Community News
Words To Live By

“In this present moment there is no fear. Fear is an indicator that your mind is either in the past or the future, making up stories about moments that have already happened or are yet to come. Be truly present today and stay attuned to the safety of the moment you are already in.” – Keith Macpherson

Pet Dental Health

Did you know regular dental cleanings can help keep your pet healthy, happy, and pain-free? Plaque on teeth calcifies into tartar, which traps bacteria, leading to gingivitis—early gum disease. Gingivitis causes irritation, swelling, and bleeding in the gums, but can be reversed with non-sedation ultrasonic cleanings. If untreated, it progresses to periodontal disease, causing pain, tooth loss, and potentially affecting organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. While periodontal disease is incurable, it can be managed with regular ultrasonic cleanings. This safe, effective method uses vibration and tiny bubbles to clean teeth above and below the gumline.

Spring at SSNVI

The month of March marks the transition to longer days, warmer temperatures, and new growth. We are planning lots of great things for spring at Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI).
Workshops and Partner Events
SSNVI is putting together a series of workshops with community partners to be held on March 25, April 22, May 27, 10:30 – 12:00, CV Presbyterian Church, 725 Aspen Rd.
More information coming. Check our resource page at https://ssnvi.ca/education-sessions/
Or get on our email list to be notified about these workshops and others at admin@ssnvi.ca
Income Tax Filing Support
Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) will once again be providing simple income tax return preparation for seniors 55+. Income thresholds apply ($40,000 for a single person, $50,000 for a couple). This service will begin at the beginning of March and run through the end of April. Returns are typically completed with seven calendar days. Currently, this service is only offered to SSNVI clients in the Comox Valley. Though drop ins are welcome, we do suggest calling before coming by the office. 250-871-5940.
Get Connected – Volunteer with Us
If you are looking for a way to connect in the community, check out opportunities with the Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI).
Interested in participating in the Seniors Intergenerational Action Network? This partnership program links seniors and families with young children in the Comox Valley. Weekly activities are being organised at the Comox Recreation Centre. To find out more, please consult the Comox Recreation Guide or contact Ann Brown at intergenerationalconnections@gmail.com , or Christopher Bate at admin@ssnvi.ca

Healthy Eating for Healthy Aging

March is Nutrition Month, a great reminder that what we eat plays a key role in overall health, especially as we age. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports energy, brain function, and heart health. Hydration is just as important—aim for plenty of water throughout the day. For seniors, meal planning helps maintain proper nutrition. Eating smaller, frequent meals can be beneficial, and including calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based options supports bone health. Good nutrition fuels a strong body and mind, keeping us active and independent for longer!

Nutrition for Good Oral Health

The nexus between nutrition and senior oral health plays a pivotal role in overall well-being, especially with the heightened risk of tooth loss in aging. Optimal nutrition can mitigate challenges associated with tooth loss, impacting overall health. Water, with its fluoride content, combats tooth decay and enhances saliva production, crucial for pH regulation. Crunchy vegetables like carrots stimulate gums and support dental health. Dark, leafy greens provide essential calcium and minerals. Fiber-rich fruits such as apples and pears neutralize mouth acids effectively. Protein-rich foods like nuts, fish, and meat contribute to mouth-healthy saliva production, highlighting the integral connection between nutrition, dental health, and overall well-being in seniors.

Spring Into Freedom with Pride Mobility!

The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming – it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh spring air! Whether you’re strolling through the park or exploring new places, a Pride Mobility Travel Power Wheelchair will help you move with ease and comfort. Special Offer: Get 20% OFF all Pride Mobility Travel Power Wheelchairs now through April 30th! Don’t let anything hold you back – embrace the season and make every moment count! Why choose Pride Mobility? – Easy to maneuver. – Comfortable & lightweight. – Perfect for spring adventures. We’re here to help you stay active and enjoy all the beauty this season has to offer. Hurry, offer ends April 30th!

Healing Chronic Pain Naturally

Chronic pain in your hips, shoulders, neck, knees, hands, or feet can limit mobility and impact daily life. Natural approaches like CellSonic Regeneration therapy help by reducing inflammation, decalcifying joints, and energizing cells for deep healing. Combined with Deep Tissue Non-Surgical sessions, these methods can improve strength, balance, and overall function—without drugs or needles. Addressing the root cause of pain supports long-term recovery and better movement. Don’t let discomfort slow you down—explore natural solutions for a faster, more effective path to relief.

Senior Companionship Services

Life doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—How Can We Help? is here to support seniors and individuals living with disabilities every step of the way. Need a ride? We offer safe, reliable transportation for appointments, errands, and outings. Seeking companionship? Our caring team brings joy through meaningful conversations and activities. Struggling with household tasks? We’ll handle the chores, so you can enjoy a stress-free home. Plus, we’re pet-friendly, offering support with pet care and grooming. Our mission is simple: to make life easier and more enjoyable for you. Call us today to create a care plan tailored to your needs!

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Treat Yourself to Lunch Without Breaking the Bank!
Evergreen Club Kitchen has lunch specials at a great price. Evergreen Club is a 55 and older seniors’ organization, located in the Florence Filberg Centre at 411 Anderton Avenue. They have lunch specials on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays after 11:30am, for a delicious $7.50. You can see their monthly menu online at www.craevergreenclub.ca
A wonderful way to treat yourself or a friend to lunch. Evergreen Club Kitchen offers a full menu, frozen take-away meals, and are even open at 8:30 am for the early risers.
No need to be a member, drop-ins welcome. But the Evergreen Club has so many events, groups, and social events you may want to check out their incredibly reasonable membership fee.
If you are in Comox there is the d’Esterre Senior Centre at 1801 Beaufort Ave with Dei’s Café. Monday through Friday 8am to 12:30pm, with hot entrée lunch on Tuesday and Thursday.
d’Esterre Centre also offers drop-in activities and events such as a Pub night once a month, contact the office for sign-up, or visit their website to all the events and activities offered in the month of March, https://comoxseniors.ca/activities/
2025 Seniors Resource Guide
Get your copy today at our office located at C1-450 8th Street in Courtenay. If you would like to have the guide available at your business or service, email admin@ssnvi.ca and we will drop some off for you.

Seniors Tax Prep

February is also the month to start thinking about taxes.
Senior Support North Vancouver Island (SSNVI) will once again be providing simple income tax return preparation for seniors 55+. Income thresholds apply ($40,000 for a single person, $50,000 for a couple). This service will begin at the beginning of March and run through the end of April. Returns are typically completed with seven calendar days. Currently, this service is only offered to SSNVI clients in the Comox Valley. Though drop ins are welcome, we do suggest calling before coming by the office. 250-871-5940.

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