SPIRITED SCOTLAND & ENCHANTED IRELAND MILE ZERO TOURS
ADD HEARING TEST TO YOUR PRE-RETIREMENT TO-DO LIST HEAR CENTRAL SAANICH THE ISLAND'S ONLY LIVING WAGE HOME CARE PROVIDER COMMUNITY PLUS
PLANNING AHEAD: A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO RETIREMENT LIVING BERWICK INVESTMENTS LTD
WE’RE TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING BROADMEAD CARE SOCIETY
AFFORDABLE, FAMILY STYLE, INDEPENDENT LIVING ABBEYFIELD HOUSE ST. PETERS
DEALING WITH CONUNDRUMS DR. C ROSS CRAPO DDS
STAYING CLOSE, NO MATTER THE DISTANCE
Retirement isn’t an end — it’s an exciting new beginning.
After years of building a career, it’s time to enjoy the freedom to live life on your terms, indulge your passions, and share your gifts with family, friends, and community. It’s your time to live well — and OPAL is designed to help you do just that.
Coming soon to Victoria, OPAL is a boutique collection of refined residences for those who believe the finest chapters of life begin with experience. Designed
for discerning individuals who value elegance, comfort, and care, OPAL offers sophisticated homes and condominiums that support everything from active independent living to complex care. Couples with differing needs can continue their journey together in harmony, while those living independently will find a lifestyle rich in connection, indulgence, and effortless belonging.
At OPAL, every detail is crafted with care, from refined amenities and thoughtfully curated spaces
to the gracious and attentive staff who make every resident feel truly at home. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming — a place where service comes with heart and where individuality is celebrated. Events and activities at OPAL are designed to create meaningful connections across generations. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon of reflection or taking part in vibrant social and wellness activities, OPAL offers the flexibility to suit your lifestyle and interests.
Because this next chapter isn’t about slowing down — it’s about living with passion and purpose. And at OPAL, the life you’ve earned is honoured with elegance, comfort, and dignity. Welcome to a new way of living well.
Be the first to know—and the first to choose. Sign up at opalvictoria.com for exclusive updates and early access or call Graham Bavington for more information at 250-415-1931 or grahambavington@opalvictoria.com.
Experience the charm, history, and breathtaking landscapes of two of the world’s most captivating destinations with Mile Zero Tours’ fully guided tours: Spirited Scotland and Enchanted Ireland. Travel through time, legend, and scenic beauty—and with the option to combine both tours, your adventure can be twice as unforgettable!
Begin your journey with Spirited Scotland, operating in September. Explore the vibrant capital of Edinburgh with its medieval Old Town and majestic Edinburgh Castle. Visit the birthplace of golf
in St. Andrews, discover Speyside’s whisky heritage, and cruise the mysterious waters of Loch Ness.
Ride the famed Jacobite Steam Train, explore the coastal charm of Oban, and end your tour with a grand finale in Glasgow—complete with castle dining.
In October, continue the adventure with Enchanted Ireland, a magical exploration of the Emerald Isle. Begin in Dublin with a guided tour and a pint at the Guinness Storehouse. Journey through medieval Kilkenny, Waterford’s Viking past, and the poignant emigration story of Cobh.
Kiss the Blarney Stone, marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, and explore the wild beauty of Connemara. In Northern Ireland, visit Derry’s historic walls, stand atop the Giant’s Causeway, and explore Belfast’s Titanic legacy before a castle stay caps off your Irish experience.
Whether you choose one destination or both, Mile Zero Tours makes travel seamless and enriching. All flights, accommodations, transportation, and guided sightseeing are included—along with many meals, unforgettable cultural experiences, and expert local guides. The tours also include complimentary home pick-up and return within the Greater Victoria area, making your journey as convenient as it is memorable.
These small-group tours are designed for curious travelers who appreciate comfort, camaraderie, and the ease of a fully planned itinerary. Space is limited, so early booking is recommended.
