Wed., October 19, 2011 Comox Valley Record The Good Life

THE

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Standing behind his work Scott Stanfield

In the early-70s, Vix ran a salon called the Scissors Record Staff Edge at the corner of 14th Ray Vix tried retiring but and Cliffe in Courtenay. found he had too much time He then plied his trade in on his hands.

Dawson Creek and Prince Thumb-twiddling and George, worked 15 years daytime TV didn’t cut it. in Chilliwack, and slowly So he opened a barber worked his way back to shop and went back to work.

Vancouver Island, with the “I tried retiring,” the intention of retiring.

68-year-old said. “It was Vix tried out carpentry so boring, because during his brief this is such a social retirement but There’s a lot of barbers in job. I couldn’t sit at wasn’t thrilled to be home and just talk to this town, probably too many. climbing roofs at his But everybody wants to move to myself. So here I am. age.

Back to work.”

“I said to myself, a place like this to retire. ConWhich he does at if I’m going to be sequently, you get an overabunAlex & Ray’s Barber working I might as dance of people in this trade.

Shop at 441 Cliffe well be back in my Ave., which opened — Ray Vix own trade,” said Vix, four months ago who works full-time. across from the Sid Williams young people at all,” said Vix figures a lot of local Vix, recalling the long hair Theatre. His business partbarbers are “going to go by era started with the Beatles. the wayside.” ner, Alex Devlin, 77, works The next trend was hair part-time. Their motto is We “There’s a lot of barbers design when everyone, Vix Stand Behind Our Work. in this town, probably too included, needed to be a The Vancouver-bred Vix many,” he said. “But everystylist rather than a barber. left his hometown at age 16 body wants to move to a Combining the two trades, to work at a logging camp place like this to retire. he ran a business and before entering the barberConsequently, you get an taught hairdressers the art ing profession. He learned overabundance of people in of fine tapering for barberhis trade at the Vancouver this trade, and there’s a lot ing purposes. In turn, they Vocational Institute. of people doing it out of their taught him colouring and “This business has gone home. That keeps things perming. full circle several times,” down a bit, too.

These days, crewcuts, said Vix, who has been cut“It would be nice to see a flattops and other styles of ting hair since 1963. “Fortubunch of young people come short hair have come back to back into the business — nately I managed to survive the forefront. through it all.” start up another trend.”

When he started, he recalls customers typically walked through the doors every 10 days or two weeks looking for the ‘slick look,’ cut neat and tidy around the ears. But then things dried up in the hippy era when long hair became stylish, though the older diehards kept getting cut.

“We weren’t getting any

❝

RAY VIX opened Alex & Ray’s Barber Shop this year near the corner of Fifth and Cliffe in Courtenay.

SCOTT STANFIELD PHOTO

❞

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

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ALICE EDGE, co-chair of the BC Health Coalition, speaks (left) about fall prevention during a monthly meeting of Support Our Seniors Comox Valley. At right she joins SOS executive members (from left) Janet Horn, Cliff Boldt, Gwyn Frayne and Zoë Levitsky at their monthly meeting.

PHOTOS BY LINDSAY CHUNG

SOS working hard to really support our seniors Lindsay Chung Record Staff Falls are the main cause of injuries to seniors.

During a presentation to the Support Our Seniors (SOS) Comox Valley monthly meeting in early October, Alice Edge, co-chair of the BC Health Coalition, shared information about how to prevent falls, which she told the group are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older Canadians.

Half of residential care admissions are fall-related, according to Edge.

Edge told the group that 84 per cent of injury-related hospitalizations are because of falls, while 90 per cent of hip fractures are a result of a fall.

The good news?

“Falls are the most preventable risk to seniors’ health, well-being and independence,” said Edge.

Presentations like these are part of SOS efforts to

provide education to seniors and their family members.

The group’s roots began about four years ago when current executive member Gwyn Frayne and current chair Jennifer Pass were members of the family council at Casa Loma Seniors’ Village.

Executive members Janet Horn and Zoë Levitsky also became involved, but the council was dissolved when management decided the council was not necessary and told them they could no longer meet in the facility, explained Levitsky.

“Family councils are not mandatory, except in complex care,” she said.

SOS Comox Valley was officially formed June 17, 2009, by 10 individuals who had been part of a family council for Casa Loma.

SOS receives no funding and relies on donations.

“We are funded by donations at the meetings only,” said Levitsky. “We’re an informal group of people

who were concerned about seniors’ care and living standards.”

The non-partisan group advocates for the provision of support that seniors, living either in a facility or with independence chal-

seniors’ counsellors in the Comox Valley, and there is no intermediate care anymore so assisted living is meant to cover that level of care but it doesn’t always meet people’s needs, explained the three execu-

Although we were working first as a ❝ support group and education group, we’re

working now more as a lobby group and education. Because we can’t support everyone, it’s obvious we need a system change.

❞

— Gwyn Frayne lenges in their own home, need to have a good quality of life.

“I think some of us on the executive have had parents who’ve gone through the whole system,” said Horn.

“They’ve gone from living in their own home to independent living at a seniors complex or assisted living, then the hospital transition ward and complex care. The system is very difficult to deal with.”

There are no longer

tive members.

“One of the huge changes is there’s very little nonprofit care for assisted living; mostly they are private,” added Frayne.

SOS is not only for seniors or people with elderly family members in care — they have a regular member who is younger who has a disability as well.

“It’s for anybody who’s in care and might require assistance,” said Levitsky.

