Community News
Foods Affect Feelings

What we eat can impact our mood, memory, and mental wellness. Our brains are filled with a variety of chemicals, hormones, and receptors that all react to the food we eat. In fact, serotonin is actually produced in our guts, and is directly impacted by what we eat. For example, the grumpiness we feel when we are very hungry can be combated by eating foods high in protein and fibre to keep us feeling full. Omega-3s and other brain-boosting amino acids can help with depression and improve mental wellness, while B vitamins can help us feel more energized.

Starting the Conversation

Starting a discussion about care needs with a senior loved one can be difficult. Deciding when to start the conversation is important. It is never too early to discuss what care might be needed and the desires of the person that will be receiving care. Nine out of 10 seniors want to remain in their home as they age and in-home care can help them. There are many options for in-home care, from the type of care services to the number of hours a week. Making plans before there is an emergency or sudden problem in the senior’s home helps alleviate stress for everyone.

Cannabis for a Better Sleep

If you’re one of the millions of people who have trouble sleeping, you may have considered trying cannabis. The cannabis plant has been used for centuries as a sleep aid, as it helps to regulate systemic bodily functions and biorhythms, including the sleep cycle. One recent study found that cannabis shortens the time it takes to fall asleep, both for people with sleep problems and people who fall asleep without trouble. Among people with active difficulty falling asleep, cannabis use resulted in an average of 30 minutes less time in falling asleep. Among the group of already strong-sleepers, cannabis helped them fall asleep even faster, by 15 minutes.

Local Community Spotlight

An important part of the community, Lions Housing Centres was established 55 years ago, and boasts over 540 rental suites in two of their properties. Lions Place, at 610 Portage Avenue and Lions Manor located at 320 Sherbrook with both offering independent living. Lions Place is their largest building which encompasses full amenities for the 280-plus residents. In there you’ll find a community hall, pool tables, shuffle boards, fitness centre, newly renovated greenhouse, hair salon, large library, mini-mart, and restaurant. Both buildings are easily accessible to Winnipeg transit, close to hospitals and have 24-hour security on site seven days a week. Check out their new website – LHC.ca

Local Spotlight: Re-New Mobility

Re-New Mobility is an Accredited BOSS (Business Owners Supporting Seniors) business that has been helping people gain more mobility for more than 25 years. Eve, Grace, James, Todd, and the loyal staff are dedicated to working together with occupational therapists and physiotherapists to attend to your needs and make you feel safe and independent. Re-New Mobility offers a great variety of products such as power chairs, scooters, grab bars, security poles, stair lifts, and much more. Services, equipment rentals, in-home installation, and modification of products are also available. Shop online or in person and regain your independence with increased mobility!

Minds in Motion

Minds in Motion is back with virtual and in-person sessions! Register now for our weekly program for those living with early to moderate signs of dementia and a care partner to connect with others through fitness, fun and friendship! This weekly program includes a gentle chair fitness class followed by engaging activities and conversation. With virtual and in person sessions across the province in accordance with COVID-19 safety measures, you can feel comfortable joining and taking part. To learn more and to register, please visit Alzheimer.mb.ca/mindsinmotion

The Role of Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory therapists (RTs) are healthcare professionals who assess, monitor, and treat individuals with respiratory and cardio-respiratory disorders. Respiratory therapists are important team members that provide care in hospitals, clinics, the community, and in patients’ homes. RTs provide healthcare to people at all stages of life, from newborns who are having difficulty breathing, to those who are critically ill. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals. They handle breathing problems that can stem from conditions including COPD, Asthma, Cystic Fibrosis. You’ll find them in neonatal nurseries, operating rooms, intensive care units, general wards, and emergency departments. Many RT’s work in chronic care facility, or home care environments.

Will I Have Enough?

People don’t plan to FAIL, they fail to PLAN! Everyone has a lifestyle they have become accustomed too. When it comes to retirement, most people want to maintain that standard of living. We can help you live for today and plan for tomorrow. We will run projections to show you what your retirement income will look like and how long it will last. We factor in all areas of income including: CPP, OAS, Pension Plan, RRSP/RRIF, TFSA, Rental Income, etc., providing you with the confidence to know you will have the freedom to retire in style.

Read Your LABELS!

There are so many chemicals in our everyday products that are harmful to our health and bodies. Here are a few ingredients to watch for. FRAGRANCE/PARFUM found in scented candles, perfumes, lotions and more. FORMALDEHYDE is found in shampoo & conditioner (including baby and pet varieties), body wash, sunblock, cosmetics, baby wipes, toothpaste and more. It is also present in our wood, sheetrock, and furniture. It is a known carcinogen and recognized as such by the Cancer Institute. Long term exposure or toxicity to these ingredients can lead to an increased risk of cancer. By becoming aware, we can safeguard ourselves and those we love.

Clean Homes and Safe Gatherings

Autumn is a busy time for everyone, with school and holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving. Hosting family gatherings requires a lot of work and preparation, and cleaning is a big part of getting things ready for those events. Having cleaning professionals take care of getting your home sparkling clean and ready for your guests can help take some of the pressure off, so you can focus on other things. Keeping your guests safe and healthy is also important and high-touch disinfectant services can help keep your home bacteria and virus free so you can relax and enjoy the day!

Mobility vs. Flexibility

Mobility is a term frequently used by healthcare professionals and refers to the capability and efficiency of an individual to actively move their joints and muscles throughout their full range of motion. Additionally, joints should be able to move freely and in their full motion within the joint capsule as well as the muscles being able to lengthen actively. Commonly mistaken with flexibility, which is the ability of your muscles to lengthen passively through a range of motion. Mobility is an important aspect in health and fitness although commonly put aside, when included in your daily life, can be rewarding!