Covid 19 has shaken us, disrupted our routines, and as per public health order closures, rendered our favourite casinos and gaming centres inaccessible. As a result, some players may have altered their gambling habits by migrating to online platforms. This shift in play may heighten risk factors such as isolation, unchecked substance use, lack of in-person connections as well as the use of credit to gamble. The Responsible & Problem Gambling Program remains committed to serving the people of BC 24/7. Our support services include outreach, education and counselling services, are FREE of charge, and available by phone, text, web chat, or in person.
Community News
Get Your Flu Shot This Year!
Doctors are telling their patients that if you don’t normally get a flu shot, get one this year. The flu often takes an enormous toll on the health-care system. Hospitals and health-care facilities could become overwhelmed if they need to treat both flu and COVID-19 patients. People with higher risk of flu related complications include *People over 65 and children under 5 *Pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant *Residents of long-time care facilities *People with chronic diseases such as diabetes. Please call the Medicine Shoppe to be put on the list to be contacted when the flu shot is available.
Boost your Immune System
We all know about the importance of flu shots, social distancing and hand washing, but what about boosting our own immune system? Here are some tips to keep your body healthy: *Make sure to get enough sleep – at least 7 hrs *Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals *Get regular exercise. *Add a boost of Vitamin C to your day with oranges, peppers and strawberries. Comfort Keepers can help keep you active and make healthy meals for you in your home. Call today to book a consultation.
Should I See My Dentist Now?
Dental offices are now open to provide most dental treatments but that can change at any time given the situation with Covid. Our offices have seen an increase in the number of people calling with infections and pain. Many of them had treatment planned that had been postponed because of Covid. Now most of these situations involve degrading dental conditions that will not improve without treatment. If you have outstanding dental conditions, it would be well advised to have them looked after as soon as possible by calling your dental office.
Community Profile – Amplifon
Amplifon is a global leader in hearing healthcare, helping over 5 million people worldwide. Yet, there’s still a taboo in society surrounding hearing loss. The longer a person delays getting help, the more challenging it is to assist with speech “discrimination” or understanding sounds. Several studies have shown that people with untreated hearing loss experience an overload of the brain’s cognitive functions — which may lead to an earlier onset of dementia. Be proactive and schedule a complimentary hearing test with your Amplifon team in Nanaimo and complete the journey to better hearing.
Meet the Practitioner: Parmelia Parham
Do you struggle with your health or are you overwhelmed by your emotions? Permelia can help you with these challenges. She uses The Body Code protocol – an emotional healing technique that identifies and releases unprocessed negative (trapped) emotions which cause imbalances and misalignments in the body. The 45 to 60 minute session finds the emotions that are trapped and need to be released from your subconscious. Releasing these emotions provides better health, increased joy & happiness and greater success in all areas of your life. Call 250.240-2656 for an appointment.
PROJECT RESTART – SOS Grateful Hearts
Parksville Qualicum Beach Region has a higher percentage of low-income families than any other BC region. Compared to the rest of BC, we have higher levels of vulnerability for preschool children and higher levels of children and youth in care. The pandemic has brought greater levels of isolation, anxiety and family hardship. Being socially connected provides a sense of belonging, facilitates access to services and resources, and the opportunity for positive relationships with peers, trusted adults, families and communities. It is important that SOS restarts and rebuilds, in a safe manner, programs that children, youth and families have come to rely on. To learn more visit www.sosd69.com or call 250-248-2093.
Healthy Aging
Having taught a course on aging, I’ve come to realize that in North America, aging is something we fear rather than embrace. In places like Japan, where Super Centurions thrive, the people have a one word philosophy called IKIGAI; Your Passion, Mission, Vocation and Profession. IKIGAI Is thought to be the reason for their longer, healthier life! Aging is a gift that comes with a responsibility to those you love; you have to do your best to look after your health. Are you living your Ikigai? Are you taking responsibility for your own health as you age? Attend my free webinars to find out more.
Warm Feet = Time to Sleep?
If you have trouble falling asleep, here is something that you may not know. The National Sleep Foundation suggests warm feet when going to bed sends a signal to your brain that it is bedtime. Sleep research indicates a correlation between falling asleep quickly and increased blood dilation in our extremities. Something else that may keep you from sleep is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs. Today’s socks with built in HPT technology will not only keep your feet nice and toasty but may also provide relief from restless leg syndrome.
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.
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!
