Special Features - Just For Seniors Spring 2017

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SENIORS NIO IORS RS MARCH 2017 Activities, Stories, Tips and Tricks, all inside!

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Y2 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

Aging is vegan vegan

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eco-friendly eco-friendly

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paraben-free paraben-free

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fragrance-free fragrance-free

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gluten-free gluten-free

Beautiful...

As we age, skin doesn’t produce 1) Moisturize your skin with as much hyaluronic acid (mother products that contain hyaluronic nature’s water magnet) or sebum acid, omega fatty acids, and water soluble waxes. (our very own moisturizer made cruelty-free eco-friendly paraben-free 2) Gently gluten-free exfoliate your skin of cholesterol, fatty acids and fragrance-free with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid waxes). This slowed process leaves skin vulnerable to dryness scrubs that contain broken nut shells, fruit pits or micro beads. and can cause discomfort. For eco-friendly paraben-free fragrance-free gluten-free 3) Choose products that are some people this includes clean and therefore avoiding itchy, red, flakey skin. Beyond fragrances/parfums, parabens, these discomforts, it’s important to remember our skin has a very alcohols, sodium lauryl sulphate paraben-free fragrance-free gluten-free important function as our immune and many other known skin irritants. system’s first line of defense.

Keeping our skin healthy doesn’t 4) Shower and bath in warm (never hot) water. Limit bathing only help it gluten-free look better and feel fragrance-free time to a few minutes, avoid better, it protects us.

By choosing products and foods soaps and apply creams immediately to damp skin. that help support your skin, in gluten-free 5) Drink water, eat fruits, conjunction with making a few vegetables and fermented foods small changes in your routine, will bring big results in how your like traditional sauerkraut and skin looks and feels! Here’s some kombucha. tips to get started:

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Y3 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Two-Thirds of Seniors Have Been Scammed Online: Survey Home Instead Senior Care Offers Senior Cybersecurity, Online Fraud Prevention Tips Approximately 96 percent of Canadian seniors age 70 and older are using the internet at least once a week to check email, manage money and keep in touch via social media. While the internet can provide conveniences and entertainment to seniors, all this time online could be putting them at risk for scams and hacks.

A new survey by Home Instead Senior Care found that two-thirds (64 percent) of Canadian seniors online have been the victim or target of at least one common online scam or hack. More than one-third (39 percent) report that someone has tried to scam them online, and 29 percent of surveyed seniors have mistakenly downloaded a computer virus.

To help seniors understand potential hazards and how to prevent fraud, Home Instead Senior Care collaborated with Public Safety Canada to launch a national public education program, Protect Seniors Online, available at www.ProtectSeniorsOnline.ca.

“We understand the stress seniors feel when they perceive their financial security – and their independence – may be at risk,” said Don Henke, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office serving Kelowna and Penticton. “Unfortunately, we know scammers often target seniors.

That’s why we’re committed to educating and empowering seniors to proactively protect themselves. Implementing simple cybersecurity best practices can go a long way in helping seniors protect sensitive

information and reduce their risks online.”

Like younger generations, many seniors are using the internet to manage their finances, with 41 percent banking online and more than one-in-five (21 percent) paying bills online. And nearly one-quarter of Canadian seniors (24 percent) file their taxes online. As seniors’ finances move online – coupled with what scammers view as perceived financial security and a trusting nature – seniors are a primary target for scammers.

Mark Matz, director of policy and issues management with the National Cyber Security Directorate at Public Safety Canada, explains that encouraging seniors to protect themselves online can go a long way in protecting sensitive identity and financial information. “Protecting yourself online is all about planning ahead.

Seniors may never encounter a security breach online, but it’s crucial to take the appropriate steps to ensure they don’t become a target,” said Matz.

The Protect Seniors Online program offers free resources and tips to help seniors understand how scammers operate, familiarizes themselves with the most common scams targeted at seniors, and provides proactive steps seniors and caregivers can take to protect sensitive information. The resources include the web-based “Can You Spot an Online Scam?” (http://www. protectseniorsonline.ca/quiz/) quiz to test seniors’ cyber security knowledge.

According to the National Cyber Security

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Y4 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Working through chronic disease Life-changing disease took years to be able to share with others At 50 years of age, Blake Bell was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. At first he reacted like many — experiencing denial and withdrawal. He also suffered from depression, a common symptom of the degenerative brain disease.

That was a decade ago. Over the last 10 years he has rebuilt his life living with Parkinson’s. Bell started a construction estimating company and went back to work part-time. He also revived his social life. Bell even began exercising, taking up boxing with others. He says it helps relieve his symptoms and provides him with peer support. He also has speech therapy sessions.

“I can hardly hold a screwdriver now, where before I used to swing a hammer like it was nothing,” Bell says of the impact of Parkinson’s on his life. “It’s hard to multi-task; your brain doesn’t work that way anymore.”

Fearing the stigma of the disease, Bell had a hard time explaining to people why he

was shaking, or why he might be slower and unable to do the things he used to do so easily. It took years before he decided to share his diagnosis widely with others.

“It’s something that’s very personal, sharing that information,” Bell says. But two years ago, he decided to let everyone know. “It’s hard to explain, I just knew it was time — it felt right.”

Bell posted his news on Facebook in 2015 and was joined by 25 friends to support him in Parkinson SuperWalk, the largest annual fundraiser for Parkinson Canada.

He attributes part of his healing to the walk.

In 2016, Bell became the event’s first “National Hero.” He cried when he read some of his nomination letters.

“You don’t realize the impact you can have, just by being yourself,” he says.

Until there is a cure, he asks for understanding from everyone, for anyone dealing with a chronic disease or disability. www.newscanada.com

Estate planning considerations as you move through life One thing to count on is life is full of surprises

When in you are in your 70’s, chances are you’re not the same person you were in your 50’s, or your 30’s, and your estate plan should reflect the changes you’ve experienced. Here’s an overview of some estate planning considerations.

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Blended families

Blended families are becoming a new norm with many adults with kids entering into new marriages (and common law relationships) with a spouse that brings his or her own children to the union. Planning for these families can be some of the most complicated planning but these families arguably need planning most of all. It’s important that planning provides for a new spouse but also protects the couple’s separate children (and possibly shared children) when both the first and the second spouse die.

The middle ages

One of the few things we can all count on is that life is full of surprises. Some changes in middle age, like gaining grandchildren and experiencing financial success are good but other changes are not. It’s part of life that people get sick or die, people have accidents leaving them disabled and with care requirements, many families experience addiction issues and financial situations can change. These situations, and many more, are triggering events for reviewing your plan and possibly adjusting things to reflect your family’s new reality.

