55 Plus Feb 2024

Feb. 2024

STAYING ACTIVE

SILVER THREADS

HEALTH CARE FOR THE FURTURE

VGH & UBC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

SENIOR DRIVING WALLACE DRIVING

ESCAPE WINTER

LION DOG AFRICA SAFARIS

HELP FOR DIZZINESS HEAR CENTRAL SAANICH

...AND MORE!

COMPASSIONATE CARE AT THE VISTA EXPERTS IN MEMORY CARE FOR SENIORS

Visit Us Online

TOURS DAILY OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9am – 5pm 622 Admirals Rd. BC V9A 2N7

Memory & Long-Term Care NOW OPEN

* Some conditions apply

2 | Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Times Colonist | 55 Plus

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

DATES: Mondays & Thursdays TIME: 11:15am to 12:00pm COST: $4 members $7 non-members Our Winter Program Guide is now available online at www. silverthreads.ca. All of our programs require registration, and you can phone to book your spot.

Silver Threads Service has been serving seniors in Victoria for

Silver Threads Service

vice to seniors!

Over 67 years of community service Offering great programs & two locations to serve you.

Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS WITH ISLAND DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING Silver Threads Service will be partnering with the Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre to offer programs and support to those with hearing loss beginning in January 2024.

“Let’s Talk” Speechreading will be offered at the Victoria Centre with the team from Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center (IDHHC).

The program is geared to those who are struggling to understand people – even while wearing hearing aids. Instructors have many useful strategies, with lots of useful tips for better communication and is a small group speechreading (aka lipreading) and communication strategies course.

It will help individuals with hearing loss and their families to communicate better. Captioning is provided for every class.

DATES: Thursdays, January 25th to March 28th TIME: 9:30am to 11:30am COST: $125 members, $160 non-members

For those who have hearing aids and want to get the most out of their devices, one on one sessions “Tech and Tips with Kelsey” will also be offered at the Victoria Centre.

Learn how to pair your hearing aids with the technology of today that includes hearing aid apps, mobile phone, iPad or tablet, laptops, Cochlear Implant (CI) tech support, Bluetooth devices, and voice to text apps.

1. dhseloru

6. escht

2. ambdoenb

7. enke

3. ignrfes

8. enkal

4. lobwe

9. tiswr

5. cake

10. aehd

In partnership with Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center (IDHHC) we invite you to meet Kelsey. She is hard of hearing, a cochlear implant user, knows sign language and is the best tech guru! Kelsey will assist with any of the above by explaining the complicated tech world in simple language, with processes that are easy to follow and understand in one on one 60-minute sessions.

DATES: Tuesday afternoons COST: $15 per session Call the Victoria Centre of Silver Threads Service at 250-388-4268 for more information on these programs. The Victoria Centre is located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Police Station.

BRAIN POWER CHALLENGE If you are ready to amp up your cognitive function and take a proactive approach to your brain health, Silver Threads Service offers a program that can support you in this health practice.

ANSWERS

1. shoulder

The Saanich Centre is located at 286 Hampton Road near the Tillicum Mall with plenty of parking and easy Handy Dart access. Chair Fitness is a great class for those getting back into a fitness routine or who have balance and / or mobility challenges.

This class is completely seated. It includes a gentle warm-up followed by strength and flexibility exercises using weights, bands, and balls, ending with a relaxation stretch.

over 67 years, and prides itself on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for those looking to try out new experiences and classes.

For more information or to register, call the Saanich Centre at 250382-3151 or the Victoria Centre at 250-388-4268.

6. Chest

DATES: Thursdays TIME: Starting at 5:15pm

2. abdomen

For the more adventurous there is Bollywood Dance. A lively, easy to follow choreography is provided.

The Word scramble this month is all about the human body.

7. Knee

BOLLYWOOD DANCE

BRAIN POSITIVE WORD SCRAMBLE

3. Fingers

Tuesdays 5:15pm to 6:16pm Thursdays 3:45pm to 4:45pm 6/$54 for members or 6/$78 for non-members

Call 250 382-3151 or visit www. silverthreadsservice.ca for more information.

8. Ankle

DAY: TIME: DAY: TIME: COST:

DATES: Wednesdays, February 21st to March 27th TIME: 1:00pm to 2:00pm COST: 6/$24 members, $42 non-members LEADER: Lisa van Bommel

4. Elbow

HATHA YOGA

BRAIN GAMES SAANICH CENTRE

9. Wrist

The Victoria Centre is located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Police Station. In our winter session we have several classes that run on Tuesday and Thursday later in the day, especially for those of us who may still be working or have other daytime commitments. Hatha Yoga and Essentrics provides full body work outs, that will improve overall wellness.

