55 Plus

55

plus October 2019

Magazine

International Day of Older Persons THE FLU VACCINE: Timing is important AGING IN PLACE: Option or challenge?

ORTHOTICS: Are not for everyone TAKE A TRIP: To New Orleans

2 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Live Well at Aquara Aquara Discovery Centre is located at #110-645 Tyee Rd., and is open Wednesday to Saturday, from noon to 5 p.m.

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ully embracing an active retirement community, Aquara by Element Lifestyle Retirement offers a range of living opportunities for seniors looking for vibrant, inspired living.

The vibrant, harbourside community in Songhees VicWest will offer independent living, supportive living, and if and when needed, built-in care for 65+ seniors providing maximum quality of life as needed. Upon completion, Aquara will offer 47 condos, 75 rental suites and 35 care units offering 24-hour care.

Aquara has designed its spaces and policies to allow couples with different health requirements to stay in each others’ daily lives and receive customized nursing care, including aging-in-place.

Culinary Experience Food and beverage offerings are an important part of the decision as to whether to buy into senior living. At Aquara, the options

include many areas of dining, from signature dining, private dining, casual/bistro dining to a fireside library café. There will be two outdoor dining options — a rooftop patio and a street level south-facing patio that will take advantage of the beautiful Victoria sunny days, with fire tables for cozy outdoor evenings.

At Aquara, you can enjoy farm-to-table menus that feature wholesome produce from local suppliers and your own rooftop planters. Experience private family dining, barbeque parties and themed cuisine such as Mediterranean, Pan-Asian, in-house pasta and pizza and English High Tea.

Be inspired by culinary demonstrations and group classes from your own executive chef and other renowned chefs. Watch Aquara’s chefs use their torches to smoke fish, prepare baked Alaska and caramelize crème brule.

Savour the aromas of in-house baked goods and pastries as they come out of the ovens.

Of course, where there’s great food, there’s also beverages to complement. Enjoy wine and Scotch tastings, a fruit-infused water bar and afternoon tea with delicate in-house pastries and quality teas from around the world. aquara. elementlifestyleretirement.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — OCT. 1, 2019 | 3

Aging in place: option or challenge

By Johanna Booy, CPCA Care & Company Ltd. eniors are opting to age in place — stay in the home they know and love.

Only a few generations ago, many families lived and died at home. They made way for grand dad to sit by the fire in a rocking chair, having converted a den to a bed sitting room. We’ve departed from this style of intergenerational living, but are beginning to see a shift back to this model of senior care.

Aging in place is a term used for individuals who are both wishing to live at home or at a residential care complex until they die. Seniors living at home experience rewards such as being able to stay in familiar

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surroundings, maintain a routine, sleep in their own bed, eat food they like to eat, and stay involved in making choices. Many seniors and their families relate that they enjoy the one-on-one care and consistency in care of bringing in a care worker to assist the senior to age in place.

This model of care is not always possible.

When the time comes to interview a community of care or complex care home for your parent or loved one, ask if they have aging in place capacity. Seniors do not do well with numerous moves in advanced age; the upheaval can cause stress and anxiety.

We often read of couples, where one spouse requires a higher level of care due to advanced dementia and is cared for by

the other spouse. The burden is great, and sometimes the couple is split, leaving one spouse at home and the other in care. Aging in place and providing home support services to keep them together is very important.

Seniors experience benefits emotionally, physically and financially.

One of the greatest challenges to aging in place is running out of funds to remain at home. When the senior can no longer ‘bear the cost of care’, it may be time to make the transition to complex care. Care agencies should consult with seniors and their families when they foresee an increase in future cost of care due to increased services required to assist the senior to live at home.

Another indicator is when seniors put

Neighbours engaging in activities together Photo: ©KevinLight

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ree social program for older adults wanting to try new activities and meet new friends Research clearly shows that strong social connections affect mental and physical health in a positive way. We may know this, but sometimes getting involved is easier said than done.

As we age, some life experiences get in the way and create challenges to staying social connected. If mobility becomes challenging, financial resources become limited or you lose a loved one, it can leave you feeling lethargic, depressed and not motivated to leave the house.

From a municipal recreation perspective, we know the benefits of social connection and physical activity; we encourage people to stay engaged. However, people who have never been engaged in community recreation may find the thought daunting and completely unappealing. As recreation staff, we are reaching out to those who may want to be involved and just don’t know where to start.

