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.
Community News
Phones for Hearing Impaired
There is nothing sweeter than the sound of a loved one’s voice even if it is only on the telephone. Unfortunately for someone with hearing loss, using the telephone can be a frustrating experience. Suffering from hearing loss not only affects your hearing in live conversations, it makes using the telephone a real challenge. Because of today’s inclusive technology, phones and other useful hearing aid accessories for communication for people hard of hearing are now available. Hearing aid phones are a great gift that will help your loved one live life normally despite the hearing loss.
Importance of a Flu Shot
A seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect against flu. Flu vaccination has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and even flu-related death. For some people, the flu can bring serious health risks. Seniors and those with medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, for example, may have a hard time fighting the virus. Now more than ever, it is imperative that everyone protects themselves as much as possible. Given the pandemic world we are all currently living in, the flu shot is one more way to decrease your risk of complications that can come along with it.
Cherish the Memories When Downsizing
Downsizing is often a stressful process — both emotionally and physically. When the time comes, give yourself plenty of time for the process to make it seem less overwhelming. As you go through and sort things, recognize and acknowledge the sentimental value of a once-prized stuffed bear and decades-worth of Mother’s Day cards. Grandma’s bone china will remind you of all the happy family times. It is ok to get lost in nostalgia. Remind yourself that the memories will always be there, but the future holds an infinite number of new memories and possibilities. Trust the process and enjoy every moment.
Workplace Wellness This Holiday Season
The holidays bring plenty of joy, but it can also be a stressful season for many. Focus on workplace wellness to help employees maintain healthy habits and mental health. Choose healthy options for holiday events and give gifts of wellness to employees this year i.e., onsite massages or stress management lunch and learns. Encourage employees to stay active by hosting onsite yoga classes. Support employee’s financial wellness with minimal budgets on events and partnering with local business for discounts and promotions. Be mindful of your decisions and the impacts it may have on your employees. Healthy & Happy New Year!
Honour Yourself During the Holidays
The holidays can be a time of loving reunions, catch-ups, heartfelt connections, and joy, or they can be filled with obligations, expectations, and old patterns with emerging drama. When we can empower ourselves to know we have a choice as to where to best put our energies, what to let go of and forgive, and where to take a stand and set boundaries, we honour ourselves. Despite the illusion of social media, the “perfect family” does not exist where all things look “wonderful and together” all the time. Instead, the holidays offer us the perfect opportunity to stay true and nurture ourselves in the midst of giving and receiving.
Local Spotlight: Heart to Home Meals
Heart to Home Meals delivers delicious, nutritious meals right to your door. The company’s team of experts has developed a wide-ranging menu to suit many tastes, dietary needs, and lifestyles, including high-protein, low carbohydrates and/or saturated fat, low sodium, high fibre, vegetarian, and no added sugar options. Heart to Home Meals has a useful diet coding system to help you choose meals that are right for you. Meals also come in mini versions (for smaller appetites), hearty versions (for larger appetites), as well as minced or pureed options. It’s as easy as ordering online or by phone!
https://www.hearttohomemeals.ca?utm_source=wellnesshub&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=alwayson_winnipeg_local&utm_content=education
Communication Rule
Many misunderstandings and conflicts arise because of poor communication. Here is something to remember. Communication is made up of 7% spoken words; 38% of voice and tone; and 55% body language. This is SO important to keep in mind when you are talking to anyone – in your workplace or at home. How you present yourself and how calm and open your demeanor are far more important than the actual words. If you keep this as a reminder to you and those around you (family, coworkers) it will help you all get along better!
Travelling? Consider a Pet Sitter
Now that the world is opening up to travel, it’s time to get planning for a holiday! Arranging for pet care while you’re away can feel like an overwhelming decision. It’s important to look for caregivers who will not only provide for basic needs like food and water, but also companionship, reassurance, and playtime while you’re away. If you can find someone to come to your home, your pet gets to stay in his familiar surroundings, which is less stressful than taking him to a new location. You and your pet should feel comfortable about the care arrangements, so you can enjoy your vacation without worry!
4 Foods for a Better Mood
When you’re reaching for your next snack or meal, consider the contents and how they impact your emotional state. Here are several mood-boosting foods that will help you not only feel full, but good too. 1. Trail Mix: Nuts and seeds contain depression-combating protein and fibre, while berries contain energy-boosting sugars. 2. Fatty Fish: Contain omega-3s, an essential nutrient for maintaining long-term mental wellbeing. 3. Fermented Foods: Contain probiotics, which are great for the gut, and therefore the brain. 4. Dark Chocolate: Contains flavonoids, which have been linked to increased brain health (eat this in moderation, though).
Healthy Home, Happy Home
Now more than ever it’s important to maintain a clean and healthy home. The good news is that you don’t have to rely on bleach and harsh chemicals to kill germs, viruses, and bacteria! Using purpose-built products can effectively disinfect your home the safe and proper way. It’s also important to remember to follow proper personal hygiene protocols like washing your hands thoroughly and often, and avoiding touching your face. With Movember in full swing this month, another great cleaning tip is to use a paper towel to line your sink before you groom your moustache to keep things tidy!
