Up to half of older adults are at risk for malnutrition, a condition that makes them vulnerable to increased risk of falling, slower recovery times, repeat hospitalizations, and possibly death. Thankfully, older adults, their caregivers, and loved ones can take several steps to better understand the factors that influence their nutritional needs and create a personalized plan for healthy eating: consulting a doctor or registered dietitian, focusing on nutrient-rich staples, staying hydrated, and addressing food insecurity. Comfort Keeper caregivers can help prepare nutritious, sustaining meals to help older adults maintain independence.

*Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods and Drinks: Reduce or eliminate intake of sodas, juices, and certain fruits. If you consume acidic foods or drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 45 minutes before brushing. *Consider Dietary Adjustments: Increase calcium intake through dietary sources like dairy products or supplements to help build stronger teeth. Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva flow, which helps neutralize acids and prevent erosion. *Use a Straw when consuming acidic beverages to minimize contact with teeth. *Consider teeth whitening if the enamel has thinned (if you are a good candidate for it).

As we get older, most of us start thinking about our home, the size of it, and how much stuff we have accumulated over the years. When is a good time to start the process of decluttering and downsizing? The answer is well before you are forced to do so due to a change in circumstance, health, or mobility. The earlier you start, the easier the process will be. The first step is to go to our website and download a free ebook that offers practical tips that will help you avoid potential downsizing slip-ups so that you can take your next steps with confidence.

We can book one for you! Our staff can connect you with Avee Health, a Vancouver-based company that specializes in providing convenient and accessible healthcare services to patients through businesses like The Medicine Shoppe at Departure Bay Road. With a mission to improve the patient experience, Avee Health works closely with businesses to establish walk-in clinics within their premises, offering a range of primary care services. They provide same-day doctor appointments 24/7 and comprehensive care from prescription refills to addressing minor ailments. Patients enjoy a smooth and efficient experience with easy access to healthcare consultations. Contact us today.

It is a good time to go outside and stand barefoot in the grass; connect with the earth and ground. Where do you notice your weight? Then bring your awareness up through your legs to your knees—do you feel any tension there? Then up to your hips, back, shoulders, neck, face, and head. Notice how you feel and allow any tension to flow out of you into the ground. This exercise is a great way to destress and increase body awareness. If you find it difficult to notice the tension areas or to release them, Rolfing can help get you on track.

Grief can arise from many experiences—losing a loved one, a relationship ending, changes in health, or life transitions. It’s not always linear, and it doesn’t always look the way we expect. At Sandstone Counselling in Nanaimo, our registered clinical counsellors provide a safe, supportive space to explore all forms of grief—whether it’s recent, long-held, traumatic, or anticipatory. Through compassionate, trauma-informed therapy, we help you process pain, find meaning, and move forward with care and clarity. You don’t have to face it alone.