SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
FALL 2023
WEEK OCTOBER 2-8, 2023
green.eps; Customer is responsible for accuracy
Inquiries: 204-697-7390 View online at winnipegfreepress.com/ lifestyles
T Thorvaldson Care Center An Intermediate Care Facility for Seniors 495 Stradbrook Ave. • Winnipeg Please call for more information or to arrange a tour Jocelyn Thorvaldson (204) 452-4044 (weekdays) www. thorcare.ca E-mail: thorcare@shaw.ca Over 60 years of caring for Seniors!
Thorvaldson Care Center is a government approved, family owned and operated Intermediate Care facility providing care to seniors since 1959. We offer a moderately sized, non-institutional environment with professional services to meet the needs of those in the later stages of life. ‘Intermediate’ personal care is provided to those who are no longer able to manage/ cope in their current living situation due to increasing needs, yet are not quite ready for placement in a Personal Care Home. Thorvaldson Care Center is the only Intermediate Care facility in Manitoba.
What does Intermediate Personal Care offer? • 24 hour care / supervision by Health Care Aides • Registered Nurse on-site (weekdays) • Medications, inhalers, eyedrops are administered • Monitored blood sugar / blood pressure • Bloodwork, Xray services • Medical appts / transportation arranged • Assist with bathing, dressing and hygiene • Assist with catheters / oxygen
• Private, bedsitting room with bathroom • Two nurse call buttons in each suite
• Three home-cooked meals per day plus snacks • Housekeeping (daily), Laundry (personal and linens) • Accredited Activity Director & Recreation Programs
2 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
ACTIVE AGING WEEK
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By Jennifer McFee
CELEBRATES 20-YEAR MILESTONE
ctive Aging Week is celebrating 20 years of engaging older adults in activities that contribute to their health anwd well-being.
This year, Active Aging Week runs from Oct. 2 to 8 in tandem with Seniors & Elders Month, which takes place each October across the country. Here in Manitoba, the provincial government has also recognized October as Seniors & Elders Month. Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM), says active aging is about being fully engaged in life regardless of age, socio-economic status or health status. “Active aging is a way of life that values physical, social, mental activities and integrates physical activities into daily living,” she says. “It’s important to engage in active living at any age. Choosing appropriate physical activity can provide opportunities for older adults to stay connected and improve their health status.” Active Aging in Manitoba is a non-profit provincial organization with a mandate to provide active aging opportunities for older Manitobans, she adds.
Stretching plays an important role in staying limber as we age.
Three nutritious meals a day Complimentary 24 hour Bistro In suite laundry Fitness centre Craft and games area Complimentary internet access room Dry cleaning pickup and delivery Building staffed 24/7 24 Hour emergency response pendant Weekly in-suite light housekeeping services Weekly linen and towel services Complimentary transportation to medical appointments and outings Heat, hydro, and water Pet Friendly Living
Call today to book a tour. 204.231.5777 40 Dunkirk Drive
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 3
IN ESSENCE, THERE’S NO DOWNSIDE TO MAINTAINING AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE.
“We provide those opportunities through events and programs that we co-ordinate. Our goal is to encourage older Manitobans to be physically active to gain the health benefits of an active lifestyle,” she says. How do they accomplish that? “We work to remove the barriers older adults face as they age by providing community outreach programs through volunteer opportunities and education,” explains Brown. The World Health Organization indicates the greatest health risk for older adults is being physically inactive, Brown notes. “The benefits of active living include improved brain health through physical activity, which helps individuals stay socially engaged. Being active also provides opportunities to stay connected and gain a sense of belonging. Leading an active lifestyle can improve competence and confidence,” she says. There are other benefits associated with regular activity, too. “It can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, reduce the risk of
mean remaining in one’s home or choosing a place to live that suits your lifestyle. Leading a sedentary lifestyle may take away the option of controlling where one lives as they age,” Brown says. In essence, there’s no downside to maintaining an active lifestyle. “We all know we need to move more, but we also need to sit less. Sitting for long periods of time is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day. The recommendations are to get up and move at least once per hour.” In addition to the physical benefits of being active, Brown stresses the strong link between physical activity and improved mental health. “Going for a walk outdoors in nature can be boost to our physical and mental wellness,” she says. “Being active outside can challenge our brains as we take in all the various sights and smells of our surroundings. Going for a walk, for example, has been shown to help reduce stress.” Communities across Manitoba are getting involved in Active Aging Week, and Brown suggests viewing AAIM’s Active Aging
Guide on the organization’s website at www.activeagingmb.ca to learn more. “We are encouraging communities to plan events during the week and let AAIM know what they are planning. We will be posting events from around the province on our website,” she says. “We are asking individuals or communities to go to our website where they can find a guide to planning for Active Aging Week.” Communities and individuals can let AAIM know about their plans for Active Aging Week by emailing info@activeaging.mb.ca. Throughout the rest of the year, AAIM continues to offer opportunities, events, and programs for older adults. Every June, AAIM co-ordinates the Manitoba 55+ Games with a host community in the province, which is another opportunity for Manitobans to be active.
