55Plus, September 3rd, 2019

55

plus September 2019

Magazine

Seaside Living In the Town of Sidney

BREAK OUT of your cocoon with The Social Butterflies

COMING SOON 34 NEW HOMES IN SIDNEY, BC

TRAVEL with Mile Zero Tours

KULEA caregivers

250.883.2715 | AURARESIDENCES.COM This is not an offer for sale. An offer for sale can only be made in conjunction with a Disclosure Statement. E & OE.

2 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Aura Residences coming to Sidney

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WAYS THINK LOCAL FIRST CAN HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS We support local businesses, consumers and our community. * position your business With over 200 + other proud, local businesses.

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Tuesday, September 3, 2019 A publication of the Victoria Times Colonist

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Submit editorial to: Jenus Friesen jfriesen@timescolonist.com

Carson Tiede BSc., NBC-HIS, RHIP Registered with CSHHPBC

T

he seaside town of Sidney is the ideal place to call home — this is the dream of many people. Sidney is a community built around the belief that the best small towns balance walkable convenience with the sense of getting away from it all.

Nestled along the eastern coast of the Peninsula, with gorgeous views over the ocean to the San Juan Islands, Sidney is ideally situated a short 30-minute drive from Victoria and a stone’s throw from the B.C. Ferry terminal, Victoria International Airport and the Washington State Ferry to Anacortes, USA. This is a quaint and vibrant town to visit and call home.

Whether it’s shopping, walking, biking, boating, hiking, dining, beachcombing, or enjoying live music both indoors and out, Sidney offers something for everyone.

A new condominium opportunity is coming to 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 industry’s most experienced and skilled professionals in the Vancouver Island building industry.

Soon, Homewood will introduce Aura Residences to Sidney.

Showcasing a collection of 34 one-, twoand three-bedroom condominium homes offering comfort and a quiet sophistication, Aura Residences is quietly situated only blocks from the seafront on Third Street, with fine boutiques and a vibrant and varied dining culture all within a convenient walk.

Call: 250-883-2715 auraresidences.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — Sept. 3, 2019 | 3

Introduction to Caregiving 101

Plantar Fasciitis

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LANTAR FASCIITIS presents with these common symptoms: pain at the bottom of the heel and foot arch when taking your first few steps in the morning, the pain then subsides but returns with increased activity throughout the day, and after a bout of sitting, the pain is often severe with the first steps again.

This condition is usually caused by excessive stretch of the plantar fascia. Rest, ice and shoe changes can sometimes resolve this condition.

Orthotics can resolve this problem by holding up the arch to reduce the plantar fascia stretch.

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 Dr. Butler to accurately asses 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.

“My mission is to treat every patient with respect and honesty. I love my job and would be glad to help you with your foot health.”

Dr. Kent Butler is located at Royal Oak Shopping Centre at: #207-4480 West Saanich Rd. Reach his office by calling: 250-704-1178

tatistics Canada states that the number of Canadians who are 65 or older grew 20 per cent between 2011 and 2016, surpassing for the first time, the number of children aged 14 and under.

It’s the largest increase for that age group in 70 years and the highest increase in the proportion of seniors since Confederation.

The oldest of baby boomers are only now just coming into an age where they may need extra assistance with activities of daily living, or instrumental tasks of living such as mowing the lawn, shopping or extensive housekeeping.

Families are in dire need of companions and especially live-in workers. This article mainly focuses on the rewards of providing live-in help to the elderly.

Workers often wonder what experience

they may need to provide this care. For many, it begins as companionship with a few key additional aspects to manage the care of an elderly person to palliative care at home.

What are the appeals of such a position you may ask? Well, for one, there is a lot of autonomy in a position of providing live-in companionship or care. Aside from the fact that you must follow a certain protocol of provision for medications and directives for your senior, you will be able to organize your day around what your senior likes to do — play games, go for drives and assist them in engaging with friends and family, but now you are the set of wheels to accommodate all of this.

