55+ Tab May

June 2022

TO THE SHORES OF THE ARCTIC OCEAN GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN SILVER THREADS SERVICE SUPPORT FOR B.C. 55+ GAMES A ‘PERFECT FIT’ FOR BERWICK RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES VISTA: A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY FOCUSED ON MAXIMIZING QUALITY OF LIFE AND ENJOYMENT HOW SUNLIGHT CAN IMPROVE YOUR SLEEP THE SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES WE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER VRS SENIORS COMMUNITIES PETS PROVEN TO ENHANCE YOUR WELLNESS - TAPESTRY

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TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

To the shores of the Arctic Ocean

onsidered by many to be the ‘last frontier,’ Canada’s Yukon and Northwest Territories remains an unchecked item on many a traveller’s bucket list. Far more than a frozen wasteland, Canada’s North is absolutely brimming with life. Long days of sunlight in the summer and unbelievably breathtaking sights as far as the eye can see await you in this beautiful untouched wilderness.

It’s a region where Canadian heritage is accentuated, with breathtaking flora, abundant fauna and a culture formed by the union of Indigenous Peoples and European settlement. Each

summer, local tour operator Mile Zero Tours operates fully guided tours to the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

On the twelve-day tour, travellers will experience northern culture fi rsthand. Highlights include trying your luck at gold panning in the Klondike, taking in a show at the famed Diamond Tooth Gerties, riding back in time

Limited small group sizes Book Early!

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A Victoria Times Colonist publication

Publisher: Dave Obee Director of Advertising: Peter Baillie #201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, BC V9A 6X5 To advertise in the next issue and or submit content contact: Aaron Ross, 250-380-5313 aross@timescolonist.com

on the stunning White Pass and Yukon railway, traveling the Top of the World Highway and soaking up the midnight sun. Stunning landscapes with breathtaking vistas can be seen across the north on trips to Tombstone and Kluane park. But perhaps the most memorable part of this journey is hearing the heart of the locals through enthralling tales and legends of this magical land where the compass leads rather than the clock.

While all this would certainly make for a once-in-a-lifetime excursion, the true highlight of this

journey is venturing well beyond the Arctic Circle to the shores of the Arctic Ocean over the majestic expanses of tundra by airplane to the far northern community of Inuvik, Northwest Territories.

Explore the vast Mackenzie River Delta on a boat trip with local guides. Then travel the new Arctic Highway to the secluded seaside community of Tuktoyaktuk, nestled on the edge of the Arctic Ocean. Learn about northern life both now and in days gone by, taste traditional arctic fare and dip your toe in the waters of the Arctic ocean.

For many, travelling to remote destinations like Canada’s North may seem like an unreachable destination. But on a guided tour with Mile Zero Tours, your dream becomes a reality. The tour operator makes travel at any age a possibility for residents of Vancouver Island and offers home pickup and return throughout Greater Victoria. Whether traveling alone or with a friend, small group sizes allow you to create lasting connections with your fellow travellers, as you discover North America’s wonders together with the services of a caring and professional tour director to make your journey easy.

With all precautions in place Mile Zero Tours is dedicated to providing safe travel as conditions allow but will not hesitate to cancel if it becomes unsafe or unfeasible.

And you can rest assured that Mile Zero Tours guarantees all deposits fully refunded if conditions do not permit the trip to go ahead. For guided tours that begin and end at your front door, contact Mile Zero Tours at 250.590.0811. For more information on upcoming tours please visit MileZeroTours.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022 | 3

to move them all to Canada for a better life. Upon arrival she learned the language, worked hard, and persevered for her family. I was now sitting across from her children: a doctor, an engineer and a teacher, all who attributed their success to the tiny lady in our care.

I was overcome with emotion and completely inspired by their story, their pride and especially, their mom.

Even something as simple as a zip up robe can have an impact.

When a daughter brought in a robe to have her mother dressed in for their final goodbye, she said, “It’s not fancy, but it was her favourite”.

I thought, A zip up robe? I love it! The ties on my own robe were always coming undone and getting in the way. Not only do I now own a

zip up robe, but I bought one for my mom as well, and she loves it too!

I was totally inspired by someone who is no longer here.

I shared the news of my purchase with that family, and the grandson, who had bought the robe for his grandmother, thought that was pretty special.