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As you move into the last stages of your life, it’s important to review appointees of your planning documents as well as beneficiaries of your assets. It might be time to consider adjustments to this plan driven by tax planning and legacy planning for charitable gifts. It’s also important to prepare your executor to administer your estate by ensuring that all the information you executor will need is organized and accessible to your executor. Many individuals also do end of life planning and funeral planning. Finally, this is that last opportunity to share your wishes and intentions with your executor. If your planning is done and up to date, this will provide you with the peace of mind to get the most out of these golden years knowing that your family and loved ones are cared for.

Life has a cycle and evolves. So too does estate planning. It’s always a good time to establish your priorities, look at your current and future needs, and evaluate your estate plan.

Visit pihl.ca for more legal news. Email: lawyers@pihl.ca.

Y5 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Y6 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

Beauty is Holistic, Cosmetics Shop Owner Says

Nikki Hunter of The Green Vanity Boutique says that the beauty industry has a responsibility to represent aging as beautiful and self-care as self-actualization.

By Mike Straus Nikki Hunter started The Green Vanity Boutique after spending 20 years in the mainstream beauty industry and seeing firsthand how it was destroying the planet, exploiting vulnerable populations, engaging in socially irresponsible advertising practices, and making its employees sick.

“I was getting sick because I’d become hypersensitive to the chemicals,” Hunter says. “I was taking steroids and antihistamines to go to work every day, and I was sick all the time.”

Hunter says she grew tired of the beauty industry’s constant use of non-biodegradable plastic containers and relentless human exploitation. After learning of the origins of mica, a mineral dust commonly used in beauty products, and the harvesting practices around castor oil, she decided she would not be complicit in unethical cosmetic business practices.

“A lot of people don’t realize that mica is mined using child labour,” Hunter says. “Children are being exploited so that we can have sparkles in our make-up. And with castor oil, we’re seeing a lot of deaths because the husk of the castor bean contains ricin, and the people who harvest the beans aren’t given the right protective equipment and die

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of ricin poisoning.”

But for Hunter, one of the mainstream beauty industry’s cardinal sins is the demonization of the natural aging process – which she says comes at too high a human cost.

North American beauty companies have turned aging into a disease in an effort to create demand for their products, she says, and vilifying the aging process has injured seniors’ self-esteem. Hunter says that her aim is to change the beauty paradigm and help her clients to view aging as a rite of passage.

“In other cultures, coming into our senior years is revered. I’ve seen women transitioning into different stages of their lives, and I’ve heard how they talk about themselves. I knew a woman in Calgary – she was beautiful. But as she started aging, she started undergoing a lot of cosmetic surgeries because she subscribed to this idea that your worth is related to your appearance.”

After a botched surgery, though, Hunter says that her client’s quality of life suffered dramatically.

“Once her idea of her beauty was taken from her, she could no longer identify with her own value. Our mentors don’t identify themselves as mentors anymore – these older women feel like they have no value because of how they look, and that’s not okay.”

Hunter says that a more holistic approach to beauty is required in order to re-frame the concept of graceful aging and ‘reawaken the crone’. Diet, exercise, socializing, and positive self-talk are all elements of a holistic beauty routine that Hunter recommends over simple cosmetic products – and even seniors on a budget can start implementing these lifestyle changes.

“Beauty is holistic. By putting our faces forward, wrinkles and all, we tell younger generations that we’ve been here awhile and we’re here to help. It’s emphasizing that we’re allowed to get old.”

“

Once her idea of her beauty was taken from her, she could no longer identify with her own value. Our mentors don’t identify themselves as mentors anymore – these older women feel like they have no value because of how they look, and that’s not okay.

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Y7 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

CONT. PG.3: Two-Thirds of Seniors Have Been Scammed Online: Survey Alliance and the Better Business Bureau, here are five of the hottest cyber scams that older adults need to avoid: Tech support scams: These types of scams can appear as “pop-ups,” that show up on computer screens and look like legitimate offers from reputable companies such as Microsoft. They could be selling fake software or asking for remote computer access, or install malware to steal personal and financial information.

Tax scams: The tax season provides another window of opportunity for online fraudsters. Online criminals will sometimes send emails claiming they are from the Canada Revenue Agency and there is something wrong with your recent tax return. They will even threaten to contact police if you don’t pay the fine ASAP. Public Safety Canada explains that the CRA will never contact you via email if there is a problem with your return.

Ransomware: This is a malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid.

Prevent ransomware by ensuring your system has an up-to-date antivirus system. Also, never open suspicious emails from unknown senders, do not download attachments from senders you do not trust or suspicious emails, and avoid click-

ing on links in suspicious emails.

False debt collectors: False debt collection emails often come as official-looking documents and the tone of the emails may be threatening and urgent. Do not respond, open any attachments or click on any links. Delete these emails. If you’re concerned about whether you owe money, contact any creditors directly to find out if they sent the emails.

Sweepstakes scams: A sweepstakes scam often asks you to pay to receive your prize. Another version of this is a charity scam, asking you to help those in need.

Sweepstakes and charities scams prey on emotions, and scam charities may have names similar to real charities. However, they usually cannot provide important documentation of their identity and mission, nor provide proof of tax-deductible contribution. If you believe the charity is legitimate, you can check it out by looking up the number and calling it.

Seniors can test their cybersecurity skills at and view other program resources and tips at www.ProtectSeniorsOnline.ca. Or, contact your local Home Instead Senior Care office for additional resources and to learn how professional caregivers may be able to assist. Find an office near you by visiting www.homeinstead.ca.

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Y8 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Baby boomers take on speed dating

New film explores how a segment of 70 to 90-year-olds tackle dating

By Barry Gerding The baby boomer generation is embracing their search for love well into the golden years of their lives.

The past generation stigma of 70 to 90 year-olds living isolated, sometimes miserable and often lonely lives is no longer acceptable.

“Whether it’s changing perceptions about aging, hearing new research or learning new ways to stay active and connected, learning about new ideas and discoveries give us all a chance to reflect on what we can do now to make a difference in our health and well-being as we age,” said Joan Bottorff, director of UBC’s Institute of Health Living and Chronic Disease Prevention.

Interior Savings Credit Union has embraced Bottorff’s philosophy by screening an ward-winning documentary across the Okanagan about speed dating for seniors, called The Aging Of Love.

The film’s New York-based director Steven Loring introduced the film at the three showings in Vernon, West Kelowna and Kelowna.

“We recognize ageism as an issue in our society and we are working together to help build more age-friendly communities,” said Interior Savings CEO Kathy Conway, who called the film a fitting way to usher in March as Okanagan Embrace Aging Month.

Loring said the documentary was released two years ago, depicting the adventures of 30 seniors in Rochester, NY, who signed up for a seniors’ speed dating event for the first time in their lives.

He has since screened the film at more than 60 communities around the world, including stops in Poland, Russia, Australia and Brazil.

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“The film is about a speed dating event but it has a wider message about how seniors today want to live their lives, who don’t want to be isolated and lonely, so I’ve taken it to major conferences and rolled it out at university showings,” he said.