To reserve your spot or learn more, call Mile Zero Tours at 250.590.0811 or visit www. milezerotours.com. Let your next great adventure begin with Spirited Scotland and Enchanted Ireland— two journeys, one unforgettable experience.
The perfect retirement means something different for each of us. The dream might be golfing a different course every week, traveling the continents in search of the ideal beach, making the world a better place by volunteering with a service club, or spending more time with the grandkids. Regardless of the dream, the common underlying hope is good health and financial stability well into your retirement years.
Recently there has been a lot of talk about the importance of treating hearing loss early to aid in retaining cognitive health, and research continues to support those claims. But did you know that treating hearing loss can also help retain a healthy bank account?
A study published in Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology (2012;121[12]:771) reported that people with untreated hearing loss had incomes that were on average 25% less than their counterparts
“As
independent audiologists, hearing aid
manufacturer.” for you, not a we work
with normal hearing. That means you’d have to work quite a few extra years to retire with the same nest egg.
In 2021 Statistics Canada reported hearing loss in 51% of
people in their 50’s and 77% of people in their 60’s. Many of those individuals don’t perceive they have a hearing problem – they just find meetings more exhausting and phone calls more frustrating.
Getting hearing loss identified and treated early can help you keep your edge, maintain your maximum earning potential and help you retire at the top of your game. Not to mention, going to work every day is way more enjoyable when you can hear the jokes around the water cooler. Getting your hearing assessed while you’re still working also gives you the opportunity to take full advantage of third-party insurance and employer-provided extended health benefits. Many benefits packages reimburse at least a portion of audiology services and the purchase of prescribed hearing aids.
We all want to leave work while we still have an edge and move into retirement with cognitive and financial health.
Getting a hearing test is a pretty easy thing to check off the Retirement To-Do List.
“IF YOU PAY A LIVING WAGE, DON’T YOU HAVE TO CHARGE MORE THAN OTHER HOME CARE PROVIDERS?”
SHORT ANSWER: NO. FOR TWO REASONS:
1. Our operating margins are lower - we run an efficient, systemsbased operation.
2. We are a for-profit with no profit. Any funds go into improving our home care platform which makes our operating margin lower and services better.
Because of this, we remain among the lower-cost home care providers. And I like to think - with
We also designed and built our own home care software platformwith electronic schedules and visit notes - so that family members, near or far, can stay informed and engaged. We understand the challenges and we’re on a mission to develop and deliver excellence in community health. Have a healthcare or home care question and can't find an answer? For advice and support visit communitypluscare.ca , send your inquiry to direction@ communitypluscare.ca or call CommunityPlus 250-658-6508
better service standards, more flexible policies, and the best-paid, best-supported private home care staff on the Island. Our operation is built to prioritize stability - so we can deliver the best possible service to our people, clients and employees. To do that, we find great skilled caregivers and try to keep them with us for their entire career. CommunityPlus has been able to offer reliable service with skilled caregivers who love what they do - thanks in large part to Living Wages, complete benefits and a meaningful pension plan. That translates into the stable, trusted care that our clients and their families have recognized for more than 8 years.
Delivering the quality,consistency,and peaceofmind thatfamilies deserve, from companionship and personal care to nursing support.
Flexibleoptions from one hour a week to 24-hour care.
Expert insight into why now may be the right time to start the conversation about downsizing
Lesley Sikorski of Berwick Communities recently spoke with Melanie Murray, founder of NextStep Advisory Solutions , about what individuals and families should consider when downsizing and preparing for retirement living.
With more than 20 years of experience in commercial banking and real estate — along with a personal understanding of the emotional challenges involved — Murray brings both expertise and empathy to the process. After helping her own parents transition from the family home, she recognized a gap in the support available to those facing similar decisions. Today, she
guides others through major life changes with clarity, confidence and compassion.
In their conversation, Murray offered thoughtful advice on the benefits of planning ahead and shared strategies to help individuals and families approach this next chapter with greater confidence and peace of mind.