With an Island Health Community Wellness grant and in partnership with various municipalities, Island Health staff have put together a 12-week program to be offered around the city. Participants have the opportunity to try programs of their choice in a supportive, relaxed environment. Recreation therapists help address barriers to participation such as selfmanagement challenges and motivation. Participants decide

care workers or residents of the home at risk.

This can be an indicator for moving.

We all live at risk; our seniors do so when they choose to stay in a home with stairs and experience the many challenges of living at home.

Seniors and families usually have choices for care provision. Navigating the health care system, knowing the terminology and understanding the various levels of care available is confusing at times. Seek reputable agencies, look to resources available in your community, and check in with your local health authority for information on how to care for your loved one to appropriately prepare for the future. seniorcareandfitness.com

Neighbours Engaged in Activities Together

N.E.A.T.

Sessions beginning in Oak Bay, Saanich and Central Saanich.

For information call Laura at 250-475-3219

Socialize, try new activities and meet your neighbours! which activities they want to try, and best of all, they meet other people in their neighbourhood.

Neighbours Engaging in Activities Together (NEAT) is gearing up for sessions in Oak Bay, Central Saanich and Saanich. Participants will gain skills and knowledge about leisure programs in their area, find out about resources and services available, try some activities, meet new neighbours and have fun along the way. Programs begin soon so don’t wait.

Contact Liz McCarter: 250-370-5688 Ext#34682, or Laura VanDyk at: 250-475-3219.

N.E.A.T is a social and leisure activity program to introduce you to local recreation opportunities and meet others in the neighbourhood.

4 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

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isitors and residents love the seaside charm, small town vibe and remarkable hospitality of idyllic Sidney. 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 surrounding Southern Gulf Islands.

Whether you are starting out or settling down, if you are an art and culture buff, an outdoorsy type, or you have older or wee ones, there is something for everyone.

Sidney’s thriving arts and culture community celebrates local artists and crafts. From the seaside sculpture walk to the beautiful totems that grace the Mary Winspear Centre, lovely art galleries and local cafés — there is plenty to love.

Kayaking, whale watching, bike riding, fishing, crabbing, boating and simply walking at the water’s edge — Sidney is

blessed. With a mild climate, Sidney is the ideal place to call home.

Join the lawn bowling club, visit the outdoor volleyball court — right beside the basketball and tennis courts, and the terrific water park for kids in the summer.

Sidney is a unique place in Canada.

One of the most special reasons is its designation as Canada’s only official “Booktown”. What exactly is a Booktown?

It’s a place that celebrates local, regional and national culture through books — thousands, if not millions, of them — day after day, year after year, from every corner of the world. People from around the world travel to Booktowns to browse, explore and savour facts, and everything else that’s contained between two covers. Sidney is no exception.

People can enjoy the small town charm and urban vibe in a single day. Wine tour through the rich Peninsula farmlands, take a day trip to Salt Spring Island, learn to

Photo: Homewood Constructors

Top reasons to live in Sidney

Exterior of Breeze by the Sea

sail, crab off the Sidney Fishing Pier, and explore the 9.3 kilometre bike path around the Victoria Airport. Or, simply spend an entire day exploring Sidney’s art galleries and boutiques.

Some of the finest cuisine on Vancouver Island is waiting at the end of the day, followed by a movie at Sidney’s Star Cinema.

Live stage productions like MAMA MIA! are on at the Mary Winspear Centre.

If you see yourself living in Sidney, two new condominium opportunities are under construction right now, built by established, award-winning local builder, Homewood Constructors Ltd. Aura Residences will be located at 9861 Third St., and Breeze by the Sea is at 9850 Fourth St. in Sidney.

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.

Aura Residences and Breeze by the Sea sales centre is located next to Alexander’s Coffee at 2387 Beacon Ave. and are open weekly — Saturday through Wednesday, from 12 to 4 p.m.

Breeze by the Sea breezeinsidney.com Aura Residences auraresidences.com Phone: 250-883-2715

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Exterior of Aura Residences

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — OCT. 1, 2019 | 5

The flu vaccine

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their vaccine until late October or early November, because the vaccine offers protection for about six months. Vaccination in October will provide coverage until the flu season is over in March. Generally, the peak of flu season occurs in January and February.

People with weakened immune systems or young children might need to get a second vaccine around January. It would be best to check with your physician or public health office for more details.