“I’m kind of a one-man team marketing this film all over the world before selling the rights for release on DVD or Netflix.”

Loring said the idea to make the film developed from the experience of his mom, after his dad passed away when she was 70.

“She said to me one day, nobody is ever going to hug me again now that our dad is gone.

I had not thought of that. In that situation, you think about dealing with the house and getting the paperwork squared away.” Loring said.

“But you tend to forget about the everyday part of life of being touched by someone and being part of team, and now you are just old.”

Loring said he also had a 78-year-old uncle residing in an assisted living seniors’ community. Having lost his wife, Loring said the family was caught off-guard when he fell in love with an 80-year-old woman living in the same facility.

“He opened up to her in a way I didn’t think was possible in searching for companionship,” he said.

“The generation of seniors today still want to get out and live. My grandparents were of the era where being in their late 60s was old, aging was about decline and living in comfort and security.

“Today, my mom is 80 and works out at a gym three times a week with a personal trainer and she can probably outlift me.”

Loring said in seeking permission to film the adults in his documentary, he was stunned by how open they were to the process, as all 30 people he asked signed off on it.

“The first woman I asked said she was 75 years old, her kids loved her, her kids to everything they are supposed to do to support her, but her family was not what was in her heart at this point in her life, she didn’t want to lead an invisible life,” Loring said.

“As I talked with more and more of the people you see in the film, I began to realize I was touching a nerve. Seniors today still want to get out and live.”

For more on the movie: www.programsforelderly.com and search the aging of Love.

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Y9 | JUST FOR SENIORS

MARCH 24, 2017

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Reasons to consider plant-based eating.

Potential benefits of going meat-less are many

Plant-based eating has grown into a major health food trend in recent years, however, it is far from new. In fact, Canada’s Food Guide recommends we eat more daily servings of vegetables, fruits and grains and that we consume a variety of plant-based meat alternatives like beans, lentils and tofu.

You are probably asking yourself, “Is skipping the meat really good for me?” or “Why should I consider adopting this approach?’ The potential benefits are three-fold:

Try this simple recipe and see just how easy it is to incorporate plant-based foods into your diet.

Roasted Herbed Vegetables and Pasta

1. Nutritional benefits:

Serves 4 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes provide us with a variety of nutrients including fibre, protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals such as folate, vitamin A, B-vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc.

2. Health benefits: Plant-based foods typically contain little to no saturated fat and no trans-fat. A healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats may reduce the risk of heart disease. Plant-based oils and products made from them — such as soft, non-hydrogenated margarine — provide beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, like Omega-3. These healthy fats can help to lower cholesterol levels when they replace saturated and trans fats in the diet.

3. Environmental benefits: People are thinking about how their food choices affect the environment more than ever.

Interestingly, plant-based foods generally use less energy, land and water to produce than an animal-based diet. So not only are you helping your body, you are helping the planet too.

Ingredients • 1/3 cup (75 mL) Becel vegan margarine, melted • 2 tbsp (30 mL) finely chopped fresh herbs or 2 tsp (10 mL) dried herbs, crushed (basil, parsley • and/or thyme) • 6 cups (1.5 L) assorted sliced vegetables (onion, red or green bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, yellow squash or eggplant) • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 8 oz (250 g) whole grain or regular farfalle pasta, cooked and drained

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Blend 1/4 cup margarine with herbs in small bowl and set aside.

2. Toss vegetables, garlic and remaining margarine in large bowl. Arrange vegetables in a broiler pan, without the rack.

3. Roast for 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender, stirring once. Toss vegetables with hot farfalle and reserved margarine mixture.

Find more information online at becel.ca. www.newscanada.com

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Y10 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Book Review: The cheese trap takes on cheddar

“The Cheese Trap busts open the myths of cheese as a health food and provides an eye opening, mouth shutting view of the way cheese is produced and the damage it does.”

Contributor – Larry Shipowick, Kelowna CHIP Facilitator In the complete health improvement program known as CHIP, there are eight factors that lead to the longest possible life span. In fact, people who follow the Standard American Diet have a life span of about 79 years; for those following the CHIP lifestyle the average age is 89 years.

Nutrition is one of the eight factors and quite a major contributor to all our modern lifestyle diseases such as strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, emphysema, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, [COPD] etc. In 1963, the Surgeon General declared that smoking was harmful, causing cancer and lung diseases; a causative factor for heart attacks and increased blood pressure. Question: Why were many doctors smoking 15 years later? The science was there. They were caught in the nicotine trap, and would not accept the new modern science that said smoking is very harmful. Many refused to believe the science and told pregnant ladies to keep smoking.

Today we have no smoking in public places for the good of all society.

So 50 plus years later, what is modern science telling us about foods like cheese? Here are a few quotes about the new book, The Cheese Trap, by Dr. N. Barnard, president of the committee for responsible medicine.

Dr Joel Fuhrman: “Our love affair with cheese is killing us.

Learning the truth about cheese may save your life.”

Dr Joel Kahn says, “The Cheese Trap busts open the myths of cheese as a health food and provides an eye opening, mouth shutting view of the way cheese is produced and the damage it does.”

Cheese equals calories, cholesterol, salt and saturated fat, not in the healthy range.

In his 2017 book, Dr. Barnard analyzes the process and problems of cheese production and consumption in the American population. Cheese is

“

both fattening and addictive.

The average American eats 35 lbs of cheese a year, which is 60,000 calories per person per year. First, cheese concentrates calories. A cup of milk has 149 calories; a cup of cheddar has 968 calories. Second, cheese dairy products contain casein. For some people these proteins trigger respiratory symptoms, migraines, arthritis, skin conditions, etc. Third, it concentrates cholesterol and saturated fat; the bad fat that raises cholesterol levels and increases the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. There is also enough salt to contribute to high blood pressure. Cheese is a highly processed food. If you want to be constipated, cheese will do the job.

Do you know why cheese is so addicting? It has to do with the protein casein, and there is a lot of it in cheese. Casein breaks down into amino acids and the longer fragments are called casomorphins; that is casein derived morphine like compounds. They can attach to the same brain receptors that heroin and other narcotics attach to. So dairy proteins have opiate molecules built right in.

Opiates have a calming effect, they also cause the brain to release dopamine leading to a sense of reward and pleasure—so you like it. A glass of milk has 7.7 grams of protein; turning it into cheddar cheese multiplies the protein seven times to 56 grams.

Oh by the way, two servings of milk a day increase the risk of prostate cancer 60 per cent. The CHIP lifestyle has over 39 years advocated no cheese. To help you implement a lifestyle change, attend the free CHIP information sessions on September the 24 & 27 at 7 pm at the Kelowna Lifestyle Center. The session starts October 1. Call 250-764-8638 to secure a place in the next class.

In the September issue of Just For Seniors, we will feature two stories of people from Kelowna telling how cheese devastated their lives. In the mean time, keep calm and join the revolution – you can be healthy by choice, not by chance.