SOS’s short-term plan-

ning includes monitoring seniors’ facilities; investigating issues of concern in light of legislative standards and policies; writing letters to highlight concerns and encourage positive change; advocacy on behalf of individuals in relation to issues of home care or facility care; continuing to support the formation and operation of tenant, resident and family councils; learning about and advocating for improvements in home care and facility care for seniors; outreach to other agencies to build networks and form coalitions; sharing concerns about senior care issues; and increasing awareness throughout the community of SOS. The group’s long-term goals include hope for a new model of health care that would be reasonably priced, involve links of friendship, have employees who are respected and feel like part of the organization, and be based on public-public part-

nerships.

SOS works to help people find the answers they are looking for.

“Our group tries to direct people to the proper places to get their questions answered because it is quite difficult to navigate the system when you have a family member needing care,” said Horn.

“Although we were working first as a support group and education group, we’re working now more as a lobby group and education,” noted Frayne.

“Because we can’t support everyone, it’s obvious we need a system change.

Some of the resources should be reinstated.”

SOS Comox Valley meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Rotary Room in the Florence Filberg Centre.

For more information visit www.supportourseniorscomoxvalley.com or call Gwyn Frayne at 250-338-6265. writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

5

Bates moving into new phase Scott Stanfield Record Staff Fred Bates will step down from his post as mayor of Cumberland after the Nov. 19 municipal elections, embarking on the next phase of what has thus far been a rich and varied life.

Besides spending more time with family, the 67-year-old father of four is considering a trip to Cumberland’s sister city in Putian, China, where he has been invited to assist with restructuring the city’s ambulance service.

He has already made three trips to China — which forged the relationship with Putian — and has hosted various delegations, including three China Consul Generals and their entourages.

“When we re-established our Chinese and Japanese history in Cumberland, none of us I think were prepared for the reaction we got from the Japanese and Chinese people,” Bates said. “They were so thrilled that a community would open up to its

history — good and bad — because it was definitely not all good.”

When a committee formed to revisit Coal Creek Park, the Chinese Consul General of the day told Bates it was likely the first time Chinese and Japanese people sat together on a committee to discuss heritage.

In 2009, Bates was invited to speak at the Chinese mayor’s school in Beijing.

Such a school is mandatory in China.

“They’d never had a foreigner talk to their school.”

In the early-1960s, the Cumberland-born Bates was a first aid attendant at logging camps and was a volunteer firefighter. He left his hometown in 1969 to pursue a career in emergency medical services. He worked as a first aid attendant at a North Island camp, then became an ambulance attendant in Vancouver and Kamloops with the newly formed BC Ambulance Service in 1974. He later went into management with the ambulance service, where he became executive director,

MAYOR FRED BATES will give up his Village of Cumberland office after the municipal elections next month.

I felt Cumberland was well situated to ❝ becoming an integral part of the Comox Valley future. I thought we, as a group, could turn things. Frankly, I think we have. To have pride you have to have a future.

❞

— Fred Bates

based out of Victoria.

“It was a fascinating career,” he said. “In those years it was in its growth.

We were going from the old ‘scoop-and-run meat wagon’ as people used to call them to actually taking sophisticated care to a patient and stabilizing them at the scene.”

Bates, who returned to the Valley in the early-’90s, credits his late wife Barb for carrying the load throughout his career in the ambulance service.

His interest in politics was first sparked on the ball diamond after he moved back from Victoria. He coached a fastpitch team,

NEW!

PHOTO BY SCOTT STANFIELD

the Homestore Hit Men. The team had discipline issues but a year later earned the umps award for most sportsmanlike team.

When a game was rained out during a Hit Men-hosted tournament, Bates challenged the team to organize work parties to fix the field.

The challenge worked.

His players garnered $250,000 worth of donated materials, which they used to construct a pair of lit ball diamonds at Village Park.

The squad then suggested he run for council, which Bates did, triggered as well

by the ‘it’s-just-Cumberland’ attitude that he considered unacceptable.

“I felt Cumberland was well situated to becoming an integral part of the Comox Valley future,” said Bates, who based his council campaign on the blasé attitude.

“I thought we, as a group, could turn things. Frankly, I think we have. To have pride you have to have a future.”

Bates has spent 15 years on Cumberland council, nine as mayor. He also served two years as regional district chair. reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

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For more than 40 years, Charlie Massey has been helping RCMP members and their families through tough times and celebrating with them during the good times.

Massey has been a chaplain for 42 years, beginning in Ontario where he said many of his high school friends were Ontario Provincial Police members.

He worked in Newfoundland for the OPP and the military before coming to the Comox Valley RCMP detachment 19 years ago.

Massey added he works with a variety of denominations because he wants to be able “to serve everybody.”

He said working for the RCMP is similar to working for the military because there are many members dealing with separation from their families for long periods.

“It’s much different than a municipal force.”

He admits one of the most difficult parts of his job is when he is dealing with a death, and carries a pager with him at all times.

For his dedication to the service, Massey has received much recognition and

COMOX VALLEY RCMP chaplain Charlie Massey with his Excellence in Police Chaplaincy award in July 2009.

FILE PHOTO

awards, most notably from the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC) and the John A. Price Award for Excellence in Police Chaplaincy.

The organization granted Massey their highest credential by making him a fellow of the ICPC in July 2008.

Nearly a year later, Massey received the John A. Price Award for Excellence

in Police Chaplaincy at an international conference in Knoxville, Tenn.

