Community News
Better at Home: Campbell River

Residents in Campbell River who are 65 years of age and older, and who meet the program’s objectives can access the Better at Home services within the program’s resource parameters. Becoming a Campbell River Better at Home client involves an initial meeting with our Better at Home Program staff to discuss the program, confirm eligibility, and complete registration forms. For more information or to contact Campbell River Batter at Home, call: 250-830-8709, or email: betterathome.cr@gmail.com

Canadian Dental Care Plan

The Federal Government launched the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in December 2023. This new plan will help ease financial barriers to accessing oral health care for eligible Canadian residents who have an annual adjusted family net income of less than $90,000.

For more information, check out the website at: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan.html. If you need any assistance with signing up, call the CV Senior Support at: 250-871-5940.

Springtime Activities for Seniors

As the winter frost melts away and flowers begin to bloom, springtime brings a renewed sense of life and energy. This means an opportunity to engage in various activities that promote physical, mental, and social well-being. From gardening to outdoor walks, here are some springtime activities specifically tailored for seniors.

Gardening is an excellent way for seniors to reconnect with nature and stay active. Whether they have a small balcony or a spacious yard, gardening provides numerous benefits for seniors. Engaging in this activity can improve physical health by promoting movement, strength, and flexibility. It also allows seniors to be mentally stimulated and fosters a sense of purpose as they watch their plants grow.

Outdoor walks are a great way for seniors to enjoy the mild spring weather and stay physically active. A leisurely stroll through a park or nature trail not only improves cardiovascular health but also offers an opportunity for mental relaxation and a change of scenery. Being outdoors allows seniors to soak up some vitamin D from the sun, which can boost mood and strengthen bones. Moreover, walking with a group of friends or family members can enhance social interaction and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Another enjoyable springtime activity is birdwatching. With the arrival of spring, birds return from their winter migration and fill the air with their delightful songs. Setting up a bird feeder or installing a birdhouse in their backyard can invite various species and provide seniors with a relaxing and entertaining pastime. Birdwatching promotes mindfulness as seniors observe the different behaviors and colors of these fascinating creatures. Seniors can even join local birdwatching clubs or participate in bird counting events organized by conservation organizations, which not only enhance their knowledge of avian life but also offer a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.

For those with a creative streak, springtime crafts are a wonderful way to express artistic talents and engage in an enjoyable activity. Painting, pottery, and flower arrangements are just a few examples of crafts seniors can pursue during this season. These activities can provide a sense of accomplishment, enhance cognitive skills, and boost confidence. Participating in community art shows or sharing their creations with family and friends can also foster a sense of connection and pride.

Springtime also offers seniors the opportunity to volunteer in their community. Many organizations and non-profits rely on the help of volunteers to carry out their initiatives. Whether it be assisting in community gardens, participating in park clean-ups, or offering their skills and knowledge in workshops or mentorship programs, seniors can make a meaningful contribution to their community while staying active and engaged.

Oral Health Concerns

National Oral Health Month serves as a crucial reminder to assess your dental well-being. Aging introduces heightened dental challenges, encompassing issues like missing teeth, gum diseases, root decay, and dry mouth induced by medications. Older adults confront increased risks, as poor oral health correlates with cardiovascular problems, strokes, diabetic control issues, and respiratory infections. Establishing healthy habits—such as reducing sugar intake, regular brushing, flossing, and consistent dental check-ups—proves pivotal. It’s imperative to prioritize oral health as an integral part of your routine for overall holistic well-being.

Walking for Wellness

As we age, once-easy exercises can become challenging due to changes in mobility, past injuries, or fear of injury. Finding a suitable fitness routine is crucial. Walking is an excellent choice for seniors, providing various benefits from short store strolls to leisurely park outings. It enhances mobility, aids weight management, boosts mental well-being, supports heart health, maintains strength, fosters social engagement, and reduces pain. Incorporating walking into daily life is a lifestyle choice promoting healthy aging. For those concerned about walking alone, a medical alert system offers reassurance, ensuring help is available at the push of a button. Start your walking journey today for a healthier body, mind, and spirit.

Making Life Accessible

Motion™ partnered with Humm financing to offer a special deferral on purchases up to $15,000: no payments or interest for 12 months! Post-deferral, payments transition to equal monthly installments with a low fixed interest rate. Humm extends third-party financing to Motion™ clients, accommodating flexible payment plans up to $30,000. With a swift application process, clients receive credit decisions in under 7 minutes. Payments can spread over 5 years in equal monthly installments. Humm facilitates access to mobility and accessibility equipment, easing financial burdens with fixed interest rates and predictable monthly payments. Don’t miss this offer ending March 29.

Income Tax Season is Here!

Through the Canadian Volunteer Income Tax Program, we offer free, simple income tax preparation. To be eligible to participate for free tax service, your Income must be under $35K for an individual and under $48K for a couple. Contact the office for more information.

Be a Catalyst for Change!

Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in your community? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable seniors? Comox Valley Senior Support Services is on the lookout for people like you to join our dynamic Volunteer Community.

Would you like to visit with a lonely or isolated senior? Or assist someone with accessing services in the community? If so, please contact us to learn more about providing support in your community. We offer training monthly so there are minimal delays to getting started. Volunteers are provided with monthly support meetings and regular education sessions. Contact us today to get started!

Better at Home Program

We are excited to announce that Comox Senior Support Society has been contracted to run the Campbell River Better at Home program. The Better at Home program helps seniors/elders continue living in their own homes longer and stay connected in the community by providing some basic non-medical home support services.

Residents in Campbell River who are 65 years of age and older, and who meet the program’s objectives can access the Better at Home services within the program’s resource constraints. Becoming a Campbell River Better at Home client involves an initial meeting with our Better at Home Program staff to discuss the program, confirm eligibility, and complete registration forms.
For more information or to contact the office call: 250-830-8709, or email: betterathome.cr@gmail.com

Ayurveda & Spring Time

Spring for Ayurveda encourages getting direct sun early in the morning, before 10 am (even with clouds). Consider a walking partner if this helps with accountability and enjoyment. Lean towards a warm, cooked, plant-based diet abundant in greens, clear fluids and a bit of heating spice. Letting go of heavy foods may present a challenge, but the payoff is well-being. Align with the seasonal shift by shedding excess weight like melting snow by engaging in more invigorating yoga postures. Opt for inspiring activities that feel fun and get you moving. In tune with the flowing spring rain, you’ll be in rhythm with the season.

Honor Loved One’s at Easter

As Easter approaches, coping with the loss of a loved one can find solace in honoring their memory through meaningful actions. Expressing internal grief outwardly through mourning actions brings an almost unexplainable sense of peace. To commemorate your loved one this Easter, consider personalized Easter baskets, themed with their favorite colors, candies, and meaningful items. Or, create a memory basket by encouraging family and friends to write special memories and placing them in plastic eggs. Keep their Easter traditions alive, fostering joy and connection. In these thoughtful gestures, their influence and impact endure, bringing comfort during the holiday.

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