Pharmacies begin their flu vaccine clinics around the end of October. At the time of writing, there were news reports about possible delay in availability of the flu vaccine supply. The delay was possible for Alberta and Ontario. It’s suggested that those at highest risk receive their vaccines first. The bulk of the vaccines would arrive later. There was no mention of delay for B.C. vaccine.

Why should you get a yearly flu shot? For most people, catching the yearly flu is only a minor inconvenience. They get sick for a few days, spend some time in bed and things are fine. However, for people with chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease), the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, catching the flu can be very dangerous.

This is why these individuals, their caregivers and friends should get a yearly flu vaccine. To explain why vaccination is a good idea, let’s learn about the principle of herd immunity. Essentially, this means that if a

significant amount of those around you are vaccinated or immune to a disease, you are most likely protected. Some businesses offer free vaccines in order to keep their employees healthy. Can you spare the time to spend three to four days in bed? In many cases, caregivers and those who work with people at risk can get a flu shot at no charge. Ask your Heart Pharmacist if you qualify for a free influenza vaccine.

There are a few unexpected benefits of getting a yearly flu shot. The first is that it might protect you from a visit to the hospital ICU. One study in New Zealand followed adults that were admitted to hospital with influenza-like symptoms. It was found that people who had the influenza vaccine were less likely to be admitted into the intensive care unit (ICU). This meant that the vaccine

prevented them from getting too sick.

Pregnant women can also benefit from yearly flu vaccines. Several studies have shown that pregnant women who receive the influenza vaccine have lower incidences of respiratory infections. More importantly, the mom can pass on antibodies to her newborn. This provides protection in the first few months.

Who knew that the simple yearly flu shot could help protect your heart? Your local Heart Pharmacy usually starts their flu vaccine clinics in early November. This might be a good time to see if you are up to date on your other vaccinations. Your Heart Pharmacist can also administer pneumonia, tetanus, shingles and many other vaccines. heartpharmacy.com

Photo: Adobe Stock

By your friendly neighbourhood Heart Pharmacist s winter approaches, we think about many things. Where are the mittens, do I have enough salt for melting the ice, and when can we visit somewhere warm?

One question that rarely arises is “When can I get my yearly flu shot?” Getting a yearly influenza vaccine makes a bit of sense.

It protects us and those around us from catching a nasty viral infection. But there are so many questions about this vaccine. How does this world travelling virus turn into a yearly vaccine? How is this vaccine made?

Are there any unusual benefits from getting a flu shot?

Who makes this yearly vaccine? The answer is also WHO — the World Health Organization actually. Each year, laboratories all over the world track which kinds of influenza causing viruses are in their community. They get samples from people who have come into hospitals with flu-like symptoms.

Once a year, usually in February, these labs send their findings to the WHO. A vaccine choice is made based upon which influenza virus strains are the most prevalent and troublesome. Three or four virus strains are chosen to be included in that year’s vaccine and then production begins.

When does the flu season start? We usually recommend that people wait to get

Celebrating Seniors!

EARLY RISER DISCOUNT

20% OFF Monday-Wednesday

for all seniors before 11am

Some restrictions apply. Offer not applicable on prescription drugs or sale items.

Expires Friday, October 11, 2019. If you have any questions email ask@heartpharmacy.com

www.HeartPharmacy.com HEART COMPOUNDING PHARMACY AT CADBORO BAY, 3825 Cadboro Bay Rd. Ph: 250-477-2131 HEART PHARMACY AT FAIRFIELD PLAZA, Fairfield Plaza, 1594 Fairfield Rd. Ph: 250-598-9232 HEART PHARMACY AT SHELBOURNE PLAZA, 3643 Shelbourne St. Ph: 250-477-1881 UVIC CAMPUS PHARMACY, UVIC SUB, 3800 Finnerty Rd. Ph: 250-721-3400 ST. ANTHONY’S CLINIC PHARMACY, 582 Goldstream Ave. Ph: 250-478-8338

6 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Walk-in tubs more affordable than you think

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Photo: Homewood Constructors

Canadian Safe Step Tubs’ specialty walk-in tubs, showers and hybrid systems have been providing individuals with independence, physical relief, self-confidence and a new lease on life for years.

Like most buyers, your primary concern likely comes down to cost and if it’s something you can afford.

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ave you ever wondered if a walk-in tub was right for you? Is it something that you need in your home? Would a walk-in tub offer the types of benefits that you need or want to plan for? Is it even something that you could afford to install into your bathroom? Is a walk-in tub an investment worth making?