Registration is open now for the Winter Brain Games Program. This program is for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting.

5. Back

Now, how to start or restart. Silver Threads Service offers two locations for individuals 55 years and better to exercise, socialize, learn and play with other like-minded folks. No matter if you are new to exercise or work out regularly there will be a program to suit you. Our instructors are well qualified, classmates are supportive and the environment is relaxed.

STAYING ACTIVE FOR HEALTHY AGING

10. head

W

e all know this, but we will say it again. As we age, staying physically active helps in many ways to keep us fit for aging well. Regular exercise lowers your risk of health issues such as heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure and diabetes. It can help with balance, coordination and prevent falls. It will aid in improving sleep. Mood, energy levels and mental health are enhanced.

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Tuesday, January 30, 2024 | 3

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4 | Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Times Colonist | 55 Plus

Senior driving education vs. assessment Limited small group sizes Book Early!

Epic Canadian Rail Journey 16 Days: May 3 -18 or May 17 -June 1, 2024 HARRISON HOT SPRINGS ISLAND HOPPING EPIC CANADIAN RAIL JOURNEY SOUTHERN BC & KOOTENAYS EPIC RAIL + COMPLETE ATLANTIC COMPLETE ATLANTIC CANADA MAGICAL MARITIMES YUKON & NWT HAIDA GWAII & THE INSIDE PASSAGE DISCOVER NEWFOUNDLAND PICTURESQUE PORTUGAL

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Serving residents and community members of Victoria for generations.

Whether you are planning in advance or require our compassionate care immediately - please contact our team to honour you and your loved ones wishes within your budgetary needs.

Call us today: 250-388-5155

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by Arbor Memorial 1803 Quadra Street, Victoria, BC V8T 4B8 • sandsvictoria.ca Arbor Memorial Inc.

M

any geriatric researchers presenting at safety conferences agree that education, not testing, is the answer to seniors driving longer and safer.

Prior to intervention by family, government, medical personnel or police, seniors should take charge of their driving situation.

It is best to prepare for an impending driver assessment well ahead of time. It will relieve the stress of the unknown and the arrival of the dreaded letter. Seniors should be proactive, not reactive, when it comes to all sorts of things,

particularly as it pertains to driving.

exists throughout North America.

Many people believe seniors have a higher-than-normal crash frequency.

The most common crashes listed in order of frequency and cause of injury are:

This is not true.

They do have a much higher chance of injury in a crash because of the frailty brought on by advanced age, particularly those over 75 years of age.

Two presenters at a Driving School Association of the Americas conference made a very strong case that senior-driver harassment by governing bodies

•

The left turn at intersections, crossing multiple oncoming lanes of traffic, causes injury for all drivers. This type of crash is often due to declining depth perception in seniors and lack of experience in teens.

•

The fact that oncoming vehicle drivers could change to the outside through-lane at an intersection, without warning, and be hidden behind the inside lane of two lanes approaching, was also a factor.

For both seniors with slower reaction times and teens lack of experience, lack of scanning contributes to this crash.

•

Rear end crashes are very common. This is caused by all drivers not understanding time and distance for stopping. Understanding the consequences of tailgating is a lesson to be learned by all.

Ahead of the Curve

FREE SENIOR SEMINAR 55+ 4TH WEDNESDAY EVERY MONTH AT 2:00 PM. CALL TO REGISTER! 250 383 7483

Again, seniors are more likely to experience more injury than a teen.

Joan Wallace Driving School offers a free seminar for seniors at 2 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month.

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Tuesday, January 30, 2024 | 5

Pearls That Get You To The Pearly Gates

will relax. Your upper front teeth (eyetooth to eyetooth) must fit over your lower front teeth in a manner that only allows the back teeth to crush and grind food but not themselves. When back teeth are guided to not grind on themselves by proper guiding of the front teeth, your whole system wins – the teeth don’t get ground, your muscles are not strained, your joints aren’t stressed, and your teeth last till you meet Saint Peter.

Q: Many years ago, as a young adult, I had a root canal done on my lower left first big molar. The dentist put steel rods in the roots to fill the canals in the roots. I got by with that for several decades.

Then one day that tooth started to hurt. I thought it was already fixed but when I saw a dentist, he told me that the root canal was leaking.

He took out the rods that he could get out and put the proper stuff in.