Newly retired, but not really ready to give up working? There may be a parttime position that is perfect for you! Joan recently retired; she’s 63-years old and

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single, but finds she has a lot of free time on her hands. Joan expressed the desire to work a maximum of three days per week as a live-in to a senior gentleman.

Listen to what Joan has to say about her experiences: “We have a blast! Mitch is the best!

He’s like going out with my dad. Many think Mitch is my dad, which gives us both a little giggle. Mitch has good mobility and can still get out and about.”

If you are a compassionate and caring person with a little time on your hands, you may be interested in seeking a position where you can both make a difference and be fulfilled at the same time.

Feel free to join us at our session on Sept. 24, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. called ‘Introduction to Caregiving 101’ at #116-2187 Oak Bay Ave. Coffee and tea will be supplied. seniorcarevictoria.ca

Stop bunion growth and joint pain.

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

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

Royal Oak Shopping Centre #207-4480 West Saanich Rd

250.704.1178

4 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Live Well at Aquara

By Candy Ho, Director and Vice President of Element Lifestyle Retirement ully embracing an active retirement community, Aquara by Element Lifestyle Retirement offers a range of living opportunities for seniors looking to age-in-place.

What is aging-in-place? Agingin-place is a term used to describe a person living in a residence of their choice, for as long as they are able, as they age. This includes being able to have services or other support they might need over time and as their needs change. Aging-in-place allows people to enjoy a full and active retirement, confident they will not have to move again due to increased care needs.

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Aquara envisions seniors moving in while they are young and active. Supportive living is available on-site if and when it’s needed. Supportive living can include small amounts of help scheduled for the same time each day or each week, and is available to help people stay in their home as long as possible in a healthy, safe way.

Aquara recognizes that couples don’t always age at the same rate. They can have different challenges due to health or differences in age, requiring different services at different times for each individual. We make it easy for couples to stay together and receive the help they need.

Making a Move One of the most dramatic changes seniors face is leaving home for senior living community.

Doing so too early can feel unwarranted, and too late, or as the result of a health crisis can be stressful for everyone. Often, nothing is available when the need does arise, whether in non-profit, government-funded or private-care settings. But what if transition could be made to a condo or rental where all the needs of aging were met as they arose, with proactive decisions based on desire, pride and social physical and emotional wellness?

Aquara has designed its spaces and policies to allow couples with different health requirements to stay in each others’ daily lives and

We Do Home Care Differently

receive customized nursing care.

Seniors who live independently can stay in the same unit while receiving supportive services if their health changes (even on a temporary basis), or move on-site into the licenced care area for aroundthe-clock registered nursing. By removing the social and physical strain of bigger moves, this provides maximum continuity and familiarity for everyone involved.

The Aquara development by Element Lifestyle Retirement is a harbourside community in Songhees in Vic West. Its built-in care for 65+ seniors combines maximum quality of life with support as needed. Aquara’s lifestyle continuum is attentive but not intrusive, providing homes for active and

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independent seniors, or those needing greater assistance and intervention, with up to 24-hour care.

“This is a gathering place for all generations, from grandparents to grandchildren, neighbours and friends. We encourage our residents to invite any friends or family regularly — not just on special occasions.”

Keeping Together “We know that seniors and younger generations both benefit when seniors are not isolated and they participate in our culture like everyone else, as they did before retirement,” says Candy Ho, director and vice president of Element. “We are unique in Victoria for our choice of either purchasing or renting in an agingin-place retirement community that celebrates integration of all generations.”

This intergenerational focus is unlike anything traditional retirement living offers. By removing the stigma and disconnection of retirement and nursing homes, its residents stay connected.

Grandchildren are welcome.

People can look forward to ageappropriate programming in a fun, clubhouse setting.

Upon completion, Aquara will offer 47 condos, 75 rental suites and 35 care units. Now offering pre-sales and pre-leasing.

Aquara Discovery Centre is open at #110 - 645 Tyee Rd. Aquara development site is at Kimta and Tyee Rd.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — Sept. 3, 2019 | 5

Planning for aging in place

Simple and Affordable Changes for Aging-in-Place for Seniors

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acing the decision about where you’ll spend your senior years is never an easy one to make. Do you move into a senior living community meant for retired individuals looking for less household maintenance? Do you make plans to live with your adult kids? Is long-term residential care for seniors on the horizon?

