According to HealthLinkBC, nearly 1 out of every 4 Canadian adults report some degree of hearing loss or hearing disability. The prevalence of hearing loss rises with age. When hearing loss remains un-treated in older adults, they may experience a significant reduction in quality of life and are at risk of poorer long-term health outcomes. Adults with un-treated hearing loss may become withdrawn and socially isolated and are at an increased risk of cognitive decline.They are also at greater risk of falling which increases with the severity of the hearing loss.

Even if you know you need to update your Will, it’s easy to find yourself letting your documents collect dust on the shelf. The good news is, going through major changes in your life, such as marriage or the birth of a child, doesn’t necessarily invalidate your will. The bottom line is: If your Will isn’t up-to-date, your end-of-life wishes may not be fulfilled in the way you would have liked. Your wishes may also have changed since you wrote your will. To avoid these pitfalls and the costs associated with updating your will, contact us today to order your free Legal Will Guide.

Heat and cold therapy can be an effective and inexpensive way to relieve pain from a variety of conditions such as arthritis, pulled muscles, inflammation and swelling. Cold therapy is best for bruised or swollen joints and tendons; it improves nerve activity and blood flow. Use ice packs and a bag of ice cubes with a little cool water for acute injuries/pain, inflammation and swelling. Heat therapy improves blood flow, circulation and soothes muscles and joints and increases their flexibility. Use heat packs and pads for muscle pain, tension and stiffness. Take care, your body will thank you!

Now that you may visit your loved ones in the nursing home again, here are some things to keep in mind. Respect the resident’s privacy. Knock before you enter the room and step out into the hall when personal care is being provided. Be warm in your interactions and use a gentle touch. Keep the conversation positive and refrain from arguing, especially if visiting a person with dementia. Don’t bring food or beverages unless you check with the staff first. Don’t stay too long. Look for cues that your loved one may be getting tired or stressed.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults and 7-8 hours for older adults. Individual requirements for adults may vary however, consistently sleeping fewer than six hours or ten or more hours a night can have health risks. One of the best ways to train our body to sleep well is to get into a regular routine. To get your body into a regular rhythm, aim to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even on weekends and days off. Wake up refreshed every morning.