However, though my tooth settled a bit, it’s never been right. It’s part of a bridge because my back baby molar wasn’t replaced by an adult tooth. When the baby molar came out, they decided to put in a bridge so my teeth wouldn’t shift, and I’d have something to chew with. Lately the root canaled tooth is more bothersome, and I’ve seen several dentists. The last one said I had a slight crossbite on my two eyeteeth and said I needed braces because a crossbite can cause jaw problems and the jaw problems can lead to clenching one’s teeth.

In fact, he pointed to where I was really wearing down my back teeth on my right side. I have also been aware of my joints, as my jaw often doesn’t feel right. When he outlined everything, I was really blown away at the time and cost of the treatment. He said I’d need braces then crowns. I was thinking of just getting the left molar out and putting an implant in but he said I’d still have the jaw problems and I’d still be putting stress on my back

teeth, including the implant and crown. I don’t know what to do.

A: Crossbite issues, combined with temporomandibular joint issues

leading to excessive force on teeth, can be complex. The jaw in essence gets locked into a position that causes the muscles (for chewing, speaking, etc.) to be in constant

Welcoming New Patients

agitation, often working against each other.

See someone who can put this together for you. When these steps are explained clearly, you’ll have found your man.

It will be important to free up the crossbite so that your muscles

If we can help, we’d like to.

Call 778-410-2080 for a consultation.

g n i d i h p o t e S l i m s r you FAMILY • RESTORATIVE • IMPLANT & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

778 410 2067 #206-4400 Chatterton Way • drcrapo.com

ESCAPE WINTER 6 | Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Explore Africa during the Emerald Season

H

wange National Park, located in Zimbabwe, is a diverse and captivating wildlife destination that attracts visitors throughout the year. Due to its arid nature, this is the park you will want to visit if you are considering a safari during the Emerald Season.

The Emerald Season, also known as the green season, occurs during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months, typically from November to April. While some tourists prefer

visiting during the dry season for better game viewing, there are several reasons why one might choose to visit Hwange National Park at this time: A few rainy days transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise. The vegetation is at its most vibrant, creating a picturesque and refreshing environment.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts may appreciate the deep blue skies and big puffy clouds

framing every picture or view from your safari vehicle, combined with the soft, diffuse light and vibrant colors of the landscape.

Many animals give birth during the rainy season when food is plentiful. This means that visitors have greater chances to come across predators following the herds during this time. Lions and Cheetahs are commonly observed, and Wild Dogs can be spotted with a bit of luck. Keep your eyes open when the sun sets as the elusive leopard will appear, stalking its prey in hopes of a good dinner.

The Emerald Season offers a more exclusive and intimate experience, with fewer tourists around. If you prefer a quieter and more private safari experience, the Emerald season may be the perfect time to visit Hwange National Park. Due to the lower demand, accommodation and safari costs may be more budget-friendly.

Seasoned Safari enthusiasts often choose to travel during the Emerald Season for all the reasons mentioned above.

Experience Zimbabwe Take the trip of a lifetime with our all inclusive tour to the Hwange National Park.

Only $5310 USD pp / 10 days - min. 2 travellers *Flexible dates for travel from January to the end of April ** Ideal for friends traveling together, or generational travel, or small group

Hightlights: • 10 days / 9 nights in Zimbabwe, additional days optional • Safaris in the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, including “Little Serengeti” • Rhinos walk in the IMVELO Rhino Sanctuary • Village / School Visit • 2 Full Days of activities in the Victoria Falls area - guided Tour of the Falls, Elephant Encounter, and Sunset Cruise • Road transfer to Hwange • Inter-camp flight and flight back to Victoria Falls Book • All meals, most drinks and activities included your • Minimum 2 travelers, NO single supplement a Conditions apply. Call for details.

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dven tu toda re y!

Close to Hwange National Park, you can discover Victoria Falls, known as the “Smoke that Thunders” or Mosi-oa-Tunya in the local language. The most awe-inspiring experience occurs from February to May when water levels are at their peak.

Check out our “Escape Winter” package to Hwange, offering you an incredible African safari at an affordable cost with Authentic Africa Tours and Safaris.

Email us to secure your Escape from winter and experience Africa during a special time of the year!

Times Colonist | 55 Plus

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Tuesday, January 30, 2024 | 7

Help for Dizziness WHAT IS THE VESTIBULAR SYSTEM?

The vestibular, or balance system, is a sensory apparatus located in the inner ear. Its purpose is to give you balance, allow you to see clearly while moving, and to provide spatial orientation.