No matter what the decision, there will be costs involved that must be considered in order to make the transition as smooth as possible. Give serious consideration to the idea of aging-in-place, right in your own home. It may be more affordable than you think, and a more economical solution than moving or relocating to a new place.

Changes in the Bathroom The bathroom is one of the most common rooms in any home for slips, falls and other accidents to occur. Therefore, for seniors who have compromised mobility, balance concerns, or an inability to stand for long periods of time, a few key changes could make long-term residence at home a possibility. First of all, consider installing: • Grab bars • Hand-held shower heads • Non-slip tiles • Walk-in tubs or showers

Changes Around the House There are all kinds of simple changes around the house that can be made to make any home more suitable for aging-in-place. These changes are affordable, simple to make and as a result they won’t require much, if any, ongoing maintenance • Non-slip rugs • Lever-handle door openers and faucets • Extra Lighting • Relocate the bedroom to the first level if possible.

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Thinking of renovating your home?

Renovating an entire home can easily become a costly endeavor if you’re hoping to remain in your home as long as possible. As a result, many simple changes, like the ones listed above, can go a long way in increasing the number of years left living independently in your home.

Canadian Safe Step Tubs has been helping seniors like you discover greater independence and joy living in their own homes longer through the addition of specialty walk-in tubs and showers designed with your needs in mind.

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6 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Fall Programs at Silver Threads Make it a September to Remember As summer winds down and September approaches, many feel the urge to return to routines, learn something new and experience activities we haven’t tried before. Silver Threads Service offers over 70 programs this fall at their centres located in Saanich and in Victoria and they provide many more services and outreach. Your annual membership is good for both centres.

For details, visit: silverthreads.ca, or call: Saanich Centre: 250-382-3151 or Victoria Centre 250-388-4268 or stop by for a visit.

TIME™: Together in Movement and Exercise (Victoria Centre)

Learn to play social bridge or improve your entry level bridge skills.

Mondays, 12 noon to 3 p.m.

Tailored to people who are able to walk 10 metres (about 30 feet) with or without a walking aid and who live with conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, acquired brain injury or weakness after a hospital stay. Designed by physiotherapists and led by fitness instructors, each class consists of a seated warmup, exercise stations and a cool-down.

Optional social time after classes.

Mon and Thurs, Sept. 16 to Oct. 21 1 to 2 p.m.

Line Dancing (Saanich Centre) Learn to Line Dance or improve your beginner line dancing skills, Instructor: Vicky McCulloch Tuesdays, Sept. 10 to Oct. 15 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. (Absolute Beginner) 2 to 3:15 p.m. (Low-Intermediate)

Zumba Gold (Saanich Centre)

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

Learn to Play Bridge (Saanich Centre)

Victoria Centre 2340 Richmond Rd. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silverthreads.cafor more information

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

Be Educated. Be Prepared. Be at Ease.

A low-intensity exercise program using the rhythm and movements of Latin dance. Instructor: Isabel Arias-Santos Fridays, Sept. 13 to Oct. 18 1 to 2 p.m.

Chair Yoga (Victoria Centre)

Gentle Somatic Yoga (Saanich Centre)

Memory PLUS Fall Programs

A restorative yoga performed slowly and mostly floor-based but also done standing and seated. Instructor: Isabel AriasSantos.

Fridays, Sept. 13 to Oct. 18 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.

End of life Arrangements at affordable costs for our members

$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

Memory PLUS is a Silver Threads program for those 55+ who would like to improve their memory in an active social setting. The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies.

Weekly two-hour sessions allow participants to learn in a group setting.

Victoria Computer Club Tip of the month: Backups & Updates It’s nine months into the year. Have you been doing your monthly backups?

