As 2024 begins, our focus turns to winter wellness for our loved ones. Home care becomes a beacon of warmth and support, ensuring seniors navigate the colder months with comfort and safety. From expertly conducted home safety checks to wardrobe assistance for chilly days, our caregivers bring tailored care to the doorstep. As the cold weather sets in, home care becomes more than practical assistance; it’s a commitment to preserving independence and fostering a cozy, secure environment. Embrace the season with peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones are in caring and capable hands.
Community News
Meet Your Practitioner
Are you struggling with mental health issues, digestion, immunity disorders or other chronic diseases? Find natural treatment solutions with naturopathic medicine today. Dr. Terri Bugg, ND of Alkimiya Wellness, is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a general family practice and clinical focus in mental health, digestion and immunity. Dr. Bugg is deeply committed to sharing the healing power of nature and her goal is to bring you back to a state of harmony and balance. Dr. Bugg uses natural, non-toxic treatments such as homeopathy, herbal medicine, supplements, nutrition, acupuncture and lifestyle counselling to help you achieve vibrant optimal well-being in mind, body and spirit.
Book Club: Mind Over Mood
Change how you feel by changing the way you think. By Dennis Greenberger, Christine A. Padesky. Discover simple yet powerful steps you can take to overcome emotional distress–and feel happier, calmer, and more confident. This life-changing book has already helped so many use cognitive-behavioral therapy–one of today’s most effective forms of psychotherapy–to conquer depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, eating disorders, substance abuse, and relationship problems.
Book Club: Forever Strong
A New, Science-based Strategy for Aging Well by Gabrielle Lyon. Learn how to reboot your metabolism, build strength, and extend your life with this accessible new guidebook that demonstrates the importance of muscle for health and longevity from the founder of the Institute for Muscle-Centric Medicine. Pick up at your local bookstore.
Clean Eating Recipe: 4 Ingredient Bagels
1 cup spelt flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 3/4 tsp salt; 1 cup 0% Fat Greek yogurt; 1 egg, beaten. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Add Greek yogurt and mix. Combine and form a dough ball. Lightly sprinkle a clean surface and knead your dough about 15 turns. Divide the dough ball into 4 equal parts and roll each ball out on a clean surface to form a rope about 3/4 inch thick. Join the ends together to form your bagel and repeat with the rest of the balls. Brush each bagel with egg wash and sprinkle with seasoning. Bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy!
Clean Eating Recipe
4 Ingredient Bagels: 1 cup spelt flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 3/4 tsp salt; 1 cup 0% Fat Greek yogurt; 1 egg, beaten. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Add Greek yogurt and mix. Combine and form a dough ball. Lightly sprinkle a clean surface and knead your dough about 15 turns. Divide the dough ball into 4 equal parts and roll each ball out on a clean surface to form a rope about 3/4 inch thick. Join the ends together to form your bagel and repeat with the rest of the balls. Brush each bagel with egg wash and sprinkle with seasoning. Bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy!
Making New Holiday Traditions
The first holiday season after a move to a senior community can sometimes be stressful and difficult for your senior loved one. Creating new traditions can help with the transition and make the holiday season less stressful for everyone. Although your family holiday events may have been held at your senior loved one’s home in the past, holding gatherings at another family member’s home going forward can make things easier. Have your senior loved one help with one or two tasks that keep them involved without overwhelming them, and take advantage of the many fun holiday events this season!
Christmas at the Filberg
Enjoy Christmas at the Filberg in Comox between November 25 and December 31, enjoy the stunning light display. The Park will be open daily until 9 p.m.
Holiday Office Hours
Comox Valley Senior Support will be open, at reduced hours and with reduced staffing, between December 22 and January 2, inclusive. Please phone ahead to ensure there is someone who can assist you!
Holiday Spirit
The holidays can be a time of fun and togetherness, but for others, this time of the year can be a time filled with loneliness and isolation. Over the holidays (and all year), think about ways you can give back to others in your community. This can be as simple as saying hello, helping to shovel a sidewalk or driveway, or checking in on anyone you know that lives alone to make sure they are doing ok. Little things can go a long way to help others feel included and seen over the holidays.
Take Care of Yourself Over the Holidays
Mental health around the holidays can be challenging for many people. It’s important to acknowledge that while the holidays can be a joyful and festive time, they can also be stressful and emotionally taxing. Here are some common issues related to mental health during the holiday season and tips for managing them:
Increased Stress: Holiday preparations, shopping, decorating, and cooking can add extra stress to an already busy schedule. Managing expectations and setting realistic goals can help reduce stress.
Financial Pressure: The pressure to buy gifts and host gatherings can strain finances. Creating a budget and sticking to it can help alleviate financial stress. Or, instead of buying gifts why not make something or host a dinner or get together. Time together is one of the best gifts you can give your friends and family.
Loneliness and Isolation: For those who are alone during the holidays or have lost loved ones, this time can be particularly difficult. It’s essential to reach out to friends and family for support and consider volunteering or attending holiday events to combat loneliness.
Family Dynamics: Family gatherings can be challenging, especially when there are unresolved conflicts or strained relationships. Setting boundaries and having a plan for managing difficult interactions can be helpful.
Unrealistic Expectations: The media often portrays a picture-perfect holiday, which can create unrealistic expectations. Remember that it’s okay if your holiday doesn’t match the ideal; focus on creating meaningful moments.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Some people experience seasonal depression during the winter months. Exposure to natural light, regular exercise, and talking to a mental health professional can be beneficial.
Overindulgence: The abundance of food and alcohol during the holidays can lead to overindulgence, which can negatively affect both physical and mental health. Moderation is key.
Seeking Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health during the holidays, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.
Remember that it’s okay to acknowledge your feelings and seek support if you need it. The holidays can be a mix of emotions, and it’s important to prioritize your mental well-being. Additionally, reaching out to friends and family, being mindful of your own limits, and practicing gratitude can help you navigate the holiday season in a healthier way.
