We get asked this question all the time: “How often should I brush and floss my teeth?” We recommend that you brush your teeth in the morning before eating. It is best to floss and rinse after every meal to help maintain the enamel (whiteness) of the teeth. After drinking or eating acidic foods, always wait 45 minutes to brush your teeth. Acidic foods soften enamel, and if you brush too soon, it thins your enamel prematurely. Follow these tips and visit your dental hygienist regularly to help keep your teeth healthy and white.
Community News
Prevent Trips and Falls
When you think of weather-related trips or falls, you’re likely imagining a time when it’s cold and icy outside, but any time of year can be risky. When on unfamiliar terrain, seniors should take caution. Outdoor rugs, uneven sidewalks, unpaved roads, and even uneven patio stones can quickly become a safety hazard. Our tips for seniors to avoid unnecessary slips and falls include: *Keep areas well-lit and clean. *Wear comfortable, well-fitting, non-slip footwear. *Make sure glasses and walking devices are in top shape. Preventing falls reduces injuries and may help you stay in your home longer.
Autumn: Time to Reflect
Summer has now passed and winter is fast approaching. The transition of seasons is a great time to slow down and reflect on how our goals are going, what needs to be worked on, and how the changing seasons will impact our goals. This is particularly important for health goals. The kids are back in school, the days are getting shorter, and the weather is changing, which can prevent us from being as active. These changes don’t mean you have to put your goals on hold until after the holidays; we can make small changes to keep working towards our goals.
Recognize Hearing Loss Signs
October is National Protect Your Hearing Month, a perfect time to recognize signs of hearing loss. Keep an eye out for these warning signs: frequently asking others to repeat themselves, needing to turn up the TV or radio volume, or experiencing persistent ringing in your ears. Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, missing everyday sounds, or having trouble hearing when your back is turned to someone are also key indicators. Speaking too loudly or finding phone conversations challenging may also signal hearing issues. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, so prioritize your hearing health this month and schedule a free assessment with your local Beltone clinic.
Moving to a New Home?
Here are some tips to make the move as easy as possible. *Create personalized floor plans so you can envision how and where your possessions fit in your new space. *Start the decision process as early as possible as to which belongings are going to make the move with you and which ones to repurpose to a charity or consignment service. *Don’t do everything alone; enlist help from a family member, loved one, or a professional moving company. Genie Senior Services can help you with every step of your move, including downsizing, decluttering, moving, transporting, and setting up your new home.
Changes of the Season
The leaves are turning, the wind is brisk and autumn has come. With it comes the sense of quiet that settles in like leaves on the forest floor. However, it is important that we do not settle back into old habits. Keeping pace with new hobbies and social activities which are known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, arthritis and osteoporosis, is important for long-term health goals. Don’t let the change in season stop you from being your best!
Are Your Vaccines Up to Date?
Fall boosters for COVID-19 will be available in October. This is also a great time to update vaccination schedules for travel, pneumonia, shingles, and more. Your pharmacist can help provide information and answer many of the questions that you may have regarding vaccines. Vaccines can help prevent disease and save lives. Individuals most at risk are: * people over 65 or under 5; * pregnant women; * residents of long-term care facilities; and * people with chronic diseases such as diabetes. Please book online to choose the day and time that will work for you to come in for your COVID-19 and additional important vaccines.
Live Theatre – Perfect Arrangement
It’s 1950, and new colours are being added to the Red Scare. Two U.S. State Department employees, Bob and Norma, have been tasked with identifying sexual deviants within their ranks. There’s just one problem: Both Bob and Norma are gay and have married each other’s partners as a carefully constructed cover. Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the American gay rights movement, madcap classic sitcom-style laughs give way to provocative drama as two “All-American” couples are forced to stare down the closet door. Tickets are on sale now for October 6–26, 2024.
It’s Not the “Things” that Matter
“The secret to having everything in life, is believing that you already have it.” Many seniors will tell you that the things that you thought mattered in your younger years were not really what mattered. It’s not the ‘things’ that matter. It’s the people, the experiences, the memories that you carry with you throughout your lifetime. Retirement communities are great places for retirees to continue to make new friends, have new experiences and make more wonderful memories. We should all strive every day to learn something new or meet someone new – it’s what keeps us young at heart!
The Power of Gratitude in Healthy Aging
Gratitude is a powerful tool with transformative effects on mental health and overall well-being, especially for seniors. In later years, aging can be a time of fulfillment and joy, and practicing gratitude may be key to unlocking these enriching experiences. Beyond boosting emotional well-being, gratitude also supports physical health by improving sleep quality and reducing stress and depression. Taking a moment each day to appreciate even the smallest joys can lower the risk of heart attack, angina, and stroke, help manage arthritic pain, and reduce frailty in older adults.
Good Oral Health
A healthy mouth is an important part of overall health. Periodontal or gum disease can increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart attack and stroke and is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults. A dental hygienist works with you to help keep your mouth healthy and to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Regular cleanings are extra important for everyone to maintain the foundation around their teeth as well as maintain the health of the enamel. Reach out to us today. We accept the Canadian Dental Plan.
