Seniors Directory 2024

SENIORS RESOURCE GUIDE2024

Telling a story they’ve all heard 5 times.

Being a senior has its moments. Life at PARC embraces this, whether those moments are funny, over the top or just relatable. Best of all, you get to share them with like-minded people at the same stage of life. You also get to choose from a variety of activities, accommodation options and meals. Live your best years in the best company.

It’s time to put you first

At Aspira we offer personalized retirement plans that will help you to stay active, inspired, and comfortable on your terms. A warm and vibrant community of like-minded peers awaits, so come in and view our stylish Independent Living and Assisted Living suites today.

While you’re there why not get a feel for our signature programs? Led by our executive chefs, Nourish by Aspira offers fresh, healthy delicious meals with a variety of choices for all courses. With Active by Aspira you can keep the pep in your step with fitness classes at your comfort level. Explore by Aspira allows to engage in a wide range of activities and enjoy an array of experiences. So, if you’re tired of chores ruling your retirement or you feel like you have no time for the people and things you love, then we have a plan for you. It’s time for Plan A, it’s time for Aspira.

Call: 1-866-959-4848

We’re very pleased to have once again worked with our advertisers and editorial team to create our annual health and wellness guide for seniors. In these pages, you’ll find a wealth of information aimed at serving the needs of seniors here in the Tri-cities, including engaging articles, community contacts, a directory of local organizations and resources, and much more. We are confident, this 2024 edition of As We Age will serve readers well by shedding light on ways for those at or nearing retirement age to achieve and maintain good health and community connection, further their education and gain awareness of activities, clubs and organizations in their neighbourhoods.

Thanks for taking the time to read our publication. We’d be very happy to hear your comments on what you would like to see in future editions.

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

GOVERNMENT

YOUR FEDERAL MPS

Bonita Zarrillo

MP Port Moody–Coquitlam

1116 Austin Ave., Coquitlam

604-664-9229 I bonitazarrillo.ndp.ca

Ron McKinnon

MP Coquitlam–Port Coquitlam

101-3278 Westwood St., Port Coquitlam 604-927-1080 I ronmckinnon.libparl.ca

GOVERNMENT SERVICES:

FEDERAL

Service Canada

Service Canada provides a single point of access to a wide range of government services and benefits.

100-2963 Glen Dr., Coquitlam

1-800-622-6232

CPP & OAS:

1-800-277-9914 | servicecanada.gc.ca | canada.ca

Canada Revenue Agency

For information on income tax, RRSPs, TFSAs and other tax items.

1-800-267-6999 | canada.ca

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

1-888-242-2100 | cic.gc.ca

Compassionate Care Benefit

This is a benefit that pays claimants who provide care or support to a gravely ill family member. canada.ca

Disability Tax Credit

1-800-959-8281 | canada.ca

Prisoner of War Benefits

1-866-522-2122 | veterans.gc.ca

TIPS – Tax Information Phone Service

1-800-267-6999 | canada.ca

Veterans Affairs Canada

1-866-522-2122 | veterans.gc.ca

YOUR PROVINCIAL MLAS

Fin Donnelly

MLA Coquitlam–Burke Mountain 510-2950 Glen Dr., Coquitlam 604-942-5020 I

bcndpcaucus.ca/mla/fin-donnelly/

Mike Farnworth

MLA Port Coquitlam

107A-2748 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam 604-927-2088 I

bcndpcaucus.ca/mla/mike-farnworth/

Rick Glumac

MLA Port Moody–Coquitlam

2708 St. Johns St., Port Moody 604-936-8709 I

rickglumac.mla.bcndpcaucus.ca

Selina Robinson

MLA Coquitlam–Maillardville

102-1108 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 604-933-2001 I

bcndpcaucus.ca/mla/selina-robinson

GOVERNMENT SERVICES: PROVINCIAL

Pharmacare

Pharmacare helps BC residents with the cost of eligible prescription drugs and certain medical supplies.

604-683-7151 | gov.bc.ca

seniorsBC.ca

This website provides information about government programs and services for older adults. The website provides B.C. residents with one place to go to find all the information they need to plan for and live a healthy, active aging lifestyle.

ServiceBC

This number will provide information on any Government of BC service or program. 604-660-2421 or 1-800-663-7867 | gov.bc.ca

Deaf or hard of hearing: 1-800-663-7867 | gov.bc.ca

Seniors Supplement

An automatic top-up to the federal payment for eligible individuals. gov.bc.ca

Vital Statistics Agency

Registers all births, marriages, deaths and name changes in B.C. It also maintains a wills registry.

1-888-876-1633 | gov.bc.ca

GOVERNMENTS: TRI-CITIES

CITY OF COQUITLAM

3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam coquitlam.ca | 604-927-3000

ENGINEERING EMERGENCIES:

Water, sewer, roads

604-927-3500 | email epw@coquitlam.ca

ONLINE SERVICES DIRECTORY

coquitlam.ca/9/How-Do-I

CITY OF PORT COQUITLAM

2580 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam

604-927-5411 | portcoquitlam.ca

EMERGENCIES:

Fire/smoke, medical or police: 911

ENGINEERING EMERGENCIES:

Water, sewer, roads

604-927-5496 | After hours: 604-543-6700

CITY OF PORT MOODY

100 Newport Dr., Port Moody

604-469-4500 | portmoody.ca

EMERGENCIES:

Fire/smoke, medical or police: 911

OPERATIONS OR PARKS EMERGENCIES: 604-469-4574

WILDLIFE — BC CONSERVATION OFFICER: 1-877-952-7277

BYLAW COMPLAINTS: 604-469-4541

GARBAGE AND RECYCLING: 604-469-4574

HEALTH SERVICES

AUDIOLOGISTS/ HEARING AIDS

AAA Audio Labs Ltd.

105-137 Glacier St., Coquitlam 604-941-6276

AAAudioLab.com

Connect Hearing

304-2963 Glen Dr., Coquitlam 778-730-2412 I connecthearing.ca

Connect Hearing

1115 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 778-627-2070 I connecthearing.ca

Costco Hearing Centre 2370 Ottawa St., Port Coquitlam 604-552-3660

Hear at Home Mobile Hearing Clinic 778-340-1101 I hearathome.ca

HearingLife

(formerly NexGen Hearing)

10-2773 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam 604-474-2038

hearinglife.ca

WE’REPROUDTOSERVE

compassionatecare.AsyourDignityMemorial® professionals, we’rededicatedtohelpingfamiliescreateauniqueand meaningfulmemorialthattrulycelebratesthelifeitrepresents. Proudlyservingourcommunityforover50years.