Be sure to do this, especially if you have been on a trip and transferred your precious photos to the hard drive of a computer or laptop. Many may use cloud services for saving photos (OneDrive, DropBox, Google Photos). If so, time to clear the pictures off your phone or tablet if you are running out of room. Make sure you are doing your software updates, Play Store updates for Android and App Store updates for Apple.

Drop down to the Victoria Computer Club to learn about backups and updates you are unsure about.

They have lots of help to offer at the Silver Threads - Saanich Centre, 286 Hampton Rd. Check out the website: victoriacomputerclub.org or call: 250-382-3151 for details.

The Logjam of the Grey Tsunami

Join Us Today!

Caring for and Educating BC Families

Finally a yoga class where you don’t have to get down on the floor.

Thursdays, Sept. 12 to Oct. 17 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.

Participants explore techniques, play cognitive games and other challenges to increase cognitive function. 10-week sessions beginning Sept. 23. For availability, call: 250-382-3151.

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End of Life Planning is Both Urgent and Important

was sitting in my home office the other day thinking and writing about the sheer number of baby boomers living in B.C. — close to one million — and the Lower Mainland verging on 600,000. All these folks will be heading for the exit doors over the next decade or two.

I was reminded of this exit phenomena this past weekend at a Blue Rodeo concert at the PNE attended by, yep, thousands of baby boomers. The logjam of people trying to get out of the few exit doors at the amphitheatre was significant.

Hmmm...

Will we experience logjams at end of life? Without a doubt!

Cemetery plots, niches for our loved one’s urns, cremation waitlists, not to mention long-term care beds, hospital beds or hospice beds of which there are only 260 in all of British Columbia.

What to do? Well there are a couple of things we can do. Talk with family and friends about this issue and plan extremely well for the end of your own life. Get your paperwork in order. Buy a cemetery plot sooner rather than later if that is

your wish. Purchase a niche if you choose cremation. Get your funeral arrangements made now. The more well prepared you and your family are now, the more likely things will go well as we all get caught in the logjam of the grey tsunami.

If you are in need of some support, reach out to the Memorial Society of BC. They are here to support all British Columbians in being well prepared, and help to ensure meaningful, graceful, and affordable endings — despite the logjam. memorialsocietybc.org

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — Sept. 3, 2019 | 7

Back to School at Goward House ASIAN / CHINESE MAH JONG for BEGINNERS

WATERCOLOUR PAINTING with Robert Amos

BRIDGE LESSONS - Defense in the 21st Century

Mondays, Sept 9, 16 and 23 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon These three lessons with instructor Nancy Sing on Asian/Chinese Mah Jong are perfect for the beginner.

Mah Jong, also known as “MJ” is often played at social and family functions. Like bridge, Mah Jong is played with four players. An interesting game for an afternoon or evening of entertainment. Sign up individually or with friends. Register: 250-477-4401.

Thursdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Working with watercolour, acclaimed artist Robert Amos has filled sketchbooks with travel notes everywhere he goes.

He will coach you to quickly paint what you see. Beginners and seasoned veterans will benefit from this fun course.

Bring watercolours and good paper (100% cotton) and a photograph of a subject you’d like to paint. Class size limited.

Register: 250-477-4401.

Mondays, Oct. 21 to Dec. 16, 1 to 3 p.m.

Jim Brackenbury, ACBL accredited bridge teacher and club director, will teach this nine-week course. Focus will be on helping experienced newer players (those familiar with the basics of bidding and play) and intermediate players improve their defensive play in bridge. Class size limited. Register: 250-477-4401.

Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Rd., is a non-profit organization that operates as an adult activity centre Monday to Friday, an art gallery and rental venue. gowardhouse.com

Winter Mountain Train;

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A Bucket-list Journey into the Snowy Rockies

ith the seasons changing, it’s time to start thinking about your travel plans to get through the unbearably mild West Coast winter.

Is travelling by train into the snowy Canadian Rockies on your bucket list? If so, perhaps this Mile Zero Tours guided tour is right for you.

Picture this: Fall asleep to the gentle rumbling of the train engine in your cozy private sleeper cabin aboard VIA Rail.

Wake up to the smell of hot breakfast, roll over and open your window to a postcard image of winter wonderland.