Breakdowns in the vestibular system can lead to vertigo, dizziness, involuntary eye movement or the perception of movement or of the world moving around you. Up to 35% of adults 40 years and older – over 6 million Canadians – have a vestibular problem at some point in their lives.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE DIZZINESS OR VERTIGO? 80% of patients with the persistent symptom of vertigo or dizziness have an inner ear disorder and would benefit from vestibular assessment.

However, in the case of severe vertigo where you are unable to walk unassisted and have nausea and/or vomiting, seek immediate medical attention (go to the hospital).

A vestibular assessment can be completed once the debilitating symptoms have been addressed.

WHAT DOES A VESTIBULAR ASSESSMENT AT HEAR INC. INVOLVE?

Following an extensive review of your medical history and your vertigo symptoms, an appropriate battery of testing will be determined.

Tests performed may include: Videonystagmography (VNG) utilizes goggles equipped to monitor eye movement to measure the health of nerves in your brain that control eye movements, hearing, and balance.

Hearing assessment is completed because disruptions to the balance system can impact auditory function, as the two systems share the neural pathway to the brain.

Caloric reflex stimulation is a test of the vestibulo-ocular reflex that involves circulating cold or warm air through the ear canal.

Video Head Impulse Test (VHIT) provides information on how effectively the three semicircular canals inside the inner ear detect head movements. The VNG goggles are worn to monitor your eye movements while the audiologist puts your head in different positions.

Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMPs) provide information about how the inner ear’s two otolith organs (saccule and utricle) function.

“As independent audiologists, we work for you, not a hearing aid manufacturer.”

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? The audiologist will interpret your test results and create a treatment plan. A report will be sent to your physician, recommending further intervention and involvement of other specialists as appropriate.

Sometimes, a repositioning maneuver can be performed, providing almost immediate relief of symptoms. In other cases, a customized program to exercise and ‘rewire’ the system is provided and follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure ongoing progress.

Whether you’ve experienced one attack of vertigo or have persistent dizziness or imbalance, a vestibular assessment will identify the specific region of the vestibular system where the breakdown has occurred, allowing for targeted treatments and improved outcomes.

Hear Inc. audiologist, Aisling Smyth, received her vestibular training at the world-renowned American Institute of Balance and is taking appointments at our Saanichton clinic. Call 778-351-1145 to book or online via our website: hearinc.ca

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8 | Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Times Colonist | 55 Plus

Leave a legacy in your will and support health care

L

ory and Lynn Jung are making the world better, one tossed can at a time.

The couple, who have been married 43 years, spends at least one full day a week riding their bikes – to reduce their carbon footprint – around routes near their home in Delta, B.C., to collect as many returnable cans as possible. They have even designed custom gear for their bikes to hold their bags.

“If I see a can on the street, I’ll pick it up. It just adds up. You’d be surprised,” says Lynn.

By adds up, Lynn means they have collected thousands of dollars’ worth of returnable cans over the years. In fact, to date, they have donated over $31,000.

“We also acknowledge that we receive a great deal of support from households along the routes for this charitable endeavour.”

“We don’t keep a dime of this money, it all goes to charity,” says Lory. Even the overhead costs like bike maintenance and repair are all paid for by the Jungs.

In addition to their can collection efforts, Lory and Lynn Jung have also chosen to leave a gift in their

wills to charities, including to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.

By supporting VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, the Jungs are supporting more than hospital care – they are supporting multiple health-care sites across the Vancouver community. Along with other philanthropists, they are putting the latest tools and technology in the hands of worldclass medical teams, enabling them to provide the best possible care to save and improve lives.

And Lory knows the importance of this firsthand having received care at VGH several times.

“I just feel from my heart that I’ve got to do what we do,” says Lynn.

“Why not give back to the community?” adds Lory. “It feels good to be doing it. We just want the money to go to help people.”

Donations to the Foundation do help create lasting, positive change for health care in British Columbia.

Learn how you can transform health care for future generations at vghfoundation.ca/cans-for-change, call 604 875 4676, or e-mail kerry. shillito@vghfoundation.ca.

Everyone recognizes the challenges facing us with cost-of-living and global economic uncertainty on the rise.

Donate now January & feel good 2 0 24 all year Make a new year’s resolution you can actually keep.

Join our community of monthly donors and support the leading charity investing in health care innovation in BC.

I’m here to support you.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me: Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca @leg.bc.

250-472-8528

vghfoundation.ca/monthly-vtc