Spring is finally here, and that means seasonal allergies will be on the rise. Seasonal allergies develop when the immune system overreacts to something in the environment, like mold spores or pollen. For people struggling with seasonal allergies, this is a difficult time of the year. Luckily, in the past few years, pharmacists have been granted the ability to prescribe a number of over-the-counter and prescription products to minimize the severity of your symptoms. Talk to a pharmacist today to learn about non-drug, and prescription products to help combat your seasonal allergies. Spring is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t let allergies bring you down.
Community News
Natural Relief for Allergies
Combat histamine reactions naturally during allergy season by incorporating quercetin-rich foods like apples, onions, and berries into your diet. Quercetin acts as a natural antihistamine, alleviating symptoms such as sneezing and congestion. Additionally, consume omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to reduce overall allergic responses. Embrace local honey to build pollen tolerance, easing hay fever symptoms. Hydrate with herbal teas like chamomile or nettle, known for their anti-allergenic effects. These holistic approaches provide comprehensive defense against seasonal discomfort, fostering a healthier, allergy-resistant lifestyle. Natural health products like Natural D-Hist works great for additional support. Reach out to our integrative medicine pharmacists’ to discuss which product is right for you!
April Seniors’ Events at RDPL
Downtown Walk & Talk (every Tuesday at 12:15)
First Thursday Concert Series (first Thursday of each month)
Travel Memories (first Wednesday of each month)
Book Clubs (various dates/times)
Beginner Adult Yoga (online every Wednesday at 7 p.m.)
Gardening for Beginners (April 11)
Get Money Smart! Making Cent$ of Money: Budgeting 101 (online on April 16)
Meet & Mingle: 50+ (April 16)
Red Deer Cancer Connect (April 2 & 16)
Readers’ Theatre (April 18)
Sip n’ Stitch (April 18)
Crib, Cards, Coffee and Conversation (April 21)
Better at Home Services
Better at Home supports seniors by meeting their non-medical needs. By providing assistance with these simple, day-to-day tasks, Better at Home assures older adults continue to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. Services vary from community to community but may include the following:
• Friendly Visiting
• Transportation
• Light Housekeeping
• Grocery Shopping
To find out more about the services, please contact Elizabeth at 604-536-9348 Ext. 201.
The “I’m Still Me” Project
Our project titled “I’m Still Me” will focus on developing and implementing new attitudes and approaches to support people living with dementia, their families, and care partners by creating awareness, breaking down barriers, assuaging myths of Dementia and Dementia related stigma through education and conversation. The project consists of a series of in-person and online community events aimed at creating awareness about dementia, deconstructing mental models, reducing barriers, and fostering more dementia inclusive communities.
We will be hosting many in person events across B.C.
Chartwell Lynnwood Residence (9168 Corbould St. Chilliwack) Feb 7th
Chartwell Carlton Residence (4110 Norfolk Street Burnaby) Feb 12th
Chartwell Cedarbrooke Residence (32331 7th Ave. Mission) Feb 13th
Newton Senior Centre (13775 70 Ave, Surrey) Feb 21st
To register:
Phone: 604-531-9400 Ext. 216
Email: [email protected]
Local Health Spotlight
Heel to Toe Footcare provides specialized footcare services by nurses trained in addressing various foot conditions. Our treatments are personalized, covering callus and corn treatment, hammer toes, bunion padding, thick fungal nail reduction, dry cracked heel treatment, and ingrown nail maintenance. Utilizing the Onyfix nail correction system, we offer comprehensive solutions. For patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or vascular issues, thorough assessments and education are provided to promote ongoing self-care. Our experienced nurses adhere to best practice standards for safety. Welcoming individuals of all ages, we accept select healthcare plans covering footcare. Trust us for professional footcare, empowering you with knowledge for optimal foot health.
Music and Dementia
The effects of dementia are devastating to individuals and their families. Researchers are keen to find ways to ease its symptoms and restore abilities and memory. Studies on music and dementia have shown promising findings. Did you know that the area of the brain associated with musical memory tends to be least affected by dementia? Music therapy may help reduce cognitive decline while improving the memory of people with dementia. In one study, test subjects performed better on memory tests when they listened to music. It has also been found that the emotional content of music can bring back emotional memories.
Celebrate Ching Ming
As spring unfolds, it brings with it the Ching Ming festival, a revered time for honouring ancestors and reflecting on the cycle of life. This tradition, known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, connects us deeply with our cultural heritage, encouraging reverence and remembrance. At Bakerview Cemetery, we celebrate this connection by incorporating wellness activities, emphasizing the harmony between physical health and spiritual well-being. In the tranquil beauty of our grounds, we invite you to our Ching Ming Open House, a day dedicated to paying homage to those who have shaped us, through respect, remembrance, and wellness-oriented learning. Join us in this meaningful observance and community gathering.
Allergy Prevention Strategies
As spring brings pollen allergies, symptoms like runny noses and itchy eyes abound. For severe reactions, such as insect bites, avoiding allergens may be challenging. To pre-empt allergies, start antihistamines before exposure. Combining them with decongestants may boost effectiveness. Corticosteroid nasal sprays, alone or with antihistamines, offer relief but need regular use. Specific products like eye drops and nasal rinses target symptom relief and allergen reduction. Consult our pharmacists for personalized advice; they can now prescribe certain medications during minor ailment assessments, including for insect bites.
April Events:
If you are interested in any of the events, please call 604-531-9400 ext. 201
Coffee Club – April 3rd and 17th
Cloverdale Coffee – Apr 9th
Care Giver Support Groups – Every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm
Please Visit Online to see any upcoming events at [brellasociety.ca/online-events]
Caregiver Support Groups
We understand being a caregiver can be difficult, but we are here to help. Come together with caregivers on a similar journey to yours to share, listen, and learn. The Caregiver Support Group is beneficial to caregivers in all stages of their caregiving journey. This group focuses on providing education, support, camaraderie and relaxation. There are 2 sessions being offered on a bi-weekly basis on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 12:30 PM to 2 PM. For more information or to register contact our Care Coordinator, Nisa, at [email protected] or call 604-531-9400 ext. 219.
