Are your feet peeling, cracking, blistering, itching or burning? Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection, usually beginning between your toes. This can be severe ailment for a Diabetic, who has a weaker circulatory system and impaired immune system presenting a higher risk for infection. If you are diabetic or have circulation issues foot care should be a part of your daily routine: inspect the areas between the toes and if possible, the undersides of the feet. Visit your local Pharmacist to learn more about non-prescription topical creams, powders and sprays available for treatment.

When we are young, we view the world with wonder, curiosity and are excited to play. We also experience regular challenge, helping us grow and evolve. As we age, we lose this ability to explore the world with the curiosity a child has. However, play is integral to our psychological growth at every age. The idea of play allows us to practice new learning. It is about giving ourselves permission to go and face new challenges, using our creative facilities to figure out how to problem solve and integrate new learning. It is an essential part of growing up at any age.

This month, join Registered Massage Therapist, Heather Green, for 8 weeks to explore ways to ward off those morning aches and stiff joints. Each Sunday she will share a new stretch or movement for you to try. Take the time between each video release to notice what the newest movement offers you and explore the effects this entire practice is having on your body. Better yet, repeat this practice in the evening before you go to sleep, which can prevent some of that morning ache from building up. Follow @getbodywell on Facebook to participate!

“Tea and toast syndrome” refers to malnutrition in seniors when a lack of desire or inability to prepare and/or eat proper meals results in them relying on simpler meals like tea and toast. Seniors who skip meals almost daily, have gained/lost more than 10 pounds in the past six months, take medications, have dental issues, or have a disability can be at risk for malnutrition. Some common signs to watch for include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, memory issues, digestive issues, a weak immune system, muscle weakness, and anemia. There are support services available to help seniors eat well and regularly!

Here are some things you can do to make your home safer and reduce the risk of falling: Remove tripping hazards like clutter and small throw rugs. • Keep items you use the most easily accessible. • Improve lighting to ensure you can see your path when walking, especially at night. • Install grab bars in the bathroom and ensure your home has handrails on all staircases. • Wear non-slip shoes both inside and outside of the house. • Get a Home Safety Assessment if you are at risk of falling. An Occupational Therapist can help to advise you on making your home safer.

April 6 – 9 Tofino Yoga and Wellness Retreat. All-Inclusive 3 night, 4 day. Welcome to the Pacific Sands Yoga & Wellness Experience. From beachfront Tofino accommodations, morning/evening yoga and nourishing meals, to an apothecary workshop and optional surf/massage add-ons, this seaside savasana is what your mind and body has been craving. Namaste. Maximum 12 participants by design; limited space available.

In addition to helping you stay lean and strong, a whole-body workout that includes resistance training will help strengthen your bones. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center reports that regular exercise is essential for treating and preventing osteoporosis. Bone is living tissue that can be strengthened with weight-bearing and weight training exercises. Exercising also helps us maintain muscle strength, coordination, and balance, which in turn helps to prevent falls and related fractures.

Physical activity plays an important role in your health and quality of life by making you feel healthier and stronger. Being active helps to improve your balance, reduce your risk of falls and injuries and can help you stay independent longer. So take the initiative! It’s never too late to start and you don’t need to go to a gym to add a little exercise to your routine; consult your doctor and ask to learn more about exercises that can be done while sitting in your chair!

Helping Seniors Live at Home
Where do you want to live out your senior years? Chances are you’d want to keep living in your own home. It never hurts to think ahead. Often, homes can be made safer and more accessible with minor or major home modifications. Small, inexpensive changes that can make a big difference to a senior’s comfort and safety include installing railings and grab bars; improving lighting for hallways, staircases and rooms; eliminating tripping hazards (rugs, power cords, uneven surfaces); changing doorknobs and cabinet pulls to lever handles; adding higher toilet seats; and widening doorways to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

When insomnia is ongoing, try altering your sleep habits. There is ample clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of a concept called Sleep Hygiene – recommendations that help with the specific aim of improving sleep quality. Even a few slight adjustments can mean the difference between sound sleep and a restless night. Have a bedtime routine, let your body know it’s time to sleep. Don’t go to bed hungry or stuffed and avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol. Create a restful bedroom environment that is cool, dark and quiet. Schedule ‘worry’ time for the next day and go to bed worry-free!