1. Start where you can and set reasonable goals. If you feel you have little opportunity to exercise, start by adding a bit of physical activity into your daily routine.
2. Think of it as “activity”, not “exercise”. Choose activities and sports that you enjoy, and physical activity won’t seem like a chore or task to tick off.
3. Once you get going, aim for at least 1 ½ hours of moderate-to-vigourous physical activity per week.
4. Consider aerobic activities. Aerobic activities, such as walking, swimming, hiking and dancing, can help maintain general fitness.
5. Plan out your physical activity with someone you know. That way, you are more likely to keep active while you also gain the brain-healthy benefits of social interaction.

On October 18, from 11:30 – 1:00 the Comox Valley Senior Support Society will host its first annual fund-raising Spelling Bee! At an hour and half long, this event will promise to test your skill at spelling and will provide an entertaining time for all who attend. Lunch and refreshments provided. Prizes for the winning table. Each seat is $50, with $25 eligible for a tax receipt.

Friendly Visitor Program – offers a weekly visit or phone call from a trained volunteer for seniors who are isolated and lonely. This program also encompasses hospital visits and coordinating delivery of library books.
Senior Information Access Support – helps seniors navigate various systems (internet applications, forms, phone calls etc…). Community resources referral. Assistance with grocery shopping and delivery.
Caregiver Support Program – provides monthly support groups for caregivers to have an opportunity to speak with, listen to, and support other caregivers.

Caregiver Respite – facilitates monthly fun social activities for people with dementia so caregivers can have a brief break.

Volunteer Training – Our volunteers are valued a lot, and that is one of the reasons we put so much effort into orientation and ongoing education.

Would you like to highlight an outstanding senior in the Comox Valley? Send a brief paragraph, explaining why, to Chris at admin@comoxvalleyseniorsupport.caPlease provide contact information for the senior you are recommending as we will need to attain consent from them to share their story. We will feature as many as possible in upcoming issues!

Our day-to-day lives often involve activities that require us to venture out into public, whether it’s going to the bank, attending medical appointments, shopping, or spending time with friends and family. For those who experience mobility challenges, simple errands can be more difficult and less convenient, especially when having to rely on others for transport. Mobility scooters can help you or your loved one regain a sense of independence and control as errands become easier and access to more destinations becomes possible again. Regaining mobility and independence can simplify our daily tasks and offer us more choices.

Falls in the home are all too common. The good news is, you can make a few modifications in the home that can prevent potential hazards, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Start by visiting each room in your home, looking at the space objectively. Ask yourself: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.

This is going to be a very busy season for vaccinations in the pharmacy. For the first time, you will be able to get a COVID fall booster AND a flu shot during the same visit. As before, you will not be able to schedule a COVID shot if it has been less than 6 months since your previous booster. To book an appointment, call 1-833-838-2323 or go online to gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated, and choose Medicine Shoppe #414 as your preferred site. We will open up additional appointments as long as there is demand and we have a supply of vaccine. See you soon!
The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, MedicineShoppeCourtenay.ca

The Senior Information and Access Support Team is still able to assist seniors with their taxes! Up to date taxes are especially important if you collect Guaranteed Income Supplement. Seniors must register with CVSS to access this service (a fast and painless process!). Please contact Chris or Tiss at 250-871-5940 or admin@comoxvalleyseniorsupport.ca to register.

According to a recent survey, 90% of North American homeowners between the ages of 55 and 75 would like to stay in their long-time home as they get older. And, not surprisingly, 66% of seniors believe their home is where they will be most comfortable, with 53% believing they will stay healthier in their own home. But living out that scenario and remaining in the driver’s seat calls for a plan of action – and an understanding of potential safety risks in the home. Home care makes it possible to remain home despite physical challenges. From respite care to 24-hour in-home care, services can be tailored to meet your needs.