Like so many seniors, these are all probably questions that you’ve asked yourself over and over again. Like most buyers, your primary concern likely comes down to cost and if it’s something you can afford.

The cost of a Safe Step Walk-In Tub should always be looked at as a valuable investment — an investment into extended-term, independent living and improved physical and mental health.

Breaking Down the Cost

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Determining the cost of a walk-in tub isn’t a one-size-fits-all price.

When you contact Safe Step Tubs seeking information about a walk-in tub, you’ll receive a free, no-obligation, in-home consultation with a safety consultant who understands every aspect of a bathtub installation process, including financing options and best product solutions for every customer. When they come to your home, he or she will measure the

bathroom space and tub/shower dimensions as well as assess the electrical and plumbing specifications of your bathroom.

Once you decide the proper walk-in tub model to meet your physical needs, your consultant will show you what discounts, rebates or specials might be available for your project, and what financial options are available. Safe Step Tubs accommodates nearly any income level. Installing a safe and comfortable walk-in tub can be a reality that you can afford.

Can the price of the tub be reduced?

When you’re looking at the cost of a walk-in tub installation, don’t get fixated on a single price tag.

There are so many factors that can raise or lower the cost of installation, and you may discover that with the right discounts, savings and financing options, adapting your bathtub to make it accessible for your changing needs may be more affordable that you think.

Canadian Safe Step Tubs specialty walk-in tubs, showers and hybrid systems have been providing individuals with independence, physical relief, self-confidence and a new lease on life for years.

Contact Safe Step to schedule a free, no-obligation in-home consultation. Phone: 1-888-960-5401.

Learn more at: SafeSteptubs.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — OCT. 1, 2019 | 7

Bunions got you down?

By Kyle Pankratz BHK, C. Ped (C), Pedorthist, New Balance Victoria he presence of unpleasant foot conditions — corns, calluses and bunions — are probably among the top reasons you dislike your feet.

Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a deformity of the big toe joint that causes the angulation of the big toe in toward the midline of the foot. Callousing and corns can form along the other toes associated with the bunion due to pressure and friction. Bunions are caused by biomechanics of the foot and footwear choices, but most prevalent of these causes is genetics. Bunions are typically hereditary, however there are lots of treatment options for this condition.

1. Proper fitting footwear will help reduce pressure along the joint, and ensure the toe box is wide and deep enough.

2. Custom orthotics can address the poor biomechanics associated with bunions and reduce pressure along the big toe joint.

3. Toe spacers can help reduce the pressure along the big toe and other toes. Toe spacers can help reduce corns from forming and reduce friction and pressure in the area.

Surgery is another treatment option, however recovery time can take months, and bunions are likely to reform after the surgery.

For immediate relief from bunions, the first line of conservative treatment is a change of footwear, and this can get rid of symptoms completely. Bunions

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typically do not cause pain unless something is impeding the natural movement of the foot and the big toe. With a change in angulation to the big toe and a more susceptible area for pressure to form, pain is likely to occur from improper footwear choices.

The best shoes for bunions are ones that properly accommodate your feet and alleviate discomfort.

Synthetic mesh uppers with minimal stitching or seamless uppers significantly reduce the chance of hot spots and blistering.

Shoes with a wide, round toe box will allow your forefoot and toes to spread naturally and not be squeezed by the sides of the shoe. If you have a wider foot, look for footwear brands like New Balance that offer shoes in multiple widths.

Wearing tight-fitting or constricting footwear can help existing bunions progress and will make them feel even more painful. Shoes with extra depth give your foot more space, which can accommodate any calluses or corns you might have on your foot. You’ll also have space to add an insert, toe spacers or a custom orthotic, which supports your foot. You can go along way to prevent bunions from getting larger by taking good care of your feet and wearing the right shoes.

To find out more, talk to your local pedorthist or doctor. Visit New Balance Victoria for footwear recommendations and more information on how we can help you. newbalance.ca

T O UGH T IME F I DING SH O ES T H AT FIT ?

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MULTIPLE

WIDTHS AVAILABLE

The New Balance 840 is a structured, cushioned shoe that works great for higher volume feet.

This shoe is also great if you wear a brace or custom orthotics since it allows these products to sit properly without compromising comfort.

Talk to fit experts.

Come in and talk to Kyle or any of our Fit Experts to learn more.

