55 Plus

June 2020

Discover

a new way of living at Breeze

Preventing Osteoporosis

Early detection can lead to effective treatment and prevention

Access

Saanich Community Services

Recipe

Try a Deluxe Duxelle Burger this barbecue season

The “Best Fit�

approach for Companion Care

2 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

What is Senior Living?

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re you newly retired and wondering where to start with retirement living?

What should your senior living priorities be?

Where do you start, what should you look for in senior living, and what questions should you ask?

The first thing to look for in your new home is location. In what city and neighbourhood would you like to live? Do you want to move closer to where your children or grandchildren are living?

Next ask what services and amenities are offered. Does the senior community support your social, physical and intellectual interests?

Is the culinary program in keeping with your lifestyle and expectations? Is there a diverse menu; is the food appealing and nutritional; are there appealing wine and beer choices and choices in dining including indoor and outdoor environments?

Is there a gym, exercise classes, music program and intellectual stimulation? Will the community support an independent lifestyle; can supportive living be added as needed without having to move? Is there licenced care, including aging-in-place for end of life?

The Aquara by element development is a harbourside community in Songhees in Vic West. Aquara is unique in Victoria for their choice of either purchasing or renting in an aging-inplace retirement community.

Ask about the building features. Are the building features senior friendly, without making the community feel institutional? For example, is there aesthetically pleasing grab bars in the bathroom, motion sensor lighting and wider doorways. Look for safety and security features like a 24-hour concierge, emergency call system and CCTV. Asking questions about the location, amenities, culinary program, activities and building features will go a long way in helping you decide if a senior living community is for you.

The Aquara by element development is a harbourside community in Songhees in Vic West.

Aquara is unique in Victoria for their choice of either purchasing or renting in an aging-inplace retirement community. Upon completion, Aquara will offer 47 condos, 75 rental suites and 35 care units. Aquara Discovery Centre is open at: #110 – 645 Tyee Rd. For more pictures and information go to aquara.elementlifestyleretirement.com

Did you know? Eating Prebiotic Foods

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hose poised to begin a health regimen that includes probiotics would be wise to also educate themselves about the closely named, yet vastly different, ‘prebiotics’ that are also beneficial to health. Prebiotics are to probiotics what fertilizer is to a vegetable garden. Prebiotics are essentially a special type of soluble fibre that is used by the beneficial bacteria as fuel, advises the prebiotic supplement company Prebiotin. Examples of good sources of prebiotics include bananas,

onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, apple skins, beans, and chicory root. The prebiotic fibre moves through the small intestine undigested and fermented until it reaches the large intestine. Once there, beneficial bacteria break it down and use it as food.

Thusly, the prebiotics can then multiply readily and improve the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. Eating prebiotic foods can fuel the process, but many probiotic supplements now have a combination formula that includes prebiotics in the recipe. –NC

Publisher: Dave Obee Director of Advertising: Peter Baillie 2621 Douglas Street, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8T 4M2

Tuesday, June 30, 2020 A publication of the Victoria Times Colonist

To advertise in the next issue of 55 Plus, contact: Simone Fibiger Phone: 250-380-5358 Editor: Jenus Friesen jfriesen@timescolonist.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | 3

If the shoe fits, wear it!

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our feet are important. The employees at Walk in Comfort Shoes think that feet are one of the most important parts of your body and they want them to be healthy and perfect in every way — and stay that way. They make sure your shoes fit right.

For instance, the ball of your foot should fit comfortably into the widest part of the shoe.

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4 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

“The Best Fit Approach” for Companion Care

By Johanna Booy, Senior Care Victoria he old adage ‘one size fits all’ may be true, but not for senior companion services.

Our seniors come from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.

Many are retirees are from various parts of Canada, or moved here in their youth from Europe or Britain. They’ve come through the depression and the war, struggling through abject poverty. Others are retired CEOs of companies or retired teachers, administrators, conductors or professional opera singers.

Regardless of their background, the humour and intelligence that emanates from their stories are entertaining and refreshing. One senior quite literally told us in our interview that she met her husband in bed. You can imagine the reaction!

While waiting for the punch line, we were not disappointed. She was the nurse that cared for him.

Good humour is not naturally inherent in all of our elderly

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clients. Some suffer from dementia or debilitating diseases that render them unable to endure humor – or to communicate as well as they once did. This can make it a greater challenge to be a companion for them. Non-verbal companionship can be a huge struggle with the elder that no longer communicates.

