Community News
Floss your Teeth for a Cleaner Mouth

Do you floss your teeth? Flossing is an activity that you should not neglect. It is as important to floss every day as it is to brush your teeth. Brushing alone can’t reach the bacteria in the tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line. Proper flossing helps remove the plaque and debris that adhere to your teeth and gums. It also helps to control bad breath by removing the decaying food that may be stuck between your teeth. Make it a habit to floss at the end of the day. Your mouth will be cleaner, and your dental hygienist will be thrilled!

Strength Training Facility Checklist

As we age, it is important to do regular strength training exercises to maintain muscle mass, increase bone density, and enhance overall functional ability. When choosing a fitness facility, look for the following: •A personalized program designed for your body and goals, •A focus on reducing pain and preventing injury, • Simple, effective strength training for long term health, and •A supportive, comfortable training environment. At Forge Fitness we believe it is never too late to feel better and get stronger. Our goal is to help you move well, stay active, and enjoy life with less pain and more confidence.

Is Your Will Up To Date?

Even if you know you need to update your Will, it’s easy to find yourself letting your documents collect dust on the shelf. The good news is that going through major changes in your life doesn’t necessarily invalidate your will. The bottom line is: If your Will isn’t up-to-date, your end-of-life wishes may not be fulfilled in the way you would have liked. Your wishes may also have changed since you wrote your will. To avoid these pitfalls and the costs associated with updating your will, contact us today to order your free Estate Planning Kit which includes a Legal Will Guide.

Downsizing Seminar; Sept 29

Thinking about downsizing, but not sure where to start? Join us for a FREE seminar from 1 to 3 pm on Tuesday, Sept 29th, at the Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Whether you’re planning or ready to make a move, this seminar is for you. Topics include organizing, financial and estate planning, and mortgage and real estate options. Reserve your spot today by calling 250.616.3641. If you can’t attend and for extra guidance, you can download a free ebook from our website. It offers five practical tips to help you avoid potential downsizing slip-ups so that you can take your next steps with confidence.

Senior Massage Thursdays (55+)

Yolo Mobile Massage with TCM training provides professional wellness and relaxation services in the comfort of your own home. Serving Victoria and surrounding areas, we focus on helping clients reduce stress, improve circulation, and restore balance. Every session is personalized to your comfort and wellness goals and designed to help you slow down, reset, and reconnect with your body. We believe that wellness should be accessible and consistent. That is why we are proud to offer our “Senior Wellness Thursdays” exclusively for our community members aged 55 and better. Contact us today to book your treatment.

Help for Hammer Toes

A hammer toe is a foot deformity where the middle joint of a lesser toe (usually the second toe) bends upward or curls downward, resembling a hammer. Several different mechanical issues in the foot can cause it. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and painful corns or calluses. Orthotics and specialized shoe inserts can help manage hammer toe symptoms by redistributing foot pressure, supporting the arch, and reducing tendon pull on the toe joint. At Common Sense, we can design orthotics, make custom toe spacers, and recommend footwear that takes pressure off of hammer toes. Book an assessment today!

Denture Cleaning Tips

Maintaining clean dentures involves a daily routine. *Use a soft-bristle brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to remove stains, plaque and debris. *Soak dentures overnight in water to loosen stains. *Be gentle to prevent damage; clean over a towel or basin of water. *Avoid hot water to prevent warping. Schedule regular denture checkups for a professional cleaning and a proper fit. Even with full dentures, gently rub your mouth and gums daily using a regular toothbrush. Avoid abrasive toothpaste and harsh cleaners that can damage dentures. Following these tips preserves dentures and improves overall oral health. Find more tips on our website.

Do I Need Sunscreen in September?

It is important to wear sunscreen on exposed skin every month of the year. The UVB, or sunburn rays, are less intense in the fall and winter but can still damage your skin and cause skin thinning, skin cancer, wrinkles, and brown spots. A sunscreen of SPF 50 is recommended when you are outdoors, and it should be reapplied every two hours. If you are inside and away from windows, a reapplication may not be necessary. Be sure to use a generous amount! If you have never used sunscreen, it is not too late to start. It can make a big difference at any age.

Upcoming Nanaimo Events

There are lots of activities and events in the coming weeks. Getting out in the community is great for your overall health and wellness: Sept 12 – Hike for Hospice, Fundraising Walk at Westwood Lake; Sept 20 to Oct 10 – The Birds and the Bees live theatre at Nanaimo Theatre Group; Sept 29 – Downsizing Seminar with Ian Thompson, Certified Senior Housing Professional; Sept 29 – Fall Travel Show with Wells Gray Tours; Oct 22 – Seniors Health & Wellness Fair. Find out more about these events in this newsletter and on the Online Wellness Hub Directory: Wellness.News/Events

September Book Club

Discover Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments by Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed, a Canadian naturopathic doctor. This practical guide explores natural therapies alongside conventional care, helping readers better understand arthritis and manage symptoms through evidence-informed lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, and treatment options.

Living Well

September is Arthritis Awareness Month, reminding us that staying active and connected can help support joint health and overall well being. At our independent seniors home, residents enjoy opportunities to stay moving through walks, gentle fitness classes, and social activities that encourage mobility and confidence. Healthy meals, supportive neighbours, and an active lifestyle can make everyday living more enjoyable. If arthritis affects your comfort or mobility, speak with your healthcare provider about strategies to manage symptoms safely. Together, we can support independence, comfort, and quality of life every day with encouragement, friendship, and practical choices that help you thrive longer.