Perhaps you will be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the many elk or big

horned sheep who frequent the area, or luckier still to see a bear or coyote from the safety of your cabin.

Feast your eyes on snow-topped evergreens and towering mountains including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies, as you make your way towards Jasper.

But the journey isn’t over when the train arrives in Jasper. From here, pamper yourself with three nights at the luxurious Jasper Park Lodge Resort.

Spend your days Christmas shopping at the many boutiques, enjoying light winter activities such as carriage rides and snowshoeing, or rejuvenating your mind and body at the spa.

At night, curl up with a book by the fire, and why not — add a glass of wine!

This is your opportunity to escape the stress of the holiday season and truly unwind. From Jasper, the deluxe guided tour takes you further east. Spend one night in Edmonton at the Fantasyland Hotel in West Edmonton Mall and get ahead with your Christmas shopping. The next morning, enjoy a flight with WestJet back to Victoria, arriving home rejuvenated and ready to take on the season.

Ready to go? Learn more by visiting: milezerotours.com or calling 250-590-0811.

Feast your eyes on snow-topped evergreens and towering mountains.

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8 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Kulea Love

M

y name is Silvia Mangue Alene, I was born in West Central Africa, Equatorial Guinea. I was raised by my grandmother in Africa until the age of seven, which is when my parents migrated to Madrid, Spain.

I was educated in both Spain and Canada and possess a Bachelor Degree in business administration with a major in human resources.

I also have a post-graduate diploma in intercultural education from the University of Victoria.

In 2017, I started my organization Kulea Love.

Kulea Love provides nonmedical care for seniors in Greater Victoria. Our vetted and bonded caregivers provide flexible, customer-centered care to help seniors continue to live independent lives in their homes, and provides peace of mind to families.

We, the caregivers, are the link/liaison between the seniors and the community. Any

Silvia Mangue Alene

service they may need, we provide at Kulea Love. ‘Kulea’ is a Swahili word that means ‘caring from the heart’. This is our philosophy of care at Kulea Love.

Kulea Love is different. Our employees come from countries where caring and honouring elders is a core part of the cultural make-up. We live the value of seniors in our home societies, and we are an extension of you in the care and importance of your loved ones.

At Kulea Love, we establish a mutual relationship of respect with our clients.

Seniors are given the opportunity to teach and share their life experiences with their caregivers. This approach offers not only assurance that caregiving needs are being met in a respectful manner, but also provides seniors with the opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.

That sense of purpose and relationship is key to not only taking care of physical needs, but also

emotional and intellectual ones. We truly care from, and for, the heart.

At Kulea Love, we promote companionship and conversation, we stimulate partnership, and we believe in our clients’ participation in defining their own care. This is how we care for seniors — from the heart at Kulea Love.

Some of the services we offer are housekeeping, meal preparation, business administration, fitness, organizing, driving to doctor appointments and other errands, plus recreational activities and odd jobs.

Kulea Love is a social enterprise that has been created for two main reasons: 1. To enhance senior living by helping them with their everyday life activities 2. As an avenue to help employ immigrant women. Our clients are helping immigrant women support their families and become financially independent. kulealove.com

Paige’s persistence pays off SAANICH PARKS AND RECREATION

More than sweat and spandex!

It’s your local community hub!

Start 2019 with something new! Try yoga for 55+, take an art class, learn a language or join the Cedar Hill Social Club.

Not sure what to do? Call Julie 250-475-5408 View the Active Living Guide at: saanich.ca/alg 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

Submitted by Consumer Protection BC aige* signed up for a one-year contract with a gym near her home. Due to an unforeseen move, she decided to cancel her membership because her new place was too far from the gym. Paige was within the first 10 days of her contract, so she had the right to cancel. “She [the owner of the gym] told me that once I

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signed up, that was it. She said I wasn’t going to get my money back,� says Paige. “It was really frustrating.�

After multiple emails back and forth, the owner agreed to partially refund Paige for the membership. The owner claimed she had applied the refund to Paige’s credit card, but nothing was showing up. “At this point, the gym had stopped returning my emails and I wasn’t sure who I could turn to. I started doing

some research and that’s when I contacted Consumer Protection BC,� said Paige. “[The investigator] was wonderful. She told me to leave it with her and validated that I was well within my rights to get my money back,� says Paige.