(FH)604-299-7720

(C)604-299-7711

(C)604-299-7711

Inlet Hearing

2320 Clarke St., Port Moody 604-939-1059

inlethearing.ca

Network Hearing

204-2748 Lougheed Highway, Port Coquitlam 604-552-4503 I networkhearing.ca

CANCER SUPPORT

BC Cancer

Register for a support group that meets in person in Surrey or Vancouver, or join an online session via Zoom.

bccancer.ca

BC Cancer - breast screening

108-3242 Westwood St., Port Coquitlam 604-927-2130

bccancer.bc.ca/screening/breast

Cancer Connection

Support from trained Cancer Connection volunteers is available to any adult.

1-888-939-3333 I cancerconnection.ca

Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society

A non-profit group offering free rides to medical appointments for Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley residents battling cancer.

604-515-5400 | volunteercancerdrivers.ca

Tri-Cities Prostate Cancer Support Group

An organization serving residents in the Tri-Cities and Ridge–Meadows who are newly diagnosed with prostate cancer. Sessions are free and confidential.

604-928-9220 or 604-464-2662 | tricitiesprostate.com

COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES

Fraser Health - Home Support Services

Home Health offers a variety of at-home and community programs and services depending upon your care needs and eligibility. To identify your most appropriate care options, Home Health professionals consider the needs related not only to your physical symptoms,

but also to other dimensions of your life such as your emotional well being and the support available through your family, friends and close community ties.

700-220 Brew St., Port Moody

604-777-7300 | fraserhealth.ca

Home Health Service Line: 1-855-412-2121

Older Adult Community Mental Health

- Tri-Cities

For people over the age of 65 who are experiencing psychiatric symptoms such as memory decline, confusion and depression.

Self-referrals accepted.

1-2232 Elgin Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-777-8411

fraserhealth.ca

DENTURES/DENTAL SERVICES

Anderson Prasad Denture Clinic

470-3025 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam

604-942-6722 I andersondenture.ca

Brite Smile Dentures

3212 Jervis St., Port Coquitlam

604-724-0031 I denturist.health

Burke Mountain Denture Clinic

6211-2850 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam 604-944-4910

burkemountaindentureclinic.com

Mobile Denture Care

778-999-7929 | mobiledenturecare.ca

New West Dentureworks

522 Seventh St #270, New Westminster 604-553-1222

Nova Denture Center

101-1112 Austin Ave., Coquitlam

604-937-0224 I novadenturecenter.com

Port Coquitlam Denture Clinic

3-1471 Prairie Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-464-7779

portcoquitlamdentureclinic.com

The Grove Dentistry

2961 Cambridge St Unit #1160, Port Coquitlam 604-941-2211

Tri-Cities Dental Specialists

201-1032 Austin Ave, Coquitlam, 604-256-5231

Westwood Denture Clinic

169-3000 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam 604-468-4867

westwooddentureclinic.com

HEALTH & SUPPORT SERVICES

Aging My Way Homecare

Provides compassionate one-on-one care in the comfort of your home.

604-290-8331 | agingmywayhomecare.ca

Alzheimer Society of BC

604-681-6530 | alzheimer.ca/bc

Arthritis Line

1-800-321-1433 | arthritis.ca

Balance & Dizziness Canada

Supporting, inspiring and educating people affected by balance and dizziness disorders. balanceanddizziness.org

BC211

Dial or text 2-1-1 to find help for all of life’s challenges. 211 is free, confidential and available in more than 240 languages and dialects 24/7. 211 | bc.211.ca

8-1-1

8-1-1 is a free-of-charge provincial health information and advice phone line in B.C. The phone line is operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health.

8-1-1

For hard of hearing: 1-866-889-4700

Big Hearts Home Healthcare

Personal care, meals and companionship.

604-493-2045 or 1-855-902-CARE I bigheartshomecare.ca

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Canadian Mental Health Assoc.

Free mental health program with the support of a telephone coach.

310-6789 (no area code) | vancouver-fraser.cmha.ca.ca

Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)

CNIB works with people experiencing any degree of low vision.

1-800-563-2642 | cnib.ca

Council of Senior Citizens Organizations of BC (COSCO)

COSCO is an advocacy group committed to seniors’ concerns.

604-630-4201 | coscobc.org

CPAP Pros

604-229-1630

Crossroads Hospice Society

Volunteers and staff provide life-affirming care for patients and their families helping them with emotional, physical and spiritual issues that

arise as the end of life approaches.  604-945-0606 | crossroadshospice.org

Diabetes Canada

1-800-226-8464 | diabetes.ca

Diabetes Education Centre

This centre provides information on lifestyle issues, how to manage diet and how and when to monitor blood glucose levels at home.

602-205 Newport Dr., Port Moody 604-949-7771

Dial a Dietitian

Specializing in nutritional information. Weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8-1-1 (or 7-1-1 for hearing impaired)

First Link Dementia Helpline

1-800-936-6033

Driving Miss Daisy

Offering personal, friendly, through the door service from accompanying people to medical appointments to grocery shopping.

1-877-613-2479 | drivingmissdaisy.ca

Tri- Cities Community Response Network

Visit the BCCRN

VisittheBCCRN

Website: https://bccrns.ca

website: https://bccrns.ca

Tri-Cities CRN

Tri- CitiesCRN

Coordinator: Verla Scoffins

Eagle Ridge Hospital Foundation

Eagle Ridge Hospital Foundation’s primary purpose is to raise funds and awareness to improve the health of the community through donations to Eagle Ridge Hospital.

erhf.ca | 604-469-3128

Ethical Care at Home

Providing an experienced team of professionals including registered nurses who offer aroundthe-clock home care services.

778-903-5683 | ethicalcarehome.ca

Forest Lawn Funeral home

3789 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby (604) 299-7720

Helping Hands & Heart Care Services

Offering care services in the Tri-Cities for a few hours, a day, a week or by the month. 604-785-5355 | handsandheart.ca

Coordinator: Verla Scoffins

Contact Email: v.scoffins@gmail.com

Contac tEmail: v.scoffins@gmail.com

Contact Phone: 604-551-5756

What is aCommunityResponse Network(CRN)?

What is a Community Reponse Network (CRN)?

