Community News
Spring Cleaning Tips for Seniors

The green season is upon us and with Spring comes Spring Cleaning! The best way to tackle this yearly task is to go low and slow. Try one drawer or cupboard a day, this can get the ball rolling in the right direction. Try starting in the bathroom by looking for expired medications, collect these up and take them to the Pharmacy during your next trip for proper disposal. Declutter with the help of a friend or call us to help you with even more! We are here to support you holistically, body, mind and home.

Avoiding Medication Mistakes

Medications play an important role in maintaining health and longevity for many of us as we get older. Taking multiple medications can be challenging. Here are some helpful hints to manage your medications effectively: Follow the instructions for each medication carefully: Shake bottles of liquid medications before use; Take all medications as prescribed; Use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions; Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor; Never stop taking a medication suddenly without checking with your doctor and most importantly, Conduct annual medication reviews with your doctor or pharmacist.

Vancouver Island Gambling Support

It’s been over a year since Covid 19 overtook our lives. For most, it has been a challenging time. For many, it has been a difficult time emotionally and financially. Pushed to the limit, some of our friends and family have sought financially relief through online gambling. Rarely has it been the silver bullet many had hoped for. Here at VIGamingSupport.ca, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs. Support groups, outreach support services, counselling, and webinars are available to support you and your loved one’s redress gambling related harms. VI Gaming Support is contracted by the BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program.

Help with Filing a Basic Tax Return

Tax returns have to be completed, but for many residents that’s easier said than done. The SOS Income Tax program helps low-income residents file basic tax returns at no cost. This alleviates the stress that comes with unfinished paperwork, while also unlocking government benefits. SOS works in conjunction with the Revenue Canada Community Volunteer Income Tax Program to deliver the program with the help of trained SOS volunteers. The income threshold is $35,000 for one person and $45,000 for a couple. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this service will be offered over the phone. For more information, please call SOS at 250-248-2093.

Ultrasonic Facial Treatment

Has wearing a mask left your skin blemished by acne, blackheads and congestion? The Ultrasonic facial treatment is recommended for all skin types and is a drug-free, chemical-free and gentle alternative to traditional methods. Pores that have become blocked by oils create an environment for bacterial growth. The sound waves from Ultrasonic can dissolve and extract these oils, even if the congestion is deep under the skin. After treatment with a natural product, the ultrasound is used to create channels in the skin for better nutrient absorption. Most people experience a considerable difference after only one treatment.

Look After the Caregiver

When you are the caregiver of a loved one, it’s important to also take care of yourself. Here are some signs that you may be suffering from burn out: *Withdrawal from family and friends *Changes in sleep patterns *Feelings of irritability, helplessness and resentment *Decline in your own health. Things you can do to support yourself include talking to a trusted friend or co-worker; finding a support group and being realistic about your loved one’s state of health. Recognize that the time may come when your loved one will need specialized long term care and know that it is available in your community.

Tips for the Start of Gardening Season

Spring is in the air and summer is right around the corner! It is the time to start planting flowers, veggies and fruit. Planting and digging in your garden requires you to be on the ground and mostly on your knees. Simply using a knee cushion will help take the hard tension off your knees and legs and keep the strain off your back. Always try to take breaks and stand up to give your back a stretch. This will straighten up your spine and prevent your body from being sore and tight the next day. Most importantly, enjoy the sun!

Hearing Test Comes to You

When hearing loss is suspected, a hearing test with a diagnostic audiometer is recommended. The diagnostic hearing test is used to verify a hearing loss, determine the extent, the type and the cause of the hearing loss. If hearing aids are required, a hearing healthcare practitioner will program and fit your hearing aids to necessary audiological requirements as well as comfort and tolerance levels. Digital technology and user available adjustment features allow for a customized hearing experience for every listening situation. All diagnostic and audiological equipment needed to test hearing, prescribe and program hearing aids comes to you in a fully customized Sprinter Van. Book an appointment today.

Stay Young at Heart

CardioFlex Q10™ is a proprietary collagen precursor formula designed to promote the body’s natural ability to produce collagen and repair connective tissues to support cardiovascular health. Each serving contains 2000 mg Vitamin C, amino acids and other nutrients that help build structural elastin and structural collagen, maintain cardiovascular health, reduce the recurrence of herpes simplex virus/shingles, maintain proper muscle function and generally maintain good health. Excellent for supplementing vegan diets and made in Canada by Innotech Nutrition, a family company.

AJ Pedal Wheelchair

Whether your mobility has been impacted by Parkinson’s, MS, a stroke, or knee or hip trouble, the AJ Pedal Wheelchair is designed to get you moving again. Like a bike, it’s powered by you – so you can reconnect with your body, rebuild muscle tone and improve your cardiovascular system. Designed to maneuver in tight spaces like narrow halls and doorways, the AJ rides easily into elevators, buildings and shopping centres. More robust than a wheelchair, the AJ allows you to pedal through parks, along sidewalks and even ride public transit. One-handed, dual hydraulic brakes allow you to stop quickly with just a gentle squeeze of the brake handle. The comfort-ride shock and pneumatic tires keep you comfortable and confidently in control. Each AJ is hand built in Victoria, BC, using the highest grade aluminum and other durable materials for a safe and sturdy ride.

Alcohol Free Elixirs

Ancient wisdom describes an elixir as a magical or medicinal potion designed to cure. Solbrü has redefined a modern elixir as a liquid infusion of herbs that serves a function in the body. They have soulfully infused a blend of balancing herbs and adaptogenic mushrooms, to raise vibes and ground souls. Their Brü replaces alcoholic spirits in a sophisticated way, with its own unique flavours and novel functionality, delivering a bold authentic bite without the hangover. Drink it as a shot, sip it on the rocks; or enjoy it in an AF (alcohol-free) cocktail. Pour over a glass of nut or oat milk or mix it with orange or grapefruit juice for an extra Vitamin C punch.