While we all look forward to spending quality time with family and friends during the holiday season, the busyness can be overwhelming for many – and even more so for people with dementia and their care partners. You are not alone. The Alzheimer Society can lend a comforting ear and provide you with information, education and support to help you navigate through the difficult times ahead.
Contact the Alzheimer Society this holiday season to speak with someone who can help guide you through your next steps by visiting alzheimer.mb.ca, emailing alzmb@alzheimer.mb.ca or calling 204-943-6622 or 1-800-378-6699.
Community News
Government Grant for Hip/Knee Replacements
With tax season upon us, it’s important to consider whether you are eligible for the disability credit. Those with a prolonged disability or a medical condition that cause restrictions in daily activities can qualify for a $2,500 yearly credit, as well as a $25,000 Lump Sum Refund. Whatever the medical condition that cause you difficulties with walking, dressing, preparing food, hearing, sight, speech, etc, we have assisted thousands of Canadians get this credit and can help you get the money you deserve. For the most reliable service in Canada and the lowest fee, call Brett Scott 204-453-5372
Handling The Holidays
Whatever holiday you celebrate this season, even if you’re surrounded by family and friends, it can be stressful. Making sure that your body and mind can handle stress is the best gift that you can give yourself. One of the best ways to improve your overall health and stress-handling ability is through Bioenergetics. Bioenergetics uses computerized testing and treatment to effectively determine and treat any imbalance or weakness in the body that is preventing you from achieving both optimal stress management and improved health. This holiday season, make sure that stress isn’t an unwanted gift that you can’t give back.
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!
Get Relief with Acupuncture
Did you know that acupuncture may help relieve symptoms related to various health conditions? Some examples are: 1) Nausea – acupuncture has been shown to help with nausea related to chemotherapy treatment, motion sickness, morning sickness in pregnancy, or postoperative nausea. 2) Headaches and migraines – acupuncture can help people with chronic headaches rely less on medication and make fewer trips to the doctor. 3) Allergies – acupuncture may help to improve allergy symptoms such as rhinitis. 4) Pregnancy, labour, and postpartum health – acupuncture can help with pain, morning sickness, and mood disorders during and after pregnancy.
Holiday Season Safety for Pets
The holiday season presents many hazards for pets. Holiday treats such as rich, fatty scraps of meat, pork and poultry bones, alcoholic beverages, chocolates, and other treats have been linked to pancreatitis in dogs. Xylitol, a sugar substitute, can cause a dog’s blood sugar to suddenly drop, potentially leading to kidney failure. Holiday plants like berries from mistletoe, holly, hibiscus, Christmas roses, and poinsettia are toxic to pets. Christmas tree water can be poisonous, and things like ornaments, hooks, tinsel, candles, lights, and electrical wiring can all pose hazards to a pet’s wellbeing. Keep your pets safe this holiday season!
Holiday Gift Idea: Winter Eyewear
For those interested in skiing or snowboarding, eye protection can make a great thoughtful gift! Consider protection from ultraviolet rays, glare, and wind. Special filters and anti-glare coatings in a wraparound design with specific venting to prevent fogging are all great options. Cross country skiers, outdoor family leisure activities and dedicated outdoor walkers can choose from a variety of brand names and styles. Some even have interchangeable lenses designed for different altitudes, terrain, and light conditions to protect the cornea, intraocular lens and retina. In many cases, prescription lenses are available. Check with your Optometrist for that special Christmas eyewear gift!
Kiss Your Bad Breath Goodbye
Everyone gets bad breath from time to time – but bad breath that doesn’t go away could mean you have an oral health issue. The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, other causes can include dry mouth, and certain medications. When you don’t brush(clean) your natural teeth and/or dentures regularly, this can cause plaque and tartar to form on your teeth(both natural and false). If you’re struggling with bad breath that doesn’t go away, it’s important to see your denturist. They will be able to evaluate your oral health and determine what steps to take next.
Get Social to Ward off Holiday Loneliness
During the holidays, it can be easy to feel lonely if you don’t have a big family or group of friends. Loneliness is NOT about the number of connections but the quality. Here are some great ways to improve the quality of your connections: 1. Write letters of gratitude to your closest friends or colleagues. 2. Engage in a random act of kindness daily. Buy the next person in line at the coffee shop or drive through their order, randomly compliment strangers, or donate to a charity where you can drop off that gift and see the reaction. It will create a connection and make you and the other person feel great!
To Love & Serve
We are living in great change, where our planet is evolving at a heightened pace and needs our help. Each of our souls have chosen to be here at this time. We can choose how we put our love into action. December 21st the darkest day of the year, a wonderful opportunity to plant seeds for what we desire. A time to reflect on our own lives and make the necessary changes to support humanity and our planet in loving ways. When we open our hearts in love, share our skills, talents and kindness, we give to others, and we serve. When we stay calm and loving with our children and parents, we actively build community full of love and gratitude.
Living With Dementia?
People living with dementia can feel isolated and unsure of where to go for support. You are not alone. The Alzheimer Society is here to help. Our offices across the province can provide you with the information, education and support. Plus, with our virtual and in-person programming, you can join our education sessions, Minds in Motion® program and support groups from wherever works best for you.
Contact us today to reach a reassuring ear by phone or get a quick response by email. Visit our website to find an office near you at alzheimer.mb.ca.