ACommunityResponseNetwork (CRN)ismadeupof adiverse groupof concerned communitymembers, communityagencies,localbusinesses,government agencies,professionals,andotherswho come together to create acoordinatedcommunityresponse to abuse, neglec t, andself-neglec tinvulnerableadults.

A Community Response Network (CRN) is made up of a diverse group of concerned community members, community agencies, local businesses, government agencies, professionals, and others who come together to create a coordinated community response to abuse, neglect, and self-neglect in vulnerable adults.

TheTri-CitiesCRNis reachingout to the communityto jointhenetwork and work toraisethe awarenessof abuse,neglec t, andself-neglec tinvulnerableadults, and to ultimatelypreventitfromhappening.

The Tri-Cities CRN is reaching out to the community to join the network and work to raise the awareness of abuse, neglect, and self-neglect in vulnerable adults, and to ultimately prevent it from happening. Please join us!

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Hero Home Care

Experienced nurse care managers will work with you and your family to develop a personalized home care solution

1-888-988-9913

herohomecare.ca I care@herohomecare.ca

Home Instead

Offering friendly, responsive services in your neighbourhood.

888-362-0649 | homeinstead.ca

Home Sweet Home Care

Let the pros help you thrive in the comfort and serenity of your home.

604-726-4468 | homesweethomecare.ca

Just Like Family Home Care

Offering personalized, caring senior home care in the Tri-Cities.

778-200-2775 | justlikefamily.ca

MedicAlert Safely Home

This is a nationwide program designed to help identify a person with dementia who is lost and assist in their safe return home.

1-800-668-1507 | medicalert.ca

Nurse Next Door

This service provides 24/7 home care.

604-468-2273 | nursenextdoor.com

Osteoporosis Canada

1-800-463-6842 | osteoporosis.ca

Pain BC

An online support group that meets via zoom or by phone.

1-844-430-0818 | painbc.ca/supportgroups

Parkinson Society

This group offers support and services.

604-662-3240 | parkinson.bc.ca

Pinnacle Home Care Services

Providing home healthcare services for Lower Mainland seniors.

604-552-2041 | pinnaclecare.ca

Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program

This program is dedicated to enabling people who need assisted ventilation to meet their respiratory needs while living in the community. The program provides a comprehensive range of equipment and supplies, respiratory therapy, education and peer group support.

Toll free: 1-866-326-1245 (24 hours) bcits.org

Qualicare Home Care

Caregivers, homemakers, companions, nurses, errands and appointment accompaniment are available. All services are provided with oversight from a nurse manager and unique 360 approach. Flexible care options for AM/PM care, short or long term, 24/7 care, dementia, ALS, Parkinson’s, MS, palliative care and more.

778-730-0225

qualicare.com/port-coquitlam-bc

Safe Care Home Support

211-3030 Lincoln Ave., Coquitlam

Safe Care Home Support offers many home support services including respite for family

caregivers, in-home care, palliative care, Alzheimer’s/dementia care and much more.

604-945-5005 | safecarehomesupport.ca

Seniors First BC

A charitable society that provides information, legal advocacy, support and referrals to older adults across B.C. who are dealing with issues affecting their well-being, as well as those who care for them.

1-866-437-1940 | seniorsfirstbc.ca

Seniors Professional Services

1-800-835-4043

seniorsprofessionalservices.ca

SHARE Family and Community Services

3020 Lincoln Ave., Coquitlam

SHARE’s programs and initiatives for seniors are growing each year, as the need for services and supports for our community elders increases. The supports include Better at Home to assist seniors living independently in their own homes, adult substance use services, urgent access to mental health support, general counselling, English practice groups, legal advocacy

support and many groups full of activities, community connection opportunities and supports for aging.

604-540-9161 | sharesociety.ca

Time Well Spent Senior Wellness

Providing seniors with in-home exercise and social activities to improve quality of life.

778-984-7144 | timewellspentbc.com

Tri-Cities Community Response Network

The Community Response Network is made up of a diverse group of concerned community members, community agencies, local businesses, government agencies, professionals and others who come together to create a coordinated community response to abuse, neglect and self-neglect in vulnerable adults.

bccrns.ca | info@bccrns.ca

Tri-Cities Seniors’ Action Society

To educate, engage, inform, and mobilize Tri-Cities seniors and decision-makers.

604-949-0599 | facebook.com/tricitiesseniors

Tri-City Transitions Society

402-2071 Kingsway Ave., Port Coquitlam

Tri-City Transitions supports all individuals who have experienced domestic violence and offers women and children a safe, secure place to rest, rejuvenate and rebuild their lives.

604-941-7111 | tricitytransitions.com

VictimLinkBC

This is a toll-free confidential phone service available 24 hours, seven days a week providing information, referral services to all victims of crime and immediate crisis support to victims of family violence. It is available in 150 languages.

1-800-563-0808 | victimlinkbc.ca

Hard of hearing TTY 604-875-0885

MEAL PROGRAMS

Better Meals

This is a healthy foods service provider that prepares and delivers delicious meals to your door. Extensive experience in preparing food for the elderly with input it from qualified dieticians.

604-299-1877 | bettermeals.ca

Coquitlam Meaningful Meals for Seniors

Coquitlam seniors can purchase healthy, balanced meals for delivery from the city. The city’s initiative is through a referral process. If you think you may qualify, you can self-refer. Please note: To be eligible for this program, you must be a Coquitlam resident, be over 50 years of age and be facing barriers that prevent you from accessing in-person City of Coquitlam services.

604-927-6076 | coquitlam.ca

SHARE food bank

The SHARE food bank provides direct food support to supplement the diets of hundreds of individuals and families each week in the Tri-Cities.

Eligibility for assistance includes those working, receiving income assistance, pensions or employment insurance and must be residents of the Tri-Cities, Anmore or Belcarra. SHARE Family and Community Services hampers are distributed between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at three locations in the Tri-Cities:

COQUITLAM

Hillside Church, 1393 Austin Ave.

PORT COQUITLAM

Trinity United Church, 2211 Prairie Ave.

PORT MOODY

SHARE Family and Community Services, 2615 Clarke St.

604-931-2451 | sharesociety.ca

Meals on Wheels

POCOMO Meals on Wheels is a service providing home delivery of nutritional meals using a network of volunteer drivers to residents of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody who are unable to shop, prepare or cook meals.

