Stepping Stones Adult Day Program uses therapeutic recreation to improve physical, cognitive, social and emotional well being to enhance the fullness of life. We focus on using skills for everyday living; making a difference across the entire lifespan. Memory loss from an acquired brain injury, stroke or other dementia-related conditions have a high likelihood of slowing progress with intellectual and social stimulation. We provide a safe, secure space to spend two or more hours in meaningful interaction improving mental and physical health delaying cognitive decline. For caregivers, we are an enhanced respite service with therapeutic staff on site, freeing your time for your own self care.
Community News
Gambling Outreach Support
If you are looking for support but not seeking counselling, our Gambling Outreach Support team provides confidential and personalised one-to-one support to anyone concerned about their own or a loved-one’s gambling. Gambling Outreach Support is offered in every community across BC, providing information, support, referrals, and accompaniment to resources, including peer support organizations such as 12 Step groups or Smart Recovery and online self-help resources. Other support includes community support organizations such as bankruptcy trustees, legal services, housing services, community mental health services and debt management services. Our services are FREE and available by phone, text, web chat, or in person.
Your LOCAL Wellness Resource
Today, more than ever, people are searching on line for local resources. Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® is proud to present a One-Stop, Online Resource where our community can find local wellness information. Our Wellness Hub enables people in central Vancouver Island to easily find and support local businesses, read health tips and find out what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralIslandWellnessnews.ca.
Restless Legs?
Are your legs keeping you up at night? HealthLink BC identifies Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) as a disorder related to sensation and movement. The symptoms, often most severe at night, are unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs that cause an irresistible urge to move them. Moving the legs only relieves the discomfort temporarily. If symptoms are mild, a few lifestyle changes may be enough to control them. *Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine *Keep the bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable *Get regular exercise *Massage the leg or use heat or ice packs. Some people find relief wearing socks with woven HPT technology.
Ingredients Matter
Many of us rely on skincare products to help us look our best. Unfortunately, many contain toxic ingredients that should not be put on our skin. These toxins can trigger or exacerbate an array of problems including allergies, hormone disruption and even act as irritants or carcinogens. Palm oil is a common ingredient in skincare products because it is inexpensive. Scientific studies have shown a link to dementia. Don’t be fooled by terms such as “natural”, “pure” or “hypo-allergenic”. Examine the ingredients and look for words that you can read and understand. Look for brands that are truly transparent.
Happy 1st Anniversary Duncan Pharmacy
On August 1, 2020, Duncan Pharmacy celebrates their first anniversary. Neel and Rupal Tanna, the husband and wife pharmacist/owner team are very happy to be part of the Duncan community. They have spent the last year building relationships with their customers, neighbours and members of their community. As Remedy’s Rx pharmacists, they believe in investing in the best possible pharmacy care. Duncan Pharmacy offers free Blister Pack service, flu shots, travel vaccines, diabetes education, and free prescription delivery. They plan to continue their efforts to go above and beyond customers’ every expectation.
Protect and Nourish Your Skin
Summer has finally arrived! Here are some tips to keep your skin nourished and protected. *Wear a mineral-based, chemical-free sunscreen with at least SPF 15. *Drink extra water and eat hydrating foods. Green tea has a potent antioxidant boost that can help protect and recover from sun damage. *Vitamins C and E, selenium, and grape seed extract help to prevent and reverse sun damage and oxidative stress. *Apply aloe vera and lavender essential oil after sun exposure or sun burns. *Apple cider vinegar or cooler chamomile tea make a good compress to soothe and heal tender skin. Have a wonderful summer!
When a Loved One Has Dementia
Loving someone with dementia can be a challenging task, one that puts a lot of pressure on a caregiver. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind: *Be realistic when it comes to expectations for yourself and for your loved one. *Develop a routine. Those with dementia can struggle with confusion and frustration. Especially as the disease progresses, it is important to create a solid routine and schedule to provide some predictability and help keep some peace of mind. *Focus on nutrition. There is a strong connection between lifestyle choices such as diet and memory diseases.
What Defines Addiction?
Addiction is known to be a primary, chronic issue that occurs in the brain. It is a condition that causes a person to engage in behaviours or the use of a substance for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behaviour, despite detrimental resulting consequences. There is scientific evidence that the addictive substances and behaviours share a key neurobiological feature—they intensely activate brain pathways of reward and reinforcement, many of which involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some studies show that there are possible genetic factors, making some people more susceptible to addiction. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction and looking for help?
Monitor Headphones to Prevent Hearling Loss
According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion 12 to 35-year-olds, risk irreversible hearing loss from exposure to loud sounds such as music played on their smartphone. To prevent noise-induced hearing loss and related conditions such as tinnitus – commonly experienced as a ringing sound inside the ear – monitor how loud, and for how long, you listen to music. Sound is measured in units called decibels or dBA. Music through headphones at maximum volume measure 94-110 dBA. Sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Test your hearing today at NexGen Hearing!
Gum Inflammation? See A Dental Hygienist
Periodontal disease is an inflammatory and an immune response to bacteria hiding deep under the gums. Most of the time, your hygienists can make a solid attempt at initial therapy, then take a step back and assess how things have healed up. Unmaintained moderate to severe periodontal disease deposits may be too deep or hidden under the gum to reach so you need the assistance of a periodontist to help surgically access the root of the problem. The key to preventing periodontal disease is to take care of your gums and to see your hygienist regularly.