“To have that support there, especially in the event of a fallen member ... it’s really nice to have somebody there to give us some spiritual guidance. Charlie’s done a lot with us at the detachment here,” Const. Tammy Douglas told the Record. photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Hear what you’ve been missing.

Hearing loss affects one in two people over the age of 50, yet it takes most people 5 - 7 years to realize they need to address it.

Here’s a quick checklist. Do you: • Constantly increase the volume on your TV or radio?

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Brushing up on computer skills and drafting a new resume can help older adults successfully re-enter the work force after retirement.

WORKING After Retirement employment) experienced fewer major disThere’s no longer a magic number for eases and fewer functional limitations than retirement. Some people find that they want those who fully retired. Researchers considto work past the traditional retirement age, ered only physician-diagnosed health probwhile others discover lems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, they need to. In addition, some retirees discancer, lung disease, heart disease, stroke cover that they actually liked working and and psychiatric problems. want to return to work rather than settle Those thinking of remaining in the work into retirement. force can check with employers to see if Sixty-five is no longer the required age retirement is mandatory or voluntary. to stop working. In fact, many people are Seniors re-entering the foregoing retirement and work force may want to staying with Working tends to brush up on some skills the workforce. Why? No keep the mind sharp and and reconnect with former single reason applies to employers or colleagues everyone, but finances helps seniors feel like to make the transition often come into play. contributing members of easier.

Thanks to a troubled society. … retirees who Here are some other economy that has carried strategies to consider: over into the workplace, continued to work in • Refurbish your pensions and severance a bridge job (meaning resume. Focus on what packages are no longer part time or temporary things you can do rather the norm for retiring employment) experienced than what you did in workers. When faced with the prospect of reduced fewer major diseases and the past. You may be up against younger applifunds and dwindling Canfewer functional limitacants and will have to ada Pension Plan benefits, tions than those who fully make a case for your hire. many choose to simply retired.

• Be flexible. You may keep on working. need health benefits more Furthermore, individuso than a high salary. als who retire before 65 You can work with an employer to develop are often faced with finding their own pria compensation package that is mutually vate health insurance plans. Even still, high beneficial. prescription costs for chronic conditions can • Develop computer skills. Today’s work exceed the allowance of plans. Employee environment relies heavily on computer insurance plans tend to have better options, skills. It is unwise for you to think you’ll and that often factors into an employee’s get by on experience alone. Obtain a rudiretirement decision. mentary education in computer usage and There are many people who continue common office programs, which can set you working because they actually enjoy it, and apart from other older applicants. not because of some financial necessity.

Know there’s nothing to prove. Retirees Working tends to keep the mind sharp have the benefit of taking their time and and helps seniors feel like contributing finding the right fit in a post-retirement job. members of society. According to a study conducted by the American Psychiatric Asso- Unless money is an issue, shop around until you find the job that appeals to you, even if ciation, retirees who continued to work in a it’s part-time or lower salary. bridge job (meaning part time or temporary

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

BEST EXERCISES for the Over-50 Crowd Benefits of Exercise The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 28 to 44 percent of seniors ages 65 to 75 are inactive, meaning they don’t get enough daily exercise for optimal health. Studies indicate that there are many reasons that seniors should engage in regular exercise.

• It can help stave off illness and chronic conditions by keeping the immune system healthy.

• It paves the way for better sleep, including falling asleep easier and sleeping more deeply.

• Exercise releases natural endorphins, which help a person feel good about him or herself and can boost mood.

• Regular exercise can promote weight loss, especially when done in conjunction with a healthy diet.

• Improved muscle tone can take pressure off of joints and help with mobility.

• Research indicates that exercise can boost brain function and keep dementia at bay.

• When participating in social exercise, seniors realize companionship and stress relief.

• Exercise can keep systems of the body in check, reducing constipation and helping circulatory issues.

Engaging In the Right Exercises

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

The human body needs exercise to operate at full capacity.

Exercise is important at any age, but can be particularly beneficial for individuals in their golden years. The key is finding exercises that are both safe and effective.

While it may have been the norm to do multiple, rigorous repetitions of exercises during one’s youth, older adults should employ different strategies. Certain exercises are better than others and can help reduce the risk of injury.

Before starting any type of exercise regimen, seniors should talk with a physician about the pros and cons of certain activities. The doctor may be able to provide guidance as to which activities are better for specific conditions a person has. For example, an individual with arthritis may want to seek low-impact workouts, such as water aerobics.

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Once a doctor gives the go-ahead, here are some exercises many 50+ people can try.

Walking: Walking remains one of the best exercises for people of any age. The pace and resistance can be set by each individual by walking faster or slower, uphill or downhill. Adding light weights can make the workout even more effective.

Walking is also easier on the legs and knees than jogging, but can be just as effective a cardiovascular workout.

Leg extensions: Repetitions of leg extensions

stretch the muscles of the legs and flex the knee joint. This can promote longevity of the knees and keep knee replacements at bay.

Swimming: Enrolling in a local gym or YMCA that has a pool can be a boon to seniors. Swimming is a low-impact workout that targets most areas of the body as well as providing a cardiovascular workout. Plus, since swimming can be relaxing and enjoyable, it’s an exercise that many people don’t mind doing.

Strength training: Moderate weight lifting can keep muscles strong and promote a healthy metabolism, considering muscle burns more calories than fat.

Endurance exercise: Just about any activity that gets the heart rate up for an extended period of time is good for the body. This can be raking leaves, mowing the lawn, walking, bicycling, playing a game of catch, etc.

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

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Gardeners have to get smarter as they get older restricts erosion and puts nutrients back into the soil.