604-942–7506

pocomomealsonwheels.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

BC Medequip

265 Schoolhouse St., Coquitlam

604-888-8811 | bcmedequip.com

Evolution Technologies Inc.

2530 Davies Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-472-0200 | evolutionwalker.ca

Lifecare Medical Ltd.

130-3030 Lincoln Ave., Coquitlam 604-941-5433 I lifecare1.ca

Lighthouse Medical

3-91 Golden Dr., Coquitlam 1-866-609-6827

lighthousemedicalltd.com

Canadian Red Cross

Offering short-term loans.

104-1776 Broadway St., Port Coquitlam 604-944-9042 I redcross.ca

National Seating & Mobility

114-1533 Broadway St., Port Coquitlam 604-944-9644 I nsm-seating.com

Paris everyBODY

114-3200 Westwood St., Port Coquitlam 604-942-4938 I pariseverybody.com

Scooter City

65 Clipper St., Coquitlam 604-540-6373 | scootercity.ca

Life at Parkwood Manor is more than retirement living, it’s a community filled with warmth, character and life. Everything here is in place to enjoy the freedom to live, love and laugh. This is the Parkwood Manor way.

Is Parkwood Manor right for you? Call 604-472-2912 to book a personalized tour and lunch.

Tri-City Home Medical Equipment

1110-1368 Kingsway Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-945-0980

tricityhomemedicalequipment.com

MEDICAL LABS

COQUITLAM

LifeLabs Medical

313-1194 Lansdowne Dr. lifelabs.com

LifeLabs Medical

208-3001 Gordon Ave.

LifeLabs Medical

106-1015 Austin Ave.,

LifeLabs Medical

Suite R-435 North Rd

PORT COQUITLAM

LifeLabs Medical

7-2185 Wilson Ave.,

LifeLabs Medical

115-1465 Salisbury Ave.

PORT MOODY

LifeLabs Medical

101-2624 St. Johns St.

OPTICIANS &OPTOMETRISTS

COQUITLAM

Austin Heights Optometry Clinic

117-1001 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 604-936-2400

austinheightsoptometry.com

Bailey Nelson

2340-2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam

236-947-0106 | baileynelson.com

Best Price Optical

1130 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 604-492-1088

Beyond Basic Eyewear Optical

1052D Austin Ave., Coquitlam

604-926-9969

Como Lake Optical

136-1960 Como Lake Ave., Coquitlam 604-931-7133

Coquitlam Optometry Centre

5-2991 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam

604-942-5121 I coquitlamoptometry.com

Eyewear Outlet Optical

202-1194 Lansdowne Dr., Coquitlam

604-474-4949 | provisioneyewearoptical.ca

Fraser Valley Cataract & Laser

104-1196 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam

604-474-3937 | fvcl.ca

Image Optometry

1220-2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam

604-942-3273 I image.ca

For50years,SetonVillahasproudlyservedseniorswith respectandintegrity.Weprovideacaringcommunity,while promotinghealth,independence,andaffordableliving.

Ourall-inclusivemonthlyrentalratesstartatunder $2,000providing3madefromscratchmeals,weekly housekeepingandlaundry,anemergencycallsystem, recreationalactivities,cable,Wi-Fi,utilities,suiteinsurance andmaintenanceservices.Makethemostofyourretirement. ComehometoSetonVilla!Calltodaytobookatour.

In-Look Optical

2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam

604-941-9931 | inlookoptical.ca

Iris Optometrists and Opticians

107-2985 Northern Ave., Coquitlam

604-464-7726 | iris.ca

Just Vision Optical

1046B Austin Ave., Coquitlam

604-492-1772 | justvision.ca

LensCrafters

2500-2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam 604-468-4468 I lenscrafters.ca

Optical Outlet

205-5522 Clarke Rd., Coquitlam 604-492-4434

Pearle Vision

2834 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam 604-464-1822 | pearlvision.ca

Specsavers Coquitlam Centre

1220-2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam 604-942-3273 | specsavers.ca

Theodore & Pringle

Real Canadian Superstore

3000 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam 604-468-6733 | theodoreandpringle.ca

Total Eye Care Centre Optometry

112-2922 Glen Dr., Coquitlam

778-285-6972 I totaleyecarecentre.com

Unique Eyewear

1163 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam 604-464-9648

Vancouver Optical

220-329 North Rd., Coquitlam 604-937-0003

Westwood Eye Doctors

101-1120 Westwood St., Coquitlam 604-464-3843 | westwoodeyedocs.com

XO Optix Vision Care

280-1175 Johnston St., Coquitlam 604-941-5686 I xooptix.ca

PORT COQUITLAM

Boda Optical

102-1125 Nicola Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-475-7008 | bodaoptical.com

Burke Mountain Optometry

104-3377 Coast Meridian Rd., Port Coquitlam

604-941-9338

burkemountainoptometry.com

Fremont Eye Centre

130-863 Village Dr., Port Coquitlam

604-475-3310 I fremonteyecentre.com

New Trend Optical

2550B Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam

604-942-9300 | newtrendoptical.ca

PoCo Vision Care Optometry

2-2185 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-942-4212 I pocovisioncare.com

Shaughnessy Optometry

B218-2099 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam

604-552-2085 | drlarrychow.weebly.com

Dr.ShamilHajee

Dr.VictorChan

Dr.MabelMa

The Eye Opener Optical

2755 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam

604-464-1344 | theeyeopeneroptical.com

Vision West Doctors of Optometry

3000 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam

604-468-6733 | visionwesteyecare.ca

PORT MOODY

Port Moody Eye Care Centre

221 Ioco Rd., Port Moody 604-469-8428 | eyes.bc.ca

Seemore Optical

264 Newport Dr., Port Moody 604-461-8989

Suter Brook Optometry Clinic

3-101 Morrisey Rd., Port Moody 778-355-8222 | suterbrookoptometry.com

X-RAY LABORATORIES

MedRay Imaging Medical Corp.

