Summer is here, bringing the heat! Stay safe by preventing these heat-related issues: 1) Dehydration – drink more water and electrolytes to avoid weakness, headache, and fainting. 2) Heat stroke – cool down with shade/AC and water, seek medical help for body temperatures of 40°C or higher, fast pulse, and hot, dry skin. 3) Heat exhaustion – rest in shade/AC and drink fluids to counteract heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea. 4) Heat syncope – lie down with feet up and drink water if you faint due to high temperatures. Senior residences offer air-conditioned spaces, safe outdoor areas, and social activities, enhancing comfort and well-being.
Community News
Stay Healthy While Travelling
Long-distance travel, either by air or land, can lead to a small risk of blood clots. If you have cancer, had recent surgery, have abnormal blood clotting disorders, or are obese, you should be assessed by a healthcare practitioner before travelling. Tips to prevent blood clots during flights that every traveller can benefit from include: *maintain adequate hydration as it also encourages mobilization; *contract the calf muscles regularly or get up every 1-2 hours; *wear below-knee graduated Sigvaris compression stockings; and *choose an aisle seat when possible as it is proven to encourage mobilization. Talk to your pharmacist about ways to stay healthy while travelling.
Health Benefits of Volunteering
Life often feels too busy, so it can be difficult to find time to volunteer. Giving back to the community and supporting others can have greater health benefits than we realize. Volunteering helps keep you mentally stimulated while reducing stress, combating depression, and providing a sense of purpose. It can also help improve your social life and create meaningful connections. SOS has a variety of volunteer opportunities available, including helping at the Thrift shop, driving residents to medical appointments, and being a mentor for local youth. Contact SOS today to find a role that fits your life and interests.
EnJOY Summer!
You deserve to relax and enjoy the summer. Take walks in the sunshine—by the beach, in the forest, or just around your neighbourhood. Take time to reconnect with yourself! Summer is a time to celebrate the joy of being alive. Some say that joy comes when you make peace with who you are, why you are, and how you are. Are negative emotions stopping you from being joyful? A Certified Body/Emotion Code Practitioner can help you release any unprocessed negative (trapped) emotions to allow more time for relaxation, self-care, and joy! Contact me today for a complimentary information session.
Travelling with Dentures
This summer, when you travel, be sure you are prepared for denture care. Bring a sealable container, a soft-bristle toothbrush, toothpaste, denture cleanser, adhesive, and any other items that you use regularly. If you have stored your old dentures dry, they will need to be soaked for up to 24 hours in water with a little Listerine in it. Always inspect the bathroom before you leave to be sure that you have everything. If you can find a denturist at your destination before you get there, you will at least have eliminated one concern. Contact them and note their hours.
Meet the Practitioner: Debra Johnson
Debra is a Master Certified Coach and a member of the International Coach Federation. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and holds a graduate degree in Executive Coaching from Royal Roads University. As a certified Retirement Coach with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she works with individuals surviving loss. Debra weaves her training in emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness into her coaching practice. Debra is a certified yoga instructor and practices yoga and meditation daily. Her practice is the foundation for her life and her work. She brings the stillness and presence of yoga into her coaching practice.
Hearing Aids & Summer
As temperatures rise, it’s important to understand how to take care of your hearing aids. Beware of Heat! Avoid putting your hearing aids in places that attract heat quickly – like the glove compartment or console in your car. Stay Away from Moisture! Remember to take your hearing aids out before swimming or if you’re caught in the rain. Keep ‘em Clean! Warm, humid weather creates a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. You can use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris from your hearing aids. Follow these simple tips and get outside to enjoy the warm weather.
Connections Matter on Father’s Day
Father’s Day offers a poignant reminder of the vital role mental health plays in the lives of our aging parents. For seniors residing in independent living homes, the benefits extend beyond physical care. These communities foster crucial social interactions that can stave off the loneliness and depression often faced by those living alone. Friendships formed in these environments provide emotional support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Celebrating Father’s Day in such a setting underscores the importance of a strong support network. By prioritizing companionship and mental well-being, we honour our fathers not just with gifts but with the invaluable gift of connection.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15th, 2024. 1 senior mistreated is one too many. The basic human rights of older Canadians are being challenged and undercut every day. It is estimated that 1 in 6 seniors globally experience elder abuse. We, as a country, should be horrified by this statistic. The slogan for WEAAD this year is “BOLD: Age with Attitude.” Join the BC Community Response Network by celebrating older adults in your life as active, vibrant members of the community. Register for the June 12th WEAAD webinar on the BCCRNS website.
Benefits of an In-Home Pet Sitter
Why invite a pet sitter into your home? You have peace of mind, your pet’s well-being is enhanced, and your home is looked after too! Having provided pet sitting services for five years, I’ve noticed the difference when a pet gets to stay in their own home and keep to their regular routine. Anxiety is minimal, they have fun and enjoy great company while you are away, and your transition back home is smoother. Your pets are excited to see you but also at peace. Consider having an in-home pet sit for your next vacation.
Residence Options for Seniors
When the responsibility and cost of home ownership become overwhelming, it may be a good time to sell the family home. Today’s seniors have the option to live in beautiful surroundings where their independence is respected but assistance is available if required. The best time to start looking for options is before you have to do so. Retirement communities are great places for retirees to make new friends, have new experiences and make wonderful memories. We should all strive every day to learn something new or meet someone new – it’s what keeps us young at heart!
