Like natural teeth, dentures can attract plaque, become stained, and collect food particles that can cause bad breath. They need to be cleaned daily to remove plaque and calculus. At home, dentures can be cleaned with over the counter cleaners and gentle bushing with a specialized denture brush. Ordinary toothbrushes and commercial toothpastes are too abrasive and can damage the surface of your dentures. When the plaque has hardened to calculus it will need to be removed at a denture clinic, so be sure to clean your dentures properly.

The GAM Info Rep is a new service offered by the BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program. GAM Info Reps are part of your Gaming & Gambling support services. Like any advisor, the GAM Info Rep is there to support you with your distinct needs every step of the way. Whether you need to inquire about counselling services, legal services, housing, community health, debt management or any other support service, the GAM Info Rep is there to help. Your GAM Info Rep in the Cowichan Valley is Shannon Husk. 250-588-3861

For many seniors, living alone may directly affect how often they engage in social activities. Social interactions often decrease as we age, which is why it is important to be involved in social activities as often as possible. The more active you are, the better you will feel in many ways both physically and mentally. If you are finding yourself lonely, while living on your own, you may want to connect with others by joining groups; such as, volunteering with organizations including a local senior centre. Another solution is to consider moving to a seniors’ residence which is ideally suited to create many opportunities for social interaction and fun on a daily basis.

To stay well and to fight off the cold and flu bugs this season, it is important to support your body. Eating a balanced diet with ample veggies and fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, and moderate complex carbohydrates provides energy and helps you feel well. Try to cut out the processed sugars as these lower immunity and increase inflammation. In our modern world with all its stress, adding supplements to a healthy, balanced diet and making time for meal preparation will help your body stay healthy at this time of the year. Stay well and feel great this autumn and winter!

Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of age-related blindness world-wide. Although there is no cure, early detection and preventative measures can delay or reduce vision loss. The central part of the retina at the back of the eye can become damaged over time due to Ultra-Violet radiation from the sun, smoking and/or poor nutrition. This results in the development of central blind spots and blurred or distorted vision. Symptoms progress slowly in the “dry” form and more rapidly in the “wet” form. Prevention of macular degeneration includes stopping smoking, good nutrition, regular exercise and wearing good quality UV blocking sunglasses.

We have all seen ads proclaiming ‘miracles’. What really works is a special formula of pure organic anti-oxidant essential oils with NO FILLERS, bursting with vitamins and essential fatty acids to troubleshoot problem areas like pigmentation, wrinkles and dry skin. The DOUBLE DOUBLE range of products is rich and anti-ageing. For maximum benefits use with BREATHE products which were formulated for all skin types. They lock in moisture, tone and plump the skin and provide nourishment and hydration. They smooth the complexion and brighten dull skin. Most skincare products contain fillers, even those described as ‘natural’. Make sure to read the label. Look for skincare products with no nasty chemicals, preservatives or artificial fragrance.

How would you like to look after all your gift giving needs and support a worthwhile cause at the same time? The Clements Centre for Community Living is pleased to present The Holiday Bazaar on November 10th, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at 5856 Clements Street, Duncan. Come and shop for hand and homemade products ranging from pottery to jewelry and baked goods; all made by local vendors as well as clients and caregivers of the centre. Enjoy a Soup and Sandwich lunch for only $5.00 in the dining room. Clements Centre has 175 adults with developmental disabilities. The Holiday Bazaar helps fund adult services and support for them.

Kickstart your day with a super clean, raw and nutritionally dense organic drink that increases alertness and stamina. Coconut MCT, Maca super-food, Matcha green tea and many other key juiced powders, together with zero calorie Monk fruit, and even human strain probiotics round out this fantastic Kickstarter! A health-packed alternative to coffee & conventional energy-boosting drinks, PURE GREEN ENERGY gives vigor without potentially harmful effects of excess stimulants. It is also a perfect pre-and-post-workout supplement to replenish essential nutrients, improve cardio performance, and revive your workday energy drain.

You have probably been told to bundle up in cold weather so that you don’t become sick. The truth is, cold weather or not, it takes exposure to a virus or bacteria to cause an infection. In fact, going outside and getting more physical activity can prevent sickness. One reason why infections may become more prevalent during cold, wet weather is that more people spend time indoors, clustering together and increasing the likelihood of transmission from one person to another. Getting more rest is a good thing to help a weakened immune system. Your local healthfood/supplement store can also advise you on how to keep your immune system healthy.

Visiting with seniors is mutually rewarding. You can be a comfort, provide assistance as permitted, socialize and learn as well as share histories and experiences. Seniors have so much to offer through the exploration of their life achievements. Visitors will be amazed; activities, entertainment and more are always at hand at Independent Living Centres. Spending time with seniors, especially family, reinforces bonds of love and respect. These carry on even during times when they have less contact with friends and family. It is important for the physical and mental health of both visitors and residents; nothing replaces the personal touch.