For someone with hearing loss, social situations are challenging. Help improve communication with them by following these simple tips: • Gain their attention before you begin talking. • Speak naturally & don’t shout. Speak distinctly, at a normal rate, using pauses to give the person time to process speech. • Keep your hands away from your face while talking. • Avoid sudden changes of topic. And if the subject is changed, tell them what you are talking about now. • Seat them where they can see as many faces as possible. • Check in. If you think your listener may not be following, convey the information again in shorter, clearer sentences.

This Movember, prioritize your physical and mental health. Managing mental health is vital; stigma can prevent men from seeking necessary support. Additionally, discuss prostate cancer risks with your doctor; understanding your risk is vital with lifestyle changes and early detection. Staying active also enhances both physical and mental well-being—whether walking, swimming, or hiking, keep moving to boost your overall health. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to talk with our pharmacists for guidance and support. Your health matters; take proactive steps this month and beyond.

Q: I had cataract surgery a couple years ago and it was great at first but now my distance vision is blurry. I thought I’d have perfect vision for the rest of my life, what’s up with that? A: Having some changes in vision after cataract surgery is surprisingly common. Getting an eye exam will ascertain if your lens implants are still clear, or if you’ve had some changes in perception or the focus of your eyes, or if you’ve developed some other kind of problem with the health of your eyes. Be sure not to neglect your routine eye assessments, come visit us at Mosaic Optometry!

Vitamin D plays a vital role in dental health by supporting calcium absorption, which is essential for strong teeth and bones. It helps in the mineralization of the tooth enamel, protecting teeth from decay and cavities. Adequate vitamin D levels can also prevent gum diseases like periodontitis, as it promotes a healthy immune response that reduces inflammation in the gums. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to weaker teeth, making them more susceptible to fractures and infections. Therefore, maintaining optimal levels of vitamin D is crucial for overall oral health and preventing dental problems.

Dr. Graham Sigalet, ND, is now accepting patients at Broken Squirrel Wellness! Specializing in chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, gastrointestinal health, perimenopause and menopause, men’s health, and more, Dr. Sigalet offers personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Explore advanced treatments like IV nutrient therapy, prolotherapy, and platelet-rich plasma for both health and aesthetic purposes. Ready to take the next step toward wellness? Book your appointment today! Phone: (250) 871-1336 Book Online: brokensquirrel.janeapp.com/#/naturopathic-medicine. Your journey to better health starts here!

Square 1 Travel is offering two great coach trips from Comox Valley. The Tulalip Resort Halloween Getaway from October 29th includes 3 nights at this luxurious resort where you can try your luck at the casino. The Christmas Magic in Leavenworth trip from December 1st features 3 nights in this charming Bavarian town, complete with a walking tour, sleigh ride, Aplets & Cotlets Candy factory tour, and a visit to Apple Annie’s Antique Market with over 70,000 square feet of treasures.

Come fall, our to do lists become expansive and over -flowing beckoning us to address that which we’ve put off for some time in order to enjoy an expansive summer. It can be overwhelming yet oddly comforting to check off each to do item on our list only to discover there is no shortage of more. To be lists are equally important as they allow us to shift out of our heads and spend the quality time with ourselves, nature, music, creativity and the people that fill our hearts. This calms down our nervous system. Taking the time daily to do & to be, creates harmony and balance in our lives.