100-3001 Gordon Ave., Coquitlam 604-941-7611 I medrayimaging.com

West Coast Medical Imaging

105-511 Clarke Rd., Coquitlam 604-937-5588

westcoastmedicalimaging.com

HOME DELIVERY SERVICES

GROCERY DELIVERY

Dairyland Home Service 1-877-341-8700 | Morethanmilk.ca

IGA

shop.igabc.com/coquitlam

Safeway safeway.ca

Save-On-Foods

saveonfoods.com

Real Canadian Superstore realcanadiansuperstore.ca

T&T Supermarket tntsupermarket.com

Thrifty Foods

170 Brew St., Port Moody 1-800-667-8280 | thriftyfoods.com/sendial PHARMACY DELIVERY

Costco Pharmacy

2370 Ottawa St., Port Coquitlam

Offers prescription service by mail. 604-552-2298 | costcopharmacy.ca

Glen Pharmacy

208-1175 Johnson St., Coquitlam 604-944-5500 | glenpharmacy.ca

Med-X Pharmacy

7-1449 Prairie Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-774-6504

Pharmasave

3295 Coast Meridian Rd., Port Coquitlam 604-942-9813 | pharmasavepoco.com

Pharmasave

100-2255 Elgin Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-942-7117 | pharmasavepoco.com

Pinetree Pharmacy

103-3007 Glen Dr., Coquitlam

604-474-4977 | pinetreepharmacy.com

Oxford Pharmacy

3190-1971 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam

604-945-9591 | oxfordpharmacies.ca

Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy

53-2991 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam

604-468-4711 | medicineshoppe.ca

Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy

1470 Prairie Ave, unit 1146 Port Coquitlam 604-554-0950

HOUSING SUPPORTS

HOUSING

43 HOUSING

This is the sister housing to SHARE Family and Community Services. 43 Housing operates 288 units of social housing at five locations in

Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam. This housing is for families, people 55+ and adults with disabilities who can live independently and who have limited incomes.

604-433-2218

sharesociety.ca/43housing

Affordable Housing

This society provides rental housing for low- and moderate-income seniors.

604-433-2218 | affordablehousingsocieties.ca

Cooperative Housing Federation of BC

Members own the cooperative housing development collectively and pay a monthly housing charge for units from the cooperative. An initial share must be purchased.

604-879-5111 | chf.bc.ca

Home Adaptations for Independence

The Home Adaptations for Independence Program provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households to complete home

adaptations for independent living.

604-433-2218 | bchousing.org/housing-assistance/BC-RAHA

Home Accessibility Tax Credit (federal)

You can claim an amount for eligible expenses for a qualifying renovation of an eligible dwelling. canada.ca

Homeowner Grant for Seniors (provincial)

The homeowner grant reduces the amount of property taxes you pay each year on your principal residence.

1-888-355-2700 | gov.bc.ca

Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors

This is a provincial refundable personal income tax credit to assist with the cost of permanent home modifications that improve accessibility. gov.bc.ca

BC Housing

Independent Living BC is a subsidized, assisted-living program that provides housing with support services to eligible seniors and people with disabilities.

1-800-257-7756 | bchousing.org

Property Tax Deferment

If you are over 55, a surviving spouse or a person with disabilities, you can arrange not to pay your taxes until your property ceases to be your principal place of residence. You must have and maintain equity in the home. Interest is charged annually on the amount deferred. Applications submitted online through eTaxBC.

1-888-355-2700 | gov.bc.ca

Red Door Housing Society

This society provides affordable rental housing with units for older singles and tenants who require wheelchair accessibility.

604-431-9225 | reddoorhousing.ca

Residential Tenancy Branch

A provincial government agency that provides information to landlords and tenants about their rights and responsibilities. The branch also helps to resolve disputes related to tenancy, such as claims for damages to premises, return of security deposits or disputing an eviction notice.

604-660-1020 | gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies

Snow Angels

The Snow Angel program attempts to unite people who need help clearing their adjacent city sidewalks of snow, with volunteers from the community.

604-927-6076 | coquitlam.ca

Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre

TRAC’s purpose is to promote the legal protection of residential tenants across BC by providing information, education, support and research on residential tenancy matters.

1-800-665-1185 | tenants.bc.ca

ASSISTED LIVING & RESIDENTIAL CARE

These services provide subsidized residential care for adults who can no longer live safely or independently at home due to their need for 24-hour nursing supervision in a secure environment. Assisted living is personal care and hospitality services for adults who can live independently. Residents live in apartment units furnished with their own furniture and belongings. They maintain a great deal of independence and privacy, while being supported with services.

Belvedere Care Centre

739 Alderson Ave., Coquitlam

604-939-5910 | belvederebc.com

Cartier House Care Centre

1419 Cartier Ave., Coquitlam

604-939-4654 |

parkplaceseniorsliving.com

Dufferin Care Centre

1131 Dufferin St., Coquitlam

604-552-1166

retirementconcepts.com

Eagle Ridge Manor

475 Guildford Way, Port Moody 604-461-2022 | fraserhealth.ca

Foyer Maillard

1010 Alderson Ave., Coquitlam 604-937-5578 | foyermaillard.ca

Hawthorne Seniors Care Community

2111 Hawthorne Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-941-4051

hawthornecare.com

Lakeshore Care Centre

657 Gatensbury St., Coquitlam 604-939-9277 | tcgcare.com

Nicola Lodge

2240 Hawkins St., Port Coquitlam 604-945-0058 | siennaliving.ca

Shaughnessy Care Centre

2250 Wilson Ave, Port Coquitlam 604-468-4856

parkplaceseniorsliving.com

The Wesbrooke

12000 190A St

Pitt Meadows 604-460-7006 thewesbrooke.com

The Madison Care Centre

1399 Foster Ave., Coquitlam 604-936-9231 | tcgcare.com

RETIREMENT RESIDENCES & INDEPENDENT LIVING

Astoria Retirement Living

2245 Kelly Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-944-2341 | aspiralife.ca

Blue Mountain Senior Housing Society

440 Blue Mountain St., Coquitlam 604-931-7844

Bria Communities

All inclusive senior living 1-844-969-2742 | briacommunities.ca

Earl Haig Retirement Residence

1800 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 604-229-1726 | ehrr.ca

L.J. Christmas Manor

560 Austin Ave., Coquitlam 604-936-8122 | ljchristmasmanor.com

Mayfair Terrace Retirement Living

2267 Kelly Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-552-5552 | aspiralife.ca

Mulberry Parc

230 Acorn Ave, Burnaby 604-526-2248 | parcliving.ca

Port Moody Legion Manor

2909 Hope St., Port Moody 604-461-9044

Parkwood Manor

1142 Dufferin St., Coquitlam 604-941-7651 | venviliving.com

Residences at Belvedere

750 Delestre Ave., Coquitlam

604-939-1930 | belvederebc.com

RJ Kent: The Residences

2675 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam 778-285-5554 | rj-kent.com

Seton Villa

3755 McGill St, Burnaby 604-291-0607 | setonvilla.com

Shaughnessy Care Centre

2250 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-468-4856

parkplaceseniorsliving.com

The Derby Manor

8601 16th Ave, Burnaby, 604-529-1019

LEGAL SUPPORT

LEGAL

Bart Aldrich Notary Corp

2655 Mary Hill Rd #105, Port Coquitlam 604-464-3136

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

This is the central agency in Canada that collects information and criminal intelligence on such matters as mass marketing fraud; advance fee fraud (e.g., West African letters); internet fraud; and identification theft complaints.