KYLE P. Certified Pedorthist

New Balance Victoria 1205 Government Street (Corner of View Street)

VICTORIA

Tel 250 382 9327 Toll-Free 1 877 882 9327 newbalancevictoria.ca

8 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Orthotics do not work for everyone

T LIVE THE GOOD LIFE Come fly with us!

he human body is very complex. When a part of our body develops a problem, the solution is sometimes difficult to achieve. So many variables can hinder our treatment success such as existing medical conditions, finances, work commitments — even small variables like shoe gear choices.

Most foot problems respond well to rest.

The problem is that not many of us can stay off our feet. Lots of us want to get better while continuing our normal daily routines. Crutches and walkers are great temporary methods to help rest foot injuries.

Most patients resist using these tools.

As a foot doctor, many of my patients’ problems relate to the mechanical function of their feet.

This is not surprising as our feet carry us around in daily life, work and play. The feet are expected to: absorb large forces, provide balance, adapt to uneven surfaces, jump, run and have all day.

Orthotics have the ability to make feet function in different mechanical ways.

However, not everyone’s feet respond to orthotic treatment equally. In fact, many feet cannot be corrected with orthotics. One test I perform in the office tells me if orthotic function will fail, be poor,

Guided Events & Outings for Mobile Seniors

moderate or good at changing foot function.

No matter what aches and pains you develop my treatment goal is to help direct the changes needed to resolve them. These changes can include: rest, modifying activities, crutches, tools like laser, other health professionals, shoes, and orthotics. The solutions can be simple or difficult. But you must make changes to achieve your treatment goals.

Dr. Kent Butler, D.P.M., graduated with honours from the California College of Podiatric Medicine.

He then completed a one-year surgical residency followed by a one-year biomechanics fellowship at the Pacific Coast Hospital in San Francisco.

Specializing in biomechanics helps him accurately assess a patient’s foot and leg function during the gait examination.

As a student he worked four years making prescription orthotics for podiatrists. Here he learned various fabrication techniques and modification skills to facilitate orthotic function. Dr. Butler is the only podiatrist who personally handcrafts every step of each custom orthotic for his patients.

Dr. Kent Butler is located at Royal Oak Shopping Centre, #207-4480 West Saanich Rd. Phone: 250-704-1178.

The Social Butterflies

DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE FOR A CALENDAR OF EVENTS BOOK ONLINE: thesocialbutterfliesofvictoria.com 250-383-4386

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• Bunions • Callouses • Ingrown Nails • Heel pain • Sore feet • Arthritis • Orthotics

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Dr. Kent Butler D Foot Specialist F I handcraft each orthotic just for you!

Royal Oak Shopping Centre #207-4480 West Saanich Rd

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he Social Butterflies of Victoria plan exciting activities and events for mobile seniors within Greater Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula.

Their outings and day-trips are varied and appeal to all tastes. Let them take care of all the details, while you relax and have fun, in a safe and friendly environment with other like-minded seniors.

Door-to-door service with a smile, exciting nights ‘out on the town’ with all the best entertainment Victoria has to offer, and dinner included — when you

go out with the Social Butterflies, you also socialize and make new friends and memories.

Note: it is important that seniors are mobile and mentally aware and alert, as these challenges are not covered by their insurance.

Tickets are all-inclusive, and there are no membership fees. For details, or to receive a free calendar of events, phone: 250-383-4386.

Book-on-line: thesocialbutterfiesofvictoria.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — OCT. 1, 2019 | 9

Transform caregiving from sad to pleasant Speak with a Mentor

World Alzheimer’s Month

By Lutgarda Mariano, Home Care Assistance Victoria eing a family caregiver is likely to present challenges, but it can also be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. You need to incorporate fun into your daily routine and learn how to turn bad situations into good ones. Here are some things family caregivers can do to make sad times happy experiences.

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Look for the Positive Regardless of how negative a situation may be, look for the silver lining. If your loved one is having a bad response to treatment, find comfort in knowing there are alternative treatments.

Instead of being sad, speak with your loved one’s doctor and explain what’s going on. The doctor can prescribe medications to make your loved one feel better and recover more quickly. He or she may also offer tips on how to ease symptoms associated with chronic disease. Remain hopeful and positive, even when things seem bad.

Caring for a senior loved one can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care. This challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Victoria Home Care Assistance for the help they need.

They provide high-quality live-in and respite care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke and Parkinson’s care.

When times get tough, find a mentor who can offer advice and give you the opportunity to vent your issues. Your mentor can help you calm down and think with a clearer perspective. During discussions, speak openly and freely about what you are feeling.

