Thinking about downsizing but not sure where to start? Join us for a FREE seminar from 1 – 3 pm on Tuesday, Sept 23 or Wednesday, Oct 29 at the Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Whether you’re planning ahead or ready to make a move, this seminar is for you. Guest speakers include industry professionals: *Rae-Lynn Varga, Downsizing Specialist/Professional Organizer. *Adam Hawryluk, Flawless Financing. Discover mortgage options. *Dale Harvey, Compass Point Financial. How to Make Your Money Last as long as you do. *Colby Althouse, Notary Public, Estate Planning for Seniors. Reserve your spot today by calling 250.616.3641.
Community News
Seniors Fair – Friday, September 12
Join us for a special event celebrating and supporting our senior community in a beautiful garden setting! Browse a variety of local vendors and connect with valuable community resources. The Seniors Fair takes place on Friday, September 12th between 10 am and 3 pm at Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens, 2347 Cedar Road. Everyone is welcome to this FREE community event featuring: *Free hearing tests and health services, *Door Prizes, and *Light refreshment. For more information, please call 250-722-2244.
Tips to Refocus Your Mind
Do racing thoughts keep you up at night or make it hard to focus during the day? A simple yet powerful solution only requires a pen and a piece of paper. When your mind fixates on emotionally charged or important thoughts, it’s trying to help, but ends up hijacking your focus. Give your brain space to process by writing down everything swirling in your head: worries, to-do lists, questions—anything. No need to filter. Take one minute or five. Once it’s on paper, your mind can refocus. Regularly writing down your thoughts improves mood, reduces stress, and even supports overall well-being.
Exercise for a Healthy Mind
Regular exercise boosts brain function in seniors by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the release of chemicals that support brain cell health. Walking, swimming, or yoga enhance memory, focus, and problem-solving skills while lowering the risk of cognitive decline. Exercise also supports better sleep and mood, reducing anxiety and depression, which are linked to poor brain health. Studies show that consistent physical activity can even slow the progression of dementia and delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. For seniors, staying active is not just about physical fitness—it’s a powerful tool for maintaining a sharp and healthy mind.
Simple UV Safety Tips for Seniors
Sunshine naturally provides our skin with Vitamin D, which has many health benefits! Sunshine can also be harmful, so we need to protect our skin. Keep these tips in mind year-round, especially in these sunny summer months! * See the dermatologist annually. It is a great idea to also self-check during a shower. Apply sunscreen liberally and often. It is recommended that you reapply a minimum of SPF 30 every two hours. Use “broad spectrum,” which protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Cover yourself; clothing is a great option for sun protection. Vivid colours offer more protection than pale ones. Stay safe out there!
Benefits of a Raindrop Massage
A Raindrop Massage uses essential oils to help with the realignment and detoxification of the spinal column. During a massage, the oils used on the feet and back help detox the body systems, improve emotional well-being, improve immune system functions and reduce stress and minor anxiety. Pure essential oils have the ability to enter our cell walls because their molecules are extremely tiny. This means that they can reach a virus that lives inside our cells and provide health benefits on a cellular level. Be sure to enter this month’s contest for a chance to win a Raindrop Massage and Card Reading.
See Your Pharmacist for Minor Ailments
Your pharmacist is trained and authorized to assess and prescribe medications for minor ailments and contraception. Minor ailments are health conditions that can be managed with minimal treatment. If you are experiencing a skin rash, fungal infection, heartburn, seasonal allergies, shingles, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or a vaginal yeast infection, you can visit your pharmacist for a free assessment. After the assessment, your pharmacist may prescribe medication or refer you to another healthcare provider. The next time you have a minor health issue, consider booking an appointment with your pharmacist for a free assessment.
Stay Hydrated this Summer
Warmer weather is a great invitation to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. Keeping a few tips in mind will ensure that you stay hydrated and continue to enjoy the activities that bring you joy. *Schedule water intake throughout the day. *Eat water-rich foods such as cucumbers, watermelon and broth. *Reduce water loss; excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration so be mindful of fluid loss during outside activities. *Make water more interesting by adding a bit of juice. Popsicles are also a great option – especially on warm days!
Stay Social with Hearing Loss
Socializing can be challenging for individuals with hearing loss, but a few considerate adjustments can make a significant difference. Always make sure to get their attention before you start speaking. Talk at a natural pace—avoid shouting—and use pauses to help them follow along. Keep your hands away from your face so they can see your lips clearly. Focus on one topic at a time and inform them if the subject changes. Choose seating arrangements that allow them to see everyone’s faces clearly. Most importantly, check in with them frequently. If they seem confused, restate your message using simpler, shorter sentences to help keep them engaged and included.
Fitness for Seniors
Participating in a balanced fitness program contributes to your well-being at every age, and regular exercise is vital for older adults. Regular exercise can help control blood pressure, body weight, and cholesterol levels. It reduces the risk of hardened arteries, heart attack, and stroke. It also strengthens muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones to help fight osteoporosis and lower your risk of falling or other injuries. Keeping your body strong and limber can help you maintain independence as you age.
Support for Everyday Struggles
Life can feel heavy at times, from work stress to parenting challenges to personal transitions. At Sandstone Counselling, we help you pause, reflect, and regain control. Our counsellors provide evidence-based support for anxiety, burnout, and everyday overwhelm. Together, we explore what’s going on beneath the surface and build tools to navigate life more easily. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward wellness. Reach out to us today. We are accepting new clients.
