Pharmacists are experts in prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs; and are trained on diseases, symptoms, treatment and signs that require an appointment with a doctor. Your pharmacist will ensure your prescribed medication is appropriate for your health issue, is the correct dose based on your weight and kidney health and does not interact with any medication you are already taking. As appropriate, you pharmacist may suggest a complementary treatment to prevent side effects and can help ensure that you aren’t taking drugs that are no longer needed. If you feel unwell, your pharmacist may recommend an OTC medication or refer you to a health care professional.
Community News
Decibels and Hearing Loss
Sound is measured in two ways: Decibels and Frequencies. Decibels (dB) refer to how loud or soft a sound is, or its intensity. A person with normal hearing can typically hear sounds from 0 to 140 dB. Someone with mild hearing loss is unable to hear sounds below 30 or 40 decibels, while a person with moderate hearing loss will miss sounds below 50-70 decibels. Since a lot of speech occurs within this decibel range, a person with moderate hearing loss may have trouble hearing (and comprehending) conversations, especially amid background noise. Please go to our website for information about decibels and hearing loss.
Tea and Toast Syndrome
“Tea and toast syndrome” refers to malnutrition in seniors when a lack of desire or inability to prepare and/or eat proper meals results in them relying on simpler meals like tea and toast. Seniors who skip meals almost daily, have gained/lost more than 10 pounds in the past six months, take medications, have dental issues, or have a disability can be at risk for malnutrition. Some common signs to watch for include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, memory issues, digestive issues, a weak immune system, muscle weakness, and anemia. There are support services available to help seniors eat well and regularly!
Vancouver Island Gambling Support
It’s been over a year since Covid 19 overtook our lives. For most, it has been a challenging time. For many, it has been a difficult time emotionally and financially. Pushed to the limit, some of our friends and family have sought financially relief through online gambling. Rarely has it been the silver bullet many had hoped for. Here at VIGamingSupport.ca, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs. Support groups, outreach support services, counselling, and webinars are available to support you and your loved one’s redress gambling related harms. VI Gaming Support is contracted by the BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program.
Help with Filing a Basic Tax Return
Tax returns have to be completed, but for many residents that’s easier said than done. The SOS Income Tax program helps low-income residents file basic tax returns at no cost. This alleviates the stress that comes with unfinished paperwork, while also unlocking government benefits. SOS works in conjunction with the Revenue Canada Community Volunteer Income Tax Program to deliver the program with the help of trained SOS volunteers. The income threshold is $35,000 for one person and $45,000 for a couple. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this service will be offered over the phone. For more information, please call SOS at 250-248-2093.
Ultrasonic Facial Treatment
Has wearing a mask left your skin blemished by acne, blackheads and congestion? The Ultrasonic facial treatment is recommended for all skin types and is a drug-free, chemical-free and gentle alternative to traditional methods. Pores that have become blocked by oils create an environment for bacterial growth. The sound waves from Ultrasonic can dissolve and extract these oils, even if the congestion is deep under the skin. After treatment with a natural product, the ultrasound is used to create channels in the skin for better nutrient absorption. Most people experience a considerable difference after only one treatment.
Look After the Caregiver
When you are the caregiver of a loved one, it’s important to also take care of yourself. Here are some signs that you may be suffering from burn out: *Withdrawal from family and friends *Changes in sleep patterns *Feelings of irritability, helplessness and resentment *Decline in your own health. Things you can do to support yourself include talking to a trusted friend or co-worker; finding a support group and being realistic about your loved one’s state of health. Recognize that the time may come when your loved one will need specialized long term care and know that it is available in your community.
Bringing Health and Wellness Information to You
What were you doing four years ago? Wellnessnews Central Vancouver Island published its first newsletter in March 2017. This issue is the start of our 5th year of bringing health and wellness information to our communities. Like for so many other businesses, the past year has been a challenge. We met the challenge by continuing to print and finding new ways of distributing the printed newsletter and by going online. The WellnessHUB brings not only all the newsletters to you; it brings you an expanded wealth of local health and wellness information from experts in your community.
Helping Seniors Eat Healthy
Seniors need to get adequate nutrients from their meals to help them reduce the risk of serious health conditions, stabilize their mood, and maintain their mental health. Retirement communities help meet seniors’ nutrition needs by providing meals that are low in saturated fats and have moderate amounts of unsaturated fat, which promotes a stable body mass index (BMI) and metabolism. Healthy portion sizes support a healthy weight for older adults by preventing excessive calorie intake. If you or a loved one have questions about proper nutrition and eating habits for seniors, reach out to your care provider or retirement community.
Gambling Support – Fold Em Podcast
Do you gamble from time to time? Has the pandemic increased your feelings of loneliness and isolation? Do you listen to podcasts? Are you concerned about someone’s gambling behaviour, or possibly your own? You are not alone. Connect with others by tuning into the Fold Em podcast on your favourite app or check out www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca and click “listen now”. You can listen in on how others have sought help to overcome problematic gambling behaviour. On the island, reach out Tracy Tsui for FREE, confidential support.
Supporting Someone with Hearing Loss
People with a hearing impairment often need additional support managing the impacts of hearing loss. It can be overwhelming to navigate daily life and adjust to symptoms, especially early on. One of the most important things you can do to support your loved one is to be present. Be an advocate for them, attend appointments with them, check for accommodations when visiting theaters and teach others about communication strategies for people with hearing impairment. If someone with hearing loss resists your help, remember that they must take responsibility for their own hearing. Remind them that you are simply there to listen and offer support.