Who cares…other than you…if all the dead-heading gets done. Certainly the birds will thank you for leaving some seed behind for them.

And save any burning Leslie Cox for the spring. Those hollow plant stems are likely harSpecial to the Record bouring overwintering insect Fall has descended, which larvae… swallowtail butmeans there is precious terflies for one. These butlittle time left for sitting in terflies have at least three your favourite garden chair cycles per year with the late for this year. cycle overwintering as pupae Fall means the number of inside of such stems as fengarden chores increases. nel.

Not such a big deal for Now, after having told you the younger gardeners to slow down in the garden amongst us…they seem and not be too meticulous, to run on pure adrenaline. doing gardening chores is But for those of us who are really beneficial…especially looking at 50 from the other to us older gardeners. The side, facing an onslaught of very acts of digging, plantchores that are ing and rakclamouring ing provide The key is to to be finished a complete well before the pace yourself. Don’t workout snow flies can for all the go all out at any seem dauntmajor muscle one chore. Do a bit ing. Advancing groups. cooler weather, of leaf raking then Of special accompanied switch to deadnote, a study so often by heading or pruning at the Univerrain, raises sity of Arkanfor a while. protests in sas found that more joints — Leslie Cox combining than we wish weight trainto count. ing with working in the The key is to pace yourgarden maintained bone self. Don’t go all out at any density significantly more one chore. Do a bit of leaf than bicycling, dancing or raking then switch to deadaerobics. (Sorry, guys…the heading or pruning. study was conducted only on Mix up turning the comwomen over 50.) post pile with staking and Gardening is good for the securing young trees and figure, too. It burns calories. rose shrubs against winter Realistically, everyone storms. Be kind to all parts moves a little differently… of your body…listen to what some faster than others. they are telling you.

Taking that into account, 30 And lighten up. Perfection minutes of raking will burn in the garden would be nice off roughly 165 calories. but really…how attainable Turning the compost pile for is it? the same length of time nets Raking the leaves into the you a calorie burn of about garden beds not only saves 250…weeding about 180. all the bending in transferFall is a great time to ring them to the wheelbarplant trees and shrubs. It is row or bags but it provides also a good time to move any the plants with an insulatperennials that are upseting blanket against the cold, ting your landscape design.

Learning to pace yourself and ignoring chores that don’t need doing is crucial

❝

SHELBY AND DYLAN plus their canine friend enjoy a thick bed of leaves thoughtfully left by their grandparents.

PHOTO BY JOHN COX

There is usually adequate rainfall at this time of year to keep the transplants from drying out. And their roots will continue to grow as long as the soil temperature is above 4.5C. Now the actual task of digging and manhandling large plants may seem overwhelmingly daunting but think of those 200 calories just sloughing off of your hips or midriff after only 30 minutes.

All these gardening chores — why not make them a little easier on yourself? Swap the regular tools for some ergonomic ones.

Leslie Cox co-owns Growing Concern Cottage Garden in Black Creek.

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THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

A NIA CLASS is only one of the numerous programs being run out of d’Esterre House in Comox.

ANOTHER

HAPPY CUSTOMER! ORTHOTIC SPECIALISTS • Custom Foot Orthotics • Footwear • Lower Extremity Bracing & Supports

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It’s not an ‘old folks’ club Arabella Benson, Fraser McAllan

along with future scheduled programs including Energy Medicine, Living Foods and Vibrant Moves and Build Your Bones.

At d’Esterre House, over 50 activities hapDiscover the Comox Valley’s best-kept pen every week — including Nia, Yoga, Ballsecret: You can rent this beautifully renoroom, Latin, Line and Belly Dancing, Fitness vated, sunlit ballroom and adjacent dining Exercises, Bridge, Cribbage, Whist, Carpet room on the weekends, except for regularly Bowling, Woodworking, Soapstone Carving, scheduled activities like two Sunday afterEuchre, Table Tennis, Tai Chi Gong, Paintnoon dances monthly. ing, Craft, Quilters, Ceramics, Stained Glass, In addition to breathtaking views of the Golf, Singing for the fun of it, Scrabble, Mah ocean and Marina Park, the d’Esterre House Jong, Table Tennis and more. ballroom has excellent facilities, a state-ofThen there are special dinners, pancake the-art sound system and gleaming hardbreakfasts, Sunday wood floor that is dances and special You can rent this beautifully truly elegant. This is presentations. If the perfect venue for renovated, sunlit ballroom and there’s an activity your event. you like and don’t adjacent dining room on the weekVisit www.comoxfind, start one. seniors.ca to find the ends, except for regularly schedThis is not an myriad activities you uled activities like two Sunday “old folks’ club� — can join. Check out afternoon dances monthly. it’s a vibrant activthe latest newsletter ity centre for you for monthly events, who have an open mind and are young at special programs and announcements plus heart. weekly schedules. For Brain Booster proNow is the best time to join — with the grams including dance lessons and Sunday new member fee at $12.50 until year end, or dances, e-mail arabella888@gmail.com. $25 until the end of 2012.

Better still, visit d’Esterre House durIn addition to activities that are open only ing office hours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from to members, Brain Boosters’ varied special Monday to Friday at 1801 Beaufort Ave. presentations and six regular classes are Telephone is 250-339-5133. Pick up the latopen to guests, but members pay $10 less est newsletter. monthly for each one.

