Community News
Seniors & Heart Health

Maintaining heart health is crucial for seniors, as aging increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health in older adults. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, strengthens the heart and lowers cholesterol. A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps manage weight and blood pressure. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are essential. Seniors should monitor heart health through routine check-ups, addressing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure promptly. Early detection and healthy habits promote longevity and overall well-being.

Full Scope Nursing Services

Victoria Community Health Centre provides full-scope nursing services through a nurse-led clinic. We provide a full nursing assessment or attend to identified issues. Our nurses do blood pressure checks, blood sugar checks, wound care, suture removal, ear irrigation, injections such as B12, and chronic disease management. If you have a nonemergency issue, they will assist you in connecting with a virtual doctor through our virtual healthcare corner. This may include prescription renewal or ordering lab work. Please contact us, Monday to Wednesday, to make an appointment or ask a question about our services.

Cold Weather Denture Care

Winter is not everyone’s favourite time. Even though it’s cold outside, it is important to have regular visits with your denturist. Here are tips for denture users: *The cold weather can dry out dentures, so keep them moist by storing them in water or denture solution when not in use. *Avoid using hot water, as it may warp them. *Brush daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner. *Cold air may cause gum sensitivity, so rinse with warm water before reinserting your dentures. *Staying hydrated helps prevent dry mouth, ensuring your gums stay healthy throughout the season.

Navigating Aging-Related Challenges Seminar

Retirement income and caregiving costs are a balancing act for many families. Join The Empowered Estate and Sunrise Senior Living on February 22 for a free seminar featuring Liz da Mata, an experienced financial planner with Edward Jones. Liz will share expert insights on navigating aging-related challenges, from caregiving and health to financial security and resilience. Learn how proactive planning—such as designating trusted contacts, creating asset inventories, and reviewing end-of-life wishes—can ease emotional and financial burdens while preserving dignity and independence. Email to register: [email protected]

Stay Healthy This Winter

Winter’s chilly days are here, and with them comes flu season. To keep yourself feeling your best, give your immune system some extra love. Fill your plate with colourful fruits and veggies, especially those rich in vitamins C and D, like oranges, spinach, and sweet potatoes. Stay active with a gentle walk or some stretching to keep your body strong. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water. Don’t forget the basics—wash your hands often and bundle up before heading out. These simple steps can help you stay healthy and enjoy the winter season!

Community Fundraising Event

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people in our communities who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. This fundraiser helps Our Place Society and the Pacific Centre Family Services Association run programs that provide shelter, care, and holistic support, empowering people to step forward to independence and hope. CNOY 2025 takes place on February 22nd, 2025, drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 200 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them.

January Trivia

1) What city is home to the world’s largest New Year’s Eve party? a. New York. b. London. c. Rio de Janeiro
2) In what decade was the first snowmobile built? 3) What is the term for partially melted and refrozen snow?

Business Profile: Ideally Blissful

Tammy Prince, the owner of Ideally Blissful, loves helping people live happy, healthy and productive lives. Her healing journey included studying healing modalities. The Emotion Code changed her life and also the lives of family, friends and clients. Belief Re-patterning was a continuation of her education. It allowed her to let go of beliefs that no longer served her and helped create new beliefs. RAYD8® was a natural progression; an additional way to support people in their ability to heal. Rayd8® is sound and light therapy that can help improve immune function, enhance sleep and reduce pain.

Interesting Ear Facts

Ears, beyond hearing, are remarkable for several reasons: *They aid balance, *get bigger throughout life due to natural aging and gravity, *are self-cleaning, *remain alert even during sleep, and *house delicate non-regenerating hair cells crucial for hearing. The ears also regulate pressure changes via the Eustachian tube and are connected to the nose and throat as part of an intricate system. Having two ears helps us figure out which direction sounds are coming from. If you or a family member are concerned about hearing loss, book a free consultation today.

Dentures to Improve You Oral Health

Start 2025 with a new smile! If you’re considering dentures, now is the perfect time to improve your oral health. Modern dentures offer better comfort, a natural look, and enhanced fit, helping you feel more confident every day. Whether you need full or partial dentures, personalized solutions designed for long-lasting comfort and improved functionality are available. Ready to take the next step? Visit us today at Oak Bay Denture Clinic to explore your options and get the perfect dentures tailored to your needs. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile this year!

Community Profile: The Empowered Estate

Confident Planning, Lasting Impact! Planning for the future is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. The Empowered Estate offers a comprehensive way to organize essential documents, personal wishes, and legacy in one place. What makes us unique? Through interactive workshops and monthly ‘accountability parties,’ we ensure your binder gets completed while making the process enjoyable! Shelley Essery brings 20+ years as a legal administrator, combined with a heart-centred approach. Karla Kerr, a licensed funeral director, helps families document wishes and have meaningful conversations. Ready to get started? Join our next workshop today!