Community News
Many Rec Centres Are Open

Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Nanaimo Ice Centre, Oliver Woods Community Centre and Bowen Complex are now open for a variety of programs and for pre-registered drop-in activities. This includes swimming, skating, badminton and pickle ball. You can register for these activities 72 hours prior to the start of the session. Register online at recreation.nanaimo.ca, by calling 250-756-5200 or by vising one of our recreation offices. We are happy to be open and look forward to seeing you again. Please note that Beban Park is still closed until further notice.

Gambling During Covid 19

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.

Fall Weather Increases Risk of Falls

Fall is here and it often brings wet, colder weather. Walking after a rain fall can be risky. Many walkers do not realize how slick the leaves on the ground can be. Wearing proper shoes and using Walking Poles can help reduce the chances of slipping and falling. Make sure that your footwear also provides support for your ankles. Using a pair of Walking Poles allows you to enjoy nice long walks with friends no matter what the weather. New to Walking Poles? Come for a free Walking Pole Seminar. Keep doing what you love to do!

Product Review: A Time to Remember

Your loved one was unique. How you choose to celebrate that special life must be equally unique. That’s why Arbor Memorial has developed “Time to Remember”. This exclusive new resource will help you create a personal send off to honour your loved one while comforting family and friends in a meaningful way. With this option, you can: *Choose a convenient package system that celebrates specific interests *Compose your event by the elements that celebrate a personality *Discover new possibilities through your own creativity *Work within a budget that’s comfortable for you. Talk to us about creating that unique send off.

Importance of Saliva

Saliva provides critical moisture in the oral cavity that allows us to speak clearly; imagine trying to whistle with a completely dry mouth. For denture wearers, saliva provides lubrication between the denture and oral tissue, reducing friction that may otherwise cause irritation. Patients with dry mouths may have difficulties with denture retention, as the deficiency in moisture creates fewer capillaries to hold and seal the denture into place. If you suspect you may be suffering a dry mouth issue, consult your dental provider. They may be able to provide you some options for therapy. There are many products available today to help combat dry mouth problems.

Dental Cleanings Reduce Plaque!

Plaque, the soft yellowish build-up on your teeth, is made up of a biofilm of bacteria. This build-up can lead to cavities and gum disease. Regular dental cleanings by your hygienist reduces your chance of getting cavities or gum disease by reducing the amount of plaque in your mouth. Your teeth need cleaning more often if *you eat a lot of sweets, *avoid flossing, *brush your teeth less than twice a day, *suffer from a chronic long-term health condition or *suffer from a dry mouth. Research shows people who visit a dental hygienist at least once a year for preventative care are happier with their smile.

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.

Smoking/Chewing … Is it Time to Stop?

Do you know that in Canada, 100 people die every day from smoking related illness? Smoking is responsible for more deaths than obesity, physical inactivity or high blood pressure. Our unique 3 step Stop Smoking laser treatment package can help you quit smoking FOR GOOD! The cold laser balances the energy flow between acupuncture points to detox your body and helps alleviate all nicotine addiction and cravings. This non-invasive treatment will have you completely detoxed in 72 hours! Within one week with 2-3 Sessions you can be SMOKE FREE! If you have finally had enough, give us a call!

Local Wellness Resources

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.

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.

Time for a Denture Reline?

Has it been some time since your last visit to the denture clinic? Most individuals will experience measurable change every two years with how dentures fit due to bone loss. Bone loss allows dentures to shift more when chewing which dramatically increases pressure and accelerates bone deterioration. Left unchecked, this loss can lead to fit issues and bone mass damage. Some indications that more significant bone loss has occurred are: *food entrapment under plates, *looser feel, *frequent sore spots or *less ability to chew. A reline procedure can be used to restore your denture back to proper function. Call us for more information.