Our love affair with cheese is killing us. Learning the truth about cheese may save your life

”

Find this edition of

Just For Seniors ONLINE AT

www.kelownacapnews.com/e-editions

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Y11 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

Interior Savings supports YMCA Seniors Health Programs Interior Savings has jumped in with some fundraising to help seniors stay healthy, donating $16,350 through their Community Investment Fund to purchase speciality

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equipment for the YMCA that typically isn’t found in a main-stream fitness centre.

“This enables the YMCA to serve new participants, the majority being seniors, who need adaptable equipment to overcome their mobility restrictions and health issues,” said Alyssa Christie, YMCA health promotions supervisor. “We have seen a significant increase in the number of people attending our Healthy Hips and Knees program at H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre and they are benefitting from the donated leg press, folding medical table and other equipment in order to perform their exercises.”

“The YMCA has been an excellent partner in helping to build strong and age-friendly communities,” says Interior Savings CEO Kathy Conway. “Through their Health Promotions Programs, they are making health and wellness services accessible to everyone and we are happy to lend our support.”

Learn more about YMCA of Okanagan Health Promotion Programs at ymcaokanagan.ca.v

Y12 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Kelowna to get age-friendly assessment

Come along and sing . . . and improve more than your mood!

Kelowna has received a $20,000 “age-friendly” grant from the province to help support a community assessment of city parks and buildings.

These grants supporting communities with an aging population, and, in the case of Kelowna, the parks and building assessment will ensure seniors are able to continue to be active members of our community, said local MLA Steve Thomson.

The Kelowna Community for All Action Plan includes the audit, which will focus on accessibility, safety features and recreational amenities for all ages and abilities.

“Our Community for All Action Plan will help shape Kelowna over the coming years to meet the evolving needs of residents of all ages and abilities and will be a significant step towards creating an overarching Health City Strategy for our city,” said Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran, who thanked the Union of B.C. Municipalities for supporting the initiative.

The province’s age-friendly communities grant program is a partnership between the province and the UBCM. Local governments were invited to apply for grants up to $20,000. For the 2017 grants, communities were encouraged to consider projects that focus on accessibility, aging well, physical activity and non-medical home supports.

Applications were reviewed by a committee from UBCM and the Ministry of Health.

Kelowna is one of 18 municipalities that received a total of $342,430 in 2017 agefriendly grants for this year.

Since 2007, age-friendly communities grants have funded 286 projects throughout British Columbia, totalling $3.75 million.

Those aged 65+ and living in the Rutland area have an opportunity to help boost their memory, enhance their breathing and have some jolly good fun!

Fernbrae Manor, in collaboration with the Sing For Your Life Foundation (SFYL), is establishing a Silver Song Group for their residents – and inviting local community neighbours to join in too.

The Silver Sing Group is a free, weekly, 75-minute group experience that includes singing and musical activities, socializing and a refreshment break.

“This is not about performance or entertainment; you don’t need to be able to sing,” said Nigel Brown, SFYL Canada’s Executive Director. “This is a wonderfully welcoming, fun program that brings positive wellness benefits. Our hope, together with Fernbrae Manor, is to reach more socially-isolated seniors in the community and have them come and enjoy these weekly experiences with others.”

The participatory-singing and music-making program was developed by the originating UK charity in 2005 and is embedded in research undertaken by the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health at Canterbury Christ Church University, UK. “We have been using the SFYL Music Box™ technology to lead singing activities with our residents and now we are excited to build on this experience, deliver Silver Song Group—and have seniors in our community benefit too,” said Heather Young, general manager, Fernbrae Manor.

“We are also recruiting a number of volunteers to be trained to lead the Silver Song Group sessions and we provide training and a small honorarium, says Young. “This is a rewarding experience for anyone who’s outgoing, loves music and is comfortable encouraging others to sing along.”

This Silver Song Group, is supported in part by funding from Interior Savings Credit Union, and will run each Tuesday morning starting May 2 at 10 to 11:15 a.m. at Fernbrae Manor, 295 Gerstmar Road, Kelowna. There is no cost to attend, no pre-registration required, and community neighbours are welcome to bring a friend, family member or caregiver along too. Just drop in.

For more information or to enquire about becoming a Silver Song Group volunteer lead, contact Heather Young at Fernbrae Manor, 250.979.0600 Ext. # 604. www.fernbraemanor.com • www.sfylc.org

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Y13 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

How to: EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN HEARING HEALTH CARE! Courtesy of Ossicle Hearing There are several different hearing clinics in the Okanagan, all offering basic services and all willing to sell you a hearing aid, but at what cost? Do you really know what you’re getting? Don’t settle for a cookie cutter Band-Aid solutions when a comprehensive holistic approach costs you less. Expect your hearing challenge to be fully resolved. Don’t put up with solutions that leave you wanting more.

Here’s some helpful hints:

Get in the know Traditionally, hearing clinics will provide all basic hearing tests and batteries for free for the lifetime of your hearing aids. But that does not make a whole lot of sense. So who is paying for the marketing they are doing, staffing, overhead, and all the free hearing tests? Look at it this way: A Doctor or Audiologist does not go to University for sevenplus years to work for free. Typically, 1 in 8 people that get a free hearing test will require hearing aids. So the lucky eighth person is stuck overpaying for their hearing aids to cover all of the overhead and free tests that the clinic is giving out. Don’t get caught being this person!

Go Beyond the Clicks and Beeps What do you think the chances are that a clinician will know everything about your personalized hearing health care after a very brief test? Most people can hear in a quiet environment with their hearing aids however will still struggle in social environments.

This is because the product and/or settings are not fully customized to their individual needs because the testing is basic and limited. With the current model of 1 in 8 needing hearing aids, clinics are forced to test, test, test with hopes that someone will need hearing aids, and the sacrifice is on the consumer. Before investing money into your hearing aids, insist on advance testing that quantifies physiology, peripheral sensitivity, nerve function and central processing ability.

Perfect hearing, but still have a hard time focusing in noisy environments?

If my hearing is okay – why can I not understand in noisy places? This is a question we get asked all the time from patients that have perfect hearing but cannot stay focused in business meetings or social gatherings like restaurants or small groups. Hearing-innoise is a common concern for people, and it is perfectly normal. I have heard from my patients that their previous clinicians have told them that they are “crazy” or “going mental” because their hearing is perfect so “it must be in their head.” This could not be further from the truth – and yes, there is a solution for this without hearing aids.

Find the right clinician Let me ask you a question: When you go in for surgery who would you prefer to perform that surgery, an LPN or the surgeon that has six times the education and experience?