EMBRACING THE NEXT CHAPTER WITH CONFIDENCE
Q: Why is now the right time to start thinking about retirement living?
A: With the oldest baby boomers turning 80 this year, demand for retirement living is set to
rise. Planning ahead allows individuals to make thoughtful choices while they still have the freedom and clarity to shape what’s next.
Q: What about those unsure whether now is a good time to sell?
A: Despite global uncertainty, the Island market remains steady. Nanaimo single family home sales are up year over year in May 2025 with active listings up 7 per cent.
Q: What are the risks of waiting too long?
A: As more people begin to downsize, we could see a rise
in inventory and softer home prices. Moving sooner rather than later ensures access to top housing options and stronger market conditions.
Q: You mentioned a ‘smart timing advantage.’ What does that mean?
A: We’re in a demographic window where demand is about to outpace supply. Quality retirement communities are limited, and many offer the ability to age in place — transitioning smoothly from independent living to supportive care if needed. Acting now offers better choices in layout, location and lifestyle.
Q: Can you share an example of someone who made the move early?
A: One client, a 76-year-old widow, found her house increasingly difficult to manage. Rather than waiting for a crisis, she chose to move on her own terms. Now she’s thriving in a vibrant community, surrounded by new friends, and living with peace of mind knowing her future is secure.
Q: Some people still associate retirement living with outdated stereotypes. What’s it really like today?
A: Today’s retirement communities are nothing like the institutions
of the past. They’re designed for wellness and connection, with welcoming spaces, gardens, fitness classes, lounges and enriching activities — from meditation to art workshops.
Q: How important is community in all of this?
A: Community is everything. It supports independence, offers connection and creates a sense of belonging. Residents have access to caring staff, great food, wellness services and a full social calendar.
Q: What about affordability?
A: When you factor in groceries, utilities, home maintenance and transportation, many people are surprised to find that retirement living can be an affordable — and often more manageable — option.
Q: Any final thoughts for those still undecided?
A: Don’t wait for a crisis to make your move. Choose while you still have options. Retirement living is about freedom, vitality and purpose — a fresh chapter where you’re in the driver’s seat, writing the story your way.
Looking for more tools to help guide your decision? Visit the Berwick Journey section at berwickretirement.com/blog and download the free e-book, filled with practical resources and information.
To schedule a visit to Berwick House or Berwick Royal Oak — one of Vancouver Island’s premier retirement communities — contact
Linda at 250-721-4062 and Kathy at 250-386-4680.
Broadmead Care is pleased to announce that applications are being accepted for Independent Living suites at Nigel Living (www.nigelliving.com) at 851 Nigel Avenue in Saanich, across Vernon Avenue from the Save-On Foods.
Nigel Living is a new Broadmead Care initiative within the soon-to-open Nigel House, offering independent living for veterans of any age and seniors aged 55+.
Independent living offers the perfect balance of freedom and convenience, allowing you to enjoy life without the burden of home maintenance. At Nigel Living you set your own schedule, while we take care of the details.
Our brand-new building provides unfurnished onebedroom and studio suites in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether you prefer an active
lifestyle or quiet relaxation, you’ll appreciate easy access to shopping, transit, and scenic trails. A small pet is welcome with approval.
We take care of the essentials so you can focus on what matters. Tenants will enjoy:
• Two delicious meals daily
• Weekly light housekeeping
• Weekly light laundry services for linens and towels
With no house or yard to maintain, you’ll have more time to pursue hobbies, connect with friends, or simply relax in your own space.
Security and convenience are top priorities at Nigel Living.
A secure building entrance and concierge services available during business hours (Monday –Friday) provide peace of mind and assistance when needed. Whether you need help with deliveries or local recommendations, our friendly team is here to support you.
