The facts: in Canada *1 in 2 people are overweight, *11.7 million people live with diabetes or prediabetes, *and 2.6 million have heart disease. 80% of chronic diseases and premature death are preventable with healthy living. Healthy eating is key. It is time to take back our kitchens and commit to making healthy food choices for ourselves and our families. It is possible to cook and eat healthily on a budget. It is recommended that heart-healthy meals be low in sodium and low in sugar. Epicure offers meal solutions low in sodium and sugar that are also gluten-free.
Community News
There Is No Quick Fix
Post-holiday debt can pile up quickly. Rising interest rates and the cost of living, food and fuel can become very overwhelming. Sometimes gambling can be seen as a quick fix to achieve financial relief. When we’re vulnerable, gambling can cost us more than money; it can also cost our relationships, our mental and physical health. If finances are tight, seek credit counselling; talk to your bank or financial advisor. Gambling is meant to be entertainment and not a solution to financial problems. Reach out to us here at VI Gaming Support. We’re here to help!
Getting Your First Hearing Aid
You’ve been diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss and are looking for your first hearing aid.
Technology has dramatically advanced in recent years, allowing hearing aids to be more effective than ever. With a wide variety of hearing aid brands and types of hearing aids, it can feel overwhelming to choose one that works best for you.
Fortunately, NexGen Hearing has passionate, dedicated and experienced audiologists and hearing professionals to support you on your journey to better hearing and help improve your quality of life through exceptional care.
Where to Go for Your First Hearing Aid
The first step to getting your first hearing aid is meeting with your audiologist or Registered Hearing Instrument Practitioner (RHIP). They will assess your hearing and help you choose the best hearing aid for your lifestyle. Once a hearing aid is chosen, it is ordered and you are scheduled in for a fitting.
During the fitting, your audiologist or RHIP will program the device to your prescription, review the care instructions and how to use the device, as well as ensure it is comfortable for you. You can expect several follow-up appointments to fine-tune your hearing aid, each about a week apart. It’s possible that your device may need adjustments to sound levels. Not only will your hearing professional help get you set up with your first hearing aid, but they will guide you through your hearing journey for years to come.
What to Look for in Your First Hearing Aid
There are several aspects of your lifestyle to consider before purchasing your first hearing aid, including your hobbies and job.
If you spend a lot of your time outside hiking, gardening, or biking, you might want a hearing aid that is better at blocking out wind or handling various environments. If your job requires attending social events, you may benefit from a higher level of technology that can block out background noise. Or maybe you simply want a hearing aid that connects to Bluetooth so you can pair it to your phone, computer or TV.
It’s important to ask about a trial period with whichever hearing aid you decide to go with, especially when it’s your first time getting a hearing aid. This trial period will allow you to decide if your chosen device is right for you after using it. We recommend meeting with your audiologist during this period to ensure the hearing aid fits well and is working as it should.
NexGen Hearing provides a free 21-day introductory hearing aid trial before a deposit is required. After 21 days, you can enjoy an additional 69-day trial or 100% of money refunded. NexGen Hearing also offers complimentary batteries during the warranty period, which is typically three to five years, depending on the model.
Tips & Tricks for Getting Your First Hearing Aid
It’s likely to take some time to get used to your hearing aid, but wearing them should never cause you pain. Try wearing your new hearing aid for about four hours a day to allow the skin around your device to adjust. It can take up to a week to get accustomed to the feeling, but taking breaks will ease the process.
It’s also important to get into a cleaning routine early. Taking proper care of your hearing aid by following the cleaning instructions will help increase the lifespan of your device. We recommend cleaning your hearing aids before putting them on for the day, as well as storing them in a dry place to avoid moisture build-up.
Building a support system is another key component to getting your first hearing aid. It takes an average of seven years for someone experiencing hearing loss to get treated, which often results in mental fatigue and cognitive decline. Having supportive loved ones around who are aware of your hearing loss journey can help improve your quality of life as you are getting used to your first hearing aid.