I am sure the answer is quite clear. So why is it any different with your hearing health care? This is not to say there is not a place for LPN’s or Hearing Instrument Practitioners – they are incredible at general care and making sure you are comfortable and happy after you have seen the surgeon. But you would still prefer to have the Doctor taking care of you for the important medical procedure/testing. In the Audiology world there are three different certifications: Hearing Instrument Practitioner: 2-year course, basic knowledge of the ear/ hearing aids. An audiologist has a seve-year Master education with advanced knowledge of the ear and technologies while a Doctor of Audiology has a 10-year Doctorate Degree, with knowledge of all aspects of the ear, hearing conditions and technology.

What does it mean?

When it comes to your hearing health care, make sure you are getting the very best in testing, treatment and technology by a medical professional that will understand any situation and can customize it for your individual needs. To find out more visit www.KelownaHearing.com or contact us at info@OssicleHearing.com.

CAPITAL news

Y14 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

Aging homeless community a big issue

The need for public awareness regarding our aging homeless population is pivotal for the development of innovative solutions Courtesy Senior Outreach Over the past decade there has been an increase in awareness pertaining to the shift in demographics as Canada’s population continues to age. As a result, there has been many speculations regarding social determinants, societal changes, successes, and trajectories of the “Aging Okanagan” and the effects of these shifting demographics on our community. Although these characteristics continue to be thoroughly researched, there is minimal discussion of the aging homeless community and the strong need for support for service providers and shelter users.

The aging homeless community is a national issue and is often forgotten, as supported by the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness (2016). The aging homeless community is unique in a number of ways, including causing factors, subsequent needs, and the overall approach to providing services. The need for public awareness regarding our aging homeless population is pivotal for the development of innovative solutions and age-mindful approaches to thoroughly supporting this demographic.

In regards to causing factors, current literature shows that the aging homeless community does share similarities to their younger parts however additional factors make aging while homeless complex and unique.

A 2105 study said the causes of homelessness in old age are “complex, and pathways into and out of homelessness are multifaceted, including financial insecurity, relationship breakdown, and addiction, compounded by barriers to accessing services, shrinking social support networks, and complex health challenges.”

Furthermore, “older adults typically experience one of two types of homelessness: They are either chronically homeless throughout their lives and continue this pattern as

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they age, or they become homeless for the first time in later life…[and] the literature suggests...the second pathway is increasingly common.”

As housing prices continue to rise in Kelowna and surrounding area, more and more seniors are at risk of and experiencing homelessness and or living conditions unsuitable for human habitation. Thus, it is imperative for community initiatives to focus on understanding the diverse needs of the aging homeless community and to adapt solution-focused approaches to best meet these unique needs.

The aging homeless population does share some paralleling needs to “younger homeless groups including stable housing, income, food, and health care however, additional needs of homeless older adults are unique and extremely complex specific to health, safety, and shelter use. The decline of health coupled with multiple health conditions and the increase of unaffordable housing poses unique challenges for front line service providers.

A 2003 study said due to the “lack of viable housing alternatives for older adults and overcrowding in acute hospitals, there is pressure on shelters to fill the gap in convalescent care by accepting elderly and unwell patients who can no longer care for themselves.”

With the prevalence of multiple compounding health factors, many shelter providers lack the resources and abilities to address these health care concerns while simultaneously providing regular shelter services. Some of the prevalent health conditions include “depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s, delusional disorders, and delirium, which are the most common mental illnesses amongst seniors in Canada” and “as the shelter population ages, services providers and policymakers will need to better determine how to address…[these] mental health needs,” according to the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness.

In addition to distinguishable complex health needs from the general homeless population, older homeless adults share unique needs regarding personal safety. A plethora of literature supports viable safety concerns among homeless older adults including studies by the Greater Vancouver Shelter Strategy (2013) which found that seniors were wary of accessing shelters due to a variety of reasons such as overcrowding, noise, theft, violence, and unsafe shelter locations.

Lastly, the lack of emergency housing options that are able to meet the unique needs of the aging homeless community is a policy and program gap shared by communities across Canada. The need for emergency temporary housing that are appropriate for older persons is a national, regional and local issue. The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness provides a plethora of resources regarding homeless older adults and the unique challenges they face when accessing shelters.

From a local and regional perspective, other communities have found that emergency shelters are not fit for older persons and their compounding health conditions. A senior shelter in Calgary continuously struggles to secure funding for shelters despite overwhelming need of local homeless seniors.

To conclude, as unique as the needs inherent to homeless older adults, are the solutionfocused approaches to addressing these needs. Additionally, as research shows, older homeless adults should be approached in a different way than the general homeless population. Responding to aging shelter users does in fact require a multi-faceted approach requiring the support of multiple community organizations with varying expertise and resources.

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Y15 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Senior care will improve, health minister vows

By Tom Fletcher The B.C. government is heeding its seniors’ care advisors and will hire 1,500 more people over the next four years to assist seniors in residential care, Health Minister Terry Lake announced earlier this month.

Lake pledged $500 million more over four years to bring the average care provided to 3.3 hours per resident per day, including health-care assistants, nurses and physiotherapists. The money is included in the pre-election budget presented in February.

B.C. Seniors’ Advocate Isobel Mackenzie praised the commitment to increase respite care for families caring for a frail elderly relative at home, and increasing support in care homes.

“It could mean that I can go to the bathroom within 15 minutes of asking, instead of 45,” Mackenzie said.

“It might mean I can ask for a bath on Tuesday and get one, even though I had one on Saturday. It might mean I can get the aide to walk me to the dining room using my walker, rather than put me in a wheelchair, because that’s the faster way to get me there.”

Lake said the plan will include a “robust monitoring system” to ensure that the funded hours of care are being delivered, whether facilities are run by health authorities, non-profits or private care homes.

NDP health critic Judy Darcy rejected Lake’s description of waiting for the provincial budget and a recent agreement with Ottawa on new health transfers that targets funding for home care. She said federal health transfers have been increasing six per cent each year for the past 10 years, while the B.C. government boasts of surpluses as large as $2 billion last year.

“The government has made the wrong choices for 16 years, and has neglected seniors’ care to the point where it’s become a crisis and a national shame,” Darcy said.

Seniors’ Advocate Isobel Mackenzie says new staffing means more baths and better quality of life for people in residential care.

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The fund allocation in the plan is an extra $45 million for the fiscal year that begins April 1, rising by a further $125 million in 2019, $150 million in 2020 and $180 million in 2021.

Lake said it includes a $10 million fund for equipment such as wheelchairs and ceiling lifts, to reduce the injuries to care home workers moving patients.

Hospital Employees’ Union business manager Jennifer Whiteside praised the plan, and called for stricter limits on private care home profits and contracting out by health authorities.

“More staff means that proper, un-rushed care and greater dignity for seniors are possible,” Whiteside said.

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CAPITAL news

Y16 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

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Lack of adequate support a barrier for those wishing to die at home UBCO researchers say caregivers face serious road blocks With a growing trend of people choosing to die at home, UBC researchers have determined that those caring for palliative loved-ones need more support from health care professionals than they are currently getting.