Choosing independent living at Nigel Living means embracing
a lifestyle of ease, comfort, and community. Every day presents new opportunities to engage, explore, and enjoy life to the fullest. Make Nigel Living your
next home and experience the freedom of independent living!
BONUS! The first 20 people with a signed tenancy agreement for an independent living suite will
receive a $250 Save-On-Foods gift card! To find out if you qualify, and to learn more, visit NigelLiving.com today or call 250-658-3296!
Abbeyfield St. Peters House
Victoria operates a home for independent seniors in the Saanich Village area of Victoria. Abbeyfield House is a retirement home with a difference – a not-for-profit, affordable small-scale, family-style home with a live-in House Coordinator, providing full room and board for seniors who want to remain as independent as possible. It provides a friendly, supportive and homey atmosphere, with a balance between independence and security, privacy and
companionship. The number of residents is kept small (12) to allow the home-like environment to flourish.
THE BENEFITS OF LIVING AT ABBEYFIELD INCLUDE:
• Security
• Friendship
• Good Meals
Abbeyfield houses are not care facilities and do not provide nursing/personal care. However, residents who require some assistance can arrange to have
the same kind of homemaker or home care support at Abbeyfield as they could have had in their own homes, either privately arranged or provided through the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
Rent is based on 30% of one’s income plus a flat rate charge for food services. Abbeyfield’s are run by volunteer boards, who are committed to supporting aging with grace and dignity.
Abbeyfield 250-590-9330 Info@abbeyfieldstpeters.org
“ I am very fortunate to reside at Victoria’s Abbeyfield St Peters due to my close friendship with the many residents, the Saanich Quadra shopping & medical center plus the two walking/ cycling fitness trails.”
It’s July and summer is here and we hope that you might consider Silver Threads Service as part of your summer plans. We are a charitable, not-forprofit that provides programs and services for those 55 years and better. We offer two locations with a wide variety of fun and vibrant activities, especially this summer. Trying something new and visiting somewhere you haven’t been before is good for your health. It shakes off the cobwebs, lifts your mood and gives a feeling of accomplishment.
Our Summer Program Guide is now available online www. silverthreads.ca with a complete listing of all the July and August programs that are offered in our two locations. At the Victoria Centre, located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Victoria Police
Station, there are Summer Outings, daily functional fitness classes, art programs, Ukulele, and Discussion groups.
The Saanich Centre is at 286 Hampton Road, not far from Tillicum Mall and has good parking for those who are driving. New this summer is the Introduction to Belly Dancing, and the ever-popular Badminton, Pickleball and Table Tennis.
Both Centres offer Monthly Socials, Movies, Yoga, Essentrics, Fitness and so much more! We welcome you to come into the centre, pick up a Program Guide, have a tour and meet our staff. We have online registration as an option to sign up for our Annual Membership and classes. Or give us a call, you can reach the Saanich Centre at 250 382-3151 and the Victoria Centre at 250 388-4268.
Annual membership fees remain at $55 again this year. Our Annual Membership starts April 1st, 2025 and is valid to March 31st, 2026. Membership will give you reduced drop-in and program fees.
A good place to start is to join us monthly for an afternoon of building connections, creating friendships, and engaging in the Silver Threads community! Enjoy refreshments and an opportunity to meet, socialize with others and learn about Silver Threads programs and services. Perfect for new members or those considering joining.
Cost: $2 members and non-members
Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra Street
Tuesday, July 15th 1:30 to 2:30pm
Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Road
Tuesday, July 22nd 1:30 to 2:30pm beaches, sunsets, picnics, camping, napping, sundaes, markets, concerts, festivals, gardens, basking, carnival
CREATE WORDS
WORD SCRAMBLE CHALLENGE
NEW SUMMER 2025 PROGRAMS
INTRODUCTION TO BELLY DANCING SAANICH CENTRE
Learn the basics of Belly Dancing or build on what you already know.
