Community News
Move to Gain Strength and Mobility

After surgery or injury, it is often very important to exercise to regain strength and movement. If you have been told to exercise by your doctor or surgeon but are not sure exactly what that means, help is available. A kinesiologist can help you develop a strength training program to help with repetitive low back pain, hip pain and knee pain. Here are some tips for a smoother recovery after surgery or injury; ●Move as often as you can. ●Move with intention. ●Move within your pain free range of motion. We can help.

Eye Exams for Seniors

People 65 and older are encouraged to have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. Eye exams are so important because, as we age, there is a higher risk of eye disease or other conditions that can impair sight. Many conditions have no symptoms which makes regular eye exams even more critical. Eye conditions or problems that can be detected with an eye exam include: *Presbyopia – decreased ability to focus, *Cataracts – distorted or cloudy vision, *Diabetic Retinopathy, *Macular degeneration – central vision loss and *Glaucoma – the “silent thief of sight.” Schedule your eye exam with us today.

Relaxation Helps Longevity

Telomeres, small caps at the end of every chromosome, affect our aging process. An enzyme, telomerase, directly influences the rate of shortening of these caps which equates to the rate we age. The good news is we can influence this process. Stress has a direct effect on telomere length. It is strongly linked to oxidative stress in cells, a decrease in telomerase activity and an acceleration of telomere shortening. To strive for longevity choose to make relaxation time a priority. Garden, soak in the tub, have fun with family and friends. Stop watching the news and enjoy the abundance in your life.

No Need to Fear Going to the Dentist

Dental phobia has become ingrained into our society with phrases like ‘pulling teeth’ being used to mean difficult and unpleasant. As a result, an important part of the dentist’s role has become putting the patient at ease, making them secure and comfortable. Those with dental phobia tend to avoid dentists. Putting off regular checkups is a good way to end up with gum disease or other problems. If you are a person who suffers from dental anxiety, ask about oral sedation and nitrous oxide. Your dentist will work with you to find a way to alleviate the stress.

Community Profile: Island Mobile Cardio

Island Mobile Cardiology Testing offers 12-lead ECGs and Holter Monitoring in your residence, office or clinic on Southern Vancouver Island. When ordered by a physician, their services are covered by MSP. All test results are interpreted by a cardiologist. Their mission is to make cardiac testing accessible and convenient for all patients by eliminating barriers such as transportation, mobility and time. At Island Mobile Cardiology Testing, they strive to reduce stress and increase comfort for patients and caregivers.

Benefits of Therapeutic Recreation

At the core of therapeutic recreation is the idea that recreation and leisure are integral to the quality of life. This is especially important for seniors, who may be at increased risk of isolation and loneliness, which can have a detrimental effect on their physical and mental health. The recreation programming at Seniors Communities offers many benefits for the emotional and spiritual realms of life, including 1. Decreasing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. 2. Fostering positive experiences. 3. Improving self-confidence. 4. Increasing sense of belonging. 5. Decreasing loneliness, boredom, and expressive behaviours.

Connecting You with Care

“For over 20 years, Driving Miss Daisy has dedicated itself to the promotion of independence, connecting clients to the community and enhancing their enjoyment of life! Driving Miss Daisy offers services that improve the quality of life for seniors and those with disabilities or special needs. We provide much more than just incidental transportation from point A to B. It’s our commitment to personal, friendly, through-the-door service that sets us apart and makes our clients smile. We assist with: •Medical Appointments, •Rides to/from the Ferry, •Accompaniment, •Grocery Shopping, •Home Support, •Companionship and more!

It is Important to Stay Active

As we age, it is important to stay active for optimal mental and physical health. Being active can stave off falls, increase independence and help prevent illness like a stroke, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. As the days get shorter and colder, it may become more difficult to motivate yourself to move your body and stay active. Try to be active with something you really enjoy such as walking with a friend, dancing or biking. If it is fun, you are much more likely to stick with it. Start slow and work your way up to 30 minutes a day.

Wellness Women’s Expo

The Women’s Expo is the place to be on September 23 & 24 to Explore, Indulge, Escape & Shop. It is all about wellbeing, empowerment, fashion, friends and fun. Lots of great things to explore with over 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services. The 4th Annual Women’s Expo features wellness seminars, demonstrations, shopping, fashion shows and over $3000 in prizes. FREE to attend. Plan to be at the largest Women’s Expo on Vancouver Island taking place in Nanaimo on September 23 and 24th. See you there!

Clean Eating Recipe

Thai Green Beans – 4 cups of mixed beans. 2 Tbsp. Butter. 1″ piece fresh ginger. 1 clove garlic. 1 Tbsp. sesame tahini. 1/2 Tbsp honey. 1 Tbsp. olive oil. 1/2 Tsp. toasted sesame oil. Pinch cayenne pepper. Toasted sesame seeds. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, toss beans in olive oil until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside in a bowl. Add butter and garlic to skillet on medium heat for one minute and then reduce to low and add cayenne, tahini, sesame oil, honey and ginger. Combine with beans. Top with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!

Socks for Many Reasons

Socks are a creative way to express your personality and style like our prime minister with his maple leaf socks. Many of us choose our socks by appearance not realizing that there are many health benefits to wearing the right socks. Socks with antibacterial properties help prevent odors and fight germs and fungus. Socks can also prevent foot pain by protecting feet from the environment and if you wear them to bed, can help you fall asleep more easily. Today there are socks available that not only keep your feet warm, but may also offer general pain relief, more energy and increased balance and stability.