Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1413311
OCTOBER 4–11, 2021 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 13 MOBILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY FOR YOUR NEEDS SCOOTERS, LIFT CHAIRS, WALKERS, STAIRLIFTS AND MORE! > homequip.ca 385-550 Century St. (204) 949-2300 Visit our other locations across manitoba in: Brandon and Steinbach Visit our website: www.innovativemedicalsupplies.org She adds that the Challenge has been designed to combat the social isolation that's been caused by the pandemic over the past year-and-a-half. "The COVID pandemic has forced a lot of people to hunker down, and not having social connections can cause loneliness. Experiencing loneliness for an individual can have the equivalent negative impact of smoking a pack of cigarettes every day. So, we want to focus on social interaction." Toward that end, participants will be provided with a Healthy Aging daily tracker sheet, encouraging them to track movement, moods and social interaction. While the Challenge will promote various activities and social engagement, it also encourages adhering to public health orders, such as maintaining social distancing. Outdoor activities are encouraged. "We all benefit from being outdoors," says Whalen, noting that outdoor activities could include those that individuals can do alone, such as walking, cycling or gardening. "We want people who do the Challenge to continue on with it in and make the activities part of their daily lives." The brain health component will feature elements inspired by the Wellness Institute's Total Brain Health program. "We know that it's important to be physically fit and eat well, but it's time to start focusing on our brains and invest in fighting memory loss," says Amy Yonda, the Outreach Coordinator at the Wellness Institute. "Total Brain Health includes body, mind and spirit. You can stimulate the brain with fun activities such as timing a word search, but you can also protect brain health through social connection." "We want people who do the Challenge to continue on with it in and make the activities part of their daily lives." CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 A 15-minute spin on an exercise bike increases lung capacity and improves circulation. (Darin Kachanoski) GLOBAL LEADER IN HEARING HEALTHCARE, BACKED BY OVER 70 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. 204.487.8000 Call to book your complimentary hearing test today! Crestview 105 - 3393 Portage Ave. Linden Woods 1 - 871 Waverley St. Offering proven hygiene & safety protocols!