Dates: Tues, July 8th to Aug 26th
Time: 10:00am to 11:00am
Cost: 8/$72 members, $104 non-members
Sight & Insight: Playing with Art & Meaning-Making
Victoria Centre
Come play with the arts alongside certified art therapist and artist Anne-Marie Fortin and explore your strengths, dreams and challenges through creative expression and meaning-making.
Dates: Mon, July 14th to Aug 25th
Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm
Cost: 6/$90 members, $120 non-members
NEW EVENING CLASSES AT THE VICTORIA CENTRE
Power Hour Victoria Centre
Get your hearts pumping with this circuit style class for a moderate to intense workout.
Dates: Thurs, July 10th to Aug 28th
Time: 5:15pm to 6:15pm
Cost: 8/$72 members, $104 non-members
Leader: Kim Davidson
Tai Chi Victoria Centre
Learn gentle, flowing movements that enhance balance, flexibility and mindfulness to build on a basic form. We will focus on and review basic principles, breath techniques and relaxation to improve overall well-being. Wear comfortable clothing; no experience needed.
Date: Thurs, July 3rd to July 31st
Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Cost: 4/ $44 members, $60 non-members
WORD SCRAMBLE CHALLENGE CREATE WORDS
If you are ready to amp up your cognitive function and take a proactive approach to your brain health, Silver Threads Service offers programs that can support you in this health practice. Our Summer Programs start in July and include Brain Games and Dynamic Discussions. These programs are for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting. Call 250 382-3151 or visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information.
The Challenge this month is to create summer words from the syllable fragments in each square.
ANSWERS: sun kets nap ivals ches king serts nics cam gard ival ping aes fest bea sets sund carn ping ens con
by Dr. C Ross Crapo DDS
Q: I’m in a state. My life has had all kinds of ups and downs. It seems that I go from emergency to emergency putting out fires. It’s a drag physically and emotionally. The latest is my teeth. They are a mess. Decayed and broken down. I have about three left standing and the rest are decayed to the gum. I’d like to have something to smile with, and I’m afraid of dentures because I saw my mother and grandmother with their teeth out and it grossed me out. But then, I don’t smile for fear of grossing everyone around me out. So I have seen some dentists and most have said the same thing –there’s nothing to save. It’s really discouraging because what is next is dentures. I’ve read about implants, and I like that idea but they’re expensive and I need them for both top and bottom teeth.
I reached out to a dentist and he said I could go with an upper denture for a period of time and put implants and a bridge on the lower. He said the lower denture is very hard to get used to and I’d really be compromised in chewing. He also said he’d have to graft bone in the sockets of the upper teeth because it would keep the right amount of bone in place for future implants. The thing is that I can’t smile, and I need my upper teeth to smile. Since I can’t do both with implants, and a lower denture is terrible, I just can’t make up my mind. Any advice? My lower is worse than my upper. I’ve got a partial that’s barely hanging on.
A: Your situation is not uncommon so let’s talk about specifics. First of all, function – the ability to just chew your food. Loss of lower teeth replaced by a lower denture reduces chewing forces
and efficiency to less than 25% of your own teeth. Replacing the denture and unsavable teeth with an implant supported bridge gives you all the support of normal, heathy teeth.
The teeth are fixed to the implants, so your confidence and smile is natural looking and feeling. The upper denture uses your palate for suction and is far more stable than
a lower denture. There are compromises, to force and taste, but it’s a much better intermediate step. If you go this route, you will be happier functionally and still get to smile. Yes, the root sockets that are left after the teeth come out are grafted with a mixture of human and bovine bone. This prevents bone resorption (dissolving) during the time you have your upper denture. On your schedule, implants can be placed. The placement of implants and construction of lower bridgework on those implants, in your case, on the day of extraction, is extremely
successful, cuts healing time, decreases pain and anxiety, and best of all it provides natural tooth function and strength.
