Community News
When Death Occurs

No matter if a death is sudden or if it is something that was a long time coming, the loss of a loved one makes us feel emotional and overwhelmed. No amount of preparation can fully prepare you for the loss of a loved one. When you are in a heightened emotional state, even the most basic decisions can seem staggering. It is a good idea to be aware of what needs to be done within the first 24 hours after death before a death occurs. Contact us or visit our website for a comprehensive list of things that must be done. We are here to help.

Keep Moving and Stay Active

In February, while colder temperatures may keep you indoors, it is important to keep moving and to stay active. 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 mobile longer. 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. Walking is an amazing activity that can be done indoors at a mall or outdoors when the weather allows.

Heart Health, Hearing Health

Healthy aging starts with caring for both your heart and your hearing. Research indicates a significant correlation between cardiovascular health and hearing health. The inner ear relies on steady blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients, and reduced circulation can damage delicate hair cells, leading to hearing loss. Supporting heart health through regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stress management and quitting smoking can also help protect hearing. Conditions such as high blood pressure can affect blood flow to the ears, making regular checkups essential. At Beltone, we support healthy aging with free hearing assessments and

Free Entry for Seniors

Monkey C Interactive’s Artcade is celebrating its second anniversary in downtown Victoria by offering free entry for seniors on Thursday, February 26 and Thursday, March 26, from 2pm–10pm, at 706 Fort Street (between Douglas and Blanshard). Seniors aged 60+ are welcome to self-identify at the door—no ID required. Free Thursdays are made possible through the City of Victoria’s OUR DWTN Storefront Activation Program. The Artcade is a five-star interactive art experience featuring playful, hands-on musical sculptures by local artists and musicians. It has been featured on CBC All Points West, CHEK News, and The Upside. Come press our buttons!

Companionship Is the Right Referral

February can be one of the hardest months for seniors. The holidays have passed, days are still short, and winter isolation can feel heavier than ever. A companion provides more than help, they bring conversation, routine, and something to look forward to. Regular visits from a Comfort Keepers companion can provide emotional connection, mental stimulation, and reassurance during a time when loneliness often hits. Whether it’s sharing a cup of tea, going for a short outing, or simply talking, companionship supports overall well-being. In February, having a friendly, familiar presence can make the month feel warmer, and far less lonely.

Start the New Year with Better Hearing

January is the perfect time to focus on wellness, starting with your hearing. Clear, confident communication supports your relationships, boosts independence, and enhances overall quality of life. If you’ve noticed muffled conversations, increased volume on the TV, or difficulty hearing in noisy places, it may be time for a hearing checkup. Beltone Hearing offers comprehensive hearing assessments, advanced hearing technology, and personalized support to help you hear your best in 2025. Prioritizing your hearing now can prevent further decline and keep you connected to the moments that matter most. Step into the new year with clarity and confidence.

Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk with Exercise

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

Take Charge of Your Health

Start by making conscious health decisions and taking a proactive approach to your health. With an ElevationMD plan, Personalized Genetic Reports are produced to give you insights into your genetic predispositions to over 100 common diseases. Our plans include: a medical team led by physicians who are focused on prevention and longevity, and much more! Our fully integrated medical clinic uses our services to provide excellent healthcare. Your personal health navigator guides you through our services, from seeing a physician, getting a medication review, to going through a cancer screening. Invest in your health. Call 250.800.2850 today to book a free meet-and-greet.

Time for a Medication Review

Yearly medication reviews help seniors stay healthy, safe, and independent. As we age, medications may need updating to stay effective. Annual reviews let doctors spot interactions, adjust dosages, remove unnecessary prescriptions, and identify new health concerns early. This helps prevent complications and reduces hospital visits. Comfort Keepers supports seniors throughout the process by helping schedule appointments, organizing medication lists, providing transportation, and assisting with following updated instructions from your doctor. Caregivers can also watch for some side effects and share concerns with families. A yearly review from your doctor—paired with Comfort Keepers’ support—helps maintain long-term wellness and quality of life.

Improved Balance in Winter Conditions

Orthotics improve balance in winter conditions by providing enhanced foot and ankle stability, which helps prevent slips and falls on icy or uneven surfaces. They also help manage pain and fatigue exacerbated by cold weather and winter footwear by distributing weight evenly, improving alignment, and absorbing shock. Other benefits include *Biomechanical Correction: Orthotics can address issues like flat feet, high arches, and other biomechanical problems that affect how the foot functions. *Injury Prevention: Orthotics can help prevent overuse injuries like shin splints and tendonitis. Could you benefit from orthotics this winter? Book an assessment today!

Are Your Affairs in Order?

It’s wise to get your affairs in order well before it becomes necessary. If a life-altering event occurs, such as an accident, injury, or death, having plans and processes in place makes it much easier to manage. “Getting your affairs in order” means organizing your personal, financial, and legal matters to ensure everything is properly handled in the event of death or incapacitation. This process provides a clear plan for the distribution of assets, end-of-life care, and other personal matters. Remember, it’s never too early to start.