Looking for LOCAL Health and Wellness information? The Wellness HUB is the One-Stop, Online Resource for products and services available in our local communities. Shopping local strengthens our communities by keeping money close to home and providing employment. The Wellness HUB enables people in Central Vancouver Island to easily find and support local businesses, read health tips and be informed of what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralIslandWellnessHUB.ca.
What is an Adult Day Program?
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.
Gambling Outreach Support
If you are looking for support but not seeking counselling, our Gambling Outreach Support team provides confidential and personalised one-to-one support to anyone concerned about their own or a loved-one’s gambling. Gambling Outreach Support is offered in every community across BC, providing information, support, referrals, and accompaniment to resources, including peer support organizations such as 12 Step groups or Smart Recovery and online self-help resources. Other support includes community support organizations such as bankruptcy trustees, legal services, housing services, community mental health services and debt management services. Our services are FREE and available by phone, text, web chat, or in person.
Phototoxic Reactions from Medications
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.
Are Rechargeable Hearing Aids Right for You?
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.
Keep the Whole Family Healthy
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!
Brain Exercises for Seniors
It’s important for people of all ages to keep their brains healthy with regular workouts, especially so for seniors. Here are five ways you can keep your mind sharp as you age: 1) Play a game. Try a sudoku, crossword, or jigsaw puzzle, or play a game of cards with friends. 2) Get moving. Regular exercise increases blood flow to your brain and increases neurons. 3) Listen to or play music. Science shows that music is a great brain booster. 4) Eat right. A healthy diet is crucial for cognitive health. 5) Learn something new. Keep your mind engaged!
Community Profile: Cowichan Valley Lifeline
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.
Your LOCAL Wellness Resource
Today, more than ever, people are searching on line for local resources. Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® is proud to present a One-Stop, Online Resource where our community can find local wellness information. Our Wellness Hub enables people in central Vancouver Island to easily find and support local businesses, read health tips and find out what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralIslandWellnessnews.ca.
Ingredients Matter
Many of us rely on skincare products to help us look our best. Unfortunately, many contain toxic ingredients that should not be put on our skin. These toxins can trigger or exacerbate an array of problems including allergies, hormone disruption and even act as irritants or carcinogens. Palm oil is a common ingredient in skincare products because it is inexpensive. Scientific studies have shown a link to dementia. Don’t be fooled by terms such as “natural”, “pure” or “hypo-allergenic”. Examine the ingredients and look for words that you can read and understand. Look for brands that are truly transparent.
Restless Legs?
Are your legs keeping you up at night? HealthLink BC identifies Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) as a disorder related to sensation and movement. The symptoms, often most severe at night, are unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs that cause an irresistible urge to move them. Moving the legs only relieves the discomfort temporarily. If symptoms are mild, a few lifestyle changes may be enough to control them. *Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine *Keep the bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable *Get regular exercise *Massage the leg or use heat or ice packs. Some people find relief wearing socks with woven HPT technology.
