services can help you remain in the comfort of your own home.
Benefits of Small Hearing Aids
Thanks to advanced technology, the latest generation of hearing aids are almost invisible, yet offer many of the most desirable features. Small hearing aids keep the focus on interactions with others, rather than on hearing or hearing aids. Invisible hearing aids are made to fit completely in the ear canal and are virtually unnoticeable so that no one can see them. Most styles of in-the-ear hearing aids are custom-fit and are created using a mold of the ear specifically for the user. The result is a fit that’s so natural you may even forget you’re wearing a hearing aid.
Are you suffering from Gum Disease?
Are your gums sensitive? Bleed when you floss or brush? You could be suffering from gum disease which is more serious to your health than you think. Gum disease has been linked to strokes, diabetes, heart disease and even dementia. Bacteria around your gums causes plaque to build up leading to inflammation. That inflammation impacts the bloodstream which is believed to damage blood vessels overtime. Gum disease has also been linked to problems in pregnancy leading to premature births and low birth weights. 50% of that plaque causing bacteria is on your tongue! So, brush your teeth AND tongue.
Good Posture is Important
Growing up, most of us heard our mother tell us not to slouch and “Sit up straight”. This was very good advice. A proper posture position keeps your body in alignment. Proper posture decreases the wear and tear of joint surfaces, you have less stress on your ligaments and also makes it easier for your muscles to work efficiently. With good posture, you will have less muscle strain and less back pain. A spine has three natural curves that are retained by good posture. A chiropractor can help you retain or regain the natural curves of the spine which will result in good posture and better overall back health.