An investigator from Consumer Protection BC spoke to the owner of the gym and she eventually agreed to refund Paige the total amount she paid for her membership.

Paige hopes that others who are stuck in a similar situation don’t lose hope and know Consumer Protection BC can help. “The situation really restored my faith. I’ve told a lot of people about what happened - it’s important to know that there’s someone there to back you up when you’re stuck,� says Paige. “It’s a lesson learned.� *Names changed to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.

For more information, visit consumerprotectionbc.ca.

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.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — Sept. 3, 2019 | 9

Emergency Preparedness Lastly, you should have items ready to go at a moments notice. Each member of our family has a 72-hour bag at the front door, including the cat. There are many opinions about what should be in this bag. I feel it should be light enough to carry and contain enough supplies to keep you self sufficient in a hotel room for the weekend.

Look at the “Get Prepared” Government of Canada Website for a suggested packing list. This bag does not need to contain the latest in high tech gadgets or sturdy supplies. Just a change of clothes, some minimal toiletries, snack bars, water, your medications and something interesting to pass the time. Your should also know exactly where the most important items in your house are kept. In a true emergency you will have little time to think or gather items. Our important

By your friendly neighbourhood Heart Pharmacist t is also the least favourite subject to discuss with my daughter. “Daaaddd,” she says, “nothing bad is ever going to happen to us here.” I reassure her that she is probably right, but one of my duties is to make plans in case things do go wrong.

Certainly there were fathers having similar conversations with their daughters in Fort McMurray, Montreal (1998 ice storms) and more recently the wildfires in Northern B.C. Unexpected emergencies can, and do, happen.

It hit closer to home when the house next door had a small fire. The fire department could have asked us to leave our house for safety. There is so much to think about for emergency preparedness. I can’t cover it all, but I can mention things you can do to ensure your medical supplies are taken care of.

The first step with any emergency preparedness is planning. While this might seem obvious it is important to know what you are planning for. People on the West Coast should prepare for earthquakes, people in wooded areas should prepare for forest fires and people in the north should be ready for cold weather.

A great place to start is the “Get Prepared” Government of Canada Website.

This site lists various risks in your local area and ways to prepare. This might be the best place to begin.

Something that is important for all emergency preparedness is keeping track of our documents. Do you have a copy of your will, marriage certificate, house deed and insurance papers? These items are

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important and would be difficult to replace.

All it takes is to make a photocopy of your important papers and mail these copies to a trusted family member for safekeeping.

What about a list of your medications? This might be a good time to sit down with your Heart Pharmacist for a medication review.

At the end of the review, your neighbourhood pharmacist provides you with a list of your medications and supplements and their uses. This would be a great record of what you’re taking in case of an emergency. It might be a good idea to take a picture of this medication review to keep on your smartphone. Your Heart Pharmacist might also be able to send you an electronic copy.

Most sources recommend that you keep at least 72 hours of medications and personal health care needs. I am an advocate for keeping at least one week of health care needs at all times. This will not only make it easier to plan your week, so you are not rushing around doing last minute errands.

It will also prevent you from running out of medication during a long weekend. The way I recommend people set aside their medication for this week is with a seven-day plastic pill container or dosette. Your local Heart Pharmacy should have plenty of these items in stock.

Once a year, make a reminder on the calendar or in your smart phone, take some time to rotate new medications in and use the medication from last year. Place this full dosette, and a copy of your medication list, in a zip-lock bag and store in a safe place. I generally don’t recommend adding vitamins, it might make the dosette too bulky and heavy.

documents are in a fire proof safe in the basement. Wedding and family photo albums are kept on the bookshelf in my office. If needed, we could gather our important items and be on the front lawn in under one minute.