If you don’t have a trusted friend or family member to speak with, join a local caregiver support group. Voicing negative feelings to a mentor is a good way to find clarity and manage emotions.

Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you need a break from caregiving duties to stave off negative emotions and regain clarity. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores, or you need a break from your caregiving duties, Victoria respite care experts at Home Care Assistance can help.

Respite care services are backed with a 100 per cent satisfaction guarantee, with no hidden fees in their contracts. You never have to sign a long-term contract.

Do Something Fun Anytime you are upset, do something fun with your loved one, or find an activity to do on your own. Walk through the park, see a movie, have dinner at your favorite restaurant, or spend the day at the spa. The objective is to do something that alleviates sadness and stress. Fun activities deliver an energy and mood boost that can change

a sad situation into a happy one. It’s okay to do things you enjoy, despite your loved one’s current health. If you don’t make time for yourself, you could experience anger, resentment, sadness and burnout.

Accept Your Best Family caregivers can become doubtful of their abilities instead of accepting their best. Watching your loved one’s health decrease is difficult, but you must continue to work hard and applaud yourself from time to time. You are likely to experience a lot of highs and lows. As long as you have done your best, you should feel proud and joyful.

Sometimes you won’t receive the praise you deserve, which is why it’s okay to pat yourself on the back. Self-praise is one of the easiest ways to turn a sad situation into a pleasant one, even if the outcome isn’t what you were hoping for.

Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to delegate your caregiving duties, and to make time for relaxation and enjoyment. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional senior care, Victoria Home Care Assistance should be your top choice. Their dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults manage their health and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.

To schedule a free in-home consultation, call: 250-592-4881.

We Do Home Care Differently Home Care Services for Victoria & Surrounding Areas Our home care team is here to help SE Health nurses and personal support team give you peace of mind, and professional in-home help for the person in your care.

Personal Care For a free consultaƟon call: 250.385.0444

Help at Home

Nursing Don’t settle for anything less than what your loved one deserves.

We are currently hiring. sehc.com/victoria In Partnership with:

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Live well at home with your personally selected Caregiver, from hourly to 24/7 live-in and short term respite care. Home Care Assistance is the only home care agency that offers Cognitive Therapeutics, a research-backed activities program that promotes brain health and vitality. Call for a free in-home assessment.

www.HomeCareAssistanceVictoria.ca 1133 Fort St., Victoria 250-592-4881 Flader Business Centre, 101–9837 7th St., Sidney

10 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

New Orleans - Southern Style

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along the streets of the French Quarter. ooking to start off the new year Outside the city, your journey continues with adventure? Perhaps this Mile with an overnight stay at a magnificent Zero Tours guided tour is right 1850s sugarcane estate. Explore Louisiana’s for you. This January, we’re off history at sites like the Oak Alley Plantation to New Orleans — one of America’s most — a powerful testimony to the rich history fascinating cities, and famed for much more of the antebellum south that invites visitors than jazz music and the extravagant Mardi to explore her plantation past.

Gras festival.

Next, the tour takes you New Orleans — to Baton Rouge, the capital known as “The Big Easy” of Louisiana, where you will — is famous for its food, From Bourbon hear stories about settlers people, culture and more.

Street to Baton Rouge from Canada’s Maritime Visit the stunning St. regions who lived in exile in Louis Cathedral, go on an — “Laissez rural Louisiana. insightful swamp tour, les bon temps rouler” Whether it’s the food, cruise the Mississippi people or festive lifestyle, River and taste history (“Let the good find yourself perfectly lost in in distinctive Creole and times roll”) this vivacious city. Leave The Cajun dishes.

Big Easy feeling rejuvenated Spend your free time and rich with memories. discovering the ghost We’re certain this tantalizing tour will leave stories and haunted history that surround you wanting more. this city, or perhaps by taking in the Ready to go? Learn more by breathtaking architecture which dates back visiting milezerotours.com 300 years. Make sure to listen for the New or calling: 250-590-0811.

Orleans’ famed Jazz music as it follows you

SE Health Celebrates 10 Years of Home Care & Nursing Support in the Victoria Region

S Now offering a $500 move-in bonus*

AT HOME WITH TRILLIUM

We are here for you at any stage, in any Trillium community. Whether you’re looking for a fully furnished, move-in ready room, or assistance with downsizing, our resident-centred care ensures you can live life to its fullest and always feel right at home at Trillium.