Matching your companion carer to your loved one can be more simple than one thinks. Many caregivers are looking for a meaningful ‘after retirement’ career. With background careers in dentistry, teaching, catering, nursing, and home making/ raising children, our carers have the right mix of experience to be a good companion. After all - the number one consideration for most seniors

is ‘good food,’ home cooked meals with great nutritious selection and presentation, and the number two consideration is good conversation.

By delving into the backgrounds of the senior and the caregiver, we are able to establish who might be the best carer. Knowing the interests of both will help you to select the ‘best fit’.

One senior recently expressed “not having had a great number of caregivers in the past, I didn’t realize how much I dreaded someone coming.” When asked why that was, they said “we just don’t click! Then you sent another person for the extra weekly shift and it was like a breath of fresh air!”

When hiring for a companion, we ask them many questions about themselves, their interests and how they think they can make a difference in a senior’s life. We look for those who have the ability to ‘wear different hats’ those that can leave the home of a British couple, where the husband is still called “the major” and enter the home of a widower who is a joker and a tease. It’s being able to change your colours – like a chameleon.

Good communication requires adaptation to your audience.

When travelling home to home, the caregiver is often thinking of who they are going to see and what they may need to do in preparation for their visit. A good companion will even bring activities with them such as puzzles, colouring books or card games, depending on the interest of their client.

We know we have a ‘good fit’ when we receive references for companions such as these: “she has brightened mom’s spirits and shown her such love as if she were her own mom, taking her on outings and to musical concerts” and “she has the heart of an angel, and when we went to see mom, it was the miracle

we all were looking for. She gave mom’s life new meaning”! These are meaningful comments, and ones an agency will pick up on making it easier to match the carer to the correct senior.

Our companions often get as much out of the visit as they give.

One caregiver, a retired RN, stated after her first shift, “You pay me to do this? I should pay you.”

Regardless of who the senior client is, there is a certain someone that can make a difference in their lives. We utilize a saying ‘till death do us part’ as many of our carers have seen a client through hourly, overnight, live-in and palliative care – and are present at their funeral.

It may take a couple of times to find that person, but embracing the “best fit approach” will certainly ensure the family that not only is the agency you are working with the right fit, but that they will indeed match your mom or dad to the ‘best fit’ in a caregiver. seniorcarevictoria.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | 5

Life is a Breeze when you Live in Sidney

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isitors and residents love the seaside charm, small town vibe and remarkable hospitality of idyllic Sidney, BC. With close proximity to The Butchart Gardens, downtown Victoria, walking trails, hikes and beaches, Sidney is the perfect home base for exploring farms, wineries and eco-tourism activities throughout the Saanich Peninsula and the surrounding Southern Gulf Islands.

Whether you are an art and culture buff, an outdoorsy type or have older or wee ones to entertain, there is something for everyone.

Sidney enjoys a thriving arts and culture community that celebrates local artists and local crafts. From the seaside sculpture walk, to the beautiful totems that welcome visitors at the Mary Winspear Centre, the lovely art galleries and local cafés, Sidney has it all.

A new condominium opportunity is taking shape in Sidney, built by established

award-winning local builder Homewood Constructors Ltd. With a reputation for quality, Homewood Constructors knows that craftsmanship and quality are key to repeat clients. They partner with reputable subcontractors and suppliers including some of the industries most experienced and skilled professionals in the Vancouver Island building industry.

Breeze by the Sea is a collection of 37 one, two and three bedroom condominium homes offering all the advantages of living in the vibrant heart of Sidney. Steps to absolutely everything – shopping, markets, restaurants, theatre, waterfront, yoga studios and fitness centres. Want to go carless? No problem, a Modo car share membership is included with every purchase.

Call: 250-883-2715 breezeinsidney.com

“Breeze by the Sea is a collection of 37 one-, two- and three-bedroom condominium homes offering all the advantages of living in the vibrant heart of Sidney.”

6 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

Ideal Alternative to Condo Living

Starlight Village offers three floor plans to choose from.

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tarlight Village is a community of one and two bedroom homes and is ideally situated on the beautiful Saanich Peninsula, with easy access to all amenities: schools, hospital, ferry terminal, airport, Sidney by the Sea, grocery stores, farmers markets, restaurants, parks, walking paths and so much more.

While there are lots of condos in the area, many of them are not pet friendly. Four legged Louie is just one of the valued team members at Starlight Village – Louie helps to make sure that home buyers and their furry friends have a place to call home.

