Community News
Healthy Home, Happy Home

Now more than ever it’s important to maintain a clean and healthy home. The good news is that you don’t have to rely on bleach and harsh chemicals to kill germs, viruses, and bacteria! Using purpose-built products can effectively disinfect your home the safe and proper way. It’s also important to remember to follow proper personal hygiene protocols like washing your hands thoroughly and often, and avoiding touching your face. With Movember in full swing this month, another great cleaning tip is to use a paper towel to line your sink before you groom your moustache to keep things tidy!

Improve Your Focus & Concentration Naturally

Very often the brain and nervous system become fatigued and overloaded. Much like a computer receiving too much data all at once, the brain can become overwhelmed, slow down, or even crash. This can result in an inability to focus, brain fog, memory loss, ADD/ADHS-like symptoms, a “wired” feeling, or the inability to cope with daily life. Alternative approaches such as Biofeedback testing and treatment are highly effective in improving focus and concentration. It detects imbalances, or weaknesses, in the stress-handling areas of the body, and in turn, stimulates the affected areas to help the mind and body better function in times of overload, overwhelm, and fatigue.

A Slimmer You

Have you struggled with weight problems for a long time? Have you tried a number of diets that ultimately have not worked? Local author Larry Gompf has written a book called A Slimmer You, wherein he describes his personal journey for losing weight in the most natural way. Without fad diets, without supplements while staying fit without being tied to a gym. Although the book targets seniors, the information applies to anyone who might be looking for a guide to natural weight loss. For more information, purchase a book, book a presentation; contact Local Meats at 204-255-2172 or Larry 204-284-1633. Leave a message if we aren’t in. We’ll get back to you.

Over 65? Assess Your Risk

Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is crucial in assessing the risk of developing osteoporosis or fractures. Women and men over 65 and those with risk factors for fracture should get a BMD test. Combining BMD tests with clinical risk factors can determine fracture risk and inform treatment decisions. Protect your ability to live your best life with Echolight™, the new ultrasound bone density measurement scanner that takes 15 minutes to do. First time in Manitoba. You have the option of either having the scan in our office or in the comfort of your home since we have a portable one. Echolight™ is radiation-free, safe, accurate as well as Health Canada and FDA approved.

Physical Activity for Depression & Anxiety

Physical activity should be considered as a first-line treatment for depression and anxiety, according to a scientific review that analysed more than 95 scientific reviews involving 128,000 participants. The study found that physical activity was more effective than counselling or medication in some cases, and provided positive impacts across all studies. Shorter exercise interventions of 12 weeks or less were found to be the most effective in reducing mental health symptoms. The research highlights the need for exercise to be prioritised as a mainstay approach for managing depression and anxiety, particularly as it can make a positive change to mental health quickly. Study found in The British Journal of Sports Medicine – https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2023/03/02/bjsports-2022-106195

Over 65? Assess Your Risk

Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is crucial in assessing the risk of developing osteoporosis or fractures. Women and men over 65 and those with risk factors for fracture should get a BMD test. Combining BMD tests with clinical risk factors can determine fracture risk and inform treatment decisions. Protect your ability to live your best life with Echolight™, the new ultrasound bone density measurement scanner that takes 15 minutes to do. First time in Manitoba. You have the option of either having the scan in our office or in the comfort of your home since we have a portable one. Echolight™ is radiation-free, safe, accurate as well as Health Canada and FDA approved.

Weight Training is Important

Weight training becomes increasingly important as we age for several reasons: *Muscle mass naturally declines as we age which can lead to decreased mobility, strength and overall health. Weight training can help to slow this decline by maintaining and building muscle mass. *Weight training can improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. * Weight training can improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. It’s never too late to start weight training. With proper guidance and a well-designed program, weight training can be safe and effective for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

Reduce the Risk of Skin Cancer

Between 40% and 50% of Canadians over age 65 will have skin cancer at least once! With warmer days ahead of us, it’s important to practice sun safety when it comes to protecting our skin and enjoying the long summer days. Here are a few precautions: *Avoid the hottest time of the day. *Seek shade. *Wear protective clothing. *Use sunblock and re-applied every two hours and after water activities. *Know the signs of skin cancer – Seniors should ask their doctor to conduct an annual skin cancer assessment. Early detection is critical for treating skin cancer quickly and effectively.

Residence Options for Seniors

When the responsibility and cost of home ownership become overwhelming, it may be a good time to sell the family home. Today’s seniors have the option to live in beautiful surroundings where their independence is respected but assistance is available if required. The best time to start looking for options is before you have to do so. Retirement communities are great places for retirees to make new friends, have new experiences and make wonderful memories. We should all strive every day to learn something new or meet someone new – it’s what keeps us young at heart!

Senior Health Precautions

We’ve all been inundated with reminders to get vaccinated for COVID-19 over the past few years, but don’t forget your other vaccinations! All seniors are strongly encouraged to keep up with their seasonal influenza vaccinations. It is also important to get a Tdap vaccine to protect against Whooping Cough (if you did not receive one as a child). Finally, vaccinations against shingles and pneumococcal conjugate (pneumonia) are recommended for those over 65 years of age. Always talk to your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated to ensure the right course of action for your individual health needs.

Celebration of Collective Caring

This year, SOS is celebrating 55 years of caring for residents in District 69. As a way of honouring our past and looking forward to the future, we are holding a Legacy Concert. Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Raymond James Qualicum Beach Branch, the concert will feature renowned Canadian actor, musician, activist and Companion of the Order of Canada, Tom Jackson. It will take place Wednesday, June 28 from 7 pm – 8:30 pm at the amazing in-house theatre of our Host Partner – Berwick Parksville Retirement Community. To learn more about this celebration and to purchase tickets, visit our website or contact us.