Closing the estate of someone who died can be a tough job while coping with shock or grief. Issues such as properties, insurance, investments, beneficiaries must be taken care of even if the estate is a simple one. When considering your own final affairs, help loved ones by collecting contact information for employers, creditors and investment agencies and note the whereabouts of your Will, Deeds and Ownerships. Record this information in one place to simplify life for your family. The complimentary Family Registry Estate Planner provided by Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens offers a simple method of making all of this crucial information immediately available to your survivors.
Community News
Care for Your Brain
You only have one brain – and only you have the power to look after it. Be physically fit so your brain has a steady and regular supply of oxygen. Your brain thrives on variety, new experiences, and challenges. Constantly challenge your brain so it continues to learn and build new ways to think. The more out-of-the-ordinary an activity is, the more your brain has to pay attention and think – and learn. Join ‘Let’s Get Brain Fit’ every Thursday from 10-11:30 am on Zoom. Check out our new service ‘Brain on Wheels’ where we come to you to train your brain to keep functioning at top capacity.
Joys of Family Vacations
We may not be able to travel far this summer; thankfully, we live on Vancouver Island which offers everything we could want for a nature vacation. Family vacation time is important for the family unit. Researchers have found that family vacations can improve family communication and bonding. Most families spend their days dealing with work, school, extracurricular activities, or household duties. Breaking away from the stress of daily routine provides relief. Taking time together to share experiences and activities creates memories that will last a lifetime. We still reminisce about a three week family vacation that happened almost 50 years ago.
Support Chemainus Theatre
The Playbill Dining Room at Chemainus Theatre Festival is open for dining on Friday and Saturday evenings with physical-distancing and safety measures in place. Chemainus Theatre Festival is a not-for-profit registered charity; generous donations from patrons enable them to continue the work. The Chemainus Theatre Bridging the Gap Fund has been established to help them withstand this difficult time and to return when it is safe to do so. Today more than ever, they rely on charitable support. If you are able to help, any donation will be an integral part of helping them build towards their next season.
Spring Detox
Here are some tips for spring wellness: *Drink lemon or apple cider vinegar water first thing in morning, *Cut out processed sugar and junk food and limit gluten, dairy, and meat consumption. *Include fermented, probiotic-rich foods in your diet. *Drink at least 10 glasses of water and herbal teas such as dandelion, nettle ginger, turmeric, tulsi, and green every day. *Consider taking an occasional dose of aloe vera and/or milk thistle. *Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetable and maybe add in a daily greens powder like moringa or chlorella.
Observing Spring
This month, many of us will be celebrating Easter in our own way by decorating our homes and working in the garden. Others still find themselves alone and/or fearful to reach out. Use this new moon to find a way to make new connections. Hide some painted eggs in a neighbour’s yard for their kids to find, spend some time volunteering, or give someone a basket filled with thoughtful trinkets. It doesn’t just have to be about a rabbit leaving chocolate gifts, hot cross buns, or a feast of ham with family. This spring, embrace the time for sharing and starting new friendships and experiences at a safe distance.
Communicating with Individuals with Hearing Loss
Communicating effectively with someone experiencing hearing loss can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help: *Find a quiet place – create the best conditions for them to understand you, *Understand level of loss – understand the unique set of challenges they face, *Say it a different way – choose uncomplicated words so it’s easier for them to understand, *Make eye contact – eye contact allows someone to read your expression for context, *Get their attention – make sure they know you’re speaking. If you or a family member are concerned about hearing loss, be sure to schedule a hearing test today!
Covid 19 Vaccines
Vaccines are products that produce immunity to a specific disease like COVID-19. When you are immune to COVID-19 that means you can be exposed to it without becoming sick or if you do become infected, it prevents more severe illness. Vaccines save lives. Vaccines don’t just protect the people getting vaccinated; they protect everyone around them too. The more people in a community who are vaccinated and therefore protected from COVID-19, the harder it is for it to spread. (Source: Provincial Health Services Authority). Vaccines will soon be available at the pharmacy. Please check our website for updates.
Reiki – Release Stress and Tension
Reiki offers deep relaxation and helps the body release stress and tension. A reiki treatment gives you time to yourself where you are ‘being’ instead of ‘doing’. Clients report feeling more clear, peaceful, relaxed, and lighter in themselves. Reiki provides a space where you can be more aware of what is going on inside your body and mind. You can learn to listen to your own body and make wise decisions about your wellbeing. Being more present in your body helps you to access the inner knowing and wisdom that we all have!
Wanted! Check-in Volunteers
Are you a cheerful person with good communication skills? Do you have 2 hours per week available to chat and connect with a senior in your community? Check‐In Services Volunteers are an essential part of the Nanaimo Lifeline team. They support seniors in the community by maintaining a social connection and referring individuals to resources and events within the community. This role is a great fit for individuals who are comfortable speaking on the phone and want to help people in their community stay connected and engaged. Training is provided by Lifeline staff and volunteers.
Role of the Pharmacist
Pharmacists are experts in prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs; and are trained on diseases, symptoms, treatment and signs that require an appointment with a doctor. Your pharmacist will ensure your prescribed medication is appropriate for your health issue, is the correct dose based on your weight and kidney health and does not interact with any medication you are already taking. As appropriate, you pharmacist may suggest a complementary treatment to prevent side effects and can help ensure that you aren’t taking drugs that are no longer needed. If you feel unwell, your pharmacist may recommend an OTC medication or refer you to a health care professional.