The lunch room is warm and welcoming, It’s a no-brainer — if you’re 55 and over, the library well-stocked with books, videos, join the Comox Seniors Association, not only DVDs, games and two computers for memfor its regular programs but also for interbers’ use. esting, body/brain-enhancing sessions.

Though you don’t know them yet, there Past programs included Clear your Clutare friends and kindred spirits there. New ter, Clear Your Mind, Alexander Technique, friendships to last a lifetime are waiting for Qigong, Self-Healing Massage and The Work you at d’Esterre. Take time to make wonderby Byron Katie. These may be repeated, ful memories. — d’Esterre House Special to the Record

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

13

THERE’S NO END to the activities and diversions available to residents of Casa Loma and Comox Valley Seniors Village.

Three levels of lifestyles With fall in the air, things are busy at Comox Valley Seniors Village and Casa Loma.

The location, amenities and staff at Comox Valley Seniors Village and Casa Loma provide a relaxed and unencumbered lifestyle that enables and encourages residents to pursue life’s many pleasures.

Whether that means socializing with new or old friends, taking part in activities, soaking in the beauty of this island locale or simply enjoying a meal prepared in the on-site kitchen, the choices are many, varied and inspiring.

These three levels of living arrangements at CV Seniors Village and Casa Loma are: Independent Living This option offers an option to bridge the gap between living home alone, assisted living and residential/complex care. It is for those who need some assistance, but don’t want or need ‘personal care’ assistance or 24-hour professional nursing care.

You get: • Accommodation; • Hospitality services such as meals, housekeeping, laundry, and recreational opportunities; • A 24-hour response system (no professional nursing service).

Assisted Living Assisted living offers the same as Independent living plus: • Personal assistance services (may include assistance with tasks like bathing, grooming, hygiene and dressing).

This option is for only those people who are able to make decisions on their own behalf and can: • Function safely with the supports available in the residence;

• Recognize the consequences of taking risks; • Find their way within the residence; • Find their way back to the residence; • Communicate effectively (verbally or non-verbally) so they are understood by others; • Participate in the development and regular review of their care plan, or make their needs known to the person they live with who then participates in the development of the care plan; • Recognize an emergency, use an emergency response system or summon help, and be able to take direction in an emergency situation; • Be able to self transition and propel.

Other services such as assistance with medication may be done upon family, or health authority request and agreement.

Complex Care/Residential Care Complex care facilities provide 24-hour professional nursing care and supervision in a protective, supportive environment for people who have complex care needs and can no longer be cared for in their own homes.

Complex care services include: • An assisted meal service; • Medication supervision; • Personal assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing or grooming; • A planned program of social and recreational activities.

Be sure to be a part in the fun at Comox Valley Seniors Village and Casa Loma by marking your calendars to remember to visit Comox Valley Seniors Village on Oct. 22 and 23 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. for the craft sale at 4640 Headquarters Rd. in Courtenay.

— Comox Valley Seniors Village and Casa Loma

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Tee Times: 250-334-3232 Restaurant 250-334-3342 Lounge available for: Meetings • Weddings • Parties

Volunteer Shopping Service for those with a disability If you have a condition that prevents you from being able to come to one of our stores to shop, you may be a candidate for our Sendial service.

We have organized a special group of volunteers who will phone you and take your order and then Thrifty Foods will deliver your groceries the very next day.

TO REGISTER: Visit our Customer Service Desk at the front of the store OR CALL: Thrifty Foods Customer Service Line: 1.800.667.8280

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14

THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Downsizing a good idea

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Are you getting tired of cutting the grass and shovelling snow?

Are you uncomfortable lugging laundry baskets and groceries up and downstairs?

Perhaps the thought of moving sounds good, but the thought of selling your home and moving to a smaller place overwhelms you. If so, you are not alone!

Making the decision to move to a smaller place is extremely difficult for many older adults.

If you’ve lived in your home for several decades, then leaving it may feel like an enormous loss. If your children have moved on, it may feel like your house is all you have left.

Share with your family and friends cherished items and heirlooms and take comfort in knowing that these possessions will be appreciated.

Get a floor plan of the new house and decide which furniture and accessories will fit into the new space.

Select items that hold the most memories such as photographs and favorite

DISPOSING OF POSSESSIONS accumulated over a lifetime can be tough. treasures.

The following checklist might help you decide if it is time to move on: 1. What is your neighborhood like, do you feel safe?

2. Can you get to places like the bank and shops easily?

3. Do you feel isolated?

4. Can you keep up the basic maintenance of your home?

5. Do you have to use stairs to reach your bedroom or bathroom?

6. Are your memory and vision still good?

7. Can you still prepare meals?

8. Do you remember to take your medications?

Moving is a great time for personal growth and healing, when a person settles into their new home, they can have sense of satisfaction about the past and hope for the future.

Anne Delaney owns Delaney Relocation Services. Call her at 250-338-3359.

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Do you have a current will?

Kevin Dobbelsteyn

related decisions on your behalf should you become too ill to do so on your own.

