With a reverse mortgage, you can live in the home you love while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. This option allows you to access your home equity tax-free and use the funds however you wish. You can relieve financial pressure, cover healthcare expenses, or make home renovations. Additionally, it can provide an early inheritance, assist a family member or friend, alleviate debt, buy a vacation property, or fund travel. By preserving investments and increasing cash flow, a reverse mortgage helps you maintain financial stability and freedom in your golden years.
Community News
Holistic Relief for Migraines
Do you suffer from migraines? Dr. Priscilla Narotam can help by using safe, gentle soft tissue-based techniques. Misalignments in the spine can create tension and disrupt nerve communication, contributing to migraine episodes. Through spinal adjustments, she can realign the spine, relieving pressure on nerves and reducing migraine triggers. She also can assess and diagnose underlying causes and uses massage, gentle joint mobilizations and stretches along with offering nutritional advise based on your history and physical exam. By addressing the root issues, treatments help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall nervous system function, providing holistic relief for migraine sufferers.
Wildfire Smoke Health Risks
Wildfire smoke, a blend of PM2.5 and gases like carbon monoxide, poses severe health risks in Western Canada. It obstructs oxygen intake, irritates the respiratory system, and triggers inflammation, manifesting in eye irritation, coughing, or headaches. While most symptoms are manageable, severe cases require medical attention, especially if experiencing breathlessness or chest pain. Minimizing exposure is crucial. HEPA air filters and sealed environments help indoors. While driving, maintain closed windows and recirculated air. During smoky periods, reduce exertion, exercise indoors, and stay hydrated. Prioritize health amidst wildfires. Source: (bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke)
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month
Elder abuse is a growing but often hidden issue affecting older adults across Canada. As of 2024, about 10% of Canadians aged 65 and older experience some form of abuse each year—whether physical, emotional, financial, or through neglect. This is an increase from earlier estimates of 4–8%, suggesting not only rising incidents but also greater awareness and willingness to report.
Financial abuse is the most frequently reported form, often triggered by major life changes such as the death of a spouse or a serious health event. Vulnerable groups, particularly seniors living with dementia or those who are socially isolated, face an even higher risk. It’s estimated that only one in five cases is ever reported to authorities. The combination of shame, fear of retaliation, or dependency on the abuser often keeps victims silent.
The good news? In 2024, the federal government committed nearly $800,000 to programs designed to prevent elder mistreatment through education and community support. Also, Bill C-295 is currently under consideration, proposing amendment to the Criminal Code to hold those in charge of long-term care facilities more accountable for elder neglect or abuse.
These actions show progress, but much work remains. Preventing elder abuse isn’t just a legal or healthcare issue—it’s a community responsibility that starts with awareness, compassion, and the courage to act.
Calling All Volunteers
SSNVI is always looking for volunteers of all ages. Our staff is experienced in training and matching volunteers with seniors on our wait list and always there to provide support for our volunteers.
Learn more about volunteering with SSNVI at our monthly volunteer training. For more information, or to register, you can email us at [email protected] or drop by C1-450 8th Street, Courtenay.
June Mobility Sale Event
Celebrate Father’s Day and Men’s Health Month this June with unbeatable savings at Motion™ in Courtenay! Don’t miss their Scooter Sale and Lift Chair Sale—designed to keep Dad moving comfortably and independently. Whether he’s looking for enhanced mobility or a relaxing lift chair, Motion™ has top-quality options at great prices. Their expert staff is ready to help you find the perfect fit for your loved one’s needs. It’s the ideal time to show you care while supporting his health and comfort. Visit today and make this June a month of motion and well-being!
SSNVI Workshops and Partner Events
SSNVI is hosting an educational workshop with community partners during the month of June. Check our resource page on our website at https://ssnvi.ca/education-sessions/ for more details. Even better, get on our email list to be notified about these workshops and others at [email protected]
Caregiver Support Groups
SSNVI hosts a once per month opportunity for caregivers to meet in a friendly, supportive environment where they can interact with, receive from, and give support, to other caregivers.
The caregiving journey is complicated and can be difficult, exhausting, and sometimes not well understood by those who have not experienced it.
Our groups are held on the first Tuesday, second Thursday of each month from 1-3, and the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 – 12:30.
Pre-registration is required. Please contact the office by email [email protected] or phone 250-871-5940.
Grief and Loss Support
A monthly Grief and Loss Group, led by a trained facilitator, is available for those experiencing loss or anticipated loss. We recognise that grief and loss are different for everyone, and people are welcome to participate in this group at any point during their loss journey.
These groups are held on the third Thursday of each month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Pre-registration is required, please contact the office by email [email protected] or phone 250-871-5940.
Men’s Dental Health
With June being Men’s Mental Health Month – a good reminder to emphasize the importance of dental health. Good oral hygiene affects speaking, eating, and social interactions, contributing to overall mental health. As one ages, issues like gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth decay become more prevalent and can be linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Encourage the men in your life to maintain regular dental care, flossing, and professional cleanings. A healthy diet and open communication with their dentist about new oral health concerns are crucial. Celebrate men by supporting their journey towards maintaining a healthy, vibrant smile.
Sacred Healing & Soulful Transformation
At Make A Wave, traditional counseling meets multidimensional healing. Rooted in compassion and guided by higher consciousness, Rita offers a unique blend of intuitive counseling, trauma resolution, and galactic energy work to support deep transformation. Whether you’re navigating emotional pain, seeking soul alignment, or awakening your higher gifts, you’ll find sacred support here. Sessions and group offerings are designed to transmute old patterns, activate truth, and restore wholeness. Explore soul-led programs like Reset 2025 and Alchemy of Gathering or book a private session to begin your healing journey. Your path to remembrance begins here.
