Looking for LOCAL Health and Wellness information? The Wellness HUB is the One-Stop, Online Resource for products and services available in our local communities. Shopping local strengthens our communities by keeping money close to home and providing employment. The Wellness HUB enables people in Central Vancouver Island to easily find and support local businesses, read health tips and be informed of what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralIslandWellnessHUB.ca.
Community News
What is an Adult Day Program?
Stepping Stones Adult Day Program uses therapeutic recreation to improve physical, cognitive, social and emotional well being to enhance the fullness of life. We focus on using skills for everyday living; making a difference across the entire lifespan. Memory loss from an acquired brain injury, stroke or other dementia-related conditions have a high likelihood of slowing progress with intellectual and social stimulation. We provide a safe, secure space to spend two or more hours in meaningful interaction improving mental and physical health delaying cognitive decline. For caregivers, we are an enhanced respite service with therapeutic staff on site, freeing your time for your own self care.
Gambling Outreach Support
If you are looking for support but not seeking counselling, our Gambling Outreach Support team provides confidential and personalised one-to-one support to anyone concerned about their own or a loved-one’s gambling. Gambling Outreach Support is offered in every community across BC, providing information, support, referrals, and accompaniment to resources, including peer support organizations such as 12 Step groups or Smart Recovery and online self-help resources. Other support includes community support organizations such as bankruptcy trustees, legal services, housing services, community mental health services and debt management services. Our services are FREE and available by phone, text, web chat, or in person.
Phototoxic Reactions from Medications
Phototoxic reactions are dose-related sunburn-like reactions that can occur with sufficient light exposure and a high enough dose of medication. Radiation in the UVA range causes most drug-related phototoxic reactions. Sunscreen can help protect skin but does not completely prevent skin damage from sunlight. Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply 15–30 minutes later. To get the full effect of the sun protection factor (SPF), sunscreen must be applied correctly and in the correct quantity; approximately 30 mL to cover the entire body. Speak to your pharmacist to find out if your medications can cause Phototoxic reactions.
Are Rechargeable Hearing Aids Right for You?
Tiny silver batteries are the unsung heroes behind hearing aids. As technology has advanced, they are set to become a thing of the past. Rechargeable hearing aid technology is changing the game as they are convenient, easy to use and environmentally friendly. Popular among consumers for their comfort, versatility and ease of use, the hearing aids are simply placed into their own recharging unit at bedtime. Visit one of our hearing clinics and talk with a qualified hearing healthcare professional about rechargeable hearing aids to determine if they are right for you.
Your LOCAL Wellness Resource
Today, more than ever, people are searching on line for local resources. Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® is proud to present a One-Stop, Online Resource where our community can find local wellness information. Our Wellness Hub enables people in central Vancouver Island to easily find and support local businesses, read health tips and find out what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralIslandWellnessnews.ca.
Restless Legs?
Are your legs keeping you up at night? HealthLink BC identifies Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) as a disorder related to sensation and movement. The symptoms, often most severe at night, are unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs that cause an irresistible urge to move them. Moving the legs only relieves the discomfort temporarily. If symptoms are mild, a few lifestyle changes may be enough to control them. *Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine *Keep the bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable *Get regular exercise *Massage the leg or use heat or ice packs. Some people find relief wearing socks with woven HPT technology.
Ingredients Matter
Many of us rely on skincare products to help us look our best. Unfortunately, many contain toxic ingredients that should not be put on our skin. These toxins can trigger or exacerbate an array of problems including allergies, hormone disruption and even act as irritants or carcinogens. Palm oil is a common ingredient in skincare products because it is inexpensive. Scientific studies have shown a link to dementia. Don’t be fooled by terms such as “natural”, “pure” or “hypo-allergenic”. Examine the ingredients and look for words that you can read and understand. Look for brands that are truly transparent.
Therapeutic Exercise
Researchers are finding that exercise is important in reducing the body’s anxiety levels by promoting new brain cell development. The brain adapts to the events it encounters by shifting its resources to meet changing conditions. For example, a blind person’s sense of hearing is remarkably keen. Music and water make a great combination as together, they produce more new brain cells and reduce anxiety levels. Veterans who do kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking and mountain climbing are able to alleviate their symptoms of PTSD. When someone is free of emotional restraint, the possibility of a rich, full life can evolve.
COVID-19: Impact on Gambling
COVID-19 has impacted everyone’s life, including people who gamble. Although in-person gambling venues such as casinos and bingo halls are closed, online gambling remains available 24/7, not only on the sanctioned BCLC site, but also internationally. Concerns about increased time and money spent online gambling have been top of mind in the helping community here at the BC Responsible and Problem Gambling Program. Our FREE services continue, including virtual options (telephone and videoconferencing) for counselling, outreach support as well as prevention and education. The Gambling Support Line (1-888-795-6111) remains available 24/7. Any other inquiries can be made at [email protected].
Fall Prevention Tips
Falls in the home are all too common and making a few modifications in the home can prevent dangerous situations, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Visit each room in your home. Then look at the space objectively and ask: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a falls risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.
