Would you like to highlight an outstanding senior in the Comox Valley? Send a brief paragraph, explaining why, to Chris at [email protected] provide contact information for the senior you are recommending as we will need to attain consent from them to share their story. We will feature as many as possible in upcoming issues!
Too Much Screen Time
A 2019 report from Common Sense Media into media use by US tweens and teens stated: *8- to 12-year-olds in the US used screens recreationally for an average of 4.44 hours per day – excluding time spent online for schoolwork. This is twice the recommended healthy exposure. *8- to 12-year-olds from high¬income families spent 1 hour 50 minutes ˂ low-¬income families. *Gaming accounts for (31%) of all screen time among 8- to 12-years-olds; (46%) play mobile games daily (in 2015 it was 27%); (24%) play console video games daily. On average, an hour and a half per day are spent gaming. citation: intenta.digital
Regaining Mobility & Independence
Our day-to-day lives often involve activities that require us to venture out into public, whether it’s going to the bank, attending medical appointments, shopping, or spending time with friends and family. For those who experience mobility challenges, simple errands can be more difficult and less convenient, especially when having to rely on others for transport. Mobility scooters can help you or your loved one regain a sense of independence and control as errands become easier and access to more destinations becomes possible again. Regaining mobility and independence can simplify our daily tasks and offer us more choices.
Fall Prevention Tips
Falls in the home are all too common. The good news is, you can make a few modifications in the home that can prevent potential hazards, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Start by visiting each room in your home, looking at the space objectively. Ask yourself: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.
COVID Boosters & Flu Shots
This is going to be a very busy season for vaccinations in the pharmacy. For the first time, you will be able to get a COVID fall booster AND a flu shot during the same visit. As before, you will not be able to schedule a COVID shot if it has been less than 6 months since your previous booster. To book an appointment, call 1-833-838-2323 or go online to gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated, and choose Medicine Shoppe #414 as your preferred site. We will open up additional appointments as long as there is demand and we have a supply of vaccine. See you soon!
The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, MedicineShoppeCourtenay.ca
Income Tax
The Senior Information and Access Support Team is still able to assist seniors with their taxes! Up to date taxes are especially important if you collect Guaranteed Income Supplement. Seniors must register with CVSS to access this service (a fast and painless process!). Please contact Chris or Tiss at 250-871-5940 or [email protected] to register.
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
According to a recent survey, 90% of North American homeowners between the ages of 55 and 75 would like to stay in their long-time home as they get older. And, not surprisingly, 66% of seniors believe their home is where they will be most comfortable, with 53% believing they will stay healthier in their own home. But living out that scenario and remaining in the driver’s seat calls for a plan of action – and an understanding of potential safety risks in the home. Home care makes it possible to remain home despite physical challenges. From respite care to 24-hour in-home care, services can be tailored to meet your needs.
Board Members
Comox Valley Senior Support Society, dedicated to helping seniors, is seeking volunteers to join our Board of Directors. The Board provides governance, leadership, fundraising, and financial oversight to staff and the Society’s operations. Meetings are held once per month, with additional support required on an as needed basis. If you have have a passion for seniors, an interest in working with a collaborative Board, and supporting an active staff team, please contact Chris at [email protected]
Medical Emergency Hearing Loss
Single-Event Sports Betting
The CBC article, “Conservative MP says Sask. government has ‘dropped the ball’ on single-event sports betting, featured Waugh’s Bill C-218, also known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act”. Bill C-218, passed by the Canadian Senate and received Royal Assent in June 2021, came into force August 2021. The legislation allows provinces and territories to conduct and manage single-event betting on any sporting event except horse racing. In November, the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) announced that BC residents had placed more than $25 million in single-event sports bets within two months of the legalization. If you run into trouble, support is available. (Source: https://bit.ly/3OJU3Um)
Karen Hlady, VI Gaming Support, VIGamingSupport.ca
Frustration-Free Denture Repairs
Super Glue is a great adhesive for toys and shoes but NOT for your dentures! It will build up around the broken edges that you’re trying to adhere and make the denture difficult or impossible to fix professionally. This can potentially leave you with an uncomfortable or unusable denture permanently! Being water soluble, your saliva will dissolve the glue and make it ineffective. Due to the harsh chemicals it contains, Super Glue can also cause gum inflammation or allergic reactions. Denture materials and super glue are simply not a good combination. Save yourself the frustration and have repairs done professionally.


