We all expect certain changes as we age, but when does a small change become something worth paying attention to? The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba’s First Link® Client Support team connects with people every day who aren’t sure if it’s the right time for them to call and get support. The answer is always the same: it’s never too early to start the conversation.
“Anytime someone is concerned about the signs and symptoms of dementia, we can be their link to a community of support,” says Jessica Harper, First Link Senior Manager. “Our programs are geared to people living with any type of dementia, not just Alzheimer’s disease, though a formal diagnosis is not required.”
To learn more about the Alzheimer Society and the services they provide, visit alzheimer.mb.ca.
Community News
Men’s Health Month
This Father’s Day and for Men’s Health Month, honour the legacy of the fathers and father figures who’ve shaped our lives by supporting the Brandon Regional Hospital Foundation. Leaving a legacy is about more than achievements—it’s about the lasting impact we make. Legacy gifts to the Foundation help advance healthcare, fund innovative equipment, and improve patient care for future generations. By giving, you ensure a healthier tomorrow for our community. Celebrate this special day by contributing to a cause that strengthens lives and builds a lasting tribute to those who’ve cared, guided, and inspired. Leave a legacy of love, care, and commitment.
Sleep Apnea and Stroke Risk
Sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This condition can lead to reduced oxygen levels, high blood pressure, and poor cardiovascular health,
all of which contribute to an increased risk of stroke. Studies show that untreated sleep apnea can make individuals more susceptible to ischemic strokes, which occur when blood flow to the brain is blocked.
Blocking 2 Wellness Classes
Block Therapy is a revolutionary practice combining physiotherapy, meditation, exercise, deep tissue release, and breathwork to target and decompress the fascia. I teach these classes to help people relieve hip and knee pain, back and sciatic pain, headaches, muscle pain, arthritis, neck pain, and even weight gain. This powerful method supports healing, mobility, and overall wellness. New classes are now available in Brandon at the Travelodge Banquet Room. Try the Sampler Program for just $9 and scan the QR code for the full schedule and to receive your FREE Ultimate Fascia Decompression Starter Kit. Call or text Bo Valentina – Registered Instructor 403-399-0111.
Is Sugar Harmful for Denture Wearers?
Sugar can significantly impact the oral health of denture wearers. Though dentures aren’t susceptible to cavities, sugars in the diet still encourage bacterial growth in the mouth. Bacteria feed on sugars, which leads to plaque buildup on dentures and gums, potentially causing bad breath, gum irritation, and infections. If dentures aren’t cleaned thoroughly, sugar residue can create a sticky environment for bacteria to thrive. High sugar intake also increases the risk of oral thrush, a common fungal infection for denture wearers. Limiting sugary foods and drinks, maintaining proper denture hygiene, and rinsing after meals help keep the mouth healthy.
What are Cataracts?
Behind the coloured iris of the eye and in line with the pupil is a lens which helps the eye focus light to process an image. In much of the population, this lens is transparent. However, aging, disease, trauma, and environmental factors such as UV light can cause this lens to develop opacities. These changes are called cataracts and they affect the ability of the eye to focus light, much like a fingerprint on glasses or dirt on a window, along with symptoms of glare, halos and colour changes. Once the vision loss is affecting daily activities, cataract surgery may be considered, which has become a highly successful surgical procedure.
Stroke Awareness & Men’s Health Month
June is the perfect time to focus on prevention and early awareness. Stroke is a leading cause of disability in Canada, and men are at a higher risk—especially over age 55. Know the signs: sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, or loss of balance. Healthy lifestyle choices like eating well, staying active, and managing blood pressure can greatly reduce risk. Men’s Health Month also encourages regular checkups and open conversations about physical and mental health. Taking small steps today can lead to stronger tomorrows. For more tips on staying well at any age, visit us at:
Pets and Bee Stings
Hot weather, blooming plants and buzzing insects can all spell trouble for your pets. If your curious pooch or pouncing feline gets stung by a bee, here’s what you can do: Scrape away the stinger if you can find it. Pulling the stinger with fingers or tweezers could rupture the poison sac allowing toxin to enter the bloodstream. If no medical history or treatments contraindicate, administer 1 mg Benadryl® per pound of your pet’s body weight and apply a cold pack for short periods at a time. If swelling is severe or if ANY breathing difficulties develop, do not delay—seek veterinary attention immediately.
Stroke Awareness & Men’s Health Month
June is the perfect time to focus on prevention and early awareness. Stroke is a leading cause of disability in Canada, and men are at a higher risk—especially over age 55. Know the signs: sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, or loss of balance. Healthy lifestyle choices like eating well, staying active, and managing blood pressure can greatly reduce risk. Men’s Health Month also encourages regular checkups and open conversations about physical and mental health. Taking small steps today can lead to stronger tomorrows. For more tips on staying well at any age, visit us at:
Stroke Recovery Through Physio
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in stroke recovery by helping individuals regain movement, strength, and balance to improve daily function and independence. Therapy includes exercises to strengthen muscles, enhance coordination, and address balance and mobility challenges. Physiotherapists also provide training on mobility aids and develop personalized treatment plans. Early and ongoing physiotherapy is essential, with benefits even in chronic stroke cases. The goal is to maximize recovery, support functional independence, and enhance quality of life. Consult our team for individualized treatment recommendations.
Business Spotlight
Dalton Le, a licensed Denturist in Manitoba, and founder of Dalton Denture Clinic, brings compassionate care and expert craftsmanship to every smile he restores. With years of experience and a commitment to patient comfort, Dalton specializes in custom dentures that look natural and feel great. His clinic is known for its welcoming environment, personalized service, and attention to detail. Whether it’s full dentures, partials, or repairs, Dalton takes pride in helping clients regain their confidence and quality of life. At Dalton Denture Clinic, every patient is treated like family—because to Dalton, restoring a smile is about more than teeth, it’s about restoring joy and dignity.
