Stress is a part of life for many people and sometimes it is not easy to recognize stress because we are caught up in living our everyday lives. Though stress happens first in the mind, it has strong effects on the body as well, and people who have high levels or prolonged stress have higher cholesterol or blood pressure. They may be more prone to narrowing of the arteries, a stroke risk factor. While we can’t eliminate all of your stress at the Golden Circle, we can help to alleviate it by offering many socialization opportunities!

Come to the Coffee Shack Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 11:30am to make new friends or visit those you already know. We also have a variety of clubs and activities that meet regularly that you are welcome to join whether you are an active member here or not.

Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. While being physically active can help reduce your risk for heart diseases and conditions, it depends on your current health. No matter what your state of health, there is something you can do to stay active, although you should consult with your health care provider to advise you first on high intensity exercises.

The Golden Circle offers a variety of pre-registered and drop-in fitness activities to both members and non-members that you can participate in. We have a Stretch, Flex and Strengthen class, Sit and Be Fit, Yoga, Zumba, Beginner and Intermediate Tai Chi, a Hardy Walkers Club, Bocce Ball (indoor in the winter!), carpet bowling and more. Some of our classes are even available over Zoom. Contact the Golden Circle at 403-343-6074 for more information!

We all know that the foods that we eat affect our health. While sometimes fast food seems like the easiest choice due to its convenience, it’s certainly not always the healthiest option.

The Golden Circle’s Homestyle Frozen Meal program offers convenient, affordable, low sodium, nutritious meals prepared in house! We have a variety of menu items available with delivery service for a small fee twice per week as well as pick up available on weekdays generally within 48 hours of placing your order. We also offer in-house dining on average three days per week. Come in for a breakfast, soup and sandwich or a hot lunch meal made here in our own commercial kitchen. Check out our website for the menu options and monthly event calendar, stop by in person at 4620 47A Avenue in Red Deer, or call us at 403-343-6074 for all of the details!

Whether you or your loved one has been newly diagnosed, or have had hypertension for years, consider your Central Alberta Co-op Pharmacist a helpful resource. High blood pressure can be problematic, but it can be kept under control with lifestyle changes and proper treatment. Losing weight, eating a healthy high-fibre, low-sodium diet, exercising, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can be effective measures. Ask your pharmacist to develop a blood pressure plan specific to your lifestyle and needs. They can educate you about blood pressure medication and discuss interactions with other medications you may take.

Seniors generally wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning, have a harder time falling asleep, and spend less time in deep, dreamless sleep. Some measures to help you sleep better include: 1) Eat a light bedtime snack. 2) Avoid caffeine for at least 3 or 4 hours before bed. 3) Avoid napping during the day. 4) Exercise regularly, but not within 3 hours of bedtime. 5) Practice relaxation techniques at bedtime. 6) Don’t watch TV or use devices while in bed. 7) Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?: Everyday Tools for Life’s Ups & Downs by Julie Smith
Clinical psychologist and online sensation Dr. Julie Smith teaches you how to fortify and maintain your mental health. Dr. Smith’s expert advice and powerful coping techniques will help you stay resilient, whether you want to manage anxiety, deal with criticism, cope with depression, build self-confidence, find motivation, or learn to forgive yourself.
Available to borrow from Red Deer Public Library at rdpl.org

Collagen, constituting 90% of the body’s protein, plays a pivotal role in skin, bones, muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments, acting as a joint-binding glue. As age advances, the body’s natural collagen production diminishes, exacerbated by factors like sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet. Collagen supplementation gains popularity for addressing concerns such as wrinkles, cellulite, stretch marks, and joint health. Depletion of collagen may result in joint issues and visible signs like sagging skin. Recognizing collagen’s potential in supporting joints, bones, and skin underscores its widespread appeal as a versatile protein. Its multifaceted benefits make collagen a focal point in health and wellness discussions.

CRA for Adults 65+ (Feb. 15)
Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15)
Book Clubs (various dates/times)
Beginner Adult Yoga (online every Wednesday at 7 p.m.)
Readers’ Theatre (Feb. 15)
Sip n’ Stitch (Feb. 15)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (Feb. 20, March 5)
Propagated Plant Swap (Feb. 22)
Breaking Cover: Red Deer Players (Feb. 24)
Crib, Cards, Coffee and Conversation (Feb. 25)

While we usually associate hearts in February to Valentine’s Day, did you know it’s also Heart Month?
According to 2017-2018 data from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in Canada, second only to cancer. Approximately 2.6 million Canadian adults aged 20 and older live with ischemic heart disease, the most common type of heart disease.

This month-long awareness campaign provides us with an opportunity to focus on the efforts we can make to improve our heart health. Making healthy changes in your daily routine can decrease your risk of heart disease and the Golden Circle offers many ways to help you help your heart!

From our friends at the Alzheimer’s Society: did you know that Almost 40% of people over the age of 65 experience some form of memory loss? When there is no underlying medical condition causing this memory loss, it is known as age-associated memory impairment.
Age-associated memory impairment is part of the natural process of aging. For most people, memory generally remains strong as they get older, and doesn’t decline rapidly or substantively. However, brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are different.
The idea that dementia is an “old person’s disease” is not just stigmatizing, it’s also a myth. While most people living with dementia are over the age of 65, a small number of people in their 40’s and 50’s can and do develop dementia. This is known as young onset dementia.
With more than half a million Canadians living with dementia today, a number expected to reach almost one million in 10 years, we are grateful for the Alzheimer’s Society’s commitment to enhancing its support amongst people living with dementia to meet their needs early in, and throughout, their journey.
Because of the effects of dementia, a person’s ability to communicate may become impaired, making it difficult to talk with them, but this doesn’t mean they should be ignored. All persons with dementia have the right to be treated with respect. If you are looking for more information on Dementia or Alzheimer Disease, please reach out to the Alzheimer Society 1-866-950-5465 or help@alzheimer.ab.ca