Brand new homes at Starlight Villages start at just $299,000 including GST. These

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affordable single entry level homes are the ideal alternative to condo living. They were designed with living and comfort in mind.

There are three floor plans to choose from, with an attractive selection of flooring, cabinets, countertops and more to customize your new home. Couples and small families can enjoy cooking for themselves and friends in the upgraded open concept kitchen that includes a quartz countertop and stainless steel appliance package. Built with open space and comfort in mind, including vaulted living and dining areas, all Starlight homes are equipped with heat pump systems and fully fenced private backyards.

Starlight Village is proud to have an experienced contractor building your new Home. Don Gress is a registered CSA builder with 50 years of experience in residential and commercial construction. Don and his team have built over 300 similar homes in Greater Victoria. Some past projects include

Meet Louie, a valuable member of the team at Starlight Village.

the Songhees Retirement Park, Hawthorne Village in Saanichton and Hummingbird Village and Hummingbird Green on the Saanich Peninsula. You can see that every home has been built with pride to the highest quality and standards.

Call the folks at Starlight Village for a private tour. They are just as excited as you are to call the new Starlight Village ‘home’.

Phone: 250-818-4842 Email: sales@starlightvillage.ca Visit: starlightvillage.ca

Learn to downsize before a move

enior men and women often take inventory of their lives in an effort to focus on activities or lifestyle changes that can ensure happy retirements. According to the 2011 Census, 9.6 million persons, or close to three Canadians out of 10 (29 per cent), were baby boomers. With the youngest of the boomers in their mid-50s and the majority having already reached retirement age, many boomers are trying to decide if it’s time to move out of their family homes and into smaller, more manageable abodes.

Many older adults find they do not need the same amount of space as they did when they had children living at home. Retirees and those on the cusp of retirement may find that downsizing is a smart financial move that frees up more time for recreation. However, it can be challenging to cut down on living space and then deal with figuring out how to make furniture, belongings and stored items fit in more condensed areas. Moving can be stressful even without having to cut down on prized items. Taking an inventory of belongings can help the process go smoothly.

Before moving, go room by room, making piles of items that will be kept, donated, sold or discarded.

This can be a tedious task, but necessary to avoid clutter in a new home.

You can attempt to sell items you do not need via newspaper classified sections or online classified sites. Appliances and furniture in excellent shape may fetch good prices. Any extra cash can be put toward buying new items that are sizeappropriate for the smaller home.

Another way to clear out clutter is to sort duplicates.

You may no longer need multiple sets of dishes or silverware. If the move involves switching from a king-sized to Another way to clear out a queen-sized bed, clutter is to sort donate or trash bed duplicates. linens that will no longer fit. Pay close attention to kitchen and bathroom items that tend to accumulate over. People moving from a detached home to a condo or townhouse may learn that homeowner’s association fees cover everything from snow removal to lawn maintenance to pool upkeep.

If so, it’s unnecessary to bring lawn and garden supplies.

Look at the floor plan of your new dwellings and pay attention to storage space. Having a plan in place can make unpacking and settling in go smoothly.

Downsizing can free up time and money. When done right, downsizing can make retirement easier and create more leisure time for retirees. – MC

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | 7

Osteoporosis Prevention By your friendly neighbourhood Heart Pharmacist

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steoporosis is a health concern that causes bones to thin and become weak. While it is primarily a concern for women, men can also develop low bone density. While nobody dies from low bone density, it can lead to a loss of mobility and sometimes pain. Very few women – and men–know they have osteoporosis before it is too late. They might fracture a wrist, crack a rib or break a hip. This is why it is very important to have your bone density tested. If you are a woman over the age of 50, ask your doctor if a bone density scan would be advisable. It is best to know as early as possible if osteoporosis is a concern for you. Then you can focus on prevention and consider the many treatment options available.

Since we are on the topic of osteoporosis prevention, there are a few more things you can do or not do. The first thing is to stop smoking. Smoking is bad for you in so many ways, including increased bone loss.

If you are thinking about quitting, talk to your doctor or Heart pharmacist. There are smoking sensation options that are available from the BC Government at no cost.

Alcohol is one of those double-edged lifestyle choices. Moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages can reduce your risk of heart disease and possibly dementia.

However, over consumption of alcohol has a lengthy list of health risks. So how much is too much? The general guideline is one drink a day for women and one to two drinks a day for men, with one day off. A drink is considered to be one standard bottle of beer, ½ cup of wine or 1.5oz of spirits.