So, if you ever wonder if you will make a difference in this world once you’re gone, I promise that you will. Our legacies truly do live on through those left living; who tell our stories and proudly go on about who we were and what we did. And you never know what impact you may have or inspiration you may be to someone you never had the chance to meet.

One day we will all be gone, but not forgotten.

Your Spectacular Retirement Home Awaits In the Cowichan Valley

Gone But Not Forgotten Written by Laura Van Sprang, Manager of Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria

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ne of the most rewarding things about being a funeral director is the privilege of meeting so many amazing people. When a family chooses our funeral home to assist them, they are usually pleasantly surprised with the connection that is made with their funeral director and team of funeral professionals.

The directors know it’s going to happen, because it usually does and we look forward to it. But I’m going to let you in on a little secret… it is not only the families we serve that impact our lives; it is also those who have passed away.

I have been personally inspired by so many people who are no longer with us. I did not know them, they did not know me and they will never know they made a difference in my life, but they did and they do. I can recount numerous occasions, sitting

around the arrangement table with a grieving family, listening intently to the incredible stories of a recently deceased family member.

Hearing of their triumphs and tribulations, academic and professional successes, what they did for their family, their community, if they wrote, painted, invented, played a musical instrument, and the list goes on.

I love the way people speak with such pride about their loved ones, it is truly a part of the healing, and we appreciate that they share this with us.

I’ll share a memory I have of a woman who was entrusted into our care after her passing. She was a very tiny lady who was almost 100 years old, and I envisioned her life as being calm and peaceful: just as she looked. Then, her adult children arrived to make the arrangements. Well,

as it turned out, this tiny lady was only small in stature, but big in heart, integrity and determination.

Widowed at an early age and left with 3 very young children to raise on her own, this single mom who did not speak English, decided

Golf course homes, Ocean view homes Gated active adult community, golf, swimming, tennis, boating Over 30 social clubs – make your retirement years special!

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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

Sands Funeral Chapel Cremation & Reception Centre - Victoria

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

4 | TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

Silver Threads Service Celebrating 65 years of community service to seniors!

BOARD GAMES ARE LIKE EXERCISE FOR YOUR BRAIN

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

We’re Best For Your Re-Test

CREMATION AND BURIAL SERVICES Contracted provider to the Memorial Society of BC

WE COME TO YOU All arrangements made in the comfort of your home and all pre-arrangements are fully transferable at no cost.

Specializing in low cost cremation and green burial.

778.440.8500 EarthsOption.com

5 - 831 Devonshire Rd, Victoria

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See us for hundreds of other Stormtech styles. We have a good selection of vests, fleeces, golf jackets, rain-pants and warm jackets. FREE waterproof bag included with every purchase.

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ANSWERS Bridge 6. Strategy Cribbage 7. Friends Games 8. Connection Play 9. Winners Euchre

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Call: 250-383-7483 office@wallacedrivingschool.com

No matter what your age – games are an entertaining and meaningful way to spend your time and connect with others.

Being able to talk and interact with our peers over a game is a wonderful way to meet people and deepen friendships. Playing games improves short-term and long-term memory because you are using and exercising your cognitive skills.

Silver Threads Service offers a variety of Cards and Games at two locations. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova once said “Many games provide fun, but Bridge grips you. It exercises your mind. Your mind can rust, you know, but Bridge prevents the rust from forming.” At the Saanich Centre Social and Duplicate Bridge are offered on Monday afternoons from 11:45am to 2:30pm and 12:30 to 3:30pm respectively. Also at Saanich is Cribbage and Scrabble on Thursdays, both between 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

The Victoria Centre is offering Euchre on Tuesdays from 1:00pm to 2:30pm with an instructor who can teach you the game.

On Fridays, a new program is in the works to have an afternoon of games. Come and play Scrabble, Cribbage, Chess or other games like Monopoly or Mexican Train Dominoes. Call

with your suggestions and to get on the interest list. Or if you have a few friends and neighbours ready to play, but you need a space to gather, please feel free to join us.

And remember what’s the most dangerous thing in Scrabble? It’s all fun and games until someone loses an I. Cost for any of our games programs is $2 for members and $5 for non-members. Call to book your spot. Saanich Centre 250 382-3151, Victoria Centre 250 388-4268.

Silver Threads Service has been serving seniors in Victoria for 65 years, and prides itself on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for those looking to try out new experiences and classes.

We offer two locations: our centre in Saanich at 286 Hampton Road, and our centre in Victoria at 1911 Quadra Street. Memberships are valid at both locations. We look forward to welcoming you into our centres.