Perhaps none of these emergency preparations will be needed. Hopefully that is the case. Either way, if there is an emergency my family will be glad we got things in order.

Emergency preparedness does not have to be an isolated event. Having extra household supplies on hand will reduce the amount of last minute shopping trips. It will also allow you to wait until your favourite items go on sale.

Being prepared should a part of everyone’s daily routine and not a large yearly chore. heartpharmacy.com

Celebrating Seniors!

EARLY RISER DISCOUNT Monday-Wednesday

20% OFF for all seniors before 11am

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

Expires Friday, September 13, 2019

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

10 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

Put your mind at ease!

A

llow Your Personal Concierge™ (YPC) to assist you to do what matters most to you in your life. YPC provides assistance to you and your loved ones in your everyday living by performing tasks that you can no longer do for yourself or prefer not to. We are there for you to whatever degree you need us to be.

Family is either far away or really busy and they are not always able to help as much as they would like.

We understand this and that’s why we are here to assist you when you need us to be there for you.

Whether it’s for personal shopping, running errands, driving to your appointments, caring for your pet — we have a long list of services we can help you with.

Whatever you want us to do, we will do, as long as it is reasonable and within our scope of capabilities. YPC will, if need be, liaise with your loved ones to share relevent information about your health, medications, doctors appointments, or any concerns.

YPC is fully insured, bonded and each personal concierge goes through a thorough background check before attaining employment with Your Personal Concierge™.

YPC offers its services throughout Greater Victoria, including surrounding areas such as Central and North Saanich, Sidney by the Sea and the Westshore.

YPC will organize personalized city and island tours for you. Or, if family is in town and you need a break, send them on a tour with us.

For a free consultation, call us at: 250-812-1677. ypconcierge.ca Millie Wilson

Who are The Social Butterflies?

Services for Seniors Inc. Locally owned since 2006

“Trustworthy, Caring, Confidential”

250-812-1677 Millie Wilson Fully Insured and Bonded

We provide “Personalized” services, for your “Specific” needs.

Our Services Include:

Companion Supported Transportation Personal Shopping & Errands … AND MORE! We Aim to Accommodate You! Contact Us with Your Requests Email: ypconcierge@gmail.com www.ypconcierge.ca

T

he Social Butterflies plan exciting events and day-trips throughout Victoria and beyond for independent, discerning, mobile seniors.

Seniors often feel ignored or invisible, and there is a certain loneliness when you don’t mix with other people. Being sociable is a massive part of our mental health, therefore, it is important, especially for seniors, to have some interaction with other likeminded seniors. It can be a life saver.

Gentlemen included & most welcome!

LIVE THE GOOD LIFE Come fly with us!

Guided Events & Outings for Mobile Seniors DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE FOR A CALENDAR OF EVENTS BOOK ONLINE: thesocialbutterfliesofvictoria.com 250-383-4386

The Social Butterflies take you from your isolated cocoon and into the light. Now you are free to enjoy all the wonderful entertainment Victoria has to offer. The outings are exciting, varied and appeal to all tastes. Let them take care of the planning and details while you relax in a safe environment, along with other like-minded seniors — making new friends and new memories.

The Social Butterflies provide a much needed door-to-door transportation service, always with a smile, which allows you to go out and enjoy yourself, worry free, knowing everything is well taken care of.

Lock your door, grab your hat and hop on the Butterfly bus to freedom and good times. Dinner/lunch is included in the cost, which gives you time to socialize and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine before your chosen event.

You always have something special to look forward to, which is very important for us all.

Break out of your cocoon, spread your wings and fly free with The Social Butterflies!

For info, or to add your name to their mailing list, phone: 250-383-4386.

See the full event schedule and book-on-line: thesocialbutterfliesofvictoria.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

55 plus — Sept. 3, 2019 | 11

How to Support a Friend Who is Grieving

W

hen a friend or loved one is grieving, it can impact many aspects of their life. It may be hard to know how to offer help and support. Bereavement counsellors at Victoria Hospice offer this advice: Do spend time with the grieving person. Loneliness is a major aspect of grief for many people, and asking for company can be difficult. Offer to drop in for brief visits or accompany them on an errand or to an appointment.