Another at-home treatment option for osteoporosis is fall prevention. While this may sound silly at first, it is a very serious concern for seniors living at home. Look around at the floor of the home. Iis there clutter, slippery rugs or poor lighting. The risk factors for falls in the home go on and on. We make our homes safe for babies; it should be no different for seniors living at home.

With a focus on non-drug treatments for osteoporosis, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this bone thinning disease. The first is to participate in regular weight bearing or resistance exercises. A weight bearing exercise is one where the muscles work against gravity and include walking, stair climbing and dancing. While bicycling and swimming are excellent exercises to strengthen the cardiovascular system, they may not be as helpful for preventing osteoporosis. Resistance exercises include

weight lifting or using elastic exercise bands. All of these exercises have been shown to prevent bone loss. Remember, it is best to talk to your physician before starting any new exercise program.

There has been recent news that calcium supplements might increase your risk of heart disease. While this is partially true, one must not forget that calcium is foremost in the prevention of osteoporosis.

The study in question found that people who took high doses of calcium (>1000mg/ day) experienced more heart attacks than those who did not take calcium. The real increase in risk was not that great, however it did cause health care professionals to recommend that people reduce their supplemental use of calcium. Health Canada recommends that an adequate intake of calcium is 1000mg to 1200mg from all sources. We generally get about 300-400mg of calcium in our diet without really trying, so we only need a slight top-up to meet our daily requirements.

Adequate vitamin D intake plays an important role in bone formation. Your body needs vitamin D to absorb and use the calcium to make bone. Some people ask me if they still need to take vitamin D, since the body can make its own supply from sunlight. While this is true, do you get at least 15 minutes of direct sunlight every single day of the year? This might not be that case for everyone, especially during the winter months or for those who are shutins. I recommend taking 2000-4000IU of vitamin D a day just to be sure.

You may also have read that vitamin K can help with osteoporosis. This is partially true. A special form of vitamin K (menaquinone) might be helpful for increasing bone mineral density. This is different from the form (phytonadione) found in some multivitamins, which might not be as effective. For now, just eat more fruits and green leafy vegetables, which coincidentally, have been associated with a lower risk of developing osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis can be a major health concern for both women and men. Early detection can lead to effective treatment and the prevention of future complications.

There is some thought that osteoporosis is a pediatric disease. If you do not increase your bone density during your formative years, you may experience complications later in life. So this is a perfect time to encourage kids and grandkids to get plenty of exercise and eat calcium rich foods. It is never too late to bone up on your health. heartpharmacy.com

With a focus on non-drug treatments for osteoporosis, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this bone thinning disease.

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

8 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

What is GERD?

We all have grief at this time

By Laura Van Sprang, Manager, Sands Victoria Funeral Chapel he thing I’ve noticed throughout this pandemic is that we have all been affected by some form of loss and grief. We have all had to adjust and deal with the fact that things did not go as planned this year. All of our gatherings have been cancelled. All of our trips and vacations have been refunded and postponed. Weddings are put on hold or look very different, with many important people unable to attend. All of those hard working graduates are not getting to experience the time-honoured tradition of walking across that stage to receive their welldeserved diplomas in front of all who supported them. Milestone birthdays, retirements, baby showers, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, visits with grandparents and parents in nursing homes, and the list goes on.

Then there are the funerals, which for me, being in the funeral industry, was the hardest to see change so much. When you work in a profession that teaches you to support the bereaved by gathering and bringing the community

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together, to provide a shoulder to lean on and extend a hand to wipe away tears with a gentle touch or hug, it is very difficult to change your approach to show your compassion. But we, too, have adjusted and tried to help the best way we can, to honour those who have passed and to be there for those who have had to endure the pain of loss a little differently.

The human spirit will find ways to connect.

We continue to celebrate, and to acknowledge accomplishments and achievements. We continue to send our encouragement, laughter and love to each other. Most importantly, we continue to live. Many of the things we have had to do differently will go back to some sort of normal and we can pick up where we left off. But for those who have lost their lives to this disease or during this difficult time, we remember you, we celebrate you and it is you who we grieve the most. arbormemorial.ca

“The human spirit will find ways to connect”

Silver Threads Service We are a charitable, not for profit society that enhances social connections and well-being for seniors. We provide programs and services for those 55 years of age or better with two centres and outreach programs to serve you.

Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151

Victoria Centre 2340 Richmond Rd. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silverthreads.cafor more information

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a painful condition in which stomach acid flows up the esophagus and into the mouth. Sometimes called dyspepsia, acid reflux or heartburn, GERD can generate a fiery sensation in the chest and throat that can range from mild to severe.