INDOOR WALKING GROUP The Silver Treads Weekly Indoor Walking Program is being organized

by Silver Threads Service and is held at the Save On Foods Memorial Arena. This year round program will allow participants to walk safely around the concourse on Tuesdays from 9:00am to 10:00am.

For adults 55 years and better, all level of abilities, the group will keep you out of the heat in summer and warm and dry in the winter. There are no worries about the cracks in the sidewalks or where the nearest washroom is and is ideal for those with mobility concerns. It is perfect for those who use a mobility device or walking poles. There are friendly leaders on hand to provide support, so you are never alone. Blood pressure testing will be available

monthly. Cost is $2 for Silver Threads members and $5 for non-members.

Paid parking for Silver Treads is available off Caledonia Street behind the Victoria Police Station or any nearby street parking.

Entrance to the SOFMC is through Gate 3. Call 250 388-4268 for more information and to book a space.

The Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre is an indoor arena located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and is the largest arena in British Columbia outside of Vancouver. It is primarily used for ice hockey, previously the home arena of the Victoria Salmon Kings of the ECHL, and currently the home of the Victoria Royals of the Western Hockey League.

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE ZOOM WORD SCRAMBLE Memory PLUS is a Silver Threads Service program for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting.

The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies.

Call 250 388-4268 or visit silverthreads.ca for more information.

We encourage you to exercise your brain by solving an all about writing word scramble.

1. deigrb ______ 2. bagribec ________ 3. smega _____ 4. ylpa _____ 5. crehue ______ 6. greytast ________ 7. definsr _______ 8. tocceinnon _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 9. risnwne _______ REGISTRATION IS NOW ON FOR THE NEXT SESSION! Wednesdays, June 1st to July 20th. Morning classes are at the Victoria Centre, located at 1911 Quadra Street from 9:30am to 11:30am. Or there are afternoon classes at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

The cost is 8 sessions - $72 Members or $104 Non-members.

Call 250 388-4268 for more information.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Support for B.C. 55+ Games a ‘perfect fit’ for Berwick Retirement Communities

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Games highlight the importance of sport and active lifestyles at all ages

upport for active lifestyles for seniors is integral to Berwick Retirement Communities — which is why it is proud to support the Greater Victoria 2022 55+ B.C. Games.

Berwick is the presenting sponsor for the Games, to be held Sept.1317. The event offers an opportunity to celebrate and support healthy adults 55 and up through fun and competitive sport and recreation activities.

“The power of sport is an engaging but powerful force that unites, heals and improves our health at all ages in our lives,” says Amir Hemani, Berwick’s CEO. “The drive at Berwick to harness an active aging lifestyle for the seniors living with us makes our involvement with the 55+ B.C. Games a perfect fit. The spirit of volunteerism will continue to foster community while supportive but fierce competition will bring out the drive in all participants. We are beyond excited to see the Games begin.”

Several Berwick residents have competed in the Games. Among them are Joan Tebbutt of Berwick Comox Valley, who participated in golf; Kathleen Lamb, also of Berwick Comox Valley, who participated in race walking; and Lois Smith of Berwick Qualicum Beach, who medaled in swimming.

And others will be volunteering.

Eleanor, a resident of Berwick on

the Lake who represented Canada in field hockey at the Worlds in Amsterdam, held Canada’s national high-jump record for women and was inducted into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame, is one of several volunteers eager to contribute to the celebration of athletics.

Supporting an active aging lifestyle through programming and purpose-built amenities is one of many ways Berwick aims to celebrate diversity in older age.

Residents of the soon-to-open Berwick Parksville, for example, can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness centre, two pickleball courts, a putting green and multi-purpose lawn bowling.

“Everyone has different personal needs, desires and aspirations for their health,” says Lesley Sikorski, director of sales, marketing and internal community engagement for Berwick.

“And we know that a lifestyle anchored in wellness can increase the chances of individuals accomplishing those goals.”

For more information or questions, contact: Lesley Sikorksi, Director of Sales & Marketing, Berwick Retirement Communities Email: lsikorski@berwickrc.com Cell: 1-250-634-1736 Telephone: 1-250-940-1319 berwickretirement.com

TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022 | 5

BERWICK; ACTIVE RETIRED LIVING. PROUD PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE 55+ BC GAMES Held for the first time in Victoria!