Carole Robinson, a nursing professor at UBC’s Okanagan campus, says while many people would like to die at home, a sudden decline in health may mean they end up in hospital or a hospice. In previous research, Robinson and her team learned that sheer determination is not enough to make sure that family caregivers are able to achieve a desired home death for their loved ones. This led her team to ask, ‘what enables family caregivers to successfully care for a loved one at home until death?’

“The family caregivers were willing to do whatever was required to meet the needs of the ill person,” said Robinson. “Their determination was based on love, respect, obligation, or giving back to someone who had given them so much, and as a way to honour their ill family member’s wishes. However, caring at home was challenging.”

Her research team interviewed 29 people who cared for someone at home until their death to better understand their experience. They learned that while caregivers were committed to the task, they faced roadblocks, profound fatigue and lack of support from health care professionals.

The experience of being “on 24/7” was common, Robinson explained, as were symptom-management challenges and crises, and demands associated with multiple co-occurring life events. But because the caregivers were intensely committed to providing excellent care they took initiative and learned on their own by diligently searching for and synthesizing information, making keen observations, engaging in creative problem solving, and taking a position of vigilant advocacy for the ill person.

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Carole Robinson

Regardless of their focused determination, all study participants struggled with lack of coordination and continuity of care from healthcare providers, Robinson said. Some explained that when support was given, it added other responsibilities such as the need to repeatedly orient new caregivers, and even supervise this ‘outside’ help. These experiences prompted some caregivers to refuse further assistance. Respite was desired but often did not offer the support that was needed when it occurred outside the home.

This is where extended family was helpful because respite could happen at home with a trusted provider.

“Family caregivers who are determined to deliver care at home, and are willing to do this until the death of their family member, cannot do it alone—it requires a network of support,” says Robinson.

Family caregivers highlighted the importance of being part of a formal palliative care program because then their access to resources and solutions improved dramatically.

When things went well, health care providers helped shape care so that the system met the family needs rather than family being required to adapt to the health system needs.

While help is needed for the family caregiver, Robinson said professional providers need to re-think the process of dying at home.

“We must begin to envision the home as the place where people can die, anticipate what may be needed, and put it in place,” she said. “We must change our orientation to the system of care within the home, and then recognize the key position of the primary caregiver. The system must work for the family instead of the other way around. ” This research, funded by the British Columbia Cancer Foundation, was recently published in the Journal of Supportive Care in Cancer.

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Y17 | JUST FOR SENIORS

CAPITAL news

MARCH 24, 2017

Stages of aging like a patchwork quilt Senior’s columnist Marjorie Horne says elder hood has many transitions The journey of elderhood and the process of transition go hand in hand.

Letting go, the neutral zone and new beginnings become the stages that aging finds itself wrapped in continuously like a patchwork quilt. You look at the patches as the experiences of your life, each square depicting the many transitions you have gone through that have brought you full circle to where you are now.

I spent the weekend preparing gifts to take to Vancouver as I await the imminent arrival of my first grandchild. I was also putting together a large picture collage of my son as a baby and young child for his birthday that happens to coincide so closely with the coming birth of his own child. This project necessitated me going through boxes of old pictures of my life, all of the trips, the countless birthdays and events I shared with my children and of course it brought back a flood of memories, both the joys and the upsets over my lifetime. I found myself immersed in the process of letting go again, feeling the sadness of people I have lost, the confusion around the times of change in my life and the immense wonder at all of the transitions you go through that often thrust you into new beginnings that you least expect. I think of my son and his partner who have spent nine months letting go of their old life and who now are fully in that stage of the neutral zone, awaiting the beginning of life as parents and all that that entails.

Elderhood presents different transitions, some that put us in a holding pattern while

Marjorie Horne

we figure out what comes next. All of the transition points we go through in life are merely practice sessions for the ultimate ending that comes to us all. As we move from work to retirement, from health to unexpected illnesses, from death of a loved one to the unfamiliar aloneness that follows, we enter the emptiness of the neutral zone. This stage of transition can carry its own fear as it reawakens in us our childhood fears of abandonment. “It’s not so much that we’re afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it’s that place in between that we fear….It’s like being in between trapezes. It’s Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There’s nothing to hold on to.” writes author Marilyn Ferguson. William Bridges, the guru on transition, says that we avoid endings whenever possible, but even more so do we steer clear of the emptiness of the neutral-zone.

These times of chaos are often experienced either as a jumble or as a time of empty nothingness and it makes us feel out of control and a little crazy. Patience and trust are required at these turning points and a recognition that real new beginnings, the kind that revitalize and bring a new order of things, comes out this chaotic neutral zone.

Avoid the tendency to try to put together a plan that lays out a whole sequence of action steps that often don’t work. Living creatively in the neutral zone requires improvising, finding the way by trial and error. Perhaps the best definition of transition there is is that it is “the natural process by which one dies to a new life”. Time slows down in the neutral zone and it involves living with the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty before you move to the more enlivened energy of a new beginning.

This is where older people can become elders. If they can perceive, understand and appreciate the meaning of the meandering path of transitions they have followed through their life experiences, they can play such an important social role by helping younger people to understand the significance of the transitions in their own lives. Elders can see and appreciate the lives they have lived as journeys that have carried them along to their destination, not your own. The journeys have helped us discover whether we are still on the beam or not as we have moved through the unique experiences that life has unfolded for us. This ability to reflect with acceptance and forgiveness makes elderhood life’s richest phase. So savor it and then go out and share the wisdom that lies deep within it with the younger generation. They need us.

Marjorie Horne is the founder of Caresmart Seniors Consulting She hosts the Engaging in Aging Radio Show on AM1150 Sundays at 9am 250-863-9577 or marjorie@caresmart.ca

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Y18 | JUST FOR SENIORS

MARCH 24, 2017

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Natural pain remedies can be effective relief A combination of different ingredients can target different pain pathways Pain Relief Now is a natural formula designed by two pharmacists in response to an overwhelming demand by customers to provide a safe topical pain reliever that works. Pain is debilitating and prevents many Canadians from enjoying hobbies, going for walks, shopping, playing sports, interacting with family and pets, and simply enjoying life. Pain can even make it difficult or impossible to just get ready for the day. Uncontrolled pain has a negative effect on mood, makes sleep difficult or impossible, affects relationships, and is a constant source of stress. Pain Relief Now delivers fast, long-lasting pain relief by targeting multiple levels through potent natural pain killers.

Burning, stabbing, throbbing, aching, pounding, sharp, agonizing, and crippling are just some of the terms people use to describe the experience of pain. This is because there are many different causes of pain. Inflammatory pain is involved in acute injuries (such as sprains, strains, and pulled muscles) and in chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Neuropathic pain takes on many forms and can be a result of nerve damage (due to injury, disease, or infection) or from long standing chron-

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ic pain due to past injuries. Whether a person’s pain is generalized or specific to a single region of the body, it likely involves several types of pain.