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• Eat small meals. Rather than eating a few big meals, eat small meals throughout the day.

• Try natural herbs. Some natural GERD remedies contain German chamomile, lemon balm, licorice, milk thistle, and angelica. Also, melatonin, a supplement used as a sleep aide, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn. But the research is conflicting as to whether melatonin is effective.

Always discuss supplement use with a doctor prior to starting a regimen.

• Drink low-fat milk. Milk may temporarily buffer stomach acid, but high-fat milk may stimulate the stomach to produce more acid.

• Chew gum. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which can be an acid buffer, offers WebMD. Chewing gum also results in more swallowing, which can force acids out of the esophagus.

• Quit smoking. Some studies Treating symptoms indicate nicotine relaxes the In many mild to moderate cases muscles of the lower esophageal of reflux, individuals can rely sphincter, the flap that blocks on lifestyle changes and natural stomach acid from coming into remedies to prevent symptoms. the esophagus.

• Avoid food triggers. Certain • Stay upright. Stay upright after foods and beverages, such eating a meal for at least three as greasy or spicy recipes hours. In bed, sleep on a slight and alcoholic beverages, can angle by raising the head of the make GERD symptoms strike. bed a few inches.

Acidic foods, chocolate, onions, GERD can be painful, but with a carbonated beverages, and few changes, people can overcome caffeinated beverages also may this condition. trigger GERD. –MC • Fasting before bedtime. Avoid eating food and consuming beverages two to three hours before bedtime.

• Lose weight. According to the Center for Esophageal Losing weight may Motility Disorders at Vanderbilt help reduce University, obesity is the symptoms of leading cause of GERD. Extra GERD. stomach fat puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing gastric acids into the esophagus. Losing weight can reduce this pressure.

ERD can affect anyone regardless of their age, gender or ethnicity. In Western countries, the prevalence range for GERD is 10 to 20 per cent of the population (3.4 million to 6.8 million Canadians). Five million Canadians experience heartburn and/or acid regurgitation at least once each week, states the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation (CDHF).

GERD can cause difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, a sensation of a lump in the throat, or chest pain. Some people experience intermittent symptoms of GERD, while others experience symptoms with every meal or in between meals. People who have chronic reflux might also suffer from nighttime symptoms such as disrupted sleep or chronic cough. The CDHF says GERD also may cause Barrett’s esophagus, a condition in which tissue that is similar to the intestine replaces the tissue lining the esophagus.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | 9

But I’m not online!

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n the new COVID world, everything seems to be virtual or online. The answer to everything seems to be on the computer. The majority of older adults are computer savvy and able to negotiate Zoom meetings and virtual social visits. But what about those who are not online or who don’t have a computer?

In Saanich, we realize that although most older adults are embracing the virtual world, not everyone has this ability. Whether it is a lack of funds to purchase the technology, living alone and having no one to show you how to use it, or just a dread of having to learn a whole new way of living at an age when you are happy as you are, not everyone is able to be online.

The Municipality of Saanich is lucky to have a division of their Parks and Rec Department called Community Services. The focus of Community Services is to connect people and create inspiring community spaces and places for the public to benefit, learn and belong. Community Services programmers work with recreation centres, non-profit groups, government agencies and the public to ensure marginalized or at risk groups including older adults, youth, low income, diverse and multicultural groups are connected to their community and feel they belong. As such, we want to make sure all older adults can be connected to their community, even those not on a computer.

With centres reopening, many older adults are wondering if their activities will be starting soon. We know many are feeling isolated and miss their in-person social visits. The reopening of recreation centres will be a slow process as many new protocols and safety measures need to be in place before they can open their doors to the general public.

In the meantime, we can keep in touch! Saanich Community Services continues to use this Times Colonist monthly 55+ pullout and Saanich News to keep older adults who are not online

aware of what is happening in Saanich. We have the Cedar Hill Social Club 55+ members on regular mail, email and phone lists so we can contact them when new developments arise.

Regular newsletters with fun brain buster sheets, recipes and fit tips are shared by regular mail and email, as well as upcoming program info and club updates.

Cedar Hill Social Club programs, when running, are offered to members at reduced rates. As more restrictions lift, we will find ways for older adults to reconnect and get them back with their social connections.

If you would like to be included on one of the contact lists, we invite any older adult to call or email. Cedar Hill Social Club memberships are not required at this unique time. Julie Wallace is the Older Adult programmer with Community Services and is happy to chat on the phone; she will give you whatever information she has and add your name to a phone or email list.

