Community News
Sport Betting Support

“Sports bettors, who tend to be young men, are the most vulnerable to problematic behavior, according to the NCPG’s National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences. The survey reveals that sports bettors are three times more likely to exhibit problem gambling behavior than other types of gamblers.” (Quoted from onlinepoker.com). Given the popularity of sports betting across North America, and Canada’s soon-to-be new law allowing single event sports betting (Canada.ca DoJ), vulnerable sports bettors may find themselves in a position to engage in more impulsive betting behaviour. Reach out to ViGaminSupport.ca for more info on how we can help!

Career Exploration – Taking Action

In the final stage of the career exploration, we study how to look for and present yourself to possible employers. Whether you are searching online, over the phone, in person or you have a friend or relative in the field, it is important to be prepared. Knowing what employers are looking for is half the battle, the other part is up to you. Ask yourself: *Does my resume speak to the job I’m applying for? *How can I prepare for my dream job – do I need more training? *Do I have a cover letter? *What references do I have that can vouch for my abilities?

Help for Smelly Feet

Do you have bromodosis? Smelly feet is a very common medical condition from buildup of sweat resulting in bacteria growth on the skin. Your feet have more sweat glands than any other part of your body with naturally occurring bacteria to help break down sweat. Bad odor forms when bacteria and sweat are allowed to build up. Some simple tips to prevent bromodosis include washing your feet at least once a day and alternating between two pairs of shoes. Choose well-fitting socks like Voxx socks made with antimicrobial fibers to wick away moisture to help keep your feet dry and sweet smelling all day.

Summer Pop Up Concert Series

Expect the unexpected with the return of the Vancouver Island Symphony’s popular Summer Pop Up Concert Series featuring three VIS Ensembles performing works from all genres of music including Classical, Jazz, Latin, Traditional and Canadiana favourites. These concerts continue in August and take place in beautiful garden settings from Yellowpoint to the Comox Valley featuring: # 1: VIS Back Row Brass Quintet, #2: VIS String Quartet & French Horn #3: the Marko Paolo Trio (Flute, Violin/ Accordion, Double Bass). Get your tickets now.

Add a Little Exercise to your Lifestyle

Physical activity plays an important role in your health and quality of life by making you feel healthier and stronger. Being active helps to improve your balance, reduce your risk of falls and injuries and can help you stay independent longer. So take the initiative! It’s never too late to start and you don’t need to go to a gym to add a little exercise to your routine; consult your doctor and ask to learn more about exercises that can be done while sitting in your chair!

Your Child’s Feelings are Valid

When our kids are small and trying to manage emotions, they throw tantrums, throw things, have meltdowns, they scream and they whine. Because they can’t express what they are feeling, this is their way of communicating with us. Society tells us we should punish them for this. We teach and train them not to show their emotions. Don’t whine. Don’t complain. Your feelings are wrong. Be quiet. Eventually they stop expressing their emotions to us. Then when they turn into teenagers, we expect them to feel safe talking to us. We expect them to know that NOW it’s okay. They are subconsciously wired to think the opposite because this is what they grew up learning. Give your child permission to feel. Let them know their feelings are valid and that you care, no matter how small. Make sure they know that they are heard.

Support for Families in BC

The Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not for profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family-to-family organization with a broad volunteer base. FSI supports and services are free to any family. Some of their services include a Resource Parent/Resource Family member peer support program, free webinars, parent/family “meet ups” on Zoom, and downloadable online resources. Check out their website or Facebook page to learn more!

Coming this Fall

New South End location for Adult Day Programs

Circle of Security – Parenting Series
Parenting group at Sundrops
• Understand your child’s behaviours by learning to read their emotional needs
• Support your child’s ability to successfully manage emotions
• Enhance the development of your child’s self esteem
• Honor your innate wisdom and desire for your child to be secure
Contact speterson@clementscentre.org to add your name to the email list

Early Signs of Dementia

Some forgetfulness is a normal part of growing older, but it’s important to be aware of memory changes as they can be a sign of a serious problem. Along with memory changes, sudden changes to your loved one’s personality, such as paranoia and aggression, are often early signs of Dementia. For some, another early sign of dementia is having changes in vision. Your loved one may have trouble reading or seeing the differences in color. Other changes may include problems with speech and writing, poor judgment, having trouble with finances, withdrawal from social activities, and carelessness. Early diagnosis can assist you in getting help for your loved one.

Summer Supplements!

As you are enjoying the summer, keep these things in mind. Trace minerals are important for metabolic and brain functions. These are lost through activities and sweating in the heat so add vital electrolyte to your water! They are available in liquid form and from sea or Himalayan salts. Protect your skin from sun damage and dryness. Use Hyaluronic acid or aloe vera internally and/or topical for dryness and burns. Biotin provides help for brittle nails and hair. All the supplements to help you stay safe and happy are available at our store. Be extra well and have fun!!

Golden Gamers

“Golden Gamers” is a recent term used to describe seniors who play video games. Some play to pass the time, some play to connect with their grandkids and some play competitively. There’s nothing wrong with playing video games, online or on a console. Just like gambling, some seniors may be vulnerable to the addictive qualities that the gamblification of gaming offers. This includes paying to open loot boxes for premium items, skins, coins, extended time, etc. No different than slot machines, some games can entice vulnerable seniors to spend beyond their means. For more information, contact VIGamingSupport.ca.