SUITES AVAILABLE NOW

Learn more at TRILLIUMCOMMUNITIES.COM

*Limited time offer only. Subject to change at any time.

250 383-6509

E HEALTH (formerly Saint Elizabeth Health Care) is a social enterprise applying knowledge, vision and drive to forever impact how people live and age at home, today and into the future. With Canadian roots and 110 years of expertise, including 10 years in the Victoria marketplace, the not-for-profit brings quality, excellence and innovation to home care, seniors’ lifestyle and family caregiving.

Specializing in quality, trust, personal care (bathing, feeding, dressing, medication assistance), help at home (nutritious meals, housekeeping, transportation and companionship) and nursing support (LPN & RN), the company is well-known in the Victoria Home Care community for their high-quality commitment to the customer.

With a rigorous discipline, SE Health ensures their care staff has been certified by a recognized post-secondary institution, is

BC Care Aid registered, and is experienced.

All of their quality care providers have undergone extensive criminal background checks, with a vulnerable sector search component.

SE Health offers the continuity of time and worker, ensuring that you see the same worker at the same time each day, providing a consistent care experience for your loved ones. SE Health’s workers are Nurse Supervised.

As a social enterprise, SE Health measures their performance on the positive impact their business makes on society; they believe this appeals to the values of the marketplace they serve. Due to their non-profit status, no taxes are charged on services, and this translates into additional savings for their customers.

In recognition of their 10 years of service in Victoria and surrounding area, plans are being made for SE Health to move into the Sooke, Duncan and Cowichan Valley to serve clients in those regions. sehc.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — OCT. 1, 2019 | 11

What does exercise mean to you?

Interested? Call any Saanich Recreation Centre, ask for the Adult Programmer, tell them you want to use it, NOT lose it, so where do I start?

Phone: 250-475-5408.

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

By Julie Wallace, Older Adult Programmer, Saanich Parks & Recreation ome people hear the word “exercise” and roll their eyes, run and hide. Somewhere along the way, exercise has been associated with pain, muscle aches, and only for the young. However, we know that one of the most beneficial things we can do to slow the aging process — both physically and mentally — is exercise.

So what does exercise mean to you?

Did you know it can be as fun as dancing around the room to your favourite music, or having a great chat with your friend while on a brisk walk?

Exercise doesn’t have to be sweat and strain. Anything that gets you moving and increases your heart rate for a period of time can be considered exercise.

For aerobic (using oxygen) exercise, you want your heart rate increased for

S

a prolonged time period. You want to feel warm, maybe a little sweaty, and breathe deeply. You should be able to talk comfortably and never get out of breath when performing aerobic exercise.

Stretching and strength training are also important aspects of staying physically fit as we age. This can begin at any age and still show a great benefit.

Strength-training exercises have the ability to combat weakness and fend off the risk of osteoporosis, help with balance and improve sleep.

Above all, it has been proven that staying active and socially engaged is critical to maintain cognitive health.

Not sure where to start? Your local recreation centre offers an array of activities for all ages and abilities, from ballroom dance to chair exercise.

Recreation centres are not just for sweat, spandex and the young.

The variety offered is vast, but

admittedly, it can be overwhelming.

The Adult Programmer at any Saanich Recreation Centre can give you information on each class and point you in the right direction. Fitness staff can show you around and give you strength training exercises appropriate to your level.

In Saanich, all fitness instructors are BC Recreation & Parks Association certified, and are knowledgeable in all areas of basic fitness. Some hold degrees in kinesiology or physical education, and many have years of personal training experience. Many specialize in older adults and welcome the opportunity to use their education.

Whatever you decide, make it enjoyable. Consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program and make sure your instructor knows any limitations you have. Ask a friend or partner to join you or sign up for a class to meet new people.

The gift of being end of life prepared

I

have a great idea for this year’s Christmas present for those of you buying for friends and family that have everything. Get them an ‘All Ready to Go’ binder, and prepare yours for them too — an extra special gift.

I have experienced, all to often, the chaos and conflict that comes with not being all ready to go for the end of life.

In-fighting, massive ‘to-do’ lists, poor and emotionally-based decisions, and the remorse that attends those choices.

Confusion, exhaustion and frustration can gang up on all of us as we struggle to attend to all the many end-of-life choices we need to make when, really, all we want to do is cry and miss our loved one.

It may sound unusual, but giving your family your ‘All Ready to Go’ binder — duly completed, with i’s dotted and t’s crossed — is likely one of the most generous and caring gifts you could give them.

