May 13: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM. Midlife Makeover: Menopause, Cancer Screening, and Pelvic Health. Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community. Come join Drs. Aaron Kennedy, Elizabeth Thompson, Alexandra Bascom, and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist Shannon Lawrence, for a fun and informative event diving into menopause, sexual function, and cancer screening. Tickets and more information on Eventbrite.com.
Community News
May Trivia Answers
.1 Wrinkles 2. Physical Therapy 3. Your Age.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
I choked on a carrot this morning, and all I could think of was, “I’ll bet a doughnut wouldn’t have done this to me.”
Words To Live By
“If life was always predictable there would be no room for new adventures and surprises. Be open to all possibilities today, knowing that no matter what road life presents to you, it has always got your back.” – Keith Macpherson
Wellness Expo Courtenay
Join Us Saturday April 26 -> www.wellness.news/expocourtenay
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.
Yoga Therapy for Gut Health and IBS
Yoga therapy is a powerful tool for improving digestion and managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Specific simple movements stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and ease constipation. Deep breathing techniques (pranayama) calm the nervous system, reducing stress—a major IBS trigger. Gentle yoga practices support the gut-brain connection, alleviating symptoms like cramping and irregular bowel movements. Regular practice enhances circulation to abdominal organs, improving gut motility and microbiome balance. Combining yoga with a fiber-rich diet, hydration, and mindful eating can help manage IBS symptoms and promote overall digestive wellness.
Advancing IBS Diagnosis
IBS is diagnosed using the Rome Criteria, based on symptom patterns rather than inflammation. Unlike Crohn’s or colitis, IBS lacks inflammatory markers, making it a diagnosis of exclusion. New tests, like anti-CdtB and anti-vinculin antibodies, link IBS to past infections. Breath tests and stool analysis detect microbial imbalances and enzyme deficiencies. These advancements shift IBS care from symptom management to root-cause treatment, enabling personalized, targeted therapies for lasting relief.
Spring Cleaning for the Soul
As the cherry blossoms bloom and the days grow longer, spring invites renewal—not just for our homes, but for our emotional and energetic selves. Negative experiences like trauma, stress, and unhealthy habits can accumulate, creating patterns that disconnect us from our true selves. We help you release and replace old energy and patterns so you rediscover authenticity and enhanced well-being. As we clear physical clutter to make space for newness, addressing emotional and energetic baggage allows joy, love, and growth to flourish. This season, embrace holistic renewal. Call now for a free consult.
Get Connected – Volunteer with Us
Consider volunteering with us. SSNVI is always looking for senior volunteers. Seniors helping seniors.
Want to learn more about becoming a volunteer? SSNVI is hosting volunteer training sessions in the month of April. To find out more information or register for a training session you can email us at [email protected] or drop by Unit C,1-450 8th Street, Courtenay.
There is also the Seniors Intergenerational Action Network. This partnership program links seniors and families with young children in the Comox Valley. Weekly activities are being organised at the Comox Recreation Centre. To find out more, please check out the Comox Recreation Guide or contact Ann Brown at [email protected] , or Christopher Bate at [email protected]
April at SSNVI
Studies show that connection to community can help increase our mental and physical health and wellbeing. April brings lots of free and low-cost opportunities to connect in Courtenay and Comox area for seniors.
The month of April the 3rd Annual Poetry Walk is taking place downtown Courtenay. Shop windows will be painted with poetry and art on 4th, 5th, and 6th streets, theme is Family.
April 12, free info session by MARS Wildlife Rescue at the Comox Senior Centre. Contact d’Esterre Centre for time.
April 26, come connect with Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) at the 2025 Wellness Expo at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay.
SSNVI Workshops and Partner Events
SSNVI is hosting workshops with community partners on April 22 and May 27, from10:30 – 12:00, CV Presbyterian Church, 725 Aspen Rd.
Please be sure to check our resource page at https://ssnvi.ca/education-sessions/ for more details. Even better, get on our email list to be notified about these workshops and others at [email protected]