Berwick’s commitment to creating active, inspired lifestyles for seniors complements the mission of the games: to celebrate healthy adults 55+ years of age through fun and competitive sports and recreation activities.

Come help us celebrate & start the countdown to the 2022 Victoria 55+ BC Games.

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6 | TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

A retirement community focused on maximizing quality of life and enjoyment

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ging in place options include condo ownership, independent living, supportive living and memory care. Independence, safety, compassion, empathy. These are the hallmarks behind every decision staff at The Vista makes.

And they keep them at the forefront of their mind, as our parents or grandparents are able to age in place at Vancouver Island’s premiere retirement community.

Currently under construction and scheduled for completion in August 2022, The Vista is an 11-story building encompassing the perfect fusion of design, style, comfort and livability. “Our communities are often compared to a cruise ship on land, where everything that you need is provided,” says Wayne Melvin, general manager for The Vista.

“That’s what is most appealing about us, so that when people move in, they’re not worried about home maintenance, housekeeping, cooking, shopping or the cleaning that’s all provided for them.”

Rendering of The Vista, Vancouver Island’s premiere retirement community.

With a pristine, oceanside location in Esquimalt, the 177-suite building will offer a continuum of care across all of the stylish types of residence: owned condominiums, independent living, supportive living and memory care.

The level of assistance staff provides across those different types of residences will vary and cater individually to the resident and their family’s needs: 24/7 monitoring of emergency response devices will be provided to alert an attendant should the need arise.

Given the unprecedented heat dome that shrouded the south coast in the summer of 2021, residents can be assured of comfort knowing that each suite comes with its own individually controlled air conditioning unit.

“For many residents, they just require some assistance in the morning – maybe it’s getting laundry done, assistance with their medications or just getting ready for the day,” Melvin says. “For a lot of seniors, if they are getting that little bit of extra help,

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it allows them to maintain their independence much longer and they have the energy to enjoy all of the programs and amenities The Vista has to offer.”

Perhaps the single-biggest advantage The Vista offers is flexibility. No matter where residents find themselves in life – whether it be their age, health or social interests – The Vista provides a wonderful balance.

“When people make that decision to move, they only want to move once,” Melvin says. “Our goal is to get people to move when they want to move, not because they have to move. When they do move, we want them to understand that those services that they may need as they age can be provided where they are.”

Those services will include transportation provided for community outings to shopping centres, community centres or local events. As an added level of convenience, The Vista is located directly on a major bus route.

The staffing cohort will include professionals across a myriad of disciplines to ensure a maximum level of comfort and care: licensed practical nurses and registered care aides, specialized lifestyle activity aides, dietary staff, Red Seal chefs and environmental staff.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the staff we do, because this is a very specialized type of service.

It is not the type of work that just

TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022 | 7

anybody can do,” Melvin says.

“The characteristics of compassion and empathy displayed by our staff are humbling to observe. You must be a sympathetic listener and understand the needs of the resident you’re dealing with, so the care and service provided is respectful and appropriate to their circumstances.”

Melvin adds that COVID-19 policies, both now and the future, will always be followed, as resident and staff safety are always of paramount importance. The Vista will also closely monitor new trends around hygiene practices, environmental sanitation, and technology.

“We’ve learned a lot over the last two years around how to maintain services in restricted environments, using enhanced environmental monitoring and doing what is needed to protect our residents and staff,” Melvin says.

The Vista comes with more than a generation’s worth of experience and understanding that will maximize a resident’s quality of life and enjoyment in a setting uniquely suited to life on the West Coast.

“We are a Victoria-based family owned and operated company,” Melvin says. “and our desire is to become a pillar of the community for many years to come.”

For more information, visit liveatVista.ca. or call 250-885-4481 at our Sales Centre to arrange a personal tour.

OCCUPANCY SUMMER 2022

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TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

How Sunlight Can Improve Your Sleep

ll animals, plants and microbes have some sort of circadian rhythm - an internal “body clock” that is synced to a 24 hour cycle. Our circadian rhythms adjust to the natural daily pattern of sunlight: waking us as the sun rises, and preparing us for sleep when the sun goes down. If you’ve ever worked an overnight shift or traveled to a different time zone you know the awful experience of your circadian rhythm not matching your environment.

So how does our internal clock know what time it is? Specific cells in our eye get activated by bright light and send a signal to our brain to coordinate our circadian

rhythm. The part of the brain responsible for this process is called the suprachiasmatic nucleus.

