Community News
Know an Outstanding Senior?

Would you like to highlight an outstanding senior in the Comox Valley? Send a brief paragraph, explaining why, to Chris at admin@comoxvalleyseniorsupport.ca. We will need 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!

Dental New Year’s Resolutions

The new year is a great time to make positive resolutions to improve your health. Here are three dental-related resolutions you can make this year: 1) Get a new toothbrush – It’s important to replace your toothbrush every three months to ensure effective cleaning and avoid bacteria build-up. 2) Start flossing more – Flossing is an important way to keep your gums healthy and avoid cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis. 3) See your dentist – Make it a habit to book regular cleaning appointments to catch problems early.

Winter Blues Solutions

Winter months bring on more then cold temperatures; they often bring on winter blues. Many seniors experience depression due to lack of sunshine, activities, and socializing.
Come in out of the cold into the warmth of the Comox Seniors’ Centre at 1801 Beaufort Ave in Comox. Enjoy a coffee and meal at Dei’s Cafe with friends or meet new acquaintances. Pick up Dei’s hot meals to go; ask what’s on the menu. Check out our library for a good book, DVD, or puzzle. Looking for a handmade gift for someone special; our best kept secret Gift Shop is waiting for you. Become a member and participate in the many activities available.
The Centre is always looking for volunteers. Chase those winter blues away at the Comox Seniors’ Centre.

Ask The Expert

Q: I’m 75 years old and for the last year or so, I can see really well up close without my reading glasses! I suppose this is good, eh?

A: It is indeed nice to not have to wear reading glasses. But you should have your eyes checked: your far vision is likely going blurry, and a common cause of newly-developed nearsightedness in seniors is cataracts.

Impact of Hearing Loss on Daily Life

Every day comes with its struggles for people who are deaf and live with hearing loss. There are side effects of dealing with a hearing loss, especially if left untreated. Often, they deal with listening fatigue and an increased risk of burnout, which can be linked to mental health issues. But there are solutions available, and technology is advancing every day to improve the well-being of the deaf and hard of hearing community. If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may have hearing loss visit www.nexgenhearing.com to book your free hearing test.

January Brain Teasers

1. How come hyenas are so healthy? 2. What will a bee get from visiting too many flowers? 3. What game can be dangerous to your mental health? 4. What is the healthiest kind of water? 5. What ring is actually a square?

Brain Teaser Answers

1. Because laughter is the best medicine. 2. High bud-pressure. 3. Marbles, you don’t want to lose them. 4. Well water. 5. A boxing ring.

Words to Live By

There are greater things to be achieved in every New Year, and each and everyone must prepare themselves to be great, not by words of the mouth, but by a lot of sacrifices. – Michael Bassey Johnson

DECEMBER LOCAL WELLNESS BOX PRIZE PACKAGE

Over $500.00 worth of prizes including; $210.00 Therapeutic Yoga-Based Movement Gift Card – BodyWell Remedial Exercise & Registered Massage Therapy www.getbodywell.com
$115.00 Initial evaluation and treatment Gift Card – Red Sage Wellness – Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine www.redsagewellness.com
2 Tickets to the Vancouver Island Symphony – Mozart’s Serenade March 19, 2022 in Nanaimo www.vancouverislandsymphony.com
Voxxlife Socks from Great Socks for All – www.greatsocksforall.voxxlife.com
Cactus Club – Gift Card www.cactusclubcafe.com/location/victoria

Holidays with Dementia

Many older adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia enjoy and want to be included in holiday festivities. However, the added activities could cause increased agitation and confusion, unpredictable behavior, or mood swings. To create a stress-free, happy holiday season, try to scale things back and modify activities so they’ll feel calm and safe. Focus on a few of the most meaningful traditions. Ask which activities they value most. That could mean trimming the Christmas tree, lighting the menorah, singing songs, or baking special holiday treats. Even if your older adult might not remember these holiday activities later, the warm feelings they’ll have is a different kind of memory their body will carry for a while.