Community News
Stay Healthy While Travelling

Long-distance travel, either by air or land, can lead to a small risk of blood clots. If you have cancer, had recent surgery, abnormal blood clotting disorders or obesity you should be assessed by a healthcare practitioner before travelling. Tips to prevent blood clots during flights that every traveller can benefit from include; *Maintain adequate hydration as it also encourages mobilization, *Contract the calf muscles regularly or get up every 1-2 hours, *Wear below-knee graduated compression stockings, and *Choose an aisle seat when possible as it is proven to encourage mobilization. Talk to your pharmacist about ways to stay healthy while travelling.

Help is Available

December can be a challenging month at the best of times. Online gambling and sports betting have gained incredible popularity recently. Vulnerable people can be at an increased risk of developing gambling issues when combined with the financial and emotional stress the holiday season can bring. If gambling which was once a light-hearted and fun activity has become a coping mechanism for emotional and/or financial relief, reach out to VI Gaming Support. We are available by phone, text, email, social media (Facebook & Instagram) or online on our website. Our toll-free support line is open 24/7. You are not alone.

Make Life Accessible

Our knowledgeable experts enjoy making life accessible for everyone by identifying the unique needs of our clients and selecting solutions that fit their lifestyles. Let us help you make a difference in your life every day with the right mobility and home accessibility solutions, including *wheelchairs, *stairlifts, *walkers, *power lift recliners, *bathroom safety items and more. “Because Motion isn’t a place, it’s a partnership.” Monthly payments are now available with financing from humm Canada.

Do You Feel Emotional?

The holiday season can be an emotional time; a time of loving reunions, heartfelt connections and joy or it may be filled with obligations, expectations and old memories. You may feel a full range of emotions from happy to sad. Be gentle with yourself in allowing any emotions you feel at this time. The holidays are an opportunity to nurture ourselves while giving and receiving. A Certified Body Code/Emotion Code Practitioner can help you release any unprocessed negative (trapped) emotions to make this season easier for you. Call today for a complimentary information session. Are you searching for wellness talk topics? Let’s chat!

Community Profile: Accura Denture Clinic

Accura Denture Clinic, located in Parksville, at French Creek Landing, has produced personal, handcrafted dentures for 28 years. They believe that your dentures should be as unique as you are. Their services include; new dentures, partial dentures and implant-supported dentures. Maintenance of existing dentures is very important; they provide relines, rebases, repairs, equilibration, tooth additions and adjustments. At the clinic, they also offer a complete line of denture care products including; cleaning solutions, containers and denture brushes. They would be pleased to have you join their family of satisfied customers. Contact them today for personalized service.

Gambling Awareness and Education

Gambling has become progressively more complex with the growth of online gambling products worldwide, including sports betting apps, websites, as well as a variety of in-person and lottery products. Vancouver Island Gaming Support (VIGS) helps navigate this emerging landscape. VIGS contracts with Gambling Support BC (GSBC) to offer education and awareness workshops to anyone in the community interested in learning more about gambling-related topics. Topics include seniors and casinos, young adults and sports betting, affected families and friends, brain chemistry and behavioural addictions and more. We also provide outreach support and counselling services at no charge. We are here to help.

Foods for Brain Health

The best foods for supporting memory and brain function are those that encourage good blood flow to the brain. Research suggests the following foods may help keep your brain sharp and improve your cognitive function, memory and alertness. 1) Broccoli, cabbage and dark leafy greens. Enjoy salads, wraps and stir-fries. 2) Walnuts. Can be added to salads or oatmeal or just eaten on their own. 3) Berries and cherries. Can be eaten fresh as a snack or added to oatmeal or baked goods. 4) Omega-3 fatty acids. Can be found in seafood, flaxseeds and fatty fish.

Reduce Your Risk of Arthritis

Arthritis is a serious and debilitating condition affecting 1 out of every 5 Canadians. Causing pain and mobility restriction due to chronic inflammation, arthritis can lead to irreversible damage to the joints. There are several measures that we can take to treat and prevent this condition. To reduce your risk of arthritis, you can; *Control your blood sugar levels to reduce inflammation, *Exercise and stretch daily to keep your joints mobile, and *Eat fish twice a week to get your Omega-3s which help reduce inflammation (Yummy!).

Acupuncture for Blood Sugar Balance

Acupuncture, an ancient practice of inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, can be a valuable complementary approach to managing blood sugar levels. 1. Regulates Insulin: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins and improve insulin sensitivity, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. 2.Reduces Stress: Acupuncture promotes relaxation by releasing tension and reducing stress hormones, aiding in glycemic control. 3. Enhances Digestion: Improved digestion can lead to better nutrient absorption and more stable blood sugar. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical advice or medication. Consult a healthcare professional to discuss how acupuncture may help you.

Starting the Conversation

Starting a discussion about care needs with a senior loved one can be difficult. Deciding when to start the conversation is important. It is never too early to discuss what care might be needed and the desires of the person who will be receiving care. Nine out of 10 seniors want to remain in their homes as they age; in-home care can help them. There are many options for in-home care, from the type of care services to the number of hours a week. Making plans before there is an emergency or sudden problem in the senior’s home helps alleviate stress for everyone.