December can be a challenging month at the best of times. The pandemic has taken its toll on us emotionally, physically, intellectually, spiritually, and financially. Online gambling has increased in popularity while land-based venues have reopened where players have renewed their patronage. If gambling used to be a light-hearted and fun activity but has changed to become an outlet or longshot for financial and/or emotional stress relief, connect with us at VI Gaming Support. You can reach us by phone, text, email, social media (Facebook & Instagram), or online on our website at VIGamingSupport.ca. Provincial toll-free support line 1-888-795-6111 is open 24/7.
Community News
New Living Arrangements
With relaxed travel restrictions, December 2021 may be the first chance for adult children to visit the homes of their elderly parents. Many will discover that it is no longer safe for their loved ones to live independently. When looking for seniors’ residence, remember that first impressions count. Is the building design appealing? Are the services and activities offered of interest to you? Are the residents and staff friendly towards you and to each other? Check out the dining room and ask the residents about their dining experience. If the first impressions are favourable, book a formal tour.
“Staycation” for the Holidays
Taking a vacation can benefit your overall wellbeing and it doesn’t have to mean leaving town or hopping on a plane. This holiday season, take a “staycation” to give you much-needed time away from work and remove you from additional work related stress and the risk of burnout. A break from work can allow you to rebuild your energy and provides the opportunity to catch up on sleep and exercise. A well-rested mind, free of worry, is often more effective and creative. Taking time off can be a great chance to relax, rest and enjoy the most of what life has to offer.
Book Club
Prevent and Defeat Cancer Naturally by Ron Harder, Nutritional Health Consultant. Did you ever wonder how a disease such as cancer gets started in your body? This book is a guide on how you can prevent cancer from developing. It describes how to remove the toxins within you that can cause you to become ill. The author explains medical concepts in layman’s terms so it is easy to read and understand. The goal of the book is to encourage you to take better care of yourself so that you can live a longer, happier life.
Protect Your Family with Estate Planning
It’s hard enough to think about death without having to consider the financial realities that go along with it. Making the right decisions about funeral and cemetery expenses can be especially tough when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. There’s a way around that. The cost of funerals and cemetery services are unavoidable, however if you are smart, you can cut those costs and protect your family. With well-informed estate planning, you could save thousands of dollars, and spare your spouse and children from a heavy financial and emotional burden. Please contact us for more information with no obligation.
Relief for Restless Legs
Are your legs keeping you from falling asleep? HealthLink BC identifies Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) as a disorder related to sensation and movement. The symptoms, often most severe at night, are unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs that cause an irresistible urge to move them. Moving the legs only relieves the discomfort temporarily. If symptoms are mild, a few lifestyle changes may be enough to control them. *Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine *Keep the bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable *Get regular exercise *Massage the leg or use heat or ice packs. Some people find relief wearing socks with woven HPT technology.
ReGroup Family Support
ReGroup Family Support is now being offered online for families negatively impacted by problematic gaming behaviours. We recognize that some families are experiencing the impacts of unhealthy gaming. It can overtake other activities, commitments, and self-care. Concerns over consistent co-parenting, whether living together or in separate households, transition adjustments, rage quitting, meltdowns, concurrent physical and/or mental health problems all add to the complications of gaming disorder. Reach out anytime to inquire about the ReGroup Family Support group. Our other services include in-class presentations, workshops for educators, parents and caregivers, health and social service professionals, interested in learning about gaming and/or gambling.
As Winter Comes
Most everyone on the West Coast knows, November brings with it more rain and overcast skies. Many people experience an effect on their mood during this time, which can certainly make things more difficult. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a known phenomenon, where the winter weather affects moods and outlook on life. A couple strategies to help overcome these “winter blues” is to continue with those all-important self-care strategies of enjoyable activities, and the regular use of a full-spectrum light of some sort throughout your day! Fight back against the dreary with light!
Look After the Caregiver
When you are the caregiver of a loved one, it’s important to also take care of yourself. Here are some signs that you may be suffering from burn out: *Withdrawal from family and friends *Changes in sleep patterns *Feelings of irritability, helplessness and resentment *Decline in your own health. Things you can do to support yourself include talking to a trusted friend or co-worker; finding a support group and being realistic about your loved one’s state of health. Recognize that the time may come when your loved one will need specialized long term care and know that it is available in your community.
Sedation Dentistry
Many people are fearful of dental treatment. This apprehension and anxiety causes them to avoid and postpone regular dental care until their oral health deteriorates. Sedation dentistry, also known as “relaxation dentistry,” offers an opportunity to experience your dental treatment without pain or anxiety. Dr. Robert Wolanski and his sedation dentistry team can provide the highest quality care in a safe and relaxing environment to meet all your dental needs. Following a comprehensive physical assessment and radiographic evaluation, Dr. Wolanski will custom design a sedation protocol of medications that will work best for you.
Community Profile: Gardens at Qualicum Beach
The Gardens at Qualicum Beach offers boutique retirement living in the picturesque beauty of Qualicum Beach in the heart of town with shopping, golfing, dining and beaches nearby. Unlimited access to scheduled life enrichment programs in recreation, leisure, social arts, entertainment and fitness allows you to participate in as much as you want or to take quiet time for yourself. Their resident-focused philosophy and personalized care and support, provides a loving, caring environment that help you feel at home. With three levels of care to choose from including Independent Living, Assisted Living and Residential Care, they can help you live a life of choice.