In our modern lives our circadian rhythms get confused figuring out when it’s morning and we should be awake, and when it’s nighttime and we should be preparing for sleep. We don’t get enough bright light in the morning, yet flood our eyes with overhead lights and bright screens in the evenings.

We can improve the accuracy of our internal clock and therefore improve our sleep by tidying up the signals we send to our brain.

In the morning, get at least 10 minutes of natural sunlight, outdoors, within 30 minutes of

Worried about the safety of living at home alone, but not ready for long-term care or full home-care?

Sometimes a little help means a lot.

Heart Pharmacy’s Heart at Home program helps with:

• Daily in-home medication support, ensuring that your loved one is taking their medications daily • Assistance with more challenging medications like patches, inhalers, eye and ear drops, and insulin • Regular reporting to your doctor and loved ones of any issues with medications or general health • Companionship and structure, with the same faces every day at consistent times

To discuss how it works and whether it’s right for you or a loved one, contact us anytime by: Phone: 778-817-0417 or Email: heartathome@heartpharmacy.com

www.HeartPharmacy.com/heart

waking. Why do you have to go outside? The brightness of natural sunlight is 32,000 to 100,000 lux, while artificial lighting is only 300 lux. Natural sunlight is over 100 times brighter than artificial light!

And while our eyes cannot pick up on this difference visually, the cells in our eyes responsible for syncing our circadian rhythms absolutely can.

By getting natural sunlight in the morning we send a very clear signal to our brain: “It’s morning!

Wake up!” And this sets in process a 24 hour cycle that makes it easier to fall asleep at night.

To tidy up the messages we’re sending to our suprachiasmatic

nucleus in the evening, avoid overhead lighting and other bright lights. When under overhead lighting, our brain receives the signal “It must be midday - the sun is directly above us.” Table lamps, candles, and moonlight are all acceptable sources of light and are much more cozy, psychologically getting you relaxed and ready for sleep as well.

Try going for a short walk each morning this week and not using overhead lights at home after sunset. Scientific research has shown that these two things can improve your sleep…and who wouldn’t love an excuse to buy a few more candles?

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TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022 | 9

The Social Butterflies As we age, lack of social ties can lead to feelings of loneliness & isolation therefore socializing gains even greater importance…. welcome The Social Butterflies!

LIVE THE GOOD LIFE

Come fly with us!

Guided Events & Outings for Mobile Seniors DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE

250-383-4386 Or Visit Us Online at thesocialbutterfliesofvictoria.com

each outing. “Being picked up and delivered home, is truly a blessing- Jacqui.

Costs include transportation and tickets. Credit cards & cheques accepted. Dinner/lunch not included in cost- your choice.

For further information, questions or concerns, phone 250.383.4386.

Visit our website for Butterflies comments: thesocialbutterflies ofvictoria.com

Exciting events & outings, for mobile, independent, discerning seniors, (walkers accepted).

If you live alone and no longer drive, yet would love to attend all the exciting entertainment Victoria has to offer, plus fun, exciting day-trips…. The Social Butterflies are just what you have been looking for!

This is not a business you pay a fee to join; you just need to participate and you’ll be so glad you did!

No longer home alone, bored and frustrated with having to rely on others for your entertainment, now you can socialize, along with other like-minded seniors, while making new friends and new memories.

No cares or concerns, as everything is well organized.

Knight Limousine provides convenient, DOOR-TO-DOOR transportation, with safe, friendly drivers; ready to assist if needed and a host accompanies

You’ve earned your pension.

Join us and protect it.

Protect federal pensions and benefits by supporting our advocacy work.

Save money with our partners, including our MEDOC® travel insurance at membership-only rates.

Access expert information to make the most of your retirement.

You don’t have to be retired to join!

To become a memeber, visit www.federalretirees.ca/join or call us toll-free 1-855-304-4700.

UP-COMING EVENTS MERRIDALE CIDERY DAY-TRIP COBBLE HILL Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 Delicious food- great atmosphere.

“CLASSIC COUNTRY ROADS” CHEMAINUS THEATRE *lunch is included in cost Wednesday July 27th, 2022 Be quick to book. Popular event!

Membership is exclusively for those eligible to receive or who are in receipt of a pension from the Public Service of Canada, RCMP or Canadian Armed Forces as well as federally appointed judges.

