Would you like to highlight an outstanding senior in the Comox Valley? Send a brief paragraph, explaining why, to Chris at admin@comoxvalleyseniorsupport.caPlease provide contact information for the senior you are recommending as we will need to attain consent from them to share their story. We will feature as many as possible in upcoming issues!

Our day-to-day lives often involve activities that require us to venture out into public, whether it’s going to the bank, attending medical appointments, shopping, or spending time with friends and family. For those who experience mobility challenges, simple errands can be more difficult and less convenient, especially when having to rely on others for transport. Mobility scooters can help you or your loved one regain a sense of independence and control as errands become easier and access to more destinations becomes possible again. Regaining mobility and independence can simplify our daily tasks and offer us more choices.

Falls in the home are all too common. The good news is, you can make a few modifications in the home that can prevent potential hazards, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Start by visiting each room in your home, looking at the space objectively. Ask yourself: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.

Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC) is a provincial, not-for-profit that proudly and compassionately supports over one million people in British Columbia who provide physical and/or emotional care to a family member, friend, or neighbour. FCBC supports caregivers by providing access to information, education and supports so that caregivers feel more confident and successful in their important role. Call our free BC Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-520-3267

Healthy Ageing Canada projections show that by 2036, Seniors will account for close to 25% of the population. Women account for 52% of seniors aged 65 to 69 and for 75% of those 90 years or older. Differences in life expectancy between men and women have begun to narrow, a trend that is projected to continue. As is the case with all Canadians, fewer seniors are living in rural areas than in the past. 70% of seniors live in metropolitan areas, while another 9% resided in smaller urban areas (with a population of 50,000 or more). Most seniors live in private households—45% with a spouse or partner, 27% alone, and 18% with a child or grandchild. Only 7% live in an institutional setting.

How stress can make you feel
Many things can cause stress. You might feel stressed because of one big event or situation in your life. Or it might be a build-up of lots of smaller things. This might make it harder for you to identify what’s making you feel stressed, or to explain it to other people. If you are stressed, you might feel: * Irritable, angry, impatient or wound up. * Over-burdened or overwhelmed. *Anxious, nervous or afraid. *Like your thoughts are racing and you can’t switch off. *Unable to enjoy yourself. *Uninterested in life. *Like you’ve lost your sense of humour. *A sense of dread. *Worried or tense. *Neglected or lonely. Some people who go through severe stress may experience suicidal feelings. This can be very distressing. Please seek help at a hospital emergency department or a local crisis line. In the Comox Valley the 24 hour Crisis Line phone number is 1 888-494-3888.