Imagine having an end of life map that your loved ones can follow; a guide that has made all the tough and necessary decisions well in advanced; a plan that supports your family in ensuring your end of life is human, dignified, affordable and as graceful as possible for them.

Your family, instead of fretting about the 150 decisions they have to make, can simply follow your plan and allow themselves to miss you, and remember you without the distraction of the many end of life details that your plan has addressed.

Giving your loved ones this kind of freedom to grieve is both generous and compassionate.

So get to it, order your ‘All Ready to Go’ binder from the Memorial Society of BC, and have it all ready to wrap and put under the Christmas tree. Your family will be glad you did. memorialsocietybc.org

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

I belong here, among friends

Saanich Parks & Recreation More than sweat and spandex!

Fridays, 1 – 3 p.m.

Cedar Hill Recreation Centre

Social opportunities abound! Come visit the Cedar Hill Social Club for brain games, carpet bowling, bridge, table tennis and refreshments.

Gordon Head Recreation Centre G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre Cedar Hill Recreation Centre Saanich Commonwealth Place

250-475-7100 250-475-5400 250-475-7121 250-475-7600

Be Educated. Be Prepared. Be at Ease.

End of life Arrangements at affordable costs for our members

Join Us Today!

Caring for and Educating BC Families $50 for a lifetime membership and peace of mind

Members

Head to our website and watch the video explaining our new project, The All Ready to Go Binder!

Call or visit us today!

888-816-5902 • www.memsoc.org

12 | OCT. 1, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Silver Threads News Rainbow Threads for LGBTQ2+ Seniors

W Visit Live Well Pharmacist for all your Health and Wellness Needs Pharmasave Locations Offer: • FREE local prescription delivery • Medication experts to discuss your specific health care needs • Blister packaging to help organize your medications • Customized medications (Compounding Services) • Easy prescription transfers • Large selection of Home Health Care products • Postal outlet

JOIN US FOR SENIOR’S DAY The 1st Wednesday of Every Month!

15% Off Everything in Store* *Some exclusions apply. See in store details.

Proudly serving the local community: James Bay: #113 – 230 Menzies Street ............................. 250.383.7196 Broadmead Village: #310 – 777 Royal Oak Drive .............. 250.727.2284

hile youth today may be more comfortable expressing who they are, seniors often have unique challenges and may face discrimination from peers and others who are not accepting. Many seniors who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans gender, queer and two-spirited have experienced a lifetime of discrimination based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity and expression. Many report feeling that as they age, they must hide their sexual orientation in order to fit in and receive proper care in health care and residential settings.

We at Silver Threads Service always state that we are an inclusive service provider, that seniors can participate in our programs and services no matter their income, ethnic background, physical or cognitive capacity or sexual orientation. We strive to be a safe and welcoming place for older adults to come and be.

We celebrate the LGBTQ2+ community and encourage all to show their support, especially seniors. Know that at Silver Threads, our goal is to provide a place where all are treated with trust and dignity. Our values include respect and integrity.

Steps to help LGBTQ2+ seniors live in dignity, respect and equality, include showing openness, positive rapport, countering stereotypes, prejudice and rejection. To this end, we are holding a meeting group for queer seniors and their allies. All members of the LGBTQ2+ community (55+) and allies are welcome.

The meeting is held at the Saanich Centre, 286 Hampton Rd. on the first and third Tuesday of each Month (Oct. 1 and 15) from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Drop-in: $2. Contact: 250-382-3151 for information.

Victoria Computer Club Tip of the month: Battery life

Is your phone losing power quicker than normal?

Possibly the battery is getting old, but other things such as too many apps running, Bluetooth always on or unnecessary apps you have never use are always searching. Delete apps you don’t use.

Keeping your phone in the sun on a holiday or the dash of your car or in cold climates affects the battery. If it gets too hot it can warp and damage the circuitry of your device.

Keep your device screen clean. Don’t spray cleaners on the device — spray on a microfiber cloth and then wipe carefully. Don’t use water, industrial cleaners or antibacterial wipes. Eyeglass cleaner or proper cleaner from a store that sells cell phones is best.

Drop into the Victoria Computer Club to learn how to check if your devices have too many apps running. There’s lots of help to offer at the Silver Threads Hall, 286 Hampton Rd. Visit: victoriacomputerclub.org Or call: 250-382-3151. www.silverthreads.ca