Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. It develops gradually, beginning with mild forgetfulness and progressing to severe cognitive decline. More than half a million Canadians live with Alzheimer’s, and the number continues to rise as the population ages. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and lifestyle changes—like regular exercise, social engagement, and a healthy diet—can help slow progression and improve quality of life. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging; it’s a brain disorder caused by abnormal protein buildup. Awareness, compassion, and research are key to supporting those affected.
Community News
Are Your Dentures Loose?
Dentures often become loose because the ridge(gum) naturally shrinks over time after tooth loss. Without tooth roots to stimulate it, the bone gradually resorbs, changing the shape of the gums and reducing the denture’s original fit. Daily wear, weight changes, and normal aging can also play a role. When dentures loosen, they may slip, cause sore spots, or make chewing difficult. To fix this, a denturist can reline the denture to fit your current gum contours, adjust pressure points, or replace the denture entirely if tooth anatomy is worn out. Adhesives can offer temporary stability, but a professional evaluation gives the best long-term solution.
The Power of Flowers for Dementia
Flowers can offer meaningful benefits for people living with dementia. Their colors, shapes, and scents stimulate the senses, which can help evoke memories and improve mood. Engaging with flowers—whether arranging them, touching petals, or tending a small garden—supports cognitive activity and encourages gentle movement. Floral scents like lavender may promote relaxation, while bright blossoms can provide visual cues that reduce confusion in indoor spaces. Even simple exposure to nature, such as viewing blooming plants, can lower stress and enhance emotional well-being. While flowers cannot treat dementia, they can enrich daily life and create calming, joyful moments for those affected.
Winter Pet Safety
It’s important to practice diligence when bringing your pets outside as they can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite. Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at the most risk during extreme cold snaps. For this reason, short-haired dogs often feel more comfortable wearing a sweater—even during short walks. Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet’s feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth. Consider opting for booties to keep your dog’s paws extra warm and comfortable, all while protecting them from irritants.
Enjoying the Holidays with Hearing Loss
If you have a hearing loss, attending family gatherings with many people can be stressful. Here are three tips to ensure a sound-filled holiday season. 1. Spend time with family members one-on-one. 2. Try to sit next to someone who will be willing to keep you in on the conversation if you miss anything that has been said. 3. Book a check of your hearing aids before the holiday season starts to ensure they are working their best. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the laughter of your kids, grandkids, or family members as they open presents or sit around the table. Happy Holidays!
December Book Club
Lighter: Let Go of the Past, Connect With the Present, and Expand the Future. #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER: An empathetic and wise book that will guide you on a journey toward a deeper understanding of self. In Lighter, Yung Pueblo demonstrates how we can all move forward in our healing, from learning self-compassion to letting go to becoming emotionally mature.
Mindful Moments This Holiday
The holidays can be joyful, but they often bring stress, especially around family gatherings. Expectations, busy schedules, and emotional triggers can leave us feeling drained instead of delighted. Practicing mindfulness helps us stay grounded in the present moment. Take a few deep breaths before responding, listen with compassion, and release the need for perfection. Remember, it’s not about creating a flawless holiday, but about being fully present with those you love. Give yourself permission to slow down, find gratitude in small moments, and approach each interaction with kindness…for others and for yourself. That’s the true spirit of the season.
Finding Calm This Holiday Season
Reiki can be a calming and supportive practice for easing holiday anxiety. During the busy season, emotions often run high, and Reiki helps restore balance by promoting relaxation and grounding. Through gentle, hands-on or distance energy work, Reiki encourages the body’s natural ability to release tension and emotional stress. Many people report feeling lighter, more centered, and peaceful after a session. It can also enhance mindfulness, helping you stay present amid the chaos of gatherings, travel, and expectations. Whether received from a practitioner or practiced for self-care, Reiki offers a simple, nurturing way to reconnect with calm during the holidays.
The Power of saying NO!
The ability to say NO is an integral part of our wellness and self-care. Many of us have learned that saying no is “wrong” and worry it leads to criticism and people not liking us. When we feel compelled to say yes, even when it’s not in our best or highest interest out of duty, approval, niceness or fear of rejection, we dis-honor and rob ourselves of being fully authentic and begin building up resentments. When we dare to speak our truth and say NO we choose YES sincerely from an open heart and enthusiasm. People learn to trust exactly where they stand with you… both in your no’s and yes’s.
The Green Book of Life
Today we want green and healthy lifestyles and to be better stewards of our planet. We look for nutritious foods, relaxation techniques, and renewable products to accomplish this. Yet all of
this only addresses the physical aspects of life when in fact we are also spiritual beings. The “Grail Message” teaches us about the cosmic laws that not only govern nature but all of Creation and our place and responsibility as we journey through life. This “green” book reveals the true meaning of life and opens the door to true happiness and lasting inner peace.
Handling Holiday Stress
Whatever holiday you celebrate this season, even if you’re surrounded by family and friends, it can be stressful. Making sure that your body and mind can handle stress is the best gift that you can give yourself. One of the best ways to improve your overall health and stress-handling ability is through Bioenergetics. Bioenergetics uses computerized testing and treatment to effectively determine and treat any imbalance or weakness in the body that is preventing you from achieving both optimal stress management and improved health. This holiday season, make sure that stress isn’t an unwanted gift that you can’t give back.
