Maintaining relationships and spending time with others is essential to our emotional and mental well-being. It can help prevent depression which affects 20 percent of the population over 70 years of age. Socializing also keeps the mind active and improvements are greater when the person is involved in fun interests with other people. Plan regular get-togethers with friends, such as a weekly lunch date or coffee with another senior or loved one. Scheduling social interactions give us something to look forward to on a regular basis. For those who are truly adventurous you can enjoy new experiences and meet new people by signing up for travel tours, book clubs, and much more at your local community centre.
Community News
Business Profile: Initio Medical
Located in Vancouver, INITIO is Western Canada’s only private PET/CT diagnostic scan facility committed to providing immediate PET/CT scans and results supporting patient-centred care. All referrals are booked promptly with quick turnaround on results, as timing of PET/CT screening matters to help prevent or catch disease before it’s too late. PET/CT scans assist with: CANCER – detecting cancer, revealing cancer spread, confirming cancer treatment effectiveness, and finding a cancer recurrence. BRAIN DISORDERS – ALZHEIMER’S by confirming possible Alzheimer’s diagnosis, clarifying early diagnosis of dementia, and altering treatment options. HEART DISEASE – Confirming cardiac sarcoidosis presence/recurrence. For life-changing diagnostic information that helps physician treatment planning, you can count on INITIO for immediate PET/CT scan appointments and results. Physician referral required. Further info online at initiomedical.ca. Why wait? KNOW. NOW.
Do You Need Dentures?
Did you know the need for dentures isn’t only determined by your age? You could benefit from dentures if you have: 1) Missing teeth – fewer teeth doing all of the work can weaken or damage them. 2) Shifting teeth – can indicate potential gum disease, and unstable teeth may eventually need to be extracted, leading to a need for dentures. 3) Poor oral hygiene – not taking care of your teeth can lead to health issues beyond your mouth. 4) Gum problems – sensitive and bleeding gums could be a sign of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss over time.
Related Fall Risks
In addition to mobility, there are other risk factors that can lead to falling: Sensory Deficits; problems with sensation, whether it be with the eyes, ears or feeling in the feet, can increase your risk of falling. Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly and talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing numbness in your feet. Low Blood Pressure; when we quickly go from lying or sitting to standing, our blood pressure drops, this can interfere with balance, vision and coordination. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing, sit down until your head clears, stand up slowly and ensure you have good footing before taking a step.
Social Activity & Aging Well
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), research links social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for certain physical and mental conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer’s disease. Many things can contribute to isolation, including the death of a spouse or partner, separation from friends or family, retirement, loss of mobility, and lack of transportation. Studies show that engaging in meaningful, productive activities with others can help people live longer, maintain their wellbeing, improve their cognitive function, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose.
Keep Gambling in Check
Have you heard of Canada’s Low Risk Gambling Guidelines? They recommend keeping it under 1% of gross household income, 4 days/month or less and only 2 types of gambling. Also consider the following which can increase your risk of developing a gambling problem: 1) If you struggle with mental health and addictions issues, or have experienced gambling problems in your family, 2) If you are drawn to fast-paced games that involve frequent betting like slot machines, in-game sports betting, or many online forms of gambling, and/or 3) you’re playing for escapism or to make money. Check out GamblingGuidelines.ca #LRGG.
Karen Hlady, VI Gaming Support
Overcoming Dentist Anxiety
Dental phobia has become ingrained into our society with phrases like ‘pulling teeth’ being used to mean difficult and unpleasant. As a result, an important part of the dentist’s role has become putting the patient at ease, making them secure and comfortable. Those with dental phobia tend to avoid dentists. Unfortunately, putting off regular checkups is a good way to end up with gum disease or other problems, which is why establishing a good patient-dentist relationship is so important. If you are a person who suffers from dental anxiety, mention it to your dentist and they will work with you to find a way to alleviate the stress.
Community Announcement
Did you know that Comox Valley Senior Support Society is the only non-government, non-profit agency in the Comox Valley dedicated solely to the support of seniors in the community?
Tea and Fashion Show
The Comox Seniors Centre is hosting an afternoon Tea and Fashion Show Sunday May 29th from 2-4. Mercedes Lane Boutique will be show casing their latest trending Spring and Summer fashions. Handmade accenting accessories and jewellery from the Centre’s Gift Shop will adorn models. Ticket sales start May 9th for $10.00 per person at the Seniors Centre’s office Monday-Friday 10am-1pm. (250-339-5133). Join us for afternoon tea, fashion ideas and prizes to be won at 1801 Beaufort Ave Comox.
Community Announcement
Did you know that Comox Valley Senior Support Society is the only non-government, non-profit agency in the Comox Valley dedicated solely to the support of seniors in the community?
Community Announcement
On October 18, the Comox Valley Senior Support Society will host its first annual fund-raising Spelling Bee! Only an hour and half long, this event will promise to test your skill at spelling and will provide and entertaining time for all who attend.
