Community News
Gambling Awareness and Education

Gambling has become progressively more complex with the growth of online gambling products worldwide, including sports betting apps, websites, as well as a variety of in-person and lottery products. Vancouver Island Gaming Support (VIGS) helps navigate this emerging landscape. VIGS contracts with Gambling Support BC (GSBC) to offer education and awareness workshops to anyone in the community interested in learning more about gambling-related topics. Topics include seniors and casinos, young adults and sports betting, affected families and friends, brain chemistry and behavioural addictions and more. We also provide outreach support and counselling services at no charge. We are here to help.

Loneliness and Isolation Can Affect Senior Health

For seniors, maintaining social connections and staying in touch with loved ones not only improves quality of life, it improves health. Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation. Socialization has been shown to slow Alzheimer’s and Dementia patient’s decline. Having caregivers can help stem the existence of loneliness in the lives of our seniors. We enjoy conversations, daily walks, shopping, cooking and folding the laundry together. These can be moments of joy when done together in the right way. Comfort Keepers engage the human spirit.

Cracks at the Corner of Your Mouth?

Angular cheilitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, redness and cracking at the corners of the mouth. It can be caused by wearing old dentures that have lost their proper height. Loss of denture height leads to overclosure of the mouth, which can cause the buildup of moisture and saliva at the corners of the mouth. Factors like saliva accumulation, poorly fitted dentures or excessive lip licking can create a moist environment that contributes to this condition. To prevent angular cheilitis, it is essential to have well-designed dentures and maintain diligent oral hygiene to minimize discomfort. Checking for proper denture height can be a quick, 5-minute appointment.

Foods for Brain Health

The best foods for supporting memory and brain function are those that encourage good blood flow to the brain. Research suggests the following foods may help keep your brain sharp and improve your cognitive function, memory and alertness. 1) Broccoli, cabbage and dark leafy greens. Enjoy salads, wraps and stir-fries. 2) Walnuts. Can be added to salads or oatmeal or just eaten on their own. 3) Berries and cherries. Can be eaten fresh as a snack or added to oatmeal or baked goods. 4) Omega-3 fatty acids. Can be found in seafood, flaxseeds and fatty fish.

Community Health Centres in Victoria

The Victoria Community Health Co-operative is currently offering Nursing services based on a Community Health Centre model. Services are available at no cost with a BC MSP card. We are located in Cook Street Village at #200-1075 Pendergast Street. Our nurses are able to assist you by providing a nursing assessment and recommendations. We provide navigation services to assist you to connect with other healthcare providers as required. In keeping with the principle of community well-being, we offer wellness sessions on a regular basis. Contact us or visit our website to find out more.

Is It Time to Move?

Here are items to consider when pondering whether it’s time to make a move: 1. Does your home still suit your lifestyle? Consider the amount of space you need and if mobility issues are a concern. 2. Do you require a change in location to be closer to family, kids, recreation, shopping or medical specialists? 3. Would downsizing be financially beneficial? Perhaps the equity in your home could fund investments, trips or gifts to family. Moving to another town to be close to friends and family may enable you to enjoy the same type of home at a lower cost. Contact us to chat about your real estate needs.

Thai Curry Carrot & Pumpkin Soup

• 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced • 1-1/2 cups cubed pumpkin • 1 can coconut milk • 4 cups chicken stock • 1 Tbsp. green Thai curry paste • 2 cloves garlic • 1 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger • 1/2 tsp. each, salt and pepper • 1/4 tsp. cumin • 1/4 cup shredded coconut • madras curry powder. 1. Cook carrots and pumpkin without browning over medium heat for 10 mins. 2. Add spices, curry, and ginger. Stir and cook for 2 minutes. Add chicken stock, coconut milk, and coconut. 3. Cook on medium heat for 35 minutes. Blend with blender. Enjoy!

Thai Curry Carrot & Pumpkin Soup

• 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced • 1-1/2 cups cubed pumpkin • 1 can coconut milk • 4 cups chicken stock • 1 Tbsp. green Thai curry paste • 2 cloves garlic • 1 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger • 1/2 tsp. each, salt and pepper • 1/4 tsp. cumin • 1/4 cup shredded coconut • madras curry powder. 1. Cook carrots and pumpkin without browning over medium heat for 10 mins. 2. Add spices, curry, and ginger. Stir and cook for 2 minutes. Add chicken stock, coconut milk, and coconut. 3. Cook on medium heat for 35 minutes. Blend with blender. Enjoy!

November Brain Teasers

1. What is harder to catch the faster you run? 2. A sundial has the fewest moving parts of any timepiece. Which has the most? 3. I’m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?