1-888-495-8501 | antifraudcentre.ca

Drysdale Bacon McStravick LLP

1015 Austin Ave #211, Coquitlam 604-939-8321

Free Legal Consultation

1655 Winslow Ave., Coquitlam

On the second Tuesday of every month at Dogwood Pavilion, lawyer Don Drysdale takes appointments for a free 15-minute consultation

for people 50+.

604-927-6089

Legal Aid BC

2620 Mary Hill Rd., Port Coquitlam

Providing information, advice and representation for a range of free services.

604-408-2172 | legalaid.bc.ca

Office of the Ombudsperson

An independent statutory office of the provincial legislature, the Office of the Ombudsperson impartially investigates individual complaints about unfair administrative actions.

1-800-567-3247 | bcombudsperson.ca

Office of the Seniors Advocate

Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Office of the Seniors Advocate monitors and analyzes seniors’ services and issues in BC and makes recommendations to government and service providers to address systemic issues.

1-877-952-3181 | seniorsadvocatebc.ca

Peoples Law School

People’s Law School is a non-profit society in BC, dedicated to making the law accessible to everyone. It provides free education and information. 604-331-5400 | peopleslawschool.ca

Public Guardian and Trustee

The Public Guardian and Trustee is a corporation established under the Public Guardian and Trustee Act with a unique statutory role to protect the interests of British Columbians who lack legal capacity to protect their own interests. 604-660-4444 | trustee.bc.ca

Seniors First BC

A charitable society that provides information, legal advocacy, support and referrals to older adults across B.C. who are dealing with issues affecting their well being, as well as those who care for them.. seniorsfirstbc.ca

PUBLIC LIBRARIES

COQUITLAM

Coquitlam: City Centre Branch 1169 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam 604-554-7323 | coqlibrary.ca

Coquitlam: Poirier Branch 575 Poirier St., Coquitlam 604-554-7323 | coqlibrary.ca

Home Delivery

The Coquitlam Public Library provides free delivery and pick up of library materials to Coquitlam residents age 60 and older who cannot visit the library in person.

Preserve memories

Book a session in the Poirier branch’s digitization station to convert photos, slides and home movies to digital format.

Movies and Books

Coquitlam Public Library offers streaming movies and movies on DVD as well as popular

reading in a variety of formats including regular and large print, CD and MP3, eBook and audiobook.

Audiobooks

The Poirier branch has a collection of audiobooks exclusively for people who cannot read regular print material due to visual or physical challenges.

PORT COQUITLAM

Terry Fox Library

2150 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-927-7999 | fvrl.ca

Library For You

This service provides materials to people who are unable to visit the library due to illness, age or disability.

1-888-668-4141 (ext. 7076) I fvrl.bc.ca/outreach_services

PORT MOODY

Port Moody Public Library

100 Newport Dr.

604-469-4575 I portmoodylibrary.ca

Talking Book Club

This club meets the first Friday of every month between 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This is a talking book club for people with visual or print disabilities.604-469-4637

Centre for Equitable Library Access

CELA has taken over literary services previously provided by CNIB. Coquitlam residents with visual challenges receive MP3 audiobooks, accessible eBooks and Braille delivered to their homes by mail. celalibrary.ca

RECREATION & LEISURE

ACTIVITY & RECREATION CENTRES

Centennial Activity Centre

578 Poirier St., Coquitlam

604-927-6090 | coquitlam.ca

City Centre Aquatic Complex

1210 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam 604-927-6999 | coquitlam.ca

Dogwood Pavilion

1655 Winslow St., Coquitlam

Dogwood Pavilion is a social recreation centre for adults 50 years or better to get together, make new friends and enjoy a variety of leisure activities. The pavilion is operated by the City of Coquitlam Parks, Recreation and Culture Department. It also has a fully equipped woodworking shop, snooker room, lapidary workshop, computer lab, lounge and a library. 604-927-6098 | coquitlam.ca/dogwood

Glen Pine Pavilion

1200 Glen Pine Crt., Coquitlam

604-927-6940 | coquitlam.ca/glenpine

Hyde Creek Recreation Centre

1379 Laurier Ave., Port Coquitlam

604-927-7529

portcoquitlam.ca/recreation

Kyle Centre

125 Kyle St., Port Moody 604-469-4561 | portmoody.ca

Maillardville Community Centre

1200 Cartier Ave., Coquitlam 604-927-6760

Pinetree Community Centre

1260 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam 604-927-6960 | coquitlam.ca

Poirier Community Centre

630 Poirier St., Coquitlam 604-927-6027 | coquitlam.ca

Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex

633 Poirier St., Coquitlam

604-927-6027 | coquitlam.ca

Port Coquitlam Community Centre

2150 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam portcoquitlam.ca

Port Moody Recreation Complex

300 Ioco Rd., Port Moody 604-469-4556 | portmoody.ca

Summit Community Centre

1450 Parkway Blvd., Coquitlam 604-927-6523 | coquitlam.ca

The Club - Port Moody

101 Noons Creek Dr., Port Moody

The goal of the Seniors Friendship Society is to provide an informal atmosphere centred around a gathering place named “The Club” where games, beverages, light snacks, meals and conversation are the order of the day.

