Proper nutrition plays an important role in preventing falls among older adults. Adequate protein intake helps maintain muscle strength and balance, reducing the risk of weakness-related falls. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health, lowering the chance of fractures if a fall occurs. Vitamin B12 supports nerve function and coordination, while magnesium contributes to muscle function. Staying well hydrated also helps prevent dizziness and low blood pressure. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats support overall mobility and energy. Consistent, balanced nutrition helps older adults stay strong, steady, and independent.
Community News
Heart Health, Hearing Health
Healthy aging starts with caring for both your heart and your hearing. Research shows a strong connection between cardiovascular health and hearing health. The inner ear relies on steady blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients, and reduced circulation can damage delicate hair cells, leading to hearing loss. Supporting heart health through regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stress management and quitting smoking can also help protect hearing. Conditions such as high blood pressure can affect blood flow to the ears, making regular checkups essential. At Beltone, we support healthy aging with free hearing assessments and innovative hearing solutions to help you hear your best at every stage of life.
February is Heart Health Month
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often goes unrecognized and untreated because there are no symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke, by: 1. Reviewing your medications, helping you take them as prescribed and managing potential side effects. 2. Teaching you how to use a blood pressure monitoring device properly and testing your blood pressure regularly. 3. Advising you how to maintain a healthy weight, and a diet that’s low in sodium. and 4. Guiding you through a step-by-step quit smoking plan. Learn more about how to keep your blood pressure under control by speaking with your pharmacist.
February Workshops
SSNVI hosts many free-of-charge educational workshops with community partners throughout the year. Check out community workshops every month on our website at https://ssnvi.ca/education-sessions/ for more details. Or email us at [email protected]
Support with Grief or Loss
Join our monthly Grief and Loss Group, led by a trained facilitator.
Held monthly: Third Thursday from 1:00–3:00 pm.
Everyone’s journey is unique, and you’re welcome to join us no matter where you are personally in dealing with grief and loss. For more information and to view session dates please visit ssnvi.ca/events/. Pre-registration is required, please contact us at [email protected] or call 250-218-3011.
Oral Health & Your Heart
Oral health significantly impacts heart health due to the connection between gum disease and cardiovascular conditions. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum inflammation, or periodontitis, caused by harmful bacteria. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and contributing to the formation of arterial plaques, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Gum disease is also linked to higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker associated with heart disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits is essential for protecting both oral and cardiovascular health.
February calls it LOVE…
…but love isn’t just an emotion. It is an intelligent quantum field we can consciously access and sustain.
When our inner landscape is crowded with unresolved fear, grief, confusion, or trauma, it becomes harder to hold the frequency of love consistently. These lower-density states distort the field. Clearing old imprints creates coherence. As space opens, love has room to grow into a lived state of being. Our sessions help identify and clear energetic distortions, allowing you to access, embody, and maintain the love field—within yourself, your relationships, and the wider collective.
Relief for Tension Headaches
Tension headaches often stem from tight muscles, poor posture, and restricted movement in the neck and upper back. Chiropractic care offers a targeted solution. Through spinal adjustments, posture correction, and soft tissue therapies like Graston and Active Release Technique (ART), we address the root cause—muscle tension and joint restriction. Graston breaks down scar tissue and adhesions, while ART releases tight, overused muscles that contribute to headaches. Combined with posture retraining, this approach relieves pain and prevents future flare-ups. Say goodbye to painkillers and hello to lasting relief. Book your chiropractic assessment with Dr. Rachel Poff at Origin Integrated Health and start living headache-free.
National Heart Month
February is National Heart month. Keeping our hearts strong and healthy is important at any age, but especially as we grow older. We can start by incorporating a few heart-healthy practices into our daily lives. Starting with no smoking and very moderate alcohol intake. Trying to maintain a healthy diet, one low in cholesterols and statured fats. As well as regular low impact exercise and walking. Whether it is indoors or out in nature, walking is one of the best things we can do for our heart health.
So, keep your heart strong and get your steps in daily. Just make sure to grab your umbrella during rainy February.
Ask The Expert
Q I just noticed that I can see certain things better without my glasses now. They’re new glasses, I just got them three years ago. What’s up with that?
A: Three years is actually more than enough time for your eyes to change, or for something to go wrong with your glasses. You can bring back your glasses to where you bought them to see what the issue is, but it sure sounds like you’re due for an eye exam in any case. Time goes pretty quick for just about everyone. Come see us at Mosaic for your eye exam or your glasses, or both!
Join the Board of Directors
The Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) Board of Directors is recruiting for new members from Comox Valley and Campbell River.
Join us in 2026! We are seeking committed members who bring fresh ideas, strategic thinking, and a heart for service. As a Board member, you’ll help shape programs, strengthen partnerships, and help ensure seniors in the Comox Valley and Campbell River area receive the support they deserve.
If you’re ready to share your expertise and be part of a Board creating real change, we’d love to hear from you. Your efforts can help build a stronger future for our seniors. Connect with us at [email protected].
