One of the biggest issues for seniors is that their social circles begin to shrink as the years go by. Friends, significant others and family members move or pass away. Even those who still live close may be inaccessible due to limited mobility, especially once a senior can no longer drive safely. Age-related changes in one’s physical condition, such as hearing loss, can make it so difficult to communicate that it doesn’t seem worth the effort anymore. Local senior centers or agencies are great resources providing home-visitation services as well as community transportation and outings. Do you have a loved one who may be lonely? Try to put in more effort to spend time with them.

You can protect patients at Saskatoon City Hospital. Your donations to Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation will purchase an automated medication dispensing system, for use in more than a dozen departments and units. In Canada, automated dispensing is the standard, utilized elsewhere by 80 per cent of hospitals and 100 per cent of emergency departments. It’s more efficient, gets medication to patients faster, and it’s safer. With the hospital’s pharmacy processing 175,000 orders and 1.8 million medication packages every year, safety is the priority. You can ensure the right patient receives the right drug at the right time! Donate now at SCHFgo.com.

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the small blood vessels that nourish your nerves with oxygen and nutrients. Without enough oxygen and nutrients, your damaged nerves can cause a loss of sensation in your feet, while others may experience a burning or shooting pain in their lower legs. VoxxLife HPT has been proven to improve circulation. In a clinical study involving 1,000 participants, more than 90% reported significant reduction in pain from diabetic neuropathy by using VoxxLife HPT technology.

Party time: Drink a large glass of water and have a healthy snack before going to a party; add a few healthy choices in and minimize the treats. This can be a good time of year to add in a probiotic or digestive enzymes to help with the sugar over-indulgence. Alcohol – make a spritzer or use soda water to cut down on pop use. This will lead to better sleep and a happier person the next day! Don’t throw away your exercise regime – from a class at the gym to a simple walk, keep moving over the holidays. This helps to keep your mind clear and digestion moving. Be mindful – deep breathing, yoga or a simple meditation can help with holiday stress.

Chronic stress is harmful to people of all ages, but its impact on older adults can be particularly severe, increasing the risk of age-related diseases, hastening cognitive decline and even triggering falls. Stressors that are common amongst the elderly include: loss of control, personal loss, declining health, financial worries, personal safety and loss of independence. To reduce stress, get regular exercise, eat balanced meals to ensure the mind and body are properly fueled and ask for help. Talking with a trusted family member, friend or healthcare professional, at the very least, releases pent-up stress and may even lead to a solution.