Do invite the person to talk about the person who died. Talking doesn’t cause more grief; it’s there all the time. Being able to remember and reminisce with someone can help the grieving person adjust to their loss. Ask questions, be interested.

Do make concrete offers to help. “Can I walk your dog for you this week?” is better than, “Call me if you need anything,” as thinking about what needs to be done and who to call is often overwhelming for grieving people.

Do share your stories and memories.

Grieving people may get the feeling that you don’t care or think about their loved one if you never speak about him/her.

Share a funny story or a life lesson you learned from the person who died.

Don’t minimize or avoid their grief.

Trying to distract the grieving person or convince them of how great life is will only make them feel even more alone.

Encourage them to tell you how it really is and simply listen.

Don’t take it personally. There may be times when a grieving person doesn’t want to see you, or to talk about their loss. Let them know you’re okay with that and ask if you can check in at another time.

Don’t think, “They should be over this by now.” Grief is permanent. Although the intensity of grief lessens over time for most people, there will always be special days and dates when the loss is felt more deeply.

Make contact during those times.

Need more support? The bereavement team at Victoria Hospice are ready to help as you learn to live with loss. Bereavement services are available to anyone in the community; no prior connection to Victoria Hospice is required.

Services include telephone support, in-person counselling; a variety of bereavement support groups, including drop-in and journal groups; information and education; and referrals where appropriate.

Call 250-519-3040 for more info or visit: victoriahospice.org.

Don’t think, “They should be over this by now.” Grief is permanent.

Grief is the road you travel.

Let Victoria Hospice help you walk the journey.

Drop-In Bereavement Groups f Greater Victoria: Every Wednesday f Westshore: Final Thursday of each month Pre-registration required, by donation: ͹ ͹

VictoriaHospice.org

12 | Sept. 3, 2019 — 55 Plus

Times Colonist

The Silent Thief

By Deborah Ward Certified Osteofit Instructor, Get Up and Go! Instructor and Personal Trainer steoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become thin and porous, and leads to increased risk of breaking a bone. It is often referred to as the silent thief, because bone loss occurs without symptoms. According to Osteoporosis Canada, two million Canadians live with osteoporosis and there is no single identifiable cause.

Osteoporotic fractures are more common than heart attacks, stroke and breast cancer combined.

Every 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. Fewer than 20 per cent of fracture patients in Canada currently undergo diagnosis or adequate treatment for osteoporosis.

We reach our peak bone mass in our early 20s for females and late 20s for males. A woman in her midthirties will have a one per cent decline in bone mass every year going forward. Women at the age of 50 who experience menopause begin to lose additional bone mass at the rate three per cent a year due to hormonal changes.

O 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

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

About Osteofit: Clinicians from the former Osteoporosis clinic at B.C. Women’s Hospital and Health Centre created Osteofit: a special evidence-based and medically endorsed education and exercise program — unique to B.C. and borne of the needs of patients at risk for fractures from low bone strength.

Clinicians and physiotherapists recommend exercise, however, until Osteofit, there were no exercise classes available that were appropriate for someone with osteoporosis.

Osteofit is a progressive‚ falls prevention and strengthening program.

Osteofit classes are available in over 70 facilities across the province, including some in private residential communities. Participants are taught how to move and bend safely to minimize fracture risk and learn exercises that improve balance and agility, increase muscle strength and manage pain through regular physical activity. Other components include improving posture, increasing self-efficiency, improving functional activities for daily living, and promoting the joy of activity while maintaining independence. In addition to learning practical skills, participants engage in fun activities and brain training.

About Get Up and Go! Get up and Go! is a new program adapted and created by Osteofit. It is an entry level exercise program aimed at those with balance and mobility impairments who require walking aids and are at an increased risk for falls. Exercises begin seated, with a gradual introduction to standing and walking. Like Osteofit, it is designed to improve joint mobility, functional strength, balance and coordination. This, too, contains fun activities and brain training as part of the program. basemovesfitness.com