The last two years have brought home the realization that health is a precious asset that we need to preserve and protect. In the upcoming year, a number of us will adopt healthier habits that include revamping our diets and exercise. Reducing risk factors are another way to improve our health. We participate in risk reduction by wearing masks and physical distancing. For seniors, one of the biggest risk factors is not being able to quickly access help in an emergency. Whether fall or an emergency, quick access to help is directly correlated to improved outcomes.
Community News
Relocation Stress Syndrome
While remaining at home is possible for some seniors, many others may need to move to Independent Living with Services to get the best care possible. Since moving is a major life stressor, some seniors may experience relocation stress syndrome, with symptoms like confusion, loneliness, and anxiety. To help make the transition to assisted living as smooth as possible, it’s important to 1) avoid rushing the process; 2) focus on their well-being; 3) make their new home look familiar with personal belongings; 4) help them get involved in their new community; 5) ensure they have frequent visitors.
Assistance for an Ageing Workforce
“We’re dealing with an ageing workforce that will have more people with chronic pain issues, more people with vision or hearing loss, and there are different supports available depending on the degree of challenges you are dealing with,” says Nate Toevs, Marketing Manager for the WorkBC Assistive Technology Services program. “We know we can bring a lot to the table that can make a huge impact for that individual, which in turn will impact the company that they work for.” The program provides funding for assistive technology, ergonomics, restorative supports including canes and crutches, hearing aids, vehicle modifications, and more. Contact us for more information.
Have You Considered Senior Living?
Are you tired of cooking and cleaning? Do you find the responsibility of home ownership overwhelming? Are you lonely or often find yourself feeling sad? Today’s seniors have the option to live in beautiful surroundings where their independence is respected but assistance is available if required. Say goodbye to the responsibilities of grocery shopping, preparing meals, cleaning and maintenance and say hello to chef prepared meals and snacks, weekly housekeeping, 24 hour emergency response, access to wonderful amenities and lots of recreation and activities. It is recommend that you start looking for options BEFORE you have to do so.
Project Rebuild Fundraising Campaign
Over the past ten months, SOS has been working hard to reach more and do more for residents in our community. Project Rebuild fundraising campaign addresses more than just immediate needs. The campaign is focused on reducing poverty, ensuring our kids can grow into successful adults, and assisting our seniors to age in place comfortably. Our goal is $1 million dollars; we are three-quarters of the way there. To learn more about the plan and how you can help us reach our target and take care of our residents, please visit SOSProjectRebuild.com.
New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors
The new year is always a good time to consider some positive changes you’d like to make to set you on the path to a happier, healthier you! These New Year’s resolutions for older adults are a great place to start. 1) Give your brain a boost – keeping mentally fit can be done by joining clubs or even doing a crossword puzzle each day. 2) Eat more veggies – sticking to a healthier diet is important as we age. 3) Move more – sign up for exercise classes or work out with a friend. 4) Spend more time with loved ones!
Community Profile: The Healing Nest
At The Healing Nest Harmonics, we are all about nurturing your body, mind and soul through our Harmonic Egg. The Egg is a unique bio-resonance chamber that works on a cellular level to create positive change. Homeostasis is achieved which brings the body and mind into harmony making it easier for you to cope with stress, increasing productivity and improving your mood. Whether you choose an in-person or distance experience, the Egg’s vibrational energies help with sleep disorders, anxiety, pain, emotional trauma, chronic illness and pet health. Enter the Hub contest for a chance to win two free sessions.
Support is Available
Post-holiday debt can pile up quickly and easily become overwhelming. The stress of overdue bills can temp us to use gambling as a quick fix to achieve financial relief. Gambling when we’re vulnerable can cost us everything, not only our money but our mental and physical health. There are lots of free and confidential supports and tools available. This includes Voluntary Self-Exclusions from casinos, gaming centers and BCLC’s PlayNow available 24/7 toll-free at 1-888-795-6111 or connects with us at VIGamingSupport.ca. There are also excellent credit counsellors, financial advisors, ministers, pastors, podcasts, and/or trusted friends. Support is a game-changer: Do it!
WorkBC Assistive Technology Services (change!))
“There are a million different ways that we can help somebody increase their capability at work,” says Nate Toevs, Marketing Manager for the WorkBC Assistive Technology Services program. Offered across BC, the program “helps people who have a barrier to their employment-related activities,” explains Nate. “The focus is on people with disabilities, but it’s also people who have an old injury or chronic pain, anything that prevents them from giving one hundred percent of themselves in the workplace.” The program provides funding for assistive technology, ergonomics, restorative supports including canes and crutches, hearing aids, vehicle modifications, and more.
Healthy Food for Healthy Minds
Children and youth living in low-income households have been some of the hardest affected during the pandemic. 1 in 3 children under the age of 6 in District 69 lives in poverty without enough to eat. When kids are deprived of adequate nutrition, it is harder for them to focus, adding to their anxiety. Ensuring all children have access to healthy food should be our top priority. You can help by donating to the SOS grocery gift cards fund to fill hungry bellies and nurture healthy minds. Donate online at www.sosd69.com, by phone 250-248-2093, in person or mail to: SOS – 245 West Hirst Ave. PO Box 898 Parksville BC V9P 2G9. Thank you.
Time to Reflect
Happy New Year! Another year has come and, as always, the start of a new year brings about some reflection. Do you need some changes? Are you contemplating a move? Maybe you’re tired of the day-to-day chores of meal prep, cleaning, yard maintenance, or you’re feeling somewhat lonely. If so, there are great options available. From independent living to care, there are many retirement communities that can cater to your interests, wants and needs. Book your tours to see what is available as far as retirement lifestyles go – it is never too soon to start exploring!
