Community News
Raising Awareness About Dementia

This month, the SSNVI encourages all community members—especially seniors and those who care for them—to deepen their understanding of Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia, and the profound impact they have on individuals and families.
Seniors are at the heart of this conversation. Whether you’re living with dementia yourself or support someone who is, your experiences matter. While World Alzheimer’s Month is the month of September, the realities of living with dementia continue every day for many older Canadians. That’s why we encourage you to carry this awareness forward all year long.
Understanding what seniors living with forms of dementia face—their challenges, strengths, and daily experiences—helps break down stigma and builds a more compassionate and informed society. It also supports stronger advocacy for healthcare, policy change, and community support for aging populations.
Building awareness is the first step in honouring the dignity, rights, and lives of seniors living with dementia. Here are three things you can do this month;
1. Learn about the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s at alzeheimer.ca
2. Learn more about dementia and stigma. Miscommunication is the cause of stigma. Learn about communication, strategies, and safety at ilivewithdementia.ca
3. Share what you have learned with others. Talk to your friends and family about dementia and the stigma that is attached to the diagnosis.

Is Hair Loss Telling You Something?

If you’re struggling with hair thinning or loss, your body might be trying to tell you something deeper. Our Epigenetic Hair Analysis uses just a few strands of hair to assess over 800 influences across 7 key health categories. This includes food intolerances, vitamin and mineral imbalances, toxin and mold exposure, gut health, circulatory function, and more. You’ll receive a detailed 36-page report that helps uncover root causes, giving you a personalized path forward. Not sure what your hair needs? Let us help you find out—your hair might hold the answers.

Good Posture Can Prevent Pain & Injuries

Having good posture makes you look strong and healthy and it’s also a critical factor in preventing pain and injuries. For recreational activities like golf, skating, yoga or running, posture actually plays an important role in performance. Posture is critical in preventing workplace injuries that come from repetitive stress or sitting at a desk in front of a computer all day. Physiotherapists can help you discover how to improve your posture by demonstrating positions and stretches for when you start to feel the tension in your body. Make the move to see a physiotherapist!

Good Posture Can Prevent Pain & Injuries

Having good posture makes you look strong and healthy and it’s also a critical factor in preventing pain and injuries. For recreational activities like golf, skating, yoga or running, posture actually plays an important role in performance. Posture is critical in preventing workplace injuries that come from repetitive stress or sitting at a desk in front of a computer all day. Physiotherapists can help you discover how to improve your posture by demonstrating positions and stretches for when you start to feel the tension in your body. Make the move to see a physiotherapist!

Good Posture Can Prevent Pain & Injuries

Having good posture makes you look strong and healthy and it’s also a critical factor in preventing pain and injuries. For recreational activities like golf, skating, yoga or running, posture actually plays an important role in performance. Posture is critical in preventing workplace injuries that come from repetitive stress or sitting at a desk in front of a computer all day. Physiotherapists can help you discover how to improve your posture by demonstrating positions and stretches for when you start to feel the tension in your body. Make the move to see a physiotherapist!

Caregiver Support Groups

SSNVI hosts a monthly opportunity for caregivers to meet in a friendly, supportive environment where they can interact with, receive, and give support to other caregivers. Currently, these groups are held in Comox. Groups are held on the first Tuesday, and second Thursday of each month from 1-3, and the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 – 12:30. If you are interested or want to learn more about the groups please contact the office by email [email protected] or by phone at 250-871-5940.

Reflexology for a Stress-Free Fall

As the back-to-school season ramps up, both kids and parents can feel the stress—physically and mentally. Reflexology, a natural therapy that applies pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, can help restore balance and ease tension. By stimulating these reflex points, reflexology promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and supports better sleep—perfect for managing busy schedules and new routines. It can also help boost circulation and relieve muscle tension from hours of studying or commuting. Whether it’s for a student feeling overwhelmed or a parent juggling responsibilities, reflexology offers a gentle way to recharge and stay grounded this fall.

Access Bars: A Path to Presence

What if it’s time for something gentler and kinder—where you offer yourself the compassion you’ve always hoped for from others? When you choose to be that kindness for yourself, the world often responds in kind. Having your Access Bars run creates a deep connection between you and your body, inviting presence and consciousness without judgment. This awareness lets you receive everything, reject nothing, and unlock your potential to create a life beyond your current limits. If you can imagine it, you can begin creating it today by experiencing an Access Bars session.

Infrared Sauna Benefits for Arthritis

For those unable to engage in strenuous exercise due to asthma, arthritis, or other health concerns, the far infrared sauna at Fit 4 Life offers an excellent alternative. Far infrared heat increases heart rate, boosts circulation, and encourages sweating—mimicking many benefits of traditional exercise. Regular sessions can support cardiovascular fitness, lower cholesterol, reduce joint stiffness, swelling, and inflammation, and even keep metabolism elevated after you leave the sauna. Beyond the physical perks, it’s a soothing, rejuvenating experience. Step into the warmth, relax, and let your body absorb the natural health benefits of far infrared therapy at Fit 4 Life.