Community News
Do You Need Help to ‘Spring Forward’?

Are there emotions holding back the ‘Spring in Your Step’? Spring is here to bring you joy! Are your negative emotions stopping you from being joyful? The dictionary defines joy as a noun: “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.” Some say that joy comes when you make peace with who you are, why you are, and how you are. Book a body-code session to release those unwanted negative emotions that are keeping you from being your best self. I can help put a spring back in your step. Are you searching for wellness talk topics? Let’s chat!

Spring Clean the Medicine Cabinet

Here are a few tips to clean up your medicine cabinet and other places where medication and vitamins are stored: Gather all medications in one place. Check the expiration date of each item. Set aside any medications that you no longer take or that have expired. Set aside any medication that is not in its original container or whose appearance, consistency, or odour has changed. Take all discarded medications and vitamins to your pharmacist for safe and ecological disposal. Do not throw them into the waste basket, sink, or toilet. The Medicine Shoppe can help with the cleanup process and disposal.

Discover the Health Benefits of Volunteering

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be difficult to carve out time to volunteer. Giving back to the community and supporting others can have greater health benefits than we realize. Volunteering helps keep you mentally stimulated while reducing stress, combating depression, and providing a sense of purpose. It can also help improve your social life and create meaningful connections. SOS has a variety of volunteer opportunities available, including helping at the thrift shop, driving residents to medical appointments, and being a mentor for local youth. Contact SOS today to find a role that fits your life and interests.

Meet the Specialist: Steve Aiken

Steve is a Registered Denturist with over 30 years of experience producing one-of-a -kind dentures for his clients. He has taught denturism at VCC in Vancouver and served as an executive board member of the Denturist Association of BC. He also holds a Diploma in Fine Arts. Using his artistic ability, he sculpts dentures; unique pieces of art specifically designed for each client. He takes pride in creating lifelike smiles that both he and his clients can be proud of. Steve offers complimentary, friendly initial consultations with no obligation. Contact Steve today to find out if his work is right for you.

Small Heart- Healthy Changes

It’s heart month! Heart disease is the second-leading cause of death in Canada. A heart-healthy lifestyle means eating right, sleeping enough, and exercising every day. But what does that mean? Eating healthfully: you don’t have to give up cookies; add in fruits and vegetables every day. Exercise: walk for 5–10 minutes a day, or do windmills with your arms if mobility is an issue. Sleep—try for at least 7 hours per night. Heart health doesn’t have to mean huge lifestyle changes that can feel overwhelming. A little bit at a time is all you need!

Emotional & Physical Support

In the spirit of a new year’s dual nature, consider the ancient wisdom of acupuncture to aid in navigating the path forward. Drawing from Chinese medicine, acupuncture acts as a holistic guide, harmonizing the body’s energy flow. Much like Janus, who guards transitions, acupuncture targets specific points along the meridians, promoting balance and facilitating a smooth flow. As we embark on new journeys or bid farewell to the past, acupuncture can offer physical and emotional support. It’s a gentle nudge toward equilibrium, addressing imbalances that may hinder progress. Acupuncture provides a mindful and balanced foundation for the exciting chapters unfolding in the months ahead.

Take Care of Your Heart

Every year, more than 60,000 Canadians suffer a heart attack. A healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk. If you have cardiovascular disease, follow your treatment carefully and take medicine as prescribed. Common signs of a heart attack include: *chest pain; *discomfort or pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or arm; *shortness of breath; and *dizziness. If you are having a heart attack, call 911 immediately, follow operator instructions, stop all activity, stay calm, and rest in a comfortable position while waiting for help. Ask our pharmacist for more information about heart health.

Loneliness and Isolation Can Affect Senior Health

For seniors, maintaining social connections and staying in touch with loved ones not only improves quality of life, it improves health. Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation. Socialization has been shown to slow Alzheimer’s and Dementia patient’s decline. Having care givers can help stem the existence of loneliness in the lives of our seniors. We enjoy conversations, daily walks, shopping, cooking and folding the laundry together. These can be moments of joy when done together in the right way. Comfort Keepers engage the human spirit.

Living in the Margins

It’s cold and dark. There is nothing in the cupboard to make a meal—at least not one with any nutritional value. No propane. Rent is past due. No lunch for school. There is no money for medications or past-due bills. This is what living on the margins looks like. That’s why SOS’s Winter Emergency Fund is such a lifesaver. By providing vouchers for groceries, propane for warmth, and other critical supports to residents who are experiencing hardship, we can bring light to the darkness. To make a difference this winter, please donate on our website or come by our Community Services Centre in Parksville. Thank you!

Sleep Changes & The Elderly

Seniors generally wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning, have a harder time falling asleep, and spend less time in deep, dreamless sleep. Some measures to help you sleep better include: 1) Eat a light bedtime snack. 2) Avoid caffeine for at least 3 or 4 hours before bed. 3) Avoid napping during the day. 4) Exercise regularly, but not within 3 hours of bedtime. 5) Practice relaxation techniques at bedtime. 6) Don’t watch TV or use devices while in bed. 7) Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.