Light therapy can be an effective way to manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in seniors, especially during darker winter months. SAD can cause low mood, fatigue, sleep changes, and loss of interest in daily activities. Light therapy involves sitting near a specially designed light box that mimics natural sunlight, usually for 20 to 30 minutes each morning. This exposure can help regulate sleep cycles and boost mood by supporting healthy circadian rhythms. For seniors, light therapy is noninvasive and easy to use. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before starting to ensure safe and proper use.
Community News
Coldest Night of the Year Fundraising Event
The Coldest Night of the Year takes place on February 28, 2026! CNOY is a winterrific family-friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. All across Canada, over 200 communities are coming together for good this winter to provide hope and help for those who need it most. Your small steps can make a big difference! Register today, start a team, walk, and fundraise:
Heart Health, Naturally Refreshed
Heart health begins with simple daily habits, and staying well hydrated is one of the most important. VitaJuwel’s GemWater Crystal Bottles transform ordinary water into a mindful wellness ritual, blending hydration with the subtle energetic influence of hand selected gemstones such as rose quartz, garnet, and amethyst. Traditionally associated with love, balance, and vitality, these crystals are thoughtfully arranged in a sealed glass vial, ensuring water remains pure while gently infused. Drinking enough water supports healthy circulation, blood pressure regulation, and overall cardiovascular function. With VitaJuwel GemWater, nourishing your heart becomes both intentional and beautifully inspiring.
February Intuitive Insight
Oracle Card drawn by Lygia Ramcharan – Past Life. Life will seem full and time whizzing by this month, feeling somewhat chaotic. Yet, there is no time like the present to focus on YOU. You have lived through many experiences and have drawn wisdom from the lessons you’ve learned. This month, you may become the teacher to educate others. You may also see some aspects of the past resurfacing. But you’ve GOT this! This time, you have insights to solve old problems. This month will bring revelations and resolutions.
Clean Eating Recipe:
5 Ingredient Date Snickers. Ingredients: Organic pitted dates; Nut Butter of choice; Organic Raw Peanuts; Dark Chocolate (melted). Directions: Slice dates halfway down the middle. Open each date slightly to form a pocket, and space them evenly on parchment paper. Add enough nut butter to fill each date, top with a few nuts, then pinch closed. Place in the freezer for 15-20 mins. Dip each one in the melted chocolate until completely coated. Freeze for 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.
Hearing Aid Grant Available
Our location is participating in the new Manitoba Hearing Aid Grant Program. The Government of Manitoba is offering eligible seniors a grant of up to $2,000 toward the cost of a new pair of hearing aids. If you are a Manitoba resident aged 65 or older, this program can help make better hearing more affordable. We offer a wide range of trusted hearing aid manufacturers, along with expert fittings, adjustments, and programming tailored to your lifestyle and hearing needs. Take the next step toward better hearing and peace of mind. For more information, book a FREE hearing test today!
Book Club: Just One Heart:
A Cardiologist’s Guide to Healing, Health, and Happiness
In Just One Heart, Dr. Jonathan Fisher, a Harvard-trained cardiologist and mindfulness teacher, offers an evidence-based guide to wholehearted living, grounded in the latest research from medicine, psychology, and neuroscience. Blending Western science and Eastern wisdom, this book shares practical tools and daily practices to reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with what matters most—while protecting and strengthening your heart.
February is Heart Health Month
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often goes unrecognized and untreated because there are no symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke, by: 1. Reviewing your medications, helping you take them as prescribed and managing potential side effects. 2. Teaching you how to use a blood pressure monitoring device properly and testing your blood pressure regularly. 3. Advising you how to maintain a healthy weight, and a diet that’s low in sodium. and 4. Guiding you through a step-by-step quit smoking plan. Learn more about how to keep your blood pressure under control by speaking with your pharmacist.
A Foundation for Care Campaign
The BRHC Foundation’s goal is to raise $4 million toward the community contribution toward the building and equipment needs for the new Critical Care Centre at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. This building will include 16 ICU Suites (up from 10), 30 higher acuity medical beds for patients needing higher level care, modern equipment and technology to enhance treatment outcomes and will include an outdoor courtyard. Please call our office at 204-578-4227 or email [email protected] if you would like more information about this exciting campaign.
Sleep Apnea and Heart Health
Sleep apnea is closely linked to heart health, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During apnea episodes, breathing repeatedly stops, causing drops in oxygen levels and surges in stress hormones. These changes strain the cardiovascular system and disrupt normal blood pressure regulation. Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and stroke. The risk rises with the severity of the condition. Effective treatment—most commonly with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)—can lower blood pressure, reduce heart strain, and improve overall cardiovascular outcomes. Recognizing and treating sleep apnea is an important step in protecting long-term heart health.
Finding Support Together
Experiencing signs or symptoms of dementia or caring for someone living with the disease can raise uncertainty, fears and unknowns. The Alzheimer Society is a place to turn for a community of support. Support groups are a great way for both people living with dementia and care partners to connect with others they can lean on for guidance, encouragement and understanding – which can be a truly grounding and comforting experience. With a variety of groups offered virtually and in person, you can share, laugh and help others who are on a similar path with dementia. View current support group offerings at alzheimer.mb.ca.