An effective topical pain reliever should provide a combination of ingredients to combat different pain pathways. Pain Relief Now employs a host of natural ingredients such as Camphor and Menthol to work on the principle of a “counter-irritant” to override pain sensations, allowing the user to experience a pleasant warming or cooling sensation rather than pain.

Oil of Wintergreen is an anti-inflammatory and inhibits the prostaglandins involved in pain through a mechanism similar to that of common over the counter and prescription anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Clove Bud Essential Oil acts like a local anesthetic to numb nerve endings similar to when a Dentist or Physician freezes an area before a procedure. Peppermint Essential Oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects. Rosemary and Eucalyptus Essential Oil not only exhibit anti-inflammatory properties but also help stimulate blood flow which is crucial for healing damaged tissues.

The makers of Pain Relief Now included a penetrating agent to help deliver the therapeutic components through the skin and deep into problem tissues for maximum pain relieving effect. Additionally, the formula is combined in a base of ethanol (rather than isopropyl alcohol) which further blocks pain-transmitting neurons from sending debilitating signals to the brain.

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CALL 250.861.6180

Y19 | JUST FOR SENIORS

CAPITAL news

MARCH 24, 2017

Celebrating 6 years of peace of mind.

Since Carmel moved into her Chartwell residence, daughter Cathy admits her mom is so busy with social events that it’s sometimes difficult to get her on the phone! Instead of managing errands and worrying about household responsibilities, the two now spend more quality time together. You too can experience the peace of mind that comes with living in an engaging community.

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Y20 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

Dizziness a common affliction as we age Our sense of balance is maintained through feedback from three systems It’s a common problem as we age. In fact, it has been reported that 80 per cent of people over 65 have experienced dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. Almost one in four emergency room visits includes a complaint of dizziness.

Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or faintness. Vertigo is the perception of spinning. Dizziness and vertigo are not diseases, but rather symptoms that can result from a vestibular (inner ear) disorder. However, it can also result from many other conditions not related to the inner ear, such as cardiovascular or neurological.

Our sense of balance is maintained through feedback from three systems: the vestibular system (inner ear); proprioception (receptors in the feet and spine); and vision. Our brain is constantly integrating this information to maintain balance, therefore problems with one or more of these systems, especially the vestibular system, can cause imbalance, dizziness, and vertigo.

Common vestibular disorders include Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), viral infections of the inner ear (labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis), Meniere’s, and injury to the inner ear caused by head trauma.

BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo. People with BPPV report having episodes

Robina Palmer

of dizziness brought on with certain positions. Most commonly, it is lying flat, rolling over in bed, getting up in the morning, looking up to the ceiling, and bending forward.

It can be one, or a combination of these positions.

BPPV occurs when ‘debris’ - or more specifically, a calcium carbonate crystal - becomes displaced within the inner ear. There are multiple causes for the crystals to be displaced, but, it most often tends to be a spontaneous occurrence. This displaced crystal then overstimulates or influences hair cells that are responsible for relaying head movement to the brain, thus disturbing one’s balance and equilibrium, resulting in vertigo.

Treatment for BPPV is very effective. Physiotherapists, trained in Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, will relocate the crystal, through a series of specific head and body positions, which moves the crystal away from the sensitive hair cells.

Although BPPV accounts for a large percentage of vertigo, it is not the only cause.

Talk to your doctor if you have these symptoms or think you may have BPPV.

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Y21 | JUST FOR SENIORS

MARCH 24, 2017

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The Dangers of Joint Ownership with Your Adult Children

By Vanessa DeDominicis Probate fees of approximately 1.4% of the gross value of assets located within BC and passing through an estate in BC are payable to the BC government at the time an estate is probated. In an effort to avoid these fees, people often transfer assets into joint tenancy with their adult children. Trying to avoid probate fees may seem like a good idea, but joint ownership can create a whole host of problems far more costly than 1.4% tax.

Capital Gains Issues

The transfer of property in Canada results in capital gains tax becoming payable on the increase in value since the property was acquired, (unless an exemption applies).

There is an exemption for your principal residence but not for investment property. The transfer of an investment asset (for most adult children their parent’s property will be their ‘second’ property and thus an investment property) into joint names has the unintended tax consequence of triggering capital gains tax, which tax would be payable at the time your next return is due. The probate fee only becomes payable on death, so transferring assets into joint names may in fact accelerate a payment of capital gains taxes in a far greater amount than the probate fees you were seeking to avoid.

Claims by Creditors and Ex-Spouses Adding your children(s) name to asset(s) can have the unintended effect of exposing those assets to claims by creditors or ex-spouses of the children who were added to title. Your asset becomes theirs and thus exposed to their misfortunes.

Loss of Principal Residence Exemption A transfer of a 1/2 interest in your home to a child as a joint tenant will result in the loss, when your house is eventually sold, of your principal residence exemption on the 1/2 interest transferred.

Loss of Control The transfer of real estate requires the signature of all the registered owners. If you add a registered owner to title to the property, they will need to sign any documentation relating to the subsequent sale or refinancing of it. Some people do not wish to have to ask their children to be involved in those types of personal matters.

This is provided as information ONLY; it should NOT be construed as legal advice. For more information, please contact Vanessa DeDominicis on 250-869-1140 or dedominicis@ pushormitchell.com Vanessa practices in the area of Real Estate and Wills/Estates at Pushor Mitchell LLP in Kelowna and would be more than happy to assist you.

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Y22 | JUST FOR SENIORS

CAPITAL news

MARCH 24, 2017

Y

Big changes coming for Peachland senior’s group Many programs to enjoy and events to take in at Peachland 50 Plus

By Susan Van Noortywk Wow, big changes at the Peachland 50 Plus Activity Centre. At the February Potluck and Annual General Meeting Pat Grieve announced that after nine years she will be stepping down as president of our Peachland & District Retirement Society. Oh my, we have big shoes to fill. Pat and her husband Roy have been the heart and soul of the centre, instrumental in so many improvements and programs. We heartily thank them for their dedication and service and wish them well. The 2017/18 board will be led by our very capable Carol White. Welcome to your new role Carol.

Another change in the works. Our long-time bingo callers Cal and Irene are retiring after 12 years. This too is a volunteer position and we are so grateful for their dedication and service. The centre really depends on bingo proceeds and it is our most popular, well-attended program. Cal and Irene could always be counted on, even in rain, snow or sickness. They brought their visitors along and planned their time away so they could be

be there Thursday evening. Their professionalism, knowledge, kindness and smiles have made them very well respected. Thank you, Cal, and Irene.

If you know of anyone interested in being trained as a bingo caller, call 250-767-9133.

Did you make it to the Kettle Valley Brakeman Concert? It was a rollicking full house.

