Several studies have shown social isolation can negatively affect your health. This National Institute on Aging primer notes that loneliness can lead to high blood pressure, depression, and put you at greater risk of illness. That could mean more doctor’s visits and higher health care costs. And what if you or your loved one takes a fall with no one around? Beyond the physical pain, the financial implications could be high. And then there’s the emotional toll of social isolation, which can be even more devastating. These are all things to consider when deciding whether you or your loved one spend the next chapter of life at home or in a senior living community.
Community News
Dementia-Friendly Technology
Dementia affects parts of the brain responsible for language, learning, and memory. Those living with dementia can find it scary and overwhelming, but there are some devices that can help make them feel safe and secure. An easy-to-read clock placed in clear view can help with daily routines and reduce anxiety. A wearable GPS tracker device can help locate someone with dementia in cases of emergency. Automated pill dispensers open automatically with an alert sound when it’s time to take medication. Finally, a wearable monitoring device can detect falls and alert medical responders to ensure those with dementia are safe.
Made in Manitoba
The Muscle and Body Rub by Pure Joy Naturals is great for backs, shoulders and necks on a daily basis or for sore, tired feet. With 100% natural ingredients like mint, camphor oil, Eucalyptus Radiate Essential Oil, black pepper, and arnica essential oil, this product provides icy hot relief – cold for inflammation and hot to increase circulation. The perfect combination! To use, simply rub a small amount (about the size of a quarter) onto the affected area after working out or before doing physical work, lifting, walking or jogging. This all-natural product can be used three or four times a day.
Relax, Already!
Stress is a commonality we all share. Interestingly, a lot of people are so stressed that they don’t know what the absence of stress, or a calm mind feels like. Take a moment and check yourself. Are your fists clenched? Shoulders riding high? Teeth clenched? Tongue touching the roof of your mouth? These are but a few stress-hold positions to take note of. Your body is communicating. Making self-care a priority, and getting proper sleep and nutrition, practicing meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing, and systematic muscle relaxation, you will find your body relaxing, and foster a better response to future stressors
Improve Workplace Wellness with Gratitude
At work, it is easy to feel stressed, overwhelmed or confused during times of uncertainty. However, research has shown that when meetings start with intentional gratitude and a short debrief at the end, collective intelligence and productivity increase substantially. How does it work? Put a standing item of reflection/gratitude/quick win in the agenda template and assign someone to share a positive note. When the meeting is over, check-in to ensure you met your objectives, everyone was heard, and everyone is ready to move upwards and onwards. For resources to support workplace health and performance visit WellnessWorksCanada.ca.
Healing Through Blood Flow
BEMER is changing the way we think about our health, challenging our understanding of the human body, and empowering us to reach optimal physical condition in a natural, non-invasive way. If micro-circulation to each cell is improved, cardiac function is enhanced, strength and energy increase, mental acuity and concentration are improved, detoxification processes improve, stress is reduced and sleep improves! ALL 100 trillion cells in the body are affected by blood flow, so ALL cells have a chance at healing. Imagine feeling better tomorrow than you do today!
Community Spotlight: Inspire You Studio
Welcome to Inspire You Studio, established in Brandon, Manitoba. This studio was created just for you! We are here to help you create and live an inspired life! We offer a variety of energy healing services such as reiki, bodytalk, access consciousness, counselling services, wellness courses, workshops, prenatal and postpartum classes as well as yoga classes. Here at Inspire You Studio, we are all about helping you to create a phenomenal life! What would you choose today that would create the life you have always wanted?
Medication Review with Your Pharmacist
Taking your medication properly is one of the most effective ways to manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Up to 25% of Canadians are admitted to the hospital annually because they don’t take their medications as prescribed. Schedule a Medication Review with your Pharmasave Pharmacist to discuss how to take your medications and for how long, understand if your medications are working properly, manage potential side effects and help you stay on track. Get the most from your medications with a Medication Review. To find out more Speak with your Pharmasave pharmacist.
Take to the Trails
Hiking is a great way to stay active and to connect with nature. The terrain on hiking trails can be novel and unpredictable, which is why regular strengthening and balance exercises play an important role in injury prevention. If carrying a backpack, don’t lean or slouch forward, and tighten the straps so that the pack is close to your body. A loose backpack can move around and impair your balance. Trekking poles, of appropriate height, can assist with balance and can alleviate some of the stress placed on your lower body, as your upper body is more engaged. Happy hiking!
Words to Live By
“Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” – Orison Swett Marden
Fear of Falls Causes Unsafe Behavior
When someone is fearful of falling, they start to avoid everyday activities by staying at home and doing less. This lack of activity leads to loss of strength, reduced muscle tone, and loss of coordination and balance. This physical deterioration increases the risk of falling and if a fall does occur, it further heightens the fear. Turn your fear of falling into positive actions; remain active, exercise regularly, use assistive devices such as walkers or grab bars and wear sensible shoes. Consider joining a group session designed especially to teach balance exercises for fall prevention.
