Happy New Year! Another year has come, and, as always, the start of a new year brings about some reflection. Do you need some changes? Are you contemplating a move? Maybe you’re tired of the day-to-day chores of meal prep, cleaning and yard maintenance or you’re feeling somewhat lonely. If so, there are great options available. For independent living and assisted living, many retirement communities can cater to your interests, wants and needs. Book your tours to see what is available as far as retirement lifestyles go; it is never too soon to start exploring.
Travelling with Dentures
This winter, when you travel, be sure you are prepared for denture care. Bring a sealable container, a soft-bristle toothbrush, toothpaste, denture cleanser, adhesive, and any other items that you use regularly. If you have stored your old dentures dry, they will need to be soaked for up to 24 hours in water with a little Listerine in it. Always inspect the bathroom before you leave to be sure that you have everything. If you can find a denturist at your destination before you get there, you will at least have eliminated one concern. Contact them and note their hours.
Help for Dry Skin in Winter
Winter can take a toll on your skin and internal health; certain supplements can help maintain hydration, support immunity, and enhance overall wellness during this season. Here are some recommendations: *Vitamin D – Supports skin repair and immune health, counteracting reduced sunlight exposure in winter. *Omega-3 Fatty Acids* – Keeps skin hydrated, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent dryness and flakiness. *Collagen Peptides* – Improves skin elasticity and hydration and promotes skin repair. *Hyaluronic Acid – Boosts skin hydration and elasticity, especially in dry winter air. *Vitamin E – Antioxidant that helps combat dryness and protects against environmental damage.
Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for fulfilling volunteer opportunities? Nanaimo Lifeline has three volunteer positions open! We are part of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, and our volunteers give back to healthcare in Nanaimo and Oceanside. 1) Home Service Representative: You provide hands-on service to our Lifeline clients, performing installations and work orders. 2) Check-In Caller: social phone calls to clients from the comfort of your home! This program alleviates social isolation in seniors. 3) Office Volunteer: Help us in the office with filing and inventory processing. Please contact Nanaimo Lifeline to find out more or to volunteer.
Exercise & Alzheimer’s
Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.
Benefits of Frequency and Vibration
The underlying premise of Biofield Tuning is to charge our electrical bodies to their full battery level. Our bodies are connected to frequency, light, and magnetic electricity. When we tune, we employ this “charge” with sound using tuning forks in the biofield around our bodies. Since we mainly consist of water, and sound moves four times faster through water, frequency is very influential for our health and well-being. We are frequency and vibration, and sound is the ancient medicine that has been rising into our modern awareness. Your treasure awaits with sound therapy!
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 praise you.
Yaga at Western Edge Theatre
She’s more than just a wicked old witch. Baba Yaga is a legend, usually known as that elderly woman who lives alone in the woods and grinds the bones of the wicked. But what if she was a sexy, smart, modern woman operating off of morally ambiguous motives? This genre-bending, comedic fairy tale meets a thrilling whodunit and gives voice to an antihero of epic proportions while interrogating how her story has historically been told by men. From now on, you’ll remember the name Baba Yaga for the right reasons.
Are You Getting Enough Sleep?
The Mayo Clinic recommends 7 or more hours of sleep per night for adults. Sleep is very important for everyone, including seniors. Not getting enough sleep contributes to a higher risk of many health issues, including *depression and anxiety, *dementia, *obesity, *cardiovascular disease, and *stroke in older adults. Sleep is as important for good health as diet and exercise. Good sleep improves our brain performance, mood, and health. During sleep, our bodies are working to support healthy brain function. Sleep is a time of healing, rest, and recovery; it touches every aspect of health.
Making a Difference Together
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Refire Kitchen for their incredible partnership in this year’s Be a Santa to a Senior program. Thanks to their generosity, nearly 200 local seniors received a hot meal this holiday season, bringing warmth and joy to our community. Visit Refired Kitchen at 100 Aldersmith Place in Esquimalt, or at 843 Fort Street in downtown Victoria. To learn more about their delicious offerings and community initiatives, visit their website at refirekitchen.ca. Together, we’re making a difference for those who need it most!
Exercise & Alzheimer’s
Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.