10 | TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

We Couldn’t Be Happier

By Evelyn, family member of a VRS Seniors Community Resident, VRS seniors communities owns and operates Ross Place (Victoria) and Lakeside Gardens (Nanaimo)

I

am so grateful that my dad is getting such wonderful care at a VRS seniors community.

Last year, when my mom was injured and could no longer give my dad the 24 hour care he needed, we were thrilled that he could be accommodated immediately at a VRS seniors community; all he needed to bring was a suitcase.

From the moment we stepped in the door, the VRS team made my Dad’s move to his new home smooth and easy. I remember we were all over the map trying to

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figure out how to get him care - it was such a relief to fi nd everything we needed at VRS. After spending a few weeks there testing the waters, he decided he liked it enough to move in. We were delighted to learn that he could bring his own furniture to make his new suite feel like home.

The incredible staff at our VRS seniors community are so friendly, helpful and cheerful. Many times I have seen them go above and beyond the call - helping fi nd my Dad’s hearing aids or glasses, making sure he takes his walker when he leaves the building, and helping him work his remote control for his tv; they go out of their way to do all the little things that actually really impact my Dad’s quality of life. Best of all,

when we have problems, the VRS team gives great advice and doesn’t stop helping until we all fi nd the solutions we need. It’s really amazing to have such resources at our fi ngertips.

I can’t end this story without also telling you how much my dad and our family appreciate the fact that VRS seniors communities are co-ops and not private, for-profit facilities. I have had experience with the latter and was happy to fi nd no one at our VRS seniors location was trying to up sell services that my dad doesn’t want or need.

It’s very comforting to know that my dad lives in such a terrific place, with delicious food, a safe and clean building, and excellent care. We couldn’t be happier.

For more information about seniors living in Victoria visit rossplace.ca or for seniors living in Nanaimo visit Lakeside-gardens.com.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022 | 11

Pets Proven to Enhance Your Wellness

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nyone who has experienced a pet in their life knows the positive difference these companions can make in terms of physical and mental wellness.

Research cited by Harvard suggests pets can decrease feelings of loneliness, provide a sense of purpose and even help lower blood pressure through the calming effect of petting a cat or dog. And with dogs specifically, walking them promotes daily exercise and leads to spontaneous social interactions with other dog lovers.

As a seniors’ community that champions all aspects of wellness, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour is proud to welcome pets. That means those with cats, dogs or even birds can make the move to Tapestry with their furry or feathered companions.

At Tapestry, every aspect of the community is designed with the residents’ health and wellness in mind. A daily schedule of events and programming offer fitness classes, social clubs, learning opportunities and more.

Residents stay engaged and socially connected while enjoying beautiful amenity spaces such

as the restaurant, pub, fi reside lounge and the rooftop terrace that overlooks the Inner Harbour. Every day, residents are discovering new hobbies, activities and events - all while meeting like-minded friends.

What makes Tapestry particularly unique is the Tapestry feeling, a spirit and energy defi ned in large part by dedicated employees who are passionately

committed to creating personalized experiences, treasuring resident relationships and exceeding service expectations. From the concierge who remembers your pet’s name, to the chef who knows just how you like your favourite meal, Tapestry employees take pride in tailoring their service

to your individual needs and anticipating preferences to create a truly memorable experience.

To experience the Tapestry difference for yourself, you can join them for a personalized tour of the display homes and enjoy a complimentary lunch.

With Tapestry currently offering

significant incentives whether you choose to own or rent, the time has never been better to explore Tapestry at Victoria Harbour by Concert.

Visit TapestryVictoria.com or call 250.419.4261 for more information.

12 | TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

your first year is on us

Maggie and Larry, Tapestry residents since 2018

Valued up to $28,900* At Tapestry, we’re pleased to offer you 2 months of complimentary service and strata fees following your purchase of a home in our vibrant seniors’ community. Experience our signature lifestyle through fine dining, a rich variety of activities and our famous personalized services as you enjoy every minute of every day.

Join us for lunch and learn more about owning a home at Tapestry from $595,900 or ask about our rental opportunities and incentives.

TAPESTRY AT VICTORIA HARBOUR

777 Belleville Street, Victoria

TapestryVictoria.com | 250.419.4261 *Purchase chase a condominium home bef before June 30, 2022 and receive a credit on closing equivalent to12 months of service and strata fees based on the home purchased and occupancy. May 2022 E.&O.E. ®Registered egistered trademarks of Concert Pr Properties Ltd., used under license where applicable.