The Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not for profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family-to-family organization with a broad volunteer base. FSI supports and services are free to any family. Some of their services include a Resource Parent/Resource Family member peer support program, free webinars, parent/family “meet ups” on Zoom, and downloadable online resources. Check out their website or Facebook page to learn more!
Community News
Coming this Fall
New South End location for Adult Day Programs
Circle of Security – Parenting Series
Parenting group at Sundrops
• Understand your child’s behaviours by learning to read their emotional needs
• Support your child’s ability to successfully manage emotions
• Enhance the development of your child’s self esteem
• Honor your innate wisdom and desire for your child to be secure
Contact speterson@clementscentre.org to add your name to the email list
Help for Smelly Feet
Do you have bromodosis? Smelly feet is a very common medical condition from buildup of sweat resulting in bacteria growth on the skin. Your feet have more sweat glands than any other part of your body with naturally occurring bacteria to help break down sweat. Bad odor forms when bacteria and sweat are allowed to build up. Some simple tips to prevent bromodosis include washing your feet at least once a day and alternating between two pairs of shoes. Choose well-fitting socks like Voxx socks made with antimicrobial fibers to wick away moisture to help keep your feet dry and sweet smelling all day.
Summer Pop Up Concert Series
Expect the unexpected with the return of the Vancouver Island Symphony’s popular Summer Pop Up Concert Series featuring three VIS Ensembles performing works from all genres of music including Classical, Jazz, Latin, Traditional and Canadiana favourites. These concerts continue in August and take place in beautiful garden settings from Yellowpoint to the Comox Valley featuring: # 1: VIS Back Row Brass Quintet, #2: VIS String Quartet & French Horn #3: the Marko Paolo Trio (Flute, Violin/ Accordion, Double Bass). Get your tickets now.
Add a Little Exercise to your Lifestyle
Physical activity plays an important role in your health and quality of life by making you feel healthier and stronger. Being active helps to improve your balance, reduce your risk of falls and injuries and can help you stay independent longer. So take the initiative! It’s never too late to start and you don’t need to go to a gym to add a little exercise to your routine; consult your doctor and ask to learn more about exercises that can be done while sitting in your chair!
Golden Gamers
“Golden Gamers” is a recent term used to describe seniors who play video games. Some play to pass the time, some play to connect with their grandkids and some play competitively. There’s nothing wrong with playing video games, online or on a console. Just like gambling, some seniors may be vulnerable to the addictive qualities that the gamblification of gaming offers. This includes paying to open loot boxes for premium items, skins, coins, extended time, etc. No different than slot machines, some games can entice vulnerable seniors to spend beyond their means. For more information, contact VIGamingSupport.ca.
Career Decision Making
In the decision making stage of the career exploration process, it’s time to take all the accumulated information and analyze how each career works with your life priorities. While looking at how each career matches up with aspects such as your life values, interests and skills, it is important to understand that; *There is more than one great career per person. *A career may not always fill every want or desire. *Some elements and goals will need addition activities to feel complete. *It’s ok to feel uncertain and emotional. Be sure to make decision based on knowledge rather than assumption.
Using Headphones Safely
According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion 12 to 35-year-olds, risk irreversible hearing loss from exposure to loud sounds such as music played on their smartphone. To prevent noise-induced hearing loss and related conditions such as tinnitus – commonly experienced as a ringing sound inside the ear – monitor how loud, and for how long, you listen to music. Sound is measured in units called decibels or dBA. Music through headphones at maximum volume measure 94-110 dBA. Sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Test your hearing today at NexGen Hearing!
Island Ford Superstore Matching Donations
Sundrops afterschool program now has a new 24 passenger bus equipped with TWO wheelchair lifts to transport kids to and from community activities. Variety, the Children’s Charity has covered half the cost and Clements Centre has announced a fundraiser “Kick-Start” the Bus to raise the other 50%. Our friends at Island Ford Superstore are generously matching community donations up to $10,000. You can help to Kick Start the Bus with this incredible opportunity to double your donation and double your impact! Every dollar you donate will directly touch the life of a child by providing barrier-free access to community activities.
Early Signs of Dementia
Some forgetfulness is a normal part of growing older, but it’s important to be aware of memory changes as they can be a sign of a serious problem. Along with memory changes, sudden changes to your loved one’s personality, such as paranoia and aggression, are often early signs of Dementia. For some, another early sign of dementia is having changes in vision. Your loved one may have trouble reading or seeing the differences in color. Other changes may include problems with speech and writing, poor judgment, having trouble with finances, withdrawal from social activities, and carelessness. Early diagnosis can assist you in getting help for your loved one.
Summer Supplements!
As you are enjoying the summer, keep these things in mind. Trace minerals are important for metabolic and brain functions. These are lost through activities and sweating in the heat so add vital electrolyte to your water! They are available in liquid form and from sea or Himalayan salts. Protect your skin from sun damage and dryness. Use Hyaluronic acid or aloe vera internally and/or topical for dryness and burns. Biotin provides help for brittle nails and hair. All the supplements to help you stay safe and happy are available at our store. Be extra well and have fun!!