Special to the Record Generally speaking, the purchase of will Good financial planning must include pro- kits and power of attorney kits at various viding for your loved ones and ensuring they retail stores or on line is not recommended, are taken care of after your death. as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to make mistakes. A holograph It should also include taking the right Will is one prepared by you in your own steps to ensure that your wishes for your handwriting and signed by you, without witfinances and medical treatment will be nesses. Such a Will can raise many problems respected even if you become incapacitated. and should be avoided except in an emergenThe essential basis for all this is a valid, cy. The bottom line: when it comes to Wills, up-to-date Will that: professional advice is well worth the cost. â&#x20AC;˘ Names your executor (sometimes called You should review and revise your Will a Personal Represenwhen: tative or in QuĂŠbec, â&#x20AC;˘ there has been a Wills become more coma liquidator) to take major tax change; plex if you own a business, are charge of your estate. â&#x20AC;˘ your marital stain a blended family, want to set tus has changed; â&#x20AC;˘ Ensures your up a trust, have specific bequest legacy is passed on â&#x20AC;˘ the marital status according to your of your beneficiaries objectives, or want to structure wishes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; if you die has changed; your assets to minimize estate without a Will (i.e. â&#x20AC;˘ you are expecting intestate) your estate taxes and probate fees. a child or have just will be distributed had one; according to provincial legislation, which â&#x20AC;˘ a beneficiary dies or becomes disabled; may not be consistent with your intentions. â&#x20AC;˘ your business succession plan has â&#x20AC;˘ Makes suitable arrangements for minor changed; children and other dependants, and in parâ&#x20AC;˘ you sell a legacy with a significant ticular, name guardians for them. value or wish to substitute another legacy; â&#x20AC;˘ Minimizes delays, costs and the comâ&#x20AC;˘ you move to a different province, terriplexities of passing on your estate. tory or country; â&#x20AC;˘ Reduces taxes to the extent possible, â&#x20AC;˘ your financial position changes signifiin some cases by creating testamentary cantly; trusts for beneficiaries who are in higher tax â&#x20AC;˘ you want to change your Executor(s) or brackets.

Guardian(s) It is not absolutely necessary to have a It makes good sense to speak to your lawyer or notary public prepare your will â&#x20AC;&#x201D; financial adviser about the best way to pass but it is certainly recommended. You should on your legacy. also create a Living Will and a Power of J. Kevin Dobbelsteyn is a certified finanAttorney that designates person(s) of your cial planner with Investors Group Financial choice to make financial and/or healthServices Inc.

15

Your retirement is about more than numbers.

Katharine Spowart, PFP Investment and Retirement Planner

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Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Royal Mutual Funds Inc.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about you. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ask unexpected questions that get right to the heart of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really important to you. We can meet at a place thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s convenient for you, talk about your vision of retirement, and work together to create a ďŹ nancial strategy that gets you there. Call me to make an appointment.

Tel: 250-703-1496 or Tel: 250-650-5496 katharine.spowart@rbc.com Financial planning services and investment advice are provided by Royal Mutual Funds Inc. Royal Mutual Funds Inc., RBC Asset Management Inc.and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are afďŹ liated. Royal Mutual Funds Inc. is licensed as a ďŹ nancial services ďŹ rm in the province of Quebec. ÂŽ Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Š Royal Bank of Canada 2010.

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16

THE GOOD LIFE

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Take care of your

feet Carol Sullivan Special to the Record Are you having trouble looking after your toenails, corns or calluses? Are you a diabetic?

Most of us take our feet for granted but they are vital to our

health and mobility. Feet influence our physical, psychological, and social well-being.

A foot care nurse can help you with all of these.

What are foot care nurses?

They are regulated professionals who have received additional education specific to the foot and lower limbs and practices according to their scope of practice.

A foot care nurse can be either a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse. Both practise according to their scope of practice and are regulated professionals who hold a current registration with either the BC College of RNs or BC College of LPNs. A foot care nurse is knowledgeable and understands diabetes,

poor circulation, hip and knee replacements and how they can affect the feet. They follow strict infection control standards for cleaning and sterilizing of instruments.

They also work closely with other health care professionals and makes appropriate referrals, participate in educational opportunities to maintain and enhance competencies and are aware of health and safety while providing foot care.

Why is foot care important?

Most people are born with healthy feet. As we grow older, foot problems can develop as a result of aging, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, weight problems, hip and or knee replacement, arthritis, or

SIDE BY SIDE HISTORY AND FINE ART

COMOX ARCHIVES & MUSEUM

PEARL ELLIS GALLERY

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

any debilitating disease or condition which may result in the loss of mobility.

It also can result in the loss of your ability to cut your thick toenails that may have fungus or caring for corns and calluses.

A usual visit involves: • A short medical assessment for new clients, which includes discussion and client identified problems; • Soothing foot soak as appropriate; • A visual assessment and inspection of the feet; top, bottom, sides, between toes and pedal pulses felt; • Testing with a filament for feeling on the bottom of diabetic feet;

• Cleaning out under the nails, cutting and filing of nails; • Management and care of corns, calluses and ingrown toenails as appropriate; • Educating and working with the client to formulate preventive measures for safe care; • Identifying the need for more specialized treatments and referring to the proper professional i.e. medical doctor, podiatrist or orthotist; • Six- to eight-week followup maintenance appointments to keep the toenails and feet in good shape.

Carol Sullivan is a licensed practical nurse who operates River City Foot Care in Comox at Senior Services Under One Roof. Call 250339-1188 or (cell) 1-250-202-4398.

Successfully Transition To Your Second Career Changing careers is common for men and women over the age of 50.

THE EVOLUTION OF COMOX CONTINUES

TUES THROUGH SAT 10:00AM - 4:00PM SUNDAYS 1:00PM - 4:00PM CLOSED MONDAYS FREE ADMISSION DONATIONS GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED Closed for the Christmas Season December 19th through January 9th

NOW SHOWING OCT 4 TO 23RD “PAINTING PALS” Bev Johnston Sharon Lennox COMING NEXT OCT 25—NOV 6 Roberta Zander James McEvoy NOV 8—NOV 27 Brushworks NOV 29—JAN 22 Pearl Ellis Gallery Members’ Fundraiser Event

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Many men and women reach their 50s and 60s and decide the adventure of a new challenge is simply too hard to resist. Oftentimes, this new challenge comes in the form of a second career.