604-492-2595 | theclubportmoody.com

Wilson Centre Seniors Advisory Association

2150 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam

The Wilson Centre Seniors’ Advisory Association is open to seniors 60 years plus. It operates only in Port Coquitlam. It has been a registered charity since 1992. During its 30-year history, the association has been an advocate for seniors in Port Coquitlam, promoting and developing year-round educational and recreational programs and activities by advising, advocating and promoting the wellbeing of seniors in the community. It also provides monetary grants to needy seniors for poverty relief. Its members receive a discount when they take part in the city’s recreational and social programs portcoquitlam.ca/wilsonseniors

YMCA

555 Emerson St., Coquitlam

A 55,000-square-foot YMCA with an indoor pool, gym, fitness studios and equipment, multi-purpose space, child minding, a family development centre and other amenities. ymca.ca/about-bettie-allard-ymca

SPORTS / LEISURE / CLUBS

Coquitlam Lawn Bowling Club

1655 Winslow Ave., Coquitlam 604-931-6711 | coquitlamlawnbowls.club

Dogwood Garden Club

1655 Winslow Ave., Coquitlam 604-809-3965

dogwoodgardenclub.weebly.com

Meadow Gardens Golf Course

19675 Meadow Gardens Way. Pitt Meadows 604.465.5474

Paragon Fitness

Certified personal training — in-home available 1665 Manning Ave, Port Coquitlam 604-721 5323

ARTS

Choral Connections

Trinity United Church, 2211 Prairie Ave., Port Coquitlam

choralconnections.ca

Coquitlam Chorale

Eagle Ridge Bible Fellowship Church, 1160 Lansdowne Dr., Coquitlam coquitlamchorale.com

Coquitlam Heritage Society

Mackin House, 1116 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam 604-516-6151 | coquitlamheritage.ca

Evergreen Cultural Centre

1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam (604) 927-6555

IOCO Players Theatre

facebook.com/groups/iocopoayersportmoodytheatrearts

Pacific Digital Photography Club

Port Moody Secondary, 300 Albert St., Port Moody

pdpc.ca

Port Coquitlam Heritage

150-2248 McAllister Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-927-8403 | pocoheritage.org

PoMoArts

2425 St. Johns St., Port Moody 604-941-2008 | pomoarts.ca

Port Moody Film Society

Inlet Theatre, 100 Newport Dr., Port Moody pmfilm.ca

POMO Museum

2734 Murray St., Port Moody

604-939-1648 | pomo.museum

Port Moody Rock and Gem Club

Kyle Centre, 125 Kyle St., Port Moody 604-323-4273

Silver Chord Choir

Port Coquitlam Community Centre, 2150 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam silverchord.ca

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Tri-City Potters

PoMoArts, 2425 St. Johns St., Port Moody tricitypotters.ca

GENERAL INTEREST

Burke Mountain Naturalists

Como Lake United Church, 535 Marmont St., Coquitlam burkemountainnaturalists.ca

Canadian Federation of University Women - Coquitlam chapter cfuwcoquitlam.org

Port Moody Ecological Society

Noons Creek Hatchery, 300 Ioco Rd., Port Moody

604-469-9106 | noonscreek.org

PoCo Bowl

2263 McAllister Ave., Port Coquitlam 604-942-5244 | pocobowl.com

PoCo Garden Club

2211 Prairie Ave., Port Coquitlam pocogardenclub.wordpress.com

PoCo Oldtimers Hockey

Planet Ice, 2300 Rocket Way, Coquitlam. timarthur_@hotmail.com

Port Moody Curling Club

Port Moody Recreation Complex, 300 Ioco Rd., portmoodycurling.ca

Port Moody Oldtimers Hockey

Port Moody Recreation Complex 300 Ioco Rd., Port Moody pmoha.org

Rocky Point Dragon Boating Old Mill Boat House 2715 Esplanade St., Port Moody rockypointdragonboating.ca

Tri-City Centennial Stamp Club stampclub.ca

Volunteer Cancer Drivers

Book a ride or volunteer with this non-profit group to get to and from your medical appointments.

604-515-5400 volunteercancerdrivers.ca

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONS

EVERYONE is welcome to join; you do not need to be a veteran or the family of a veteran!

Branch 263 Coquitlam 1025 Ridgeway Ave., Coquitlam rclegion263.ca

Branch 133, Port Coquitlam 2675 Shaughnessy St. pocolegion.ca

Branch 119, Port Moody 2529 Clarke St. legion119.ca

TOASTMASTERS

Crystal Clear Speakers

Coquitlam Public Library, Poirier branch, 575 Poirier St., Coquitlam crystalclear.toastmastersclubs.org

Downtown Coquitlam Toastmasters

Pinetree Secondary School, 3000 Pinewood Ave., Coquitlam 604-780-5388 | downtowncoquitlam.toastmastersclubs.org

Lincoln Toastmasters

Port Coquitlam Community Centre, 2150 Wilson Ave., Port Coquitlam lincoln.toastmastersclubs.org

Port Moody Toastmasters

Coquitlam Public Library, City Centre branch, 1169 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam cityofthearts.toastmastersclubs.org

Talk of the Town Coquitlam

Toastmasters Club tottcoquitlam.toastmastersclubs.org

SERVICE CLUBS

ELKS

Port Coquitlam Elks Lodge 49

ABC Family Restaurant, 100-300 Schoolhouse St., Coquitlam 604-942-7217 | elksofcanada.ca

Taste the Fullness of Life

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Discover the freedom to enjoy your favourite foods and confidently flaunt your smile again! Unlike conventional dentures, our permanent dental implants seamlessly mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. No more hassles of removal or reliance on adhesives – these implants provide unmatched comfort

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KINSMEN

Kin Club of Coquitlam coquitlamkinsmen.com

LIONS CLUB

Barnet Lions Club

Coquitlam Grill, 2635 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam. facebook.com/BarnetLionsClub

Port Coquitlam Lions Club

Royal Canadian Legion, 133-2675 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam portcoquitlamlionsclub.com

ROTARY CLUBS

Rotary Club of Coquitlam Vancouver Golf Club. 771 Austin Ave., Coquitlam portal.clubrunner.ca/797

Rotary Club of Coquitlam Sunrise

Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex, Room 2 633 Poirier, Coquitlam portal.clubrunner.ca/657

Coquitlam Public Library delivers!

Did you know you can get library service without leaving home?

Home Delivery—When you sign up for home delivery, we help you discover books and audiobooks that match your reading preferences. We make monthy deliveries of library material direct to your door.

Technology Help— Our tech help volunteers come to your residence and show you how to use your computer, cellphone, and tablet. These accessible services are free of charge for Coquitlam residents.

Walking Soccer

Even at a slower pace, these Tri-City soccer players still have love for the game

The Tri-City Walking Soccer Club gets together for pick-up matches every Tuesday at Gates Park in Port Coquitlam

The Tri-City Walking Soccer Club is proof in the pudding: you can take the players out of soccer, but you’ll never take the soccer out of the players.

