Did you know 80% of home falls occur in the bathroom? Slippery floors, water, and hard fixtures create high risks—especially for seniors or those with mobility challenges. Canadian Patient Safety Week (October 27–31) is the perfect time to focus on prevention. Simple upgrades like grab bars, non-slip mats, raised toilet seats, and walk-in tubs can dramatically lower fall risks. Bright lighting and clutter-free floors add extra protection. CPSW unites Canadians in making care safer at home and in healthcare settings. Together, we can protect health, preserve independence, and give families peace of mind.
Community News
HEALING TOGETHER
Supporting a Loved One on Their Journey to Recovery. A two-evening workshop for families – focused on fostering greater understanding and compassion as we support our loved ones struggling with substance use and addiction. Workshops run both the 1st and 2nd Thursdays of the month from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND “HEALING TOGETHER” — FREE! Through a generous grant, SR Training is able to provide this workshop “at no cost” to individuals who may be challenged by the $70 registration fee. Contact any social service or healthcare organization you are associated with, and have them contact SR Training to see how they can refer you for a “free” registration. Email: [email protected] or call David Stewart at 204-330-6757. For more information, please visit:
Gratitude Blossoms This Thanksgiving
Sending flowers to friends, family, and staff for Thanksgiving is a heartfelt gesture that expresses gratitude and warmth. Beyond the traditional feast, flowers symbolize appreciation and can brighten any space, making them a perfect complement to the holiday’s spirit. They convey a sense of personal touch and thoughtfulness, showing that you value and cherish the relationships you have. For staff, it’s a way to acknowledge their hard work and dedication, fostering a positive and supportive work environment. Overall, floral gifts enhance the festive atmosphere, reinforce connections, and spread joy, making Thanksgiving even more memorable.
Always Feeling Tired?
Excessive daytime sleepiness is often more than just a lack of rest—it can be a sign of untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This condition is marked by repeated pauses in breathing, lasting more than 10 seconds, throughout the night. These episodes can occur hundreds of times, disrupting deep sleep and leaving you exhausted the next day. Even more concerning, OSA lowers oxygen levels (hypoxemia), which can trigger dangerous heart rhythm disturbances. Left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Recognizing the signs of sleep apnea early is key to protecting both your sleep and overall health.
Virtual Dementia Support
Connect to a community of support through the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba’s online programming.
Sign up for Family Education sessions to gain information about caring for someone living with dementia. These sessions are free to attend and cover a range of topics, including the progression of dementia, future planning, understanding behaviour changes, navigating home care and long-term care and strategies for care partner well-being.
Join a virtual support group to learn more about dementia, receive guidance and connect with others going through similar situations.
Learn more and register for these programs at alzheimer.mb.ca.
Embracing Autumn Wellness
Fall is a wonderful season for seniors to focus on wellness while enjoying the beauty of autumn. Taking walks among colorful leaves offers fresh air and light exercise, while seasonal recipes like hearty soups and roasted vegetables provide warmth and nourishment. As days grow cooler, gentle indoor activities such as stretching, yoga, or crafting can keep the body and mind active. Seniors can also embrace social opportunities by attending local harvest festivals, joining clubs, or volunteering in the community. Preparing the home for colder months and supporting immune health ensures a safe, vibrant, and enjoyable autumn season.
BRHC Foundation Campaigns
We are currently running two campaigns. “A Foundation for Care” Capital Campaign with proceeds being designated toward the new Critical Care Centre at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. This will expand the ICU to 16 suites as well as add 30 medical beds. The Foundation is also running their yearly WestJet Gift of Flight for 2 Campaign with proceeds designated toward Pediatrics & NICU. Tickets are 1 for $10 or 3 for $20. Please call our office at 204-578-4227 or email [email protected] if you would like more information about either campaign. Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director, BRHC Foundation
Prevention is the Best Medicine
Naturally protecting yourself from the flu involves adopting a multi-pronged approach that boosts your immune system and minimizes exposure to the virus. First and foremost, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and sufficient sleep is crucial. Hydration plays a vital role as well, helping to keep mucous membranes moist and effective at trapping viruses. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, can prevent virus transmission. Natural remedies like consuming immune-boosting foods such as garlic, ginger, and honey may provide added protection. Finally, getting the annual flu vaccine is a highly effective way to bolster your immunity and reduce the risk of contracting and spreading the flu virus.
Clean Eating Recipe
Poached Egg & Avocado Breakfast Salad. 2 large poached eggs. 4 cups lettuce (or greens of choice). 7 grape tomatoes. 1 medium avocado. 1/2 cup cooked quinoa. 2 Tbsp chopped walnuts. salt/pepper Create the salads by layering the lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cooked quinoa, and walnuts. Add the poached eggs and top with salt/pepper to taste. Enjoy!
PCOS Is Multifactorial & Manageable
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is more than a hormone imbalance. It’s a multifactorial condition shaped by genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and reproductive hormone shifts. That’s why symptoms can look so different, irregular cycles, acne, hair thinning, weight changes, fatigue, or mood fluctuations. The good news: each factor offers an entry point for healing. By supporting ovulation, balancing androgens, improving insulin sensitivity, and calming inflammation, women with PCOS can see real progress in energy, skin, cycles, and long-term health. At Uptown Integrative Health, we take the time to create individualized treatment plans that address the many layers of PCOS – helping women restore balance and feel empowered in their bodies.
October Book Club
The Whole-Food Guide for Breast Cancer Survivors: A Nutritional Approach to Preventing Recurrence by Edward Bauman, Helayne Waldman, Helayne L. Waldman. As one of the best preventative measures known to doctors and nutritionists today, a robust, cancer-fighting diet is vital to your personal plan for breast cancer prevention. An essential guide for every woman seeking to understand the effect of nutritional deficiencies and environmental factors on her overall health and wellness.
