Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It involves using a machine that delivers a constant and steady air pressure through a mask that is worn over the nose or mouth during sleep. The air pressure helps keep the airways open, preventing pauses in breathing and the associated symptoms of sleep apnea. CPAP therapy is highly effective in reducing daytime sleepiness, improving concentration, and lowering the risk of serious health complications associated with untreated sleep apnea. Adhering to CPAP treatment can significantly improve overall quality of life for individuals with sleep apnea.
Community News
Clean Eating: Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups milk or milk substitute, 1 1/2 cups water, 2 1/2 cups quick oats, 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp salt. Direction: Bring the milk and water to a boil in a saucepan that’s large enough to prevent boil-overs. Reduce the heat to low. Add the oats and then stir in all other ingredients. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until oats are done and oatmeal is thickened to your liking. Enjoy!
Fuel Performance Through Healthy Eating
We’ve all heard the saying we are what we eat, but do you know just how much the food we eat affects how we show up in the world? Our bodies and brains function and feel the best when we are providing them with the proper nutritious fuel. When we are eating healthier and providing our body and brain with the proper fuel we not only perform better at work, but in all aspects of our lives. Here are some easy tips to help support healthier eating habits: incorporate more fruits and veggies into your diet, plan your meals and write a grocery list (and stick to the list!), and prepare some meals ahead of time so you have healthy options available for those times when you don’t feel like cooking.
Making Peace with Yourself
Making peace with yourself is simple yet profound. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and enjoying your own company. Knowing and humbly admitting when things went wrong and gently forgiving yourself for the mistakes you’ve made by learning from them. Knowing what others think of you is none of your business yet offering your love freely and daring to share your emotions and vulnerability with those you care about. Knowing you are enough yet desiring to shine even brighter knowing each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Treat every day as if it’s your birthday and welcome the opportunity to give birth to all of who you want to be.
Starting the Conversation
Starting a discussion about care needs with a senior loved one can be difficult. Deciding when to start the conversation is important. It is never too early to discuss what care might be needed and the desires of the person that will be receiving care. 9 out of 10 seniors want to remain in their home as they age and in-home care can help them. There are many options for in-home care, from the type of care services to the number of hours a week. Making plans before there is an emergency or sudden problem in the senior’s home helps alleviate stress for everyone.
Reducing Your Dementia Risk
Dementia prevention focuses on reducing risk factors that contribute to cognitive decline. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays a key role, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet (like the Mediterranean or DASH diet), and staying mentally active through learning and social engagement. Managing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol is crucial, as they increase the risk of dementia. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also helps. While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, research suggests that staying physically, mentally, and socially engaged may delay or reduce the likelihood of developing cognitive impairments.
The Society’s First Link®
For some, accessing telephone support during daytime hours can be a challenge. Whether due to work, family or other day-to-day commitments, finding an opportunity to make that call can be difficult. To help make accessing support easier, the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba now offers extended telephone support every Monday and Wednesday evening until 8 pm. The Society’s First Link® Client Support team is ready to listen and help guide you through all aspects of dementia or caregiving. Connect today by calling 204-943-6622 (Winnipeg) or 1-800-378-6622 (Provincial). Visit alzheimer.mb.ca to learn more about available programs and services.
BRHC Foundation Pancake Breakfast
The Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation’s annual Pancake Breakfast is being held on Friday, December 6th in the Murray Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC Showroom from 7:30 – 10:00 a.m. Along with our sit-down breakfast we will also provide delivery service for larger group orders (6 or more breakfasts). The Crocus Plains Culinary Arts Studies students will once again be preparing the breakfast. Tickets are $12.50 each and can be purchased in advance at the Foundation. For more information, please contact the office at (204) 578-4227.
Fighting the Flu
When you have the flu or are not feeling well, the best thing for you to do is make yourself cozy and to rest comfortably at home while you recover. Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, use a humidifier and make sure you have flu season health essentials on hand, including: Acetaminophen for fever, headache and minor aches and pains. Decongestants to relieve congestion and clear nasal passages. Sprays or lozenges to soothe a sore throat. Speak with your Pharmasave pharmacist about flu shots, prevention, appropriate symptom relief and other ways to stay healthy this flu season.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Patient: Doctor, I think I need glasses.
Teller: You certainly do! This is a bank.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, its impact, and the importance of early detection. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, and early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Self-exams play a crucial role in early detection; they help individuals become familiar with their breasts and notice any unusual changes, such as lumps, swelling, or skin changes. By regularly performing self-exams and staying informed about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, individuals can take proactive steps toward their health and potentially save lives.
