Community News
November Events

Fit 55+ Online Fitness Class– November 4, 11, 18, 25
Virtual Caregiver Support Group – November 9 & 23 from 1:30 – 3 PM
Tuesday In-Person Caregiver Support Group – November 9 & 23 from 12:30 – 2 PM
Thursday In-Person Caregiver Support Group – November 1, 15, 29 from 12:30 – 2 PM
Please Visit Online to see any upcoming events at [brellasociety.ca/online-events]

Start Changing Lives Now

We are meeting a need in the community, and we can’t do it without you. Please give generously and make a difference in the quality of life for our seniors. Your donation will go a long way to continue providing just the right programs and services and help people reconnect with the community in a safe way. Every $100 donated provides an hour of services to three older adults and caregivers.
Ways to donate:
Online: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/36058/donation
Mail: 15008 26 Ave. Surrey, B.C. V4P 3H5
By Phone: 604-531-2502 Ext. 209

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 seniors 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.

Fresh and Lively

Our Meal Programs across Surrey and White Rock offer older adults community lunches where they can enjoy a hot nutritious meal in a group setting. The Meal Program provides the opportunity for seniors to meet new friends and to engage in socialization. Over 3,000 meals served each year and countless friendships made. Come join us for some great food, excellent entertainment, and an opportunity to meet new people! If you would like to learn more about our Community Lunches or would like to register, contact 604-531-9400 x. 201 or Email: Elizabeth Sundvall [email protected]

Social Prescribing

Social prescribing is a way for local agencies to refer people to a Seniors Community Connector. Seniors Community Connectors give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me’ and taking a holistic approach to people’s health and wellbeing. They connect people to community resources and services for practical and emotional support. Your Community Connector will work with you to develop wellness goals and will provide ongoing support that meets your individual needs and enables you to achieve your goals. Your Community Connector can support you to gain information, advice, guidance, support, as well as assisting you to access a range of services that meet your needs. For more information, contact our Seniors Community Connector, Janice, at [email protected] or call 604-531-9400 ext. 204.

Join Today!

Brella Society allows individuals to stay engaged in the community even if it is from the comfort of their own home. We offer programs that stimulate individual’s cognition, provide emotional support, food security and have them engaged in physical activities. Our priority is the well-being of the seniors in our community; therefore, we take initiative in advocating for them and assisting them in navigating support.

Ask The Expert

Q: My daughter gets eye infections all the time with her contact lenses. How can we prevent this? A: She should get herself assessed for this and consider wearing her glasses more often. The risk of infection goes down with: reducing wearing time; replacing the contact lenses more often; keeping the hands clean, and using more effective cleaning solutions and more breathable contact lenses.

Sleep Changes & The Elderly

Seniors who wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning, usually have a harder time falling asleep, and spend less time in deep, dreamless sleep. Some measures to help you sleep better include: 1) Eat a light bedtime snack. 2) Avoid caffeine for at least 3 or 4 hours before bed. 3) Avoid napping during the day. 4) Exercise regularly, but not within 3 hours of bedtime. 5) Practice relaxation techniques at bedtime. 6) Don’t watch TV or use devices while in bed. 7) Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

As Winter Comes

Most everyone on the West Coast knows, November brings with it more rain and overcast skies. Many people experience an effect on their mood during this time, which can certainly make things more difficult. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a known phenomenon, where the winter weather affects moods and outlook on life. A couple strategies to help overcome these “winter blues” is to continue with those all-important self-care strategies of enjoyable activities, and the regular use of a full-spectrum light of some sort throughout your day! Fight back against the dreary with light!

Are You Prepared for Flu Season?

Your pharmacist is the best person to help you be prepared for flu season. Here are three reasons to discuss the flu with your pharmacist. 1)They can answer all your questions about the flu shot and administer it in the pharmacy. 2)They know the flu virus can hit hard and they are equipped with the advice you need to feel better as soon as possible. 3)They can recommend over-the-counter remedies for your symptoms and ensure they don’t interact with your other medications. Book your flu shot today!

Caregiver Support Groups

Brella is excited to welcome back our in-person 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.