In Canada, hospital readmissions of patients with chronic disease may be preventable with improvements in home self-care, in-home monitoring, self-tracking, and better training in health self-management practices. Given this prevention perspective, the University of Victoria – Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health has implemented a two-year randomized controlled research study; the Victoria Assistive Devices and Coaching (VADAC) Study. VADAC is looking for volunteers to become study participants. If you are *a senior (65 years+), *live in the Victoria to Nanaimo region, *have one or more chronic health conditions, and *have internet / WiFi access, contact the Project Co-ordinator, Suzanne toll free 1-866-902-3767, (VADAC@uvic.ca).

Stepping Stones Adult Day Program uses therapeutic recreation to improve physical, cognitive, social and emotional well being to enhance the fullness of life. We focus on using skills for everyday living; making a difference across the entire lifespan. Memory loss from an acquired brain injury, stroke or other dementia-related conditions have a high likelihood of slowing progress with intellectual and social stimulation. We provide a safe, secure space to spend two or more hours in meaningful interaction improving mental and physical health delaying cognitive decline. For caregivers, we are an enhanced respite service with therapeutic staff on site, freeing your time for your own self care.

Phototoxic reactions are dose-related sunburn-like reactions that can occur with sufficient light exposure and a high enough dose of medication. Radiation in the UVA range causes most drug-related phototoxic reactions. Sunscreen can help protect skin but does not completely prevent skin damage from sunlight. Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply 15–30 minutes later. To get the full effect of the sun protection factor (SPF), sunscreen must be applied correctly and in the correct quantity; approximately 30 mL to cover the entire body. Speak to your pharmacist to find out if your medications can cause Phototoxic reactions.

Tiny silver batteries are the unsung heroes behind hearing aids. As technology has advanced, they are set to become a thing of the past. Rechargeable hearing aid technology is changing the game as they are convenient, easy to use and environmentally friendly. Popular among consumers for their comfort, versatility and ease of use, the hearing aids are simply placed into their own recharging unit at bedtime. Visit one of our hearing clinics and talk with a qualified hearing healthcare professional about rechargeable hearing aids to determine if they are right for you.

This fall, some children will be back in the classrooms while others will be home schooled. Either way, children spread their germs when at play or at school, so it is a good time to reinforce hygienic practices; handwashing, sneezing into their arm, not rubbing their noses, etc. Keeping the whole family healthy is now more vital than ever. As well as eating whole foods and limiting junk foods, consider these daily additions: *Vitamin C: potent antioxidant, *Vitamin D: affects key immune cells, top defender, *Daily greens powder: helps fill in nutritional gaps, *Quercetin: antiviral, aids immunity Be very well and take care of one another!

The Comox Valley Lifeline Society, a non-profit organization, has been providing an easy-to-use personal emergency response system to the Cowichan Valley since 1988. The Society was established because the membership believed that people deserved the dignity to live on their own and have access to immediate help in an emergency situation. If you experience a fall or other emergency in your home, every second counts. Delays can jeopardize your recovery and your independence. Lifeline quickly connects you to a trained Response Associate, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at the push of a button. You are never alone and help is always there when you need it.