A risk factor assessment is an important first step in alerting you to your risk for osteoporosis. However, it is not a scientific way to predict whether your bones will become porous. Many people who develop osteoporosis have only a few of the risk factors. This is why medical testing is so important. The tests are known as Bone Mineral Density (BMD) tests and are completely safe, painless, and accurate. A BMD test can tell you whether or not you have osteoporosis and how likely you are to develop it in the future, helping you make decisions that may prevent fractures or further bone loss.
Community News
First-Time Homebuyer?
Exciting news for first-time homebuyers. Equitable Life® is offering a limited-time opportunity for clients to deposit funds into a Guaranteed Interest Account (GIA) and earn a special rate of 5.00%. These funds can be contributed towards a First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and used as a tax-free deposit of up $8,000 per year to an overall max of $40,000 over the next 8 years. Take advantage of this offer to save for your dream home and enjoy the benefits of tax-free withdrawals when you’re ready to make your first home purchase. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
Dementia Research Event
Do you have questions about the causes of dementia? Are you interested to know the risk factors of dementia? Is there a current treatment? Join us on World Alzheimer’s Day, Thursday, September 21st from 6 – 7:30 pm for our free public education event, “What’s New in Dementia Research? Ask the Expert!” at the Canadian Mennonite University, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd in Winnipeg – with live streaming events happening at participating Alzheimer Society regional locations across the province. This is your chance to have your questions answered live by world-renowned researcher and neurologist Dr. Donald Weaver. Don’t miss this engaging event – register now at Alzheimer.mb.ca.
Random Acts of Kindness
Research shows that supporting others will help you feel connected and give both you and the person you are helping a healthy dose of oxytocin supporting overall mental well-being. So try one of these suggestions to be well. 1. Write a short letter of gratitude to someone, set up a time to meet them and read it to them. 2. Buy an order for the person behind you in the drive through. 3. Make a friend/colleague a meal. Do an unexpected chore for a family member, colleague, or friend. Give someone a book that you like. Leave a “Have a Great Day” note on a neighbour’s car.
Live Each Day as if it’s Your Last
Albert Einstein says: “There are only two ways to live your life; one is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as though everything is a miracle”. What would it take for YOU to live each day as if it was your last? What would need to change? Who would you spend it with and how would you choose to spend your time? Anything you would want to resolve, share, create or impart? What would you want to savor and fully enjoy on your last day on earth in this body? Collect all this precious wisdom and begin living it daily. Saying yes fully and unapologetically to what brings you joy and no thank you to what depletes and drains you. Daring to live and love fully!
BRHC Foundation Gala
Join us for “An Evening Beneath the Ocean” on Saturday, September 16th in the Grand Salon of the Victoria Inn! Enjoy an evening of excellent food, great prizes and dancing with the Graydon Cramer Band. Tickets are now available for $125 each and can be purchased from the BRHC Foundation. For details contact (204) 578-4227 or email [email protected]
All proceeds raised will go towards the purchase of equipment at the Brandon Regional Health Centre.
Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director BRHC Foundation brhcfoundation.ca
Heat-Induced Asthma Attacks
Summer heat can pose challenges for individuals with asthma. The combination of hot weather, high humidity, and air pollution can trigger asthma symptoms and exacerbate respiratory issues. Heat and humidity can cause airways to constrict, making it harder to breathe. Pollutants and allergens can also become more prevalent during the summer, further aggravating asthma symptoms. It is crucial for asthmatics to take preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and seeking shade or air-conditioned environments when necessary. Additionally, following a prescribed asthma management plan, taking medications as directed, and keeping rescue inhalers on hand are essential for managing asthma during the summer months.
Look for Local
Lady Di’s Pretzel Snackers, hailing from Anola, Manitoba, are the ultimate go-to snack! Indulge in four delectable flavors: Zesty Original, Rosemary and Sea Salt, Parmesan Herb & Garlic, and Dill Pickle. These pretzels will undoubtedly leave you craving another bite. Handcrafted by Lady Di and her Mom, Mama Di. Don’t forget to swing by Sobeys Extra Brandon South to grab your very own pack of Lady Di’s Snackers. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, these crunchy pretzels with a burst of flavor will hit the spot!
Book Club: Real Self-Care
A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness. From women’s mental health specialist Pooja Lakshmin, MD. Real self-care, in contrast, is an internal, self-reflective process that involves making difficult decisions in line with our values, and when we practice it, we shift our relationships, our workplaces, and even our broken systems. Find it at your local bookstore.
Consistency and Caregiving
Consistency is important when it comes to caregiving for a variety of reasons, including: 1) Developing trust – Your loved one will see the same face each time and get to know their caregiver. 2) Facilitating communication – Good communication between family and caregivers is essential to doing what’s best for your loved one. 3) Reducing accidents – Avoiding medication mishaps, etc. 4) Being aware of health changes – Recognizing what’s normal and not normal for your loved one. 5) Preventing scheduling conflicts – Knowing you won’t have to step in unexpectedly. 6) Providing peace of mind – Helping everyone feel good about home care.
Disability Tax Credit: Combating Inflation
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a valuable tool in mitigating the impacts of inflation and rising costs of living for individuals with disabilities. By accessing this credit, individuals can receive financial relief that helps them manage their daily expenses. The DTC provides tax breaks for eligible individuals with disabilities, recognizing the additional costs associated with their condition. It offers a means to offset the financial burden imposed by inflation and increasing living expenses, such as medical costs, adaptive equipment, and specialized care. By claiming the DTC, individuals can access much-needed financial support, ensuring their ability to maintain a decent quality of life despite economic challenges.