Contact Julie at: 250-475-5408 or Julie.wallace@saanich.ca

“The majority of older adults are computer savvy and able to negotiate Zoom meetings and virtual social visits. But what about those who are not online or who don’t have a computer?”

Kevin Light Photo

Stay in touch even without a computer!

Saanich Community Services wants all older adults to feel included and updated.

Receive monthly fit tips, brain buster sheets, program updates and more by regular mail or email.

Call Julie at 250-475-5408 for more information and be added to the list.

PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES

10 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

Try a deluxe duxelle burger this barbecue season

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

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ith but a few key ingredients including mushroom duxelle, sharp Comté (a French Gruyère cheese) and a homemade sauce – this is the kind of burger that needs nothing else.

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

Ingredients Duxelle: • 1 tbsp butter • 1 shallot • 1 clove garlic • ½ lb mixed mushrooms (shiitake, crimini, porcini) • Pinch dried thyme • Salt and pepper, to taste Burger sauce: • ¼ cup mayonnaise • 1 ½ tsp. Dijon • 1 small shallot • 3 gherkins Patty: • 1 lb. medium ground beef • 1 cup finely grated Comté cheese Assembly: • 4 hamburger buns 1 cup arugula • salt and pepper

Directions • For the duxelle, pulse shallots and garlic in a food processor until finely minced.

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic; cook 3 minutes until soft. Pulse the mushrooms in the food processor until finely chopped.

Add the mushrooms to the skillet with a pinch of salt and thyme. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms have released their liquid, about 15 minutes.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

• For the burger sauce, add the ingredients to a food processor. Process until well combined. Refrigerate until use.

• Divide ground beef into four portions.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Form each into a ball then flatten into a patty. Season well all over with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook two burgers at a time until well browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on desired doneness. Repeat with remaining burgers. Top with cheese, cover and let steam until cheese is melted. If desired, toast buns.

• To serve, top bottom bun with duxelle, a burger and arugula. Spread burger sauce on top bun and enjoy.

– newscanada.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | 11

Embracing Wellness in All Its’ Dimensions

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ellness is a topic that has been getting an increasing amount of attention these days, and for good reason. Those that embrace all aspects of their wellness are consistently found to be happier, healthier and even live longer.

The concept of wellness is about much more than simply your physical health, it’s about living your best life possible by embracing an active and healthy lifestyle that improves physical, intellectual, social and spiritual well-being.

And while wellness plays an important role in any person’s life, the benefits for seniors are particularly significant in terms

of improvements in overall feelings of wellbeing and life satisfaction, decreased social isolation, and maintaining or improving cognitive and physical health. Harvard and Yale researchers have confirmed that those with a more positive outlook on aging lived an average of 7.5 years longer than those with more negative views.

To enhance or maintain their wellness, many seniors are looking to move into communities that will actively support them in their goals, while allowing them to fully maintain their independence. With properties in Vancouver, Toronto and now Victoria, Tapestry has positioned itself as

a leader in active aging, offering vibrant and connected communities where individuals can stay healthy, strong, engaged and socially connected.

Tapestry takes a unique approach by focusing on areas such as food and nutrition, fitness and movement, spirituality and mindfulness, and health and resilience. This unparalleled offering is underpinned by a commitment to personalized, resident centric service and a focus on delivering unique programs and services aligned to the seven dimensions of wellness which encompasses physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, environmental and occupational.

“Our commitment to wellness and supporting active aging is what really distinguishes Tapestry communities,” says Mark Andrew, Senior Vice President. “With our core offerings and holistic focus on wellness,

Tapestry is pushing the boundaries of what it means to live independently and evolving wellness from programming activities to a way of life!”

Tapestry’s commitment to wellness was recently recognized when its Wesbrook Village community earned a Beacon Award for its “Best in Wellness” achievements, one of only 25 seniors living communities in North America to be honoured.

Currently under construction, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour is the first Tapestry community on Vancouver Island and will be ready for occupancy in early 2021. The presentation centre, complete with fully furnished display suite, will be open by private appointment beginning July 6.

Visit: TapestryVictoria.com to learn more.

12 | Tuesday, june 30, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

Where luxury living meets inspired active aging.

Your choice to own or rent.

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Studio to Two Bedroom + Den Homes available to own or rent where the city meets the sea.

Coming Soon. Embrace a New Age.TM Register Today

TapestryVictoria.com

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