Tax time can be stressful for residents; SOS is here to help. Doing your income tax return is the key to unlocking unclaimed government benefits and recovering overpaid taxes. It can also help relieve the stress that comes with piles of unfinished business. SOS works in conjunction with the Revenue Canada Community Volunteer Income Tax Program to help low-income residents file basic tax returns at no cost. The income threshold is $35,000 for 1 person and $45,000 for a couple. This service does not assist with self-employment returns. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this service is only offered over the phone. For more information, please call SOS at 250-248-2093.
Community News
Oral Health Important During Covid
Today, many dentists report seeing an increase in cavities and infection. There may be a number of reasons for this including; *People snacking on sticky and sweet foods throughout the day, *Altered sleep habits which, in turn, alters saliva flow, *Reduced cleaning both at home and professional cleaning at the dental office. Most dental offices are open and are functioning with some restrictions. So, maintain your dental appointments and make sure to keep up your oral care at home.
Supporting Someone with Hearing Loss
People with a hearing impairment often need additional support managing the impacts of hearing loss. It can be overwhelming to navigate daily life and adjust to symptoms, especially early on. One of the most important things you can do to support your loved one is to be present. Be an advocate for them, attend appointments with them, check for accommodations when visiting theaters and teach others about communication strategies for people with hearing impairment. If someone with hearing loss resists your help, remember that they must take responsibility for their own hearing. Remind them that you are simply there to listen and offer support.
Why Use a Compounding Pharmacy?
If you are unable to take a mass-produced medication, a compounding pharmacy can create a personalized medicine just for you. Reasons to turn to a compounding pharmacy include; inability to swallow a pill, an allergy to gluten or dyes, or a drug may be in short supply. The pharmacist works with the prescribing health care practitioner to create a solution that works for you. The compounding pharmacist can add appealing flavours, create unique dosage forms and provide innovative delivery methods to make it easier for you to take your medicine.
Heal Shoulder Joint Pain
To eliminate the pain of frozen shoulder or rotator cuff injuries and to regenerate the joint, especially with osteo-arthritic elements; acupuncture, natural medicines and ozone are historically my treatment protocols. Hypoxia or the inadequacy of cellular oxygen reaching the body’s tissues causes degeneration in the ligaments. These treatments are excellent for all forms of musculo-skeletal and joint pain including chronic neck & back pain, rotator cuff injuries, degenerative, arthritic hips, knees, degenerated discs, shoulder and elbow pain.
Social Connection
Staying socially connected is more important than ever and especially during this pandemic. Social Isolation particularily among seniors, is a growing problem and is associated with a number of health risks. There is technology to help you keep in-touch but not everyone has the access nor the ability to use it. Nanaimo Lifeline has a Check-In Service with a daily phone call to those who might not be connected. Their friendly chat provides peace of mind and ensures that somebody knows that you are doing Ok today. Contact us if you or someone you know would benefit from this service.
Is the Food Good?
When considering a move to independent senior living, there are two burning questions that come to mind; “What am I going to do with my time?” and “Is the food good?” Today’s senior residences offer a calendar with a variety of recreation programs and unlimited access to programs in recreation, leisure, social arts, entertainment and fitness. You are welcome to participate in as much as you want, or to take quiet time for yourself. Executive Chefs offer in-house prepared meals with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Residents can enjoy everything from comfort food to elegant special event dinners.
The Story You Tell Yourself
Our experiences are determined by our conscious and subconscious thoughts. They become the story we tell ourselves or “self-talk.” Self-talk impacts how we live our lives, including how we react to unpleasant or stressful situations. Negative self-talk can be challenged by changing how we respond to situations. Recognize negative thinking styles such as *Perfectionism,*Thinking you are the only one experiencing stress and strain, *Ignoring the positive, *Thinking only of the worst outcome. Ways to manage negative self-talk includes identifying the negative thoughts and changing them to healthier thoughts. Acknowledging the negative thoughts and feelings while moving towards what matters most to you.
Common Questions about Hearing Aids
Here are answers to some common hearing aid questions: *Are they expensive? Your hearing practitioner, through careful investigation and consultation, can recommend a product to fit every budget and need. *How long do they last? With normal wear and tear of daily use, you can expect approximately five years of life from a set of hearing aids. *Can people tell that I am wearing hearing aids? Many of the options available today are the most discreet and invisible hearing aids ever. Our hearing practitioner will help you make an educated decision. Contact us today – we come to you.
Urban Poling Your Way to Better Health
If you have been told you should use a cane but using a cane just does not fit your image, why not try Urban poles. They are sporty, fun, easy to use and facilitate a more fluid gait. Evidence based research relating to older adults identify Urban poling (Nordic walking), with the proper training, as a healthy activity suited for improving quality of life. Proven benefits include increased balance & stability, increase in mobility and improved strength. A 2011 study on Nordic walking with Parkinson’s clients found pain, balance and health related quality of life were improved.
Your Cool New Booze-Free Option
Taking a night off from drinking can now be a part of an exciting night out! Self-care can extend past sunset and socializing can boost your health and wellness game. When we consume beverages that are healthier for our body and mind, we feel more empowered and connected to our souls. We call this mindful consumption. Our Brü is soulfully curated for both flavour and functionality, creating a novel social experience. It’s time we remove outdated, stigmatized labels like alcoholic, recovery, disease and replace them with empowering words like alcohol-free, sober curious, and non-drinker, so people can feel proud about their accomplishment by choosing not to drink.
