Community News
TAPS (Technology Access Program for Seniors)

Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. is currently working with students (high school and university) and other community volunteers providing “hands-on” technology training at our centre and at six (6) other seniors facilities within the community. For more information on upcoming workshops, we suggest following our Facebook page or by emailing us at [email protected] or (204) 571-2050.

Join the Club

Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. is a wonderful place to meet people, learn new skills and have fun! Everyone is invited to get involved in: yoga, line dancing, exercise group, foot care, Men’s Club, Stitch N Chat, bridge, cribbage, technology training. Some benefits of becoming an annual member include reduced rates for activities and a voice in the organization.

Look for Local at Sobeys

The Healthy Nut Protein Energy Bars are made in Winnipeg by a mother-daughter team committed to offering healthier alternatives to promote better lifestyle choices. The high-protein, low-sugar/carbs energy bars come in seven delicious flavours made with all-natural ingredients like peanut butter, almond butter, and antioxidant-rich green tea, with no additives or preservatives. The bars provide great energy for breakfast, on the go, or for a pick-up before a workout. For every bar purchased, proceeds go towards funding for cancer research. Look for Manitoba-made The Healthy Nut Protein Energy Bars the next time you do your grocery shopping at Sobeys.

Alzheimer’s Support Groups

Being diagnosed with dementia raises uncertainty, fears and unknowns. The Alzheimer Society is a place to turn for a community of services, support and experts that can help ease some of these concerns. One way to feel connected is through our support groups for both for people living with dementia and for their care partners. It’s a great way to connect, interact with and learn from others in a safe environment. With our wide variety of groups, now offered virtually and in-person, you can share, laugh and help others who are on similar journeys as you. Learn more about our support groups at Alzheimer.mb.ca.

The Heart of Giving

Did you know there are numerous ways to donate to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation? They include: 1) Through hosting a fundraiser. 2) To give thanks for care received. 3) To acknowledge someone special. 4) To celebrate a special event. 5) To honour the memory of a loved one. 6) Through corporate philanthropy. 7) Through planned giving in your estate/will. All donations made to the Foundation are used to purchase equipment and support programming at the hospital, making a real difference in the community. For more information or to make a donation, visit our website at brhcfoundation.ca.

Superbowl

In 2022, several internet sources reported that Super Bowl LVI was THE largest sports betting sporting event in North America, including an increased percentage of prop bets ( x > 60%-70%). The Lombardi Line talk show reported a record handle at $179M+ (Las Vegas oddsmakers). The days of simply predicting a win/loss, quarter points or basic point spread are far behind us. Micro-betting, early cash outs, prop bets and other in-game betting features have heightened the gambling experience, mirroring slot machines in their neuro-chemical impact on the brain. How much betting will this year’s Super Bowl draw in?

Fall Prevention

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Here are some tips for fall prevention: *Keep moving – activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi can reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. *Wear sensible shoes – properly fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with nonskid soles help with balance and stability. *Make an appointment with your health care provider or pharmacist – they may want to talk about your medications and health conditions if you’ve had falls previously. Preventing falls reduces injuries and may help you stay in your home longer.

Keep Learning and Stay Active

People who reside in our independent living community don’t think of themselves as old folks. Residents are artists, writers, photographers and learners, exploring and discovering new things every day. Aging is inevitable; growing old is a choice. Janet Lancey wrote about the label old. In Janet’s words, “Age is not a number, and it has nothing to do with appearance or status. It is, indeed, how you choose to lead your life”. Janet emphasized the importance of grasping opportunities to keep growing, learning, and helping others gain better lives. Residents are encouraged to participate in an array of activities.

Celebrate Important Relationships

As February arrives, people are reminded of the importance of spending time with family and the importance of relationships in their lives. Valentine’s Day brings up mixed emotions for many, with some looking to celebrate it, while others, for various reasons, try to avoid it. If we look at Valentine’s Day as we used to when we were children, we can see the day as a way to celebrate the important relationships we do have, regardless of type, and connect with all of them to let them know we are thinking about them.”

Benefits of Therapeutic Recreation

At the core of therapeutic recreation is the idea that recreation and leisure are integral to the quality of life. This is especially important for seniors who may be at increased risk of isolation and loneliness which can have a detrimental effect on their physical and mental health. The recreation programming at Seniors Communities offers many benefits for the emotional and spiritual realms of life, including *Decreasing symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. *Fostering positive experiences. *Improving self-confidence. *Increasing sense of belonging. *Decreasing loneliness, boredom and expressive behaviours.