Community News
Yay It’s May! Take Time to EnJOY!

Buds are budding, and flowers are blooming! It’s time to get out in the sunshine and smell the fresh air. Remember to take time out for yourself and enjoy this spring weather. Take time to sit, relax, connect with nature, and do nothing. Taking time for yourself will make you happier, more productive, and better able to support your loved ones. If you have a challenge planning time for yourself, connect with Permelia. As a Certified Body/Emotion Code Practitioner, she can help you release any unprocessed negative (trapped) emotions to allow you to take time for yourself.

Is Travel in Your Future?

This is the time of year when many of us travel. If you are travelling, travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and interruptions is highly recommended, especially for seniors. A medical emergency in a foreign country and a hospital stay can easily cost $100,000 or more. If you get sick and can’t travel home from your destination, trip interruption insurance will cover your costs while you recover. If you become ill before you travel, trip cancellation insurance will reimburse travel costs. Travel insurance buys peace of mind. We wish you happy and safe travels.

Why Am I Gaining Weight?

Weight gain isn’t just about calories—it’s often a symptom of deeper imbalances. Hormonal shifts, stress, poor sleep, inflammation, and digestive issues can all contribute to stubborn weight. For many, midlife brings changes in metabolism, thyroid function, and insulin sensitivity, making weight loss harder. Carrying extra weight also increases the risk of heart disease, joint pain, fatigue, and diabetes. Acupuncture and holistic therapies can support healthy weight by improving digestion, reducing stress, balancing hormones, and increasing energy. You don’t have to do it alone. Contact me to see if my holistic weight-loss program is a fit for you.

Need a Doctor Today?

We can book one for you! Our staff can connect you with Avee Health, a Vancouver-based company that specializes in providing convenient and accessible healthcare services to patients through businesses like The Medicine Shoppe at Departure Bay Road and in Parksville. With a mission to improve the patient experience, Avee Health works closely with businesses to establish walk-in clinics within their premises, offering a range of primary care services. They provide same-day doctor appointments 24/7 and comprehensive care from prescription refills to addressing minor ailments. Patients enjoy a smooth and efficient experience with easy access to healthcare consultations. Contact us today.

Do you have the Right Insurance Coverage?

Annual limits, frequency limits, change of coverage at retirement, job change, submission time limits, undisclosed limits. My, my, my … What insurance carriers don’t tell you. If you have recently had a change in lifestyle, call your insurance provider to find out how your coverage is affected. You may be paying for coverage that is not worth it. A recent client paid monthly for retirement dental benefits to find out that his coverage did not include dentures. He was able to resign from his plan and get better coverage from the CDCP/Sunlife Plan at no cost. Contact us for your denture needs.

Product Profile: Methylene Blue

Aqua Miraculorum with Methylene Blue: Serious Help for Aging Skin. It is today’s science-based miracle for defying the signs of aging and fragile skin. Aqua Miraculorum contains an optimal concentration of Methylene Blue in a convenient bath application. Benefits include: *Increased elasticity and resiliency. *Skin feels and appears firmed and more lifted. *Improves the tone and texture of skin. *Paraben, Phthalate and Fragrance free. Methylene Blue is easy to use 1) Fill the bath tub with water. 2) Drop the dissolvable paper sachet into a standard bath tub. 3) Enjoy! Proudly made on Vancouver Island.

Manage Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder affecting the central nervous system, causing movement problems often accompanied by non-motor symptoms like sleep disturbances and depression. While there’s currently no cure, the following can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. •Medications can help increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can help alleviate motor symptoms. •Therapies can help improve movement, balance, and communication skills. •Lifestyle Adjustments like exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management. Let Comfort Keepers help by getting your loved one out exercising, assisting with creating healthy meals, and being there for companionship and friendship as this disease progresses.

SOS Needs a New Bus

SOS helps ease isolation and build community by connecting people of all ages to programs that support their well-being. One crucial way we have provided access to our programs is through the use of the SOS bus. Unfortunately, our bus has reached the end of the road. The SOS Connecting Community Campaign aims to raise $200,000 to help purchase a new bus. The bus facilitates essential programs, including transportation for seniors to grocery shopping, children to our afterschool programs, and exciting outings for families and youth. If you would like to contribute to this campaign, please visit our website or give us a call. Thank you.

Clean Eating Recipe

Healthy Detox Salad. Roast 3 cups cubed butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp turmeric, ¼ tsp cumin, salt, and pepper at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes, stirring halfway. Whisk ¼ cup grapeseed oil, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 minced shallot for dressing. Toss 1 bunch kale, 1 pint Brussels sprouts, roasted squash, and 1 oz. toasted pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with dressing, mix, then fold in 1 diced avocado.

When it’s Not Just Aging

While it’s true that some health conditions are more common with age, some symptoms should be discussed with your doctor. 1. Memory loss—this can sometimes be the result of medications, vitamin deficiencies, and some disorders. 2. Vision problems—getting treatment early for certain vision problems like glaucoma can prevent serious damage. 3. Tooth loss—regular dental care can help seniors avoid tooth loss. 4. Depression—certain health conditions and medications can make depression symptoms worse, but this problem can be treated professionally. 5. Weakness—A good exercise program can help prevent loss of muscle mass.

Wellness Expo April 26 – FREE to Attend

Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® is thrilled to present the 1st Annual Wellness Expo on April 26 at Filberg Centre in Courtenay. The expo is FREE to attend. It will be a day to explore various approaches to health, nutrition, fitness, and overall well-being. Explore, transform, escape, and shop! In support of the Senior Support North Vancouver Island. Check the Wellness Expo website for a list of exhibitors, presentations, and door prizes.