stroke, help reduce blood pressure, slow the progress of osteoporosis, help manage Type 2 diabetes, and reduce the risk of developing some cancers. And for those already facing health issues, being active can help them manage the health issue.” Anyone who has been sedentary or is experiencing recent changes in their health status should consult with their health- care provider before starting any physical activity program. “Being active improves mobility and balance, which helps to prevent falls. It also helps maintain independence, which might
To learn more about Active Aging in Manitoba, visit www.activeagingmb.ca, email info@activeaging.mb.ca or call 204-632-3947 or 1-866-202-6663.
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®*The Blue Cross symbol and name and Colour of Caring are registered marks of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans, independently licensed by Manitoba Blue Cross. †Blue Shield is a registered trade-mark of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. 2023-07-21
4 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
ACTIVE AGING DAY TO BE CELEBRATED OCTOBER 5 By Kristin Marand
THERE WILL BE OPPORTUNITIES TO TRY URBAN POLING, FLOOR CURLING, ZUMBA, YOGA, AND LEARN ABOUT FOOT CARE.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 5
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ctober will bring a bevy of information and activities to older adults on staying active and engaged as they age. At the top of that list will be the annual Active Aging Day open house at Winnipeg’s Wellness Institute on October 5. It will be part of a fabulous smorgasbord of 55-plus events during October, with October also being Seniors and Elders month in Manitoba. Active Aging Day acts as a kick off to the broader events, explains Karin Whalen, Community Outreach Manager at the Wellness Institute. Whalen has been promoting health education and outreach for 30 years. “It's a time to recognize and look at all the great things that older adults are doing, and also offer them some education pertinent to aging that they might be interested in partaking in,” she says. The free event is hosted in partnership with Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM) and is sponsored by All Seniors Care, River Ridge I & II. It will take place at The Wellness Institute, located at Seven Oaks Hospital, from 9:30 to 1:30. While the event is geared towards adults over 55, Whalen notes it could also be worthwhile for caregivers. The day will begin with a keynote presentation from the Winnipeg Police Diversity and Crime Prevention Unit entitled Protecting Yourself: Frauds, Scams and Personal Safety. The keynote event is the only activity that requires registration to ensure there are enough seats for participants. Registration can be done online through wellnessinstitute.ca or by calling 204-632-3900. The keynote will also be repeated at 7 p.m. that evening for those that may be working, volunteering or otherwise engaged during the day. Following the keynote, the Wellness Institute gym will be open for activities, interactive exhibits, and stations that people can visit, as well as different exercise classes that they can participate in. There will be opportunities to try urban poling, floor curling, Zumba, yoga, and learn about foot care. The Wellness Institute, AAIM and their partners will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about their programs. “There's lots of things people can do to prevent or delay the onset of chronic diseases and illnesses and reduce their overall risk. Activity is one of those pieces, but social engagement is also important for enhanced mental “They’re devoted to demonstrations of physical activities, and we have some screenings focused on balance and coordination and brain health where age-related decline can happen. We can provide tips on how to prevent falls and mitigate cognitive decline.” The overall idea is to provide those aged 55-plus with the tools they need to thrive. “We really want to showcase things that will help contribute to a better quality of life and maintain independence as individuals age, as that’s a top concern for many – keeping their independence in life,” she says. “We want to illustrate and provide information that will help support that.” The main key is staying active. “Whether it be volunteering, belonging to a