Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ear, ranging from bothersome to debilitating. Linked to various medical conditions, causes are diverse. Hearing loss from noise exposure or aging is common. Other causes: earwax, jaw misalignment, trauma, tumors, fatigue, meds, infections, diseases. Treatments vary, aiming to reduce intensity and reaction. Options include sound therapy, relaxation, cognitive behavioral therapy, tinnitus retraining, and hearing aids. Prevention involves safe listening, healthy lifestyle, and regular hearing tests. Tinnitus need not be a lifelong burden; various treatments and preventive measures can improve quality of life.
Community News
Earwax and Hearing Aids
Clients often inquire about the surge in earwax production after using hearing aids. These devices can activate the gland in the ear canal, leading to an excessive secretion of earwax. Consequently, many individuals experience an upsurge in earwax accumulation when they start wearing hearing aids, as the body’s natural response to a foreign object in the ear. Remarkably, up to half of hearing aid repairs are attributable to earwax issues. Therefore, incorporating regular ear cleaning into your hearing aid maintenance routine is crucial. Remember, we’re here to help you with any concerns you may have. Raymond Gilby RHIP/C | Owner /Operator Clear Ears | Vice-President HIPSBC
Help Feed a Senior for $12/Week
In partnership with LUSH Valley Food Action Society, CVSS provides 82 meals a week to seniors in the Comox Valley. While some seniors contribute to the cost of the weekly meals, they are heavily subsidized. A donation of $12 a week will provide between two and four meals for a senior in the Valley, helping ensure food security for vulnerable residents. Donations can be made at the CVSS office, or by cheque, via mail at C1-450 8th Street, Courtenay, BC, V9N 1N5. Tax receipts are provided for donations over $20. Alternatively, monthly donations can be set up on our Canada Helps website at: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/comox-valley-senior-support/
Coping with Memory Loss
Memory loss in aging parents poses unique caregiving challenges. Alongside physical manifestations, such as forgetting tasks or medications, the emotional toll on both parent and caregiver is significant. Frustration and depression often accompany memory loss, making communication and caregiving more difficult. To navigate this journey, consider these six best practices: reassure your parent, prevent getting lost, enhance home safety, manage caregiver stress, review medications, and seek additional support. By implementing these strategies, you can provide the necessary care while maintaining your own well-being. Home Instead® offers compassionate memory care services to support you and your loved ones through this challenging time.
Enhanced Services for Older Adults
The Comox Valley Seniors Support Society (CVSS) is delighted to announce that the Campbell River Seniors Info Hub will be amalgamated as a program into the CVSS. This exciting collaboration aims to enhance the quality and reach of services available to older adults throughout the region.
The Campbell River Seniors Info Hub has been a trusted source of information, resources, and support for seniors in Campbell River. By joining forces with the Comox Valley Senior Support Society, the program will now have the opportunity to expand its impact and provide a broader range of services to seniors in Campbell River.
The amalgamation will result in an array of benefits for seniors in both Campbell River and the Comox Valley. By leveraging the strengths and resources of both organizations, the newly expanded Comox Valley Senior Support Society will be better equipped to address the diverse needs of the senior community. This includes access to a wider range of information, referral services and social support activities.
“Bringing together the Campbell River Seniors Info Hub and the Comox Valley Senior Support Society is an important addition for our organizations and the seniors we serve,” said Christopher Bate, Executive Director, CVSSS. “We are thrilled to combine our expertise, knowledge, and resources to create a stronger and more inclusive support system for older adults across the region. This amalgamation reinforces our commitment to supporting seniors and providing programming that enhances their quality of life.” The Comox Valley Senior Support Society will ensure a seamless transition for clients of the Campbell River Seniors Info Hub, ensuring continuity of service and support during this exciting period of change. For further information about the Comox Valley Senior Support Society and the Campbell River Seniors Info Hub amalgamation, please contact: Chris Bate, Executive Director, CVSS 250-871 5940; admin@comoxvalleyseniorsupport.ca or Cheryl Stinson, Coordinator, Campbell River Seniors Info Hub seniorshubcoord@gmail.com
Committed to Helping Seniors
It is our honour to advocate on behalf of Canada’s senior citizens. The NDP is working tirelessly to ensure that seniors have access to the resources they need so they can live a stable, happy life. We understand that seniors have been struggling to a great extent to pay for their basic needs. We find it unacceptable that many seniors are still living in poverty after having worked their entire lives to build this country. There is a bar of dignity everyone in Canada deserves to have. We will continue to fight for your rights. If you need assistance with federal programs or have concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our offices.
Avocado Smoothie Bowl
Fresh avocados and tender baby kale add a healthy spin to this delicious smoothie bowl, packed with fruit for a sweet treat. 9 ounces oat milk. ¾ cup. baby kale. 1 ½ Tbsp. honey. ¾ cup avocado pieces. 1 ½ cup frozen mango chunks. 1 ½ cup frozen pineapple chunks. 1 cup frozen banana. Place all ingredients into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure the lid. Start on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Blend for 30-40 seconds. Serve immediately with your choice of garnish – crunchy granola, fresh fruit, and a sprinkling of chia seeds.
Save the Date!
The Comox Valley Senior Support Society’s Second Annual Spelling Bee will be held on Tuesday, October 17 at Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay. The first Spelling Bee was such a community success that we decided to get a larger space and invite more people! We look forward to seeing you there.
Help Parents Stay Independent
Seniors often face reduced independence due to health or mobility concerns. Mobility scooters offer a solution. Regardless of their location, a mobility scooter empowers parents to reclaim independence and relish outdoor experiences. With electric motors and a simple recharge, these scooters effortlessly transport them to desired destinations, allowing them to unwind and enjoy the ride. Portable models further facilitate transportation, ensuring the ease of taking them in cars when needed. By embracing mobility scooters, seniors can regain their freedom and embrace the world outside their homes.
When it’s Not Just Aging
While it’s true that some health conditions are more common with age, there are some symptoms that should be discussed with your doctor. 1. Memory loss – this can sometimes be the result of medications, vitamin deficiencies, and some disorders. 2. Vision problems – getting treatment early for certain vision problems like glaucoma can prevent serious damage. 3. Tooth loss – getting regular dental care can help seniors avoid tooth loss. 4. Depression – certain health conditions and medications can make depression symptoms worse, but this problem can be treated professionally. 5. Weakness – a good exercise program can help prevent loss of muscle mass.
Use Your Teeth Wisely
Your teeth have a specific purpose, and it’s not to serve as a multitool. Opening packages, bottles, or using them as an extra hand can lead to unfortunate accidents and tooth damage. Engaging in such creative uses of your pearly whites is a recipe for disaster. It’s only a matter of time before you crack or break a tooth. Rather than risking your oral health, take the extra trip to find appropriate tools or locate a pair of scissors. By using your teeth for their intended functions, you can maintain a healthy, intact smile for years to come. Don’t jeopardize your dental well-being by treating your teeth as makeshift tools.