The club started several years ago as an adjunct to the Dartmen, an affiliation of weekend warriors who’ve grown old together playing sports like traditional running soccer as well as baseball and hockey.

As members started to hit their

mid-50s, many realized they were losing their stride. But instead of giving up sport altogether, they just decided to slow it down.

Walking soccer is just like it sounds, a modified version of “the beautiful game” without contact and played at a pace more comfortable for aging knees and joints.

It’s also played seven-aside on a smaller pitch — about half the size of a regular soccer field — at Port

continued next page

The pace of play may be slower at the Tri-City Walking Soccer Club, but the action can still be intense.

Bob Macdonald stretches to make a save in a mixed-teams match at the Tri-City Walking Soccer Club.

Walking soccer, continued

Coquitlam’s Gates Park.

Jim Swelander, who started the Dartmen in Burnaby back in 1969, said as the group has embraced their golden years, the social aspect of their sporting endeavours has taken precedence over competition.

“It’s about making new friends and staying in contact with old ones,” he said.

When the group, which ranges in age from 55 to over 70, invited women to start playing in their soccer matches the camaraderie and post-game revelry kicked up a notch with organized get-togethers every week at the Cat & Fiddle pub and other social events.

Denise Spletzer, 68, said she first attended a walking soccer match as a spectator but quickly decided the club needed a female touch even though she’d never played soccer before.

“I like to get exercise,” she said

Spletzer invited some of her friends from her fitness class and from an initial contingent of seven just a couple of years ago, there’s now 43 women participating in the club’s mixed division alongside its male membership of 93, some of whom stick around for the more competitive men’s division afterwards.

Swelander said not everyone in the club comes out at once, of

course. Players come and go for the regular Tuesday matches that run year round (the league heads indoors to a facility in New Westminster during December and January) and new teams of seven players are created every week from those who do show up to play in the 25-minute halves.

Sue McInnes said the soccer matches are a way to bring back some of the competitive fire she last felt when she used to play field hockey in her younger days. But it’s the new friendships she treasures most.

“It’s fun,” she said. “The social aspect is the best.”

Swelander, who leads all the players through various warm-up exercises and skill drills for about an hour before the matches begin and then coaches from the sidelines once the opening whistle blows, said it can be a bit of a challenge keeping everyone on the straight and narrow given the wide range of soccer experience and ability on the pitch.

“It’s okay, as long as you have patience,” he said. “You’ve just got to remember you’re here for fun.”

If you’re interested in joining the Tri-City Walking Soccer Club, you can email Swelander at jimswelander@hotmail.com.

Photos and story: Mario Bartel, Tri-City News

Jim Swelander organizes players into three teams for the regular Tuesday mixed matches at Gates Park in Port Coquitlam

Using supplements safely

Potential dangers of mixing herbal and prescription meds

Medications improve the lives of billions of people across the globe every day. Without access to medication, millions may die while countless others would experience a dramatic decline in their quality of life.

Though there’s no denying the positive effects of medication, the efficacy of herbal supplements and prescription drugs does not mean each are risk-free. Risks may even be compounded when individuals take herbal supplements and prescription medica-

continued next page

PHOTO: Herbal and prescription medication interactions can be dangerous. Individuals are urged to contact their physicians before combining medications and to bring up their existing medication regimen whenever they are issued a new prescription.

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Using supplements safely, continued

tions concurrently. According to the Mayo Clinic, herbal supplements do not always interact well with prescription medications. For example, herbal supplements can interact with medicines utilized to treat issues affected the heart and blood vessels. That includes conditions like high blood pressure, which estimates from the World Health Organization indicate affects nearly 1.3 billion adults between the ages of 30 and 79.

Mixing medications has always been risky, but a growing reliance on herbal medicines has potentially elevated that risk. That’s perhaps due to perceptions of herbal supplements as wholly natural, leading some to conclude that a substance that’s wholly natural cannot jeopardize the human body. However, an analysis published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology detailed more than a dozen instances of adverse drug reactions affecting individuals who took herbal medicines alongside various

prescription medications. The medications taken, some of which were antidepressants, were prescribed to treat various conditions, including HIV, epilepsy and heart disease.

The potential dangers of mixing herbal and prescription medications underscore the need to engage in honest and open discussions with

a physician before taking any herbal or prescription medications. Individuals currently taking a prescription medication should consult with their physician before taking any herbal supplements, while those who take herbal medicines and supplements should bring that up with their physicians if they are prescribed a new medication.

What are some symptoms of herbal and prescription interactions?

The Mayo Clinic notes that a fast heartbeat and changes in blood pressure are two indicators of drug interactions. But many additional side effects can indicate a potentially dangerous or unhealthy interaction is taking place. For example increased dryness or irritation of skin when taking more than one topical acne drug at the same time indicates an unhealthy interaction is taking place.

Brain Health

Quick tips to keep you mentally sharp as you age

Cognitive decline is on the minds of many adults as they get older. Memory loss and trouble processing things can sometimes be a side effect of aging, as Everyday Health says the brain changes in size and structure as a person gets older. These changes can affect how well the brain works over time. Furthermore, illnesses affecting the brain, such as Alzheimer’s disease, may start showing their symptoms in people when they’ve reached their mid-60s, says the National Institute on Aging.

Cognitive decline and dementia are not a certainty of aging. But older adults interested in s trengthening their brains may want to consider these strategies.

Address high blood pressure

High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels is associated with better cognitive function, according to data published in 2021 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Use all your senses

Harvard Health says the more senses used in learning something, the more of the brain that is involved in retaining the memory. Studies have shown that images paired with pleasant aromas leads to better recall later on.

Exercise regularly

Staying physically active helps maintain blood flow to the brain, which also helps reduce the risk for hypertension.

Eat brain-healthy foods

According to Cone Health Medical Group, studies show eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like tuna, salmon and mackerel, decreases risk for cognitive decline. People should avoid saturated fats, trans fats and hydrogenated oils.

Read and write frequently

According to a study in the journal Neurology, regular reading and writing in one’s older years

reduced the rate of memory decline by 32 percent. Joining a book club or simply reading more on one’s own can improve cognition. Similarly, writing improves memory and communication abilities and can help strengthen the brain as well.

Drink healthy beverages

Tea and coffee can improve alertness and focus, as they’re rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.

A Place for Mom says caffeine in these beverages can help solidify new memories. Avoid drinking sugary beverages and limit consumption of alcohol, as neither boasts brain-boosting properties.

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