NexGen Hearing offers free hearing tests and hearing aid consultations, hearing aid fittings and sales. Book an appointment at one of our 45+ clinics in the BC Interior, Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island by clicking here or calling 1-877-606-6671.
Importance of Vitamin D
With the darker winter months upon us, the sun’s rays are not strong enough for our bodies to produce Vitamin D. This is why Osteoporosis Canada recommends that most Canadian adults should take a daily vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone health by facilitating the absorption of calcium. Plus, it also helps maintain muscle health and reduce the risk of fractures caused by falls. Several studies have suggested that it may also reduce the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and some cancers. Talk to one of our pharmacists about recommended doses.
Access to Care When You Need It
When you need extra care, Brio Care Suites are available for respite stays, to promote recovery from surgery or long-term care. They are licensed and comply with all local health authority regulations. The Brio Care Suites offer dining options and activity programs designed specifically for Brio residents. A consistent care staff of licensed nurses and registered care aids is on duty 24 hours a day. Services offered include medication management; regular resident care meetings; bathing assistance; chef prepared meals; weekly housekeeping; towel and linen service; personal laundry; utilities including cable and internet; and recreation activities.
Coldest Night of the Year
Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people in our communities who have experienced homelessness. This fundraiser helps ICCS to run programs that provide shelter, care and holistic support to help them step forward to independence and hope. CNOY 2023 takes place on February 25th, 2023 – drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 180 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them.
Be Proactive with your Safety
We all need to be proactive about our own health and safety and to have options in place so that help can be summoned in an emergency. Some folks let neighbours know they are up and about each day by simply opening the blinds. A daily scheduled phone call is also a good way to ensure that someone knows you are safe. These systems can be developed with neighbours and family. Nanaimo Lifeline can offer additional help. We provide wearable waterproof buttons that can be pressed in an emergency to get you the help you need.
Is Your Will Up To Date?
The start of a new year is the perfect time to update your will. Often, even if you know you need to update your Will, it’s easy to let the documents collect dust on the shelf. The good news is that going through major changes in your life doesn’t necessarily invalidate your will. The bottom line is; If your Will isn’t up-to-date, your end-of-life wishes may have changed and therefore will not be fulfilled in the way you would have liked. To avoid these pitfalls and the costs associated with updating your will, contact us today to order your free Estate Planning Kit which includes a Legal Will Guide.
Raindrop Technique Massage
A Raindrop Technique Massage helps bring balance and harmony to the body by combining targeted massage, distinctive energy approaches, intuitive wisdom and pure essential oils. The massage begins at the feet with an application of pure essential oils. The foot massage is followed by drops of nine different pure essential oils dripped along the spine. The oils are slowly massaged along the spine into the back muscles until they are relaxed and refreshed. The many benefits may include; *stress release, *improved immunity, *reduced pain and inflammation and *improved circulation. A Raindrop Technique Massage rejuvenates the body and the mind.
Health Benefits of Hypnotherapy
Some of us are struggling with stress related mental health issues. Hypnotherapy can help reduce stress, change how we look, manage stressors and improve coping skills as we learn how to get our needs met. Learning self-hypnosis can reduce anxiety and depression. Having a personalized hypnotherapy audio recording designed just for you can make a significant change in your life. The subconscious mind is the giant within. Learn how to reprogram yours to live a better life. Hypnotherapy is quick and effective. It leaves the client feeling calm, clear and confident. Contact me to find out more.
Socks for Healthy Circulation
Today’s travel often involves long flights in cramped seats that can be very hard on your circulation. Wearing socks with mild compression will comfortably help increase circulation and reduce the risk of swelling. The compression steadily squeezes your legs, helping your veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. They offer a simple, safe and economical way to keep blood from stagnating. Others things that will help you during long flights include getting up and stretching every hour while flying, staying hydrated and flexing your ankles every 30 minutes.
