A friend got hearing aids and never wore them, so why should I get hearing aids? Many things affect the success of using hearing aid: realistic expectations, motivation, consistent use, type, configuration and degree of hearing loss, and how active the person is. Every person has a different life style, different hearing loss, and different expectations from their hearing aids. It is important to convey your expectations to your hearing care provider. Hearing aid technology is continuously improving and current technology is drastically better than technology five years ago. The best way to find out if hearing aids are right for you is to give them a try.

Finding the words to write a note of comfort to friends and family who have lost a loved one can be difficult. It does not need to be a lengthy message. Generally, a few heartfelt sentences are enough. Simply express your sympathy and let the recipients know that your thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Acknowledge the loss and refer to the deceased by name. Sharing a fond memory of the deceased is a wonderful addition to the message. End the note with a kind word, a hope, a wish or expression of sympathy.

The number one resolution made in January is the one to lose weight. The whole process can feel like an impossible task; here are a few tips to help:
· GET MOVING: you don’t have to run marathons. Just getting out for a brisk, 30-minute daily walk burns calories and decreases appetite.
· DITCH the ADDED SUGAR: Although it tastes yummy, excessive sugar consumption is one of the major reasons people become overweight. Conquer that sweet tooth with fruit instead.
· BUDDY UP – invite a friend to join in on the weight loss journey. It provides support and accountability.

Have you noticed the explosion of interest in essential oils? How do you tell the difference between hype and health and why should you care? The MAJORITY of essential oils are mixed with synthetics, diluted with oils that can go rancid, or are chemically altered, all of which can cause health problems. How can you spot the marketing hype? Look for the following: 1. All of the oils are the same price 2. The bottle states for aromatic use only. 3. They are cheap. Attend a FREE essential oil class with The Essential Oil Nurse and get to know REAL essential oils and their health benefits.

Our daily movements, combined with life stressors and injuries, can result in the involuntary holding of muscle reflex patterns. When working at a computer, or driving a car for long periods, we may unknowingly roll our shoulders forward. Over time this involuntary habit contributes to the development of tight muscles, body tension, pain, loss of flexibility and a stooped posture. Somatics gentle body movement classes are designed to bring awareness to all unconsciously contracted muscles and re-educate the brain to release tension resulting in reduced pain and a sense of ease and balance for the body.

The month of December can be overwhelming . We often forget to stop and enjoy moments with our friends and family. Here are some holiday-themed events that the whole family can enjoy:
· SKATES with SANTA: Tuesday, Dec. 18, 6:30-8 pm at Frank Crane Arena and Friday, Dec. 31, 3:45-5:15 pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre. · DUNK with SANTA: Saturday, Dec. 22, 3-5 pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre
· WINTER WONDERLAND – $2 Skating Sessions: Dec. 26 to 30 at Frank Crane Arena.
· FINALE 2018 – Family New Year’s Eve Party: December 31, 5-10 pm at Beban Park.

What does a hearing evaluation look like? To begin, your Hearing Care Professional will take a thorough medical history and inspect your ear canals and middle ears to confirm good ear health. Then sitting in a sound treated booth, while wearing headphones, you will be asked to respond to tones. The tones tested are specific and range from the low to high frequencies that are important for hearing speech. There is also word testing to measure communication abilities and your ability to hear speech in quiet and in noisy situations. If you are over the age of 50 or suspects hearing loss, a hearing evaluation is recommended.

The first holiday season after losing a loved one can be a very difficult time. Family traditions and rituals are sacred events that can be adapted to the changing dynamics in the family. By planning for the change, whether it be starting new family traditions or updating old ones, you can help create realistic expectations around the significant events. It is important to acknowledge that things are going to be different. Adjusting to a family member passing is a big transition; be open to the change and accept it for what it is – a new opportunity to create stronger family bonds and traditions.