Though the United States Department of Labor notes it’s difficult to pinpoint how many career changes the average worker undergoes during his or lifetime, career coaches typically say men and women will undergo between three and seven career changes during their lifetime. Of course, such estimates no doubt include career changes at the onset of a one’s professional life, when many people are not precisely sure what they want to do for a living.

For older workers, the uncertainty lies less in what they want to do and more in if they can pull it off. For those who have already decided what they want to do, consider the following tips to help ensure that dream becomes a reality.

Be patient. Aside from being qualified, the most important thing a person changing careers can be is patient. A successful career change does not happen overnight. Some career changes might require returning to school. Others might not require a new degree, but might require an established professional start from the bottom up.

Whatever the situation, it’s best to remain patient. If your new career is worth pursuing, be patient enough to see it through.

Network. Networking is often seen as an opportunity to advance within your own industry. However, networking can be just as valuable when changing careers.

People within your network might be able to introduce you to new contacts outside of your industry. These contacts, even if they don’t have a job to offer, can often provide valuable insight into the industry you’re attempting to enter.

Volunteer. If your second career is going to be a complete 180 from your current field, it might help to volunteer and gain some experience before beginning a job search. Volunteering can prove beneficial in many ways. First and foremost, it provides potentially valuable experience you likely don’t have, and that experience may help down the road when you begin looking for a full-time position.

Another benefit to volunteering is it can provide a genuine look into the industry.

Finally, volunteering can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Should a position open up, a company is much more likely to consider the man or woman who has been volunteering at the firm than someone they don’t know.

Be flexible. In today’s job market, the flexible candidates are more likely to be successful.

THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

17

Love of playing can sustain athletes as they age Wendy Johnstone Special to the Record “I love the winning, I can take the losing. But most of all, I love to play.” — Boris Becker.

Being a volunteer at the BC Seniors Games in September 2010, it was hard not to get swept away by the wave of enthusiasm and excitement generated by 3,300 athletes. As a former national-calibre athlete and soon-to-be-masters athlete, I truly appreciated the level of competition as well as seeing the continued drive or pursuit in achieving a personal best regardless of one’s age.

I learned one of the main reasons for life-long competing was despite decreased performance with age, many of the athletes felt staying active far outweighed the risk of a decline in health that often comes with a sedentary life.

Also, none of these athletes could deny the positive

social and psychological benefits of competing in sport past their prime. The research agrees. Masters athletes tend to focus less on winning and more on camaraderie, continued participation and fun.

As baby boomers hit their stride, competitive participation by masters athletes will continue to rise in the coming years.

Despite changes that come with normal aging, many of us older competitors will continue to push ourselves in our sport of choice. As we engage in our athletic endeavours, we should be mindful of the physical changes with age, some of which include performance, goal-setting and injuries.

Despite the incredible stories about older athletes’ extraordinary feats, performance declines with age. Yes, we can slow it down but changes in our muscles, heart and lungs affect our ability to maintain

athletic performance.

For example, as we age, regardless of our training program, the maximal amount of oxygen that the heart can pump to the muscles and that the muscles can then use to produce energy declines. Also, muscular strength is maintained until we hit the big 6-0, at which point a rapid decline takes place as muscle fibres atrophy, or shrink.

Other factor such as eyesight, hearing, body awareness and balance all typically decline with each additional decade. The silver lining? Studies show that continuing to engage in a training program including cardiovascular and strength training, helps slow the downward trend.

Healthy active athletes have been known to forget about their biological age and perhaps deny any normal age-related changes. They, on occasion, have been known to set goals that are difficult to attain.

This often leads to injuries (surprise, surprise) or disappointment in performance.

Fortunately, the Comox Valley is home to several excellent personal trainers that can help set up a proper training program for older athletes to avoid injuries and other setbacks.

Although it can be an uphill battle for aging athletes to train and remain competitive, it’s also not all downhill. Research shows that the most important elements in training are

recovery time and strength training.

Recovery time needs to be longer for aging athletes. It’s wise to wait 48 to 72 hours between the same type of workout. Strength training is equally important for performance and a decreased risk for injury.

If you are still listening to the advice in this column, throw in a sufficient warm up and appropriate stretching and you are by far ahead of the rest of us aging athletes.

•••

Thank you to Jill Nelson for contributing her expertise to this article. Jill is a masters soccer player, registered trainer of fitness leaders with BCRPA, a medical exercise specialist with AAHRFP and currently teaches the 55 years + postrehab exercise circuit for Comox Recreation.

Wendy Johnstone is a gerontologist and is the founder of Keystone Eldercare Solutions in Comox. Her column runs in the Comox Valley Record every second Friday.

Christopher Kelsey • Azim Datoo Q.C. • David McVea • Aniel K. Datoo Beth Regehr • Andrea Rowe

Swift Datoo Law Corporation Wills and Estates Group Swift Datoo’s Wills and Estates Group is an experienced team of lawyers with a reputation for providing practical and creative advice to clients on matters ranging from incapacity planning and simple wills to advanced estate planning.

If you would like further information about the services we provide, then please call us. #201 - 467 Cumberland Road, Courtenay

250.334.4461 www.swiftdatoo.com BORIS BECKER never refused a tennis trophy he had won, but he said he just loved to play.

