Tensions or injuries in the joint at the base of your head or in your feet and ankles can inhibit your mobility, flexibility, and range of motion. It can also cause tension throughout the body and negatively impact your balance. As a test, fold forward like you are trying to touch your toes. See how far you can get, then massage your feet and ankles for a few minutes (or get someone else to do so), then try bending forward again. You might find you can fold further! The fascial web connects everything in the body, so make sure you’re taking care of it!
Community News
Acupuncture for Skin & Digestive Health
July is an ideal month for vacations, offering a break from routine and a chance to focus on health. It’s the perfect time to take care of your skin, which is often exposed to the sun. Acupuncture can help improve skin health by enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation. This traditional Chinese practice also aids digestion, often disrupted during travel, by balancing the body’s energy. Incorporating acupuncture into your wellness routine can promote overall well-being, ensuring you return from your vacation rejuvenated and refreshed. Enjoy the summer, relax, and take steps to care for your body and mind.
Stress-Free Moving
Many people are very anxious about moving; this is especially true for seniors. Moving can be very stressful, so consider hiring a service that offers a start-to-finish service! Service includes *Downsizing services that make the process easy and enjoyable. *Decluttering services that help you decide what to keep, what to sell or give away, and what to dispose of. *Moving services that provide reusable totes and packing materials and then safely transport everything. *Setup services include everything from unpacking to making your bed and hanging pictures. We look forward to making your next move stress-free.
Red Clover for Menopause
Menopause is one of the many transformations a woman’s body goes through in her lifetime. Changes in hormone levels cause symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, bone density loss, and more. There are a few herbal supplements that recent research has shown to be promising. The isoflavones found in red clover have been shown to act as estrogen, which is one of the hormones reduced in menopause. This can alleviate some of the symptoms without the side effects of hormone replacement therapies. It is important to discuss any new supplements with your doctor, as there can be complications with other medications.
Stay Safe in the Heat
During the warm, sunny days of summer, older adults are at an increased risk of heat-related illnesses. During extreme heat, stay indoors, stay as cool as possible and drink plenty of clear fluids. Avoid drinking alcohol and wearing tight-fitting clothing. A symptom of too much heat is swollen feet and ankles. More serious symptoms are dizziness, fainting, a change in behaviour, dry, flushed skin and a lack of perspiration. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 911 and apply cold wet cloths to the armpits, neck and groin area. Have a safe and enjoyable summer!
Hearing Aids & Summer
As temperatures rise, it’s important to understand how to take care of your hearing aids. Beware of Heat! Avoid putting your hearing aids in places that attract heat quickly – like the glove compartment or console in your car. Stay Away from Moisture! Remember to take your hearing aids out before swimming or if you’re caught in the rain. Keep ‘em Clean! Warm, humid weather creates a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. You can use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris from your hearing aids. Follow these simple tips and get outside to enjoy the warm weather.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15th, 2024. 1 senior mistreated is one too many. The basic human rights of older Canadians are being challenged and undercut every day. It is estimated that 1 in 6 seniors globally experience elder abuse. We, as a country, should be horrified by this statistic. The slogan for WEAAD this year is “BOLD: Age with Attitude.” Join the BC Community Response Network by celebrating older adults in your life as active, vibrant members of the community. Register for the June 12th WEAAD webinar on the BCCRNS website.
Residence Options for Seniors
When the responsibility and cost of home ownership become overwhelming, it may be a good time to sell the family home. Today’s seniors have the option to live in beautiful surroundings where their independence is respected but assistance is available if required. The best time to start looking for options is before you have to do so. Retirement communities are great places for retirees to make new friends, have new experiences and make wonderful memories. We should all strive every day to learn something new or meet someone new – it’s what keeps us young at heart!
Connections Matter on Father’s Day
Father’s Day offers a poignant reminder of the vital role mental health plays in the lives of our aging parents. For seniors residing in independent living homes, the benefits extend beyond physical care. These communities foster crucial social interactions that can stave off the loneliness and depression often faced by those living alone. Friendships formed in these environments provide emotional support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Celebrating Father’s Day in such a setting underscores the importance of a strong support network. By prioritizing companionship and mental well-being, we honour our fathers not just with gifts but with the invaluable gift of connection.
First Aid Advice
Accidents happen. When they do, and they don’t cause you serious injury, it’s important to know what you should do to protect yourself from further injury and to heal properly. Here are some basic first-aid tips to help keep you safe and healthy. *Minor cuts and scrapes: make sure the area is clean and dress with gauze or a Band-Aid as needed. *Minor burns: run it under cool (not cold!) water. If a blister forms, don’t pop it! Dress with a loose gauze. *Sprains: Wrap with an ace bandage, elevate, and ice. In all of these situations, seek medical attention. Stay safe out there!
Importance of Lower Body Health
Let’s shed some light on an area of the body that is often neglected. When did you last take a look at your lower legs or feet? If you have pain in your feet, swollen legs, dry skin, or fungal nails, then it’s time to start looking down more often. These are conditions that put you at a higher risk of falls, wounds, decreased mobility, and infection and can indicate bigger systemic problems. Your legs are the canary in the cave, so keep looking down to prevent a collapse! Contact Comfort Keepers with questions about your lower leg health.