Jack, Glen, Jamie and Bill put on an entertaining show. People tapped toes and heard some true stories. Some favourites were Lady Agnes MacDonald riding the cow catcher, the silk trains taking priority, CPR strawberries, raining rattle snakes, the hobo collecting the valuables, the steward getting his just desserts and the Frank slide hero. Jack said he has many more stories with songs and if he comes back will share new ones.

Thank you to Dave Winter from the Central Okanagan Railway Company for the model trail display. This group meets every Wednesday at the Peachland Museum. They look after the great Kettle Valley train display.

Upcoming:

• The Peachland Variety Singers Spring Concert Our Canada will be held at the 50 + Activity Centre Sunday, April 9.

• Any budding artists out there? There is a possibility of starting up a new art class for beginners. If you are interested, please call Roberta Farrelly at 767-2054.

• Other programs include the Wood Carvers, Friday Art Club, Bridge players, Needlework Group, TOPs, and Iron & Silk. Don’t be intimidated if you are a beginner. Groups welcome and mentor newcomers.

• The Peachland 50 Plus Activity Centre is on Facebook and the web site is: www.peachland50plusactivitycentre.ca. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

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Y23 | JUST FOR SENIORS

MARCH 24, 2017

CAPITAL news

DIRECTORY OF SERVICES

Health • Medical • Important Numbers POLICING Emergency Calls Only ........................................................... 911 Block Watch (Kelowna RCMP) .............................. 250.470.6214 Community Policing Offices: Mission.................................................................... 250.764.5004 Rutland ................................................................... 250.765.6355 Peachland ............................................................... 250.767.2623 West Kelowna (RCMP) ........................................... 250.768.2880 Citizens Patrol: Lake Country .......................................................... 250.766.5400 West Kelowna ........................................................ 250.707.8022 Crime Stoppers/Tips ............................... 1.800.222.TIPS (8477) Kelowna Crime Prevention Association: Box 22033, Capri PO, Kelowna, V1Y 9N9 Royal Canadian Mounted Police: Kelowna .................................................................. 250.762.3300 Lake Country .......................................................... 250.766.2288 Peachland ............................................................... 250.767.2623 West Kelowna ........................................................ 250.768.2880 Whitefoot Lodge, Village of Big White................ 250.765.3549

HEALTH FACILITIES: Interior Health Authority www.interiorhealth.ca • Regional Administration Office ......................... 250.862.4200 • Capri Community Care Health Centre.............. 250.980.1400 • Kelowna Health Centre ...................................... 250.868.7700 • Kelowna General Hospital www.interiorhealth.ca 2268 Pandosy Street ....................................... 1.888.877.4442 Switchboard ....................................................... 250.862.4000 Emergency.......................................................... 250.862.4485 Foundation ......................................................... 250.862.4438 Patient Room Enquiries ..................................... 250.862.4099 Volunteer Services ............................................. 250.862.4497 • Prosthetic & Orthotic Services ........................... 250.862.4208 • May Bennett Wellness Centre ........................... 250.980.1400 • Patient Care Quality Office, IHA ..................... 1.877.442.2001 • Rutland Health Centre........................................ 250.980.4825 • West Kelowna Health Centre............................. 250.980.1400

MEDICAL ORGANIZATIONS & SERVICES Alcohol & Drug Information & Referral Service1.800.663.1441 Kelowna Alcohol & Drugs Services ....................250.870.5777 Allergy/Asthma Information Assn. .....................250.764.7507 ............................................................................1.877.500.2242 ALS Society of BC .............................................1.800.708.3228 Alzheimer Society of BC .....................................250.860.0305 ............................................................................1.800.634.3399 Dementia Helpline ...........................................1.800.936.6033 Arthritis Society Answers Line .........................1.800.321.1433 Interior Regional Office (Trudy)...........................250.868.8643 BC Brain Injury Association ..............................1.877.858.1788 BC Cancer Agency Sindi Ahulwalia Hawkins Centre for Southern Interior ...............................250.712.3900

Screening Mammography Program ...................250.861.7560 Book your screening .........................................1.800.663.9203 BC Epilepsy Society..........................................1.866.374.5377 Centre for Elipepsy & Seizure Education in BC ............1.866.

EPILEPSY BC Lung Association ........................................1.800.665.5864 BC Lupus Society ..............................................1.866.585.8787 Kelowna Support Group (Janet) .........................250.764.1640 BC Schizophrenia Society ...................................250.868.3119 BC Spinal Cord Injury .................... 1.877.324.3611 Vancouver ...............................................1.800.689.2477 SCIU BC Infoline BrainTrust Canada ...............................................250.762.3233 CNIB .....................................................................250.763.1191 Canadian Cancer Society ....................................250.762.6381 ............................................................................1.800.403.8222 Cancer Information Service .............................1.888.939.3333 Canadian Cancer Society Southern Interior Rotary Lodge ..........................250.712.2203 Freemason Volunteer Driver Program ............1.800.299.0188 Canadian Diabetes Association .........................250.762.9447 Information Line ................................................1.800.226.8464 Canadian Institute for Health Information (Victoria) ...........................................250.220.4100 Canadian Liver Foundation..............................1.800.856.7266 Canadian Mental Health Association.................250.861.3644 BC Division ........................................................1.800.555.8222 24 Hour Info Line ..............................................1.800.661.2121 Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program.......................................................250.765.3465 Cardiac Health Foundation of Canada Central Okanagan Association for Cardiac Health .................

250.763.3433 Cerebral Palsy Association of BC ....................1.800.663.0004 Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation ...........................1.800.513.8202 Denturist Association of BC ................................604.582.6823 Dietitian Services .......................................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY ..............................................................................Dial 7-1-1 HealthLink BC ............................................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY ..............................................................................Dial 7-1-1 Healthy Eating for Seniors ........................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY ..............................................................................Dial 7-1-1 Heart & Stroke Foundation BC/Yukon ...............250.860.6275 ............................................................................1.866.432.7833 Interior Health Lifeline Program .........................250.762.0200 Kidney Foundation of Canada.........................1.800.567.8112 Lake Country Health Planning Society...............250.766.5437 Medic Alert Foundation ...................................1.800.668.1507 Medical Services Plan .......................................1.800.663.7100 Multiple Sclerosis Society ...................................250.762.5850 Muscular Dystrophy Canada............................1.800.366.8166 Okanagan Mental Health Services Society Assisted Living Program......................................250.717.3368 Therapeutic Work Program.................................250.717.3007 Osteoporosis Canada (Trish Gunning) ...............250.861.6880 Pacific Blue Cross..............................................1.800.873.2583 Parkinson Society British Columbia ................1.800.668.3330 PharmaCare.......................................................1.800.663.7100 Prostate Cancer Canada Network ...................1.888.255.0333 Westside Health Network Society ......................250.768.3305

Y24 | JUST FOR SENIORS MARCH 24, 2017

CAPITAL news

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