Community News
Acknowledge Disappointment

We had cool, wet weather out here on the island this spring, which was in contrast to the expectation. This can lead many people to start to focus on regrets and lost possibilities of what “could have been”. The challenge with focusing on what “could have been” is that it never can be, so starts a negative thought pattern of rumination. One way to avoid constant and repetitive thoughts about what could have been is to shift the regret into disappointment instead. When we acknowledge the disappointment, we can focus our attention on what we will do instead.

Clean Your Teeth

Most dental problems are caused by bacteria. Bacteria hide along the gum line or in tartar that builds up on teeth and attacks surrounding tissues causing inflammation and bleeding. Good dental hygiene at home and regular cleaning at your dentist’s office are very important to eliminate the growth of bacteria and maintain good gum health. Left unchecked, bacteria can melt the bone around the teeth causing root exposure and pockets where more bacteria can hide. This can lead to tooth loss and other health issues. Call your dentist today to book your next cleaning.

Use Mobility Aids Correctly

Learning to use a mobility aid after a fall or injury is very important for maintaining independence, ability to enjoy leisure tasks and to perform household tasks. In order to prevent re-injury, the mobility device must be used correctly and have appropriate adjustments for posture, seating and gait. Once an assistive device is prescribed to a patient, we can make adjustments and corrections to the fit and then prescribe exercise based on the client’s mobility goals. Goals may include navigating stairs, curbs or opening doorways. An exercise prescription, in conjunction with a prescribed assistive device, produces much greater mobility progression.

Digitalize or Print? The Modern Question

As I age and read hints about what to keep and what should go, I cringe every time I read “Digitalize your photos; get rid of/destroy photo albums.” Not me. Here’s my rationale. Paper, in one form or another, has been around for at least five millennia; tablets and memory stick for less than 40 years. How long before something else takes its place and makes them obsolete? Browsing through my albums brings back many happy memories of childhood, family and community events. No way will my albums go; my children are already discussing who should get them!

Benefits of Pilates

Pilates corrects your posture, addresses muscle imbalances, and mobilizes your joints. Pilates helps you manage pain, recover after an accident or rehab an injury. It can be adapted for any ability, fitness level, size or medical condition. Complement your Pilates with cardio, like running, boxing, swimming, or biking. Pilates is for injury rehab, not weight loss. Adding in other exercise, especially cardio, can help make your heart stronger and improve your endurance. Cross-training makes your Pilates practice stronger. Pilates can help people with arthritis, vertigo, migraines, knee injuries, brain trauma, ADHD, Erb’s palsy, Graves’ disease, dyslexia, clinical depression and diabetes.

Aronia Berry Smoothie Recipe

Looking for a quick, nutritious and tasty breakfast or snack? Try this delicious Aronia Berry Smoothie! Brimming with anti-oxidants, the Aronia berry is a powerhouse for health. This smoothie tastes delightful and takes only a minute to whip up. Your body will love it! INGREDIENTS: *1 cup frozen Aronia berries from Berry Up!, *1 banana, *1 cup plain yogurt, *½ cup apple juice, *½ cup crushed ice, *½ cup soy milk or almond milk. INSTRUCTIONS: Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high for 1 minute. Enjoy!

Time for an Eye Exam

Many of us take our vision for granted. We assume that if we can see fine then we do not need an eye exam. Periodic eye and vision examinations performed by an optometrist are an important part of caring for your eyes, vision, and overall health. Many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms. Obvious signs that it is time for an eye exam include; difficulties seeing in the distance or up close, unexplained headaches or trouble reading at any distance. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye and vision problems can help prevent vision loss. Book an appointment today.

Tips to Avoid Heatstroke

With summer in full swing, it is important to know how to “Beat the Heat”. *Drink plenty of cool water even before you feel thirsty. *Use an air conditioner or fan to circulate air or go to an air-conditioned place for a few hours during hot days. *Wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing. *Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. *Avoid the sun and *Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. Be aware of these signs of heat stroke; *dizziness or fainting, *nausea or vomiting, *headache, *extreme thirst, *rapid breathing and heartbeat. If heat stroke is suspected, seek medical help immediately.

Keep Living Your Best Life

A good retirement residence is not just a convenient place to live, it’s an environment in which you can pursue your passions, thrive and continue living with purpose. It may be daunting to think about moving into a retirement home, but have you considered how your life might improve by making this change? Meet a new network of friends, build new relationships, and take part in activities you once enjoyed, or commit to learning something new! Leave the worrying behind when it comes to home maintenance, meal preparation and your own safety – and have us do it for you!

Father’s Day Gift – Wellness

Does your dad have a closet full of Father’s Day ties? This year, show him that you care about his wellness and give him socks – VoxxLife socks. They have wearable technology that works with the brain to reduce pain, increase strength and endurance and enhance stability and balance. Knee-high socks with mild compression are great when standing for a long time or excess sitting. For the active walkers or runners, chose moisture-wicking socks to keep the feet cool in summer. Socks are available for pick-up or delivery in Central Vancouver Island or order directly from the website.

Sports Betting Support

Sports bettors, who tend to be young men, are the most vulnerable to problematic behavior, according to the NCPG’s National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences. The survey reveals that sports bettors are three times more likely to exhibit problem gambling behavior than other types of gamblers.” (Quoted from onlinepoker.com) Given the popularity of sports betting across North America, and Canada’s soon-to-be new law allowing single event sports betting (Canada.ca DoJ), vulnerable sports bettors may find themselves in a position to engage in more impulsive betting behaviour. Contact us for more info on how we can help!

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