Community News
A Heart-Healthy Approach

A Heart-Healthy Approach
Editorial
Feeling fine doesn’t necessarily equate to optimal health. Many underlying issues, like heart disease, or can develop silently over years. Shockingly, 60% of cardiovascular cases reveal symptoms only during a heart attack, stroke, or worse. Despite feeling well, potential spinal or nervous system issues may exist. The nervous system governs bodily functions, emphasizing its crucial role in overall health. A chiropractic assessment, even when feeling fine, can detect subluxations or disruptions in brain-body connectivity. Proactive treatment ensures proper functionality and prevention, addressing potential concerns that may not be apparent in day-to-day feelings of wellness.

Words to Live By

“You should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day – unless you’re too busy; then you should sit and meditate for an hour.” Zen Proverb

Words To Live By

“Love is letting go of fear. Where there is love there is no fear, attachment, judgement or jealousy.” – Keith Macpherson

Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk with Exercise

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys brain cells, causing thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging and is irreversible. While it’s difficult to predict symptoms, the order in which they will appear or the speed of their progression, there are some warning signs you can look out for. Sudden changes to your loved one’s personality are often another sign that something is not right. These changes can include anxiety, paranoia, depression, and socially inappropriate behaviors, as well as sudden mood swings and physical aggression.

Clean Eating Recipe

Protein Oatmeal Cookies: 2 c oats; 1 c vanilla protein powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup stevia; 1/2 c + 2 tbsp melted butter; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups oats, 1 cup protein powder, 1 tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ cup stevia. Mix well. Next, add in ½ cup + 2 tbsp of melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla. Roll into 12 equal-sized balls and press flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Enjoy!

NavCARE Dementia Navigator

Become a trained community member who builds trust and provides support to people living with dementia and their families. You Will:
• Build trust with people living with dementia
• Listen with compassion to understand needs
• Connect them to resources and social activities
• Support decision-making and independence
• Help reduce loneliness and isolation
Comprehensive Training: Online modules (4-6 hours), periodic training and peer meetups
Flexible Schedule: 1.5-2 hrs. every 2-3 weeks
Ready to Get Involved? Call Us: 604-531-9400 ext. 203 or Email Us: [email protected]

Day Program

Are you or your loved one struggling to thrive? Would you or your loved one like to maintain or improve your physical and cognitive functioning? Are you a caregiver who could use a few hours of respite during the week? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could be a perfect candidate to access Brella’s Adult Day Program!

People who participate in our Adult Day Program report:
• Enhanced cognitive and physical functioning
• Feeling more connected and less lonely
• Enjoy warm lunch and snacks provided
• Look forward to coming back and participating in activities

Find out how to access our Adult Day Program and we can help find the location nearest to you
Angela Nial at 604-599-0034 ext. 302 or email [email protected]

January Trivia

1) True or False? Cold weather makes you sick.
2) What was invented first, the wheel or the ski?
3) How many sides does a snowflake have?

Trivia Answers

1) False: While cold weather doesn’t cause illness directly, spending more time indoors in close contact to others can increase your risk of exposure to viruses and bacteria.
2) The ski was invented before the wheel, 22,000 years ago.
3) All snowflakes have 6 sides.