Pharmasave Comox - Your Home Healthcare Destinatiion!

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18

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

This document crucial the new rules that came into effect on Sept.

Retirees have a lot to be concerned about.

1, 2011 for PA’s created in British Columbia.

In addition to their investment decisions, On Oct 27, Susan Benesh, estate and they are often helping their adult children trust advisor from Royal Trust will be preand perhaps an aging parent. They are senting on the general topic of Estate Planworking hard at enjoying the retirement lifestyle that they envisioned, perhaps not so ning and use of Executor Services. Many executors feel overwhelmed by the paperhard to manage on Vancouver Island. Typiwork, time and effort involved in winding up cally last on their mind is what happens if an estate. they become incapable.

In addition, some folks have named Imagine that today your health took a executors for their will that live far away, in turn for the worst and for either a tempoanother country, or are just too busy to take rary or permanent period of time you had to on the task. Benesh hand over your affairs will provide some clarto someone else.

Imagine that today your ity around common Who pays your elechealth took a turn for the worst issues with estate tric bill? planning and the Who accesses your and for either a temporary or Royal Trust resources bank or safety deposit permanent period of time you for our community. box? had to hand over your affairs Back by popular Who tells your docdemand… tor what treatment to someone else.

On Nov. 3, a repreyou would prefer? sentative from Service Canada will be in the Who decides when to sell your house to office to discuss CPP and OAS. In 2011, new pay for long term care? rules came into effect that will be phased in Lara D. Austin, investment advisor, RBC from 2012 through to 2016. Our representaDominion Securities believes that being an tive will be available for individual quesinformed investor helps you make better choices. In addition to helping clients clarify tions as the rules can be difficult to interpret depending on your situation. All Canadian their situation on a day to day basis, Austin workers who have contributed to CPP are is hosting a series of presentations this fall eligible for a monthly income, OAS is based inviting a number of specialists to speak on residency. on topics relevant to the experience of the All presentations are held at the office of newly retired.

RBC Dominion Securities, 777A Fitzgerald On Oct. 20, local lawyer Catherine Miller Ave. from Allen and Company will provide some Registration two days before the preseninsights on a powerful document called a tation is required.

Power of Attorney (PA). The presentation You can call our office 250-334-5600 Monwill include the basics of what you should day to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or e-mail Ausconsider for compiling the document, comtin at www.lara.austin@rbc.com mon issues or mistakes she often sees, and

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3119 Cliffe Ave. (Across from Future Shop)

250-338-9800

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THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

19

CRUISING

Remains an Affordable Vacation

What’s an all-inclusive vacation that enables individuals to see many sights without having to step too far from their comfortable quarters? Cruising, of course.

Individuals on fixed incomes, such as couples just starting out in life, students and seniors often find that cruising is the ideal vacation for many reasons. Cost is often one of the top reasons for taking a cruise.

Although the average cruise may be roughly $2,000 per couple, that cost encompasses most activities, accommodations, food and beverages (outside of alcohol), and plenty of onboard entertainment. It may be difficult to find a similar scope of activities for that price in another vacation.

Vacation trends indicate that roughly 34 million passengers take a cruise holiday each year, spending upwards of $60 billion annually. A

large number of cruise vacationers are seniors. Why do seniors find cruising so enticing? Here are a number of reasons.

Costs known in advance: Unlike other vacations that require pay-as-you-go, cruisers typically know about all costs in advance of their trip. This means they can budget exactly what is needed for the cruise.

Flexible pricing: Individuals have a wide selections of rooms to choose from, which can vary greatly in cost.

Staterooms with balconies or suites may be at the top of the budget, while interior rooms that don’t offer an outside view will be the cheapest.

Convenience: Unlike some vacations, cruising only requires packing and unpacking twice with the possibilities of visiting multiple ports of call. Plus, it’s less likely luggage will be lost on a cruise than it is when travelling by air.

Safety: Everything is self-contained on a cruise — it’s a floating mini-city. Medical care, security, food, shopping, dining, and the like are available in safe locations. For travelers who are wary of venturing into strange areas, cruising offers peace of mind.

Known itinerary: For vacationers who just

want to unpack and relax without having to plan their entire vacation, cruising is ideal.

Cruise directors can help vacations pack their schedule or fly by the seat of their pants.

Variety of food: Instead of having to choose among restaurants or facing unfamiliar flavors when vacationing, cruisers can simply take their pick from an abundance of popular foods — many of which are all-you-can-eat.

Easier travel: Depending on country regulations, some international cruisers are not required to carry a passport, which saves on additional travel costs. Plus, travelers simply arrive at the terminal and set sail instead of having to catch taxis, buses, and the like to make a flight.

Social experience: Because many cruisers are thrown together at dinnertime or come upon each other poolside, it’s easy to strike up friendships with like-minded travelers.

Cruising remains one of the more popular vacation options for seniors and many others. With cruises occurring all around the world most of the year, it’s possible to visit a port of call that interests just about anyone.

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Wednesday, October 19, 2011

THE GOOD LIFE

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

THE BESTof BOTH WORLDS...

Retirement living at Berwick Comox Valley offers you all the privacy and independence you enjoy in your own home, and the opportunity to embrace the luxury and convenience of exceptional services from friendly, dedicated staff.

Come for a tour and see why living at Berwick offers you the best of both worlds.

BERWICK COMOX VALLEY 1700 Comox Avenue, Comox V9M 4H4 www.berwickretirement.com

250-339-1690