At the Victoria Implant Centre we treat all types of patients. It may be that we must get you on a healthy periodontal care program to ensure our implant procedures have the best foundation for success
If we can help, we’d like to. Call 778-410-2080 for a consultation. Based on actual patient cases ©Calvin Ross Crapo
Victoria Implant Centre
778-410-2080
VictoriaImplantCentre.com
Moving into a senior living community is a big change—but it doesn’t have to mean growing apart from loved ones. With a few thoughtful habits, staying close is not only possible, it can be easier than ever.
Use Technology to Stay in Touch
Video calls on FaceTime or Zoom, sharing photos on social media, and playing online games together can help families stay close no matter the distance. If you’re new to tech, free classes through Google or Skillshare can make things simple and easy to learn.
Plan Regular Visits
Set a visit schedule—weekly chats over coffee, monthly brunches, or even the occasional family reunion. A regular routine gives everyone something to look forward to, and turns time together into a meaningful tradition.
Join in on Events and Activities
Many senior communities host farmers markets, performances, and holiday celebrations. Inviting family along makes those events extra special. You can also explore local options around Victoria, like museums, walking trails, and festivals.
Stay in Touch Between Visits
Sometimes, it’s the small things—like a phone call, a
birthday card, or a photo in the mail—that make someone feel truly connected. Creating a memory book or journal together can be a fun and personal way to share life stories across generations.
Involve Family in Daily Life and Care
Whether it’s attending appointments, helping with errands, or joining a community event, involving family in day-today life strengthens the bond and adds peace of mind.
Want to see how community living can keep you close to what matters most? Call Ross Place in Victoria at 250.381.8666 to book your tour today.
presents new recipes and original food combinations e very week in the
Eric is the author of 8 cookbooks and has been the food writer for the Times Colonist since 1997.
In today’s hectic world of juggling family, a career, school, social commitments and everything else we have on our plates, I can promise you, death doesn’t usually come at a convenient time. It
happens when it happens, whether or not you are prepared. You will now need to take the time to deal with everything there is to do and on top of that, you are also grieving. It is important to note, when a death occurs; take your time, surround yourself in support and let your community funeral provider assist you with all the necessary steps that will need to be taken. Even for those who have done pre-planning, which can assist greatly when faced with a loss, you are now bereaved and this emotion requires support and guidance from those you love and trust. It is worth mentioning, that the faster you take care of your loved one’s disposition, will not make the pain of the loss go away any faster. It is important to remember when you and your family are faced with a loss, you are not alone. Your community will be there to support you and what is sometimes overlooked, is the members of the community are also in need of support. They want to extend their condolences, share their stories of what your loved one meant to them and also take the unscheduled time to attend a funeral, celebration or gathering to show their support in
person, when words can sometimes not seem enough. Community support and participation is as important in death as it is in all other major life events we celebrate and come together. This gives permission for friends, colleagues and acquaintances to participate in the tributes and share stories of who that person was to them.
One example of how a funeral service can facilitate memories and sharing, was hearing a story of how a coffee shop barista knew the departed. He served him his coffee every morning… and a muffin. However, the muffin was never for himself, he would give the muffin to a person living on the street outside the coffee shop. He would take a few minutes, exchange some pleasantries and wish him a good day. He’d end the interaction with; “see you tomorrow!” and he would. Everyday he would get his coffee, buy a muffin for this less fortunate community member, and visit with him. As his friend, as a fellow human being, and for nothing else except to be nice. This was not known by the family and they were so touched to hear this act of
kindness was done by their loved one each day, without the need for praise, acknowledgment or anyone even knowing. They would have never known this amazing story, if it was not for the gathering and opportunity for the barista to share.
There is strength in numbers, and when you lose someone you love, accepting community support may just be the strength that you need. You are not alone.
Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria has proudly been serving our community since 1912. We are here to guide and support you through your loss.
Many 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.
Many people believe seniors have a higher-than-normal crash frequency.
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 exists throughout North America.
The most common crashes listed in order of frequency and cause of injury are:
• 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.
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.
To sign up, call 250-383-7483
