Community News
Daily Parenting

Do you ever wonder if there is a better way to handle those daily parenting problems? You can become more successful at parenting! Parenting from the Heart is delivered over a week-end by qualified social workers/mental health counsellors.
This program offers effective ways to use non-violent discipline techniques, improve communication with your children, stimulate independence and encourage your children to be their very best. The purpose of this program is to show parents how to develop courage, self-esteem, responsibility, co-operation and respect in their children and to explain positive discipline and communication techniques.
For upcoming programs, check our website at [email protected]

Cremation or Burial?

Should you choose cremation or burial? To make the right decision, the first step is to understand each option. Cremation uses heat and evaporation, ultimately reducing the body to what is referred to as cremated remains. A casket or container is still required for cremation. Burial is the act of placing the deceased into a casket which is lowered into a grave and covered with earth, or entombed. Other factors to consider include: personal choice, memorialization options, cost, religion or tradition, and spouse’s wishes. With either option, a visitation, funeral and reception give the chance to say goodbye. There are many options to make the final ceremonies as special as the person being celebrated.

Philosophy of a Treatment Centre

Our youth treatment center is rooted in holistic, individualized care, emphasizing empowerment, trauma-informed approaches, and family involvement. Seeking to equip young individuals with life skills, promote positive youth development, incorporate evidence-based practices while respecting cultural diversity. Treatment centers offer nonjudgmental and compassionate approach while fostering a safe, supportive environment for youth facing various challenges. Education and skill-building are priorities, and a continuum of care may extend beyond treatment. Ultimately, the philosophy centers on helping young individuals overcome obstacles and develop into resilient, self-confident individuals, ready to reintegrate into their communities. At Valley Hill “Every youth deserves a second opportunity”.

Conditions Affected by Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is connected to many other health conditions of the body. While hearing loss may not be the cause of these diseases or conditions, it is considered a risk factor for many. One risk factor is tinnitus, which refers to the sensation of perceiving sounds that have no external source—in other words, hearing sounds that are not there. Hearing aids can help reduce tinnitus with specialized programs that are set up by an Audiologist who specializes in tinnitus treatments. Another risk factor is dementia and cognitive decline. By treating hearing loss with hearing aids, it can help ward off cognitive decline and dementia.

Role of a Funeral Director

Funeral Directors play a critical role in ensuring the final wishes of the deceased and needs of their grieving families are met with sensitivity and professionalism. They handle administrative and logistical aspects, aside from the obvious funeral and burial arrangements. They are the backbone behind the scenes so the family can focus on honoring and remembering their loved one. There is paperwork the family may not be aware of, to be submitted, and/or guidelines within the deceased’s religious/non-religious/cultural beliefs, this is where the Funeral Director alleviates stress so the family can grieve and lay their loved one to rest and spend time with their family members.

Benefits of Elder Centered Community

The three main things plaguing todays elderly are: loneliness, helplessness, and boredom. An Elder-centered community commits to creating a human habitat where life revolves around close and continuing contact with plants, animals, and children. It is these relationships that provide the young and old alike with a pathway to a life worth living. This community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care, imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity interactions and happenings that can take place. An Elder-centered community is a never-ending process. Human growth must never be separated from human life.

Health Benefits of a Facial

Facials offer several health benefits for facial skin. They cleanse and exfoliate, removing impurities and dead skin cells, promoting clearer, smoother skin. Hydration through masks and serums maintains a healthy skin barrier, while anti-aging treatments target fine lines and wrinkles. For acne-prone skin, facials unclog pores and reduce breakouts. The relaxation they provide can alleviate stress, indirectly benefiting the skin. Facial massage improves blood circulation and can even out skin tone by reducing dark spots and redness. Some facials include detoxifying elements, while others are customized to specific skin types and concerns. Regular discussions with a skincare professional are essential to determine the right facial routine.

Cracks at the Corner of Your Mouth?

Angular cheilitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, redness and cracking at the corners of the mouth. It can be caused by wearing old dentures that have lost their proper height. Loss of denture height leads to overclosure of the mouth, which can cause the buildup of moisture and saliva at the corners of the mouth. Factors like saliva accumulation, poorly fitted dentures or excessive lip licking can create a moist environment that contributes to this condition. To prevent angular cheilitis, it is essential to have well-designed dentures and maintain diligent oral hygiene to minimize discomfort. Checking for proper denture height can be a quick, 5-minute appointment.

Suicide Prevention – Where to Begin?

Navigating the struggle of suicide prevention involves seeking support from friends, family, and professionals. Finding helpful tools such as the Embracing Life App (Scan the QR code in our Ad) or finding other immediate assistance sources are key to prevention, along with therapy which provides coping strategies, and staying connected to help combat isolation. Educate yourself about warning signs, whether it be for yourself, a loved one, a child in need, create a safety plan, encourage professional help. Remember, you are NOT alone—reach out. Prioritize safety, seek help, and work towards a healthier, more hopeful tomorrow.. Embrace life!

Aronia Berries are Powerful Antioxidants

Today more than ever, a healthy immune system is important. According to Healthline, Aronia berries may strengthen the immune system and even counteract some infections. Aronia –grown in BC – contains powerful antioxidants that remove harmful free oxygen radicals from cells. In the spectrum of nutrition, berries rank near the top, and among berries, none are more nutritious than the Aronia berry. Research shows that in diabetics, Aronia berry juice, when taken regularly, reduced blood glucose. Aronia extracts have also reduced inflammation and improved immunity. In hard-to-treat cancers, combining Aronia with chemotherapy improved the effectiveness of conventional drugs.

Gambling Awareness and Education

Gambling has become progressively more complex with the growth of online gambling products worldwide, including sports betting apps, websites, as well as a variety of in-person and lottery products. Vancouver Island Gaming Support (VIGS) helps navigate this emerging landscape. VIGS contracts with Gambling Support BC (GSBC) to offer education and awareness workshops to anyone in the community interested in learning more about gambling-related topics. Topics include seniors and casinos, young adults and sports betting, affected families and friends, brain chemistry and behavioural addictions and more. We also provide outreach support and counselling services at no charge. We are here to help.