As the days get shorter, and the nights get longer, many people start to feel the effects of the lack of light. Out on the West Coast of Canada, we also get a lot of overcast skies. These realities of our environment can sap our energy and bring about feelings of general moodiness. This is a normal experience for many people, and there are things you can do about it. Self-care at this time of year is important. One of the recommendations is to find a full spectrum light and get some quality time in front of it. Use it while reading, working at the computer, or even when watching television!
Community News
Annual Denturist Exam
Your dentures are an investment that require care and attention. The fit and function of your dentures and oral tissues are an integral part of your well-being. An annual examination by your denturist will help maintain your denture(s) and oral tissues so they stay at their optimal performance. Your exam includes *Updating your medical and dental history chart *Examination of oral cavity as well as head and neck region *Tissue and bone assessment *Assessment of denture stability, structural integrity of denture and bite *Clean and polish denture if requested *Review oral hygiene care *Counsel on present or future procedures.
The Power of Smell
Smell is amazing. It is far more than just a sniff or a whiff of something. Smell is the most primal of all of our senses and is the only one embedded in the limbic brain. The limbic brain is our emotional brain and in the end EVERYTHING boils down to how we FEEL. Our ability to smell has the ability to alter mood and behaviour. Changing how we feel changes behaviour. Instead of striving for a scent free environment, get rid of synthetic scents and toxins. Replace them with the smells of nature to improve mood and motivation. Viva our sense of smell!
Take Care of YOU During the Holidays
The holidays can be a time of happiness and a time of high stress. We stress over meal preparation, finding the perfect gift, and traveling home. It’s important during this season to take some time for ourselves to rest and reflect on the year we have had. Increased stress levels reduce our immune systems, making us more susceptible to colds and flus. Rest, drink lots of water, eat healthy, get exercise, and take care of any aches and pains by seeing your local physiotherapist, massage therapist or chiropractor. You are important so take care of you too. Happy Holidays!
Keeping Busy In the Winter
Winter can be chilly and uninviting. As the days grow short and cold, excursions become tricky in the ice and cold. If there is nothing to do, evenings become long. Take this time to explore new things; read a new author; stretch your mind with a brain game; perhaps you prefer a puzzle; or you can learning an instrument! A home-care service can facilitate you or your loved one staying at home safely. They will get you to errands, help cook a lovely meal or just engage in some good old conversation; whatever is needed
Community Profile – Nanaimo Lifeline
Helping seniors and others since 1987, Nanaimo Lifeline has been providing service to people in the communities of Central Vancouver Island, British Columbia, for over 30 years. Nanaimo Lifeline is a Social Enterprise of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation. Proceeds from Nanaimo Lifeline support the health care needs of our community. Medically at risk individuals and people with disabilities are able to live independently with the help of Lifeline. Family caregivers, friends and neighbours experience improved peace of mind knowing a loved one has access to help 24 hours a day at the push of a button.
Easy Steps to Protect Your Ears and Hearing
Proper ear care will protect your hearing and the effectiveness of your hearing aids. The best way to clean your ears is not to clean them. Your ears are self-cleaning. Cotton swabs and ear candles can damage your ear drum, which can lead to conductive hearing loss. See your hearing healthcare professional if you are experiencing excessive wax buildup. Protect your ears if you work or live in a noisy environment. Your ears are sensitive, and experiencing sounds above 85 decibels can damage your hearing—permanently. Wear protective earmuffs or earplugs if you know you’re going to be exposed to loud noises.
Treatment For Chronic Pain
Patients ask “How Does Prolozone Work?” because they want to explain to others why their chronic pain has improved significantly. Prolozone is a connective tissue injection therapy of collagen producing natural substances and ozone gas which can reconstruct damaged or weakened connective tissue in and around joints. The technique causes repair & tightening of the lax structures, partially torn connective tissue, ligaments and halts the pain/inflammation cycle. This allows for better circulation, increase blood flow carrying nutrition, hydration to the damaged tissues. Prolozone therapy offers a non-surgical, ligament reconstruction option and is a permanent treatment for chronic pain.
Support Locals This Christmas
For more than 50 years, the SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program has been creating the magic of Christmas. The program provides a gift for children and youth so there is something special for them under the tree on Christmas morning. Adults receive local grocery store gift cards so they may choose food that is meaningful to them. To support the program, find an SOS Angel Tree in a local business, or attend a local event that benefits the program. Drop off a new, unwrapped gift or monetary donation to the SOS Community Services Centre in Parksville or donate online.
December Activities
December can be overwhelming as we try to prepare for the holiday season. We often forget to stop and enjoy moments with our friends and family. Here are some holiday-themed events for the whole family: • SKATES with SANTA: Tuesday, December 17, 6:30-8 pm at Frank Crane Arena and Friday, December 20, 3:45-5:15 pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre. • DUNK with SANTA: Saturday, December 21, 3-5 pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. • WINTER WONDERLAND – $2 Skating Sessions: December 24 & 26 to 30 at Frank Crane Arena. • FINALE 2019 – Family New Year’s Eve Party: December 31, 5-10 pm at Beban Park.
Safe Winter Adventures
Winter is almost here and with that comes the cold and wet weather. Wearing warm clothing helps prevent frost bite, achy muscles and getting a cold or the flu. Proper warm insulated boots with good grips will keep your feet warm so you can still be outside to do what you love to do! A good pair of Walking Poles can be a key part in your outdoor adventures. They keep your balance inline, provide extra stability and give you a light workout! Our physiotherapists can show you proper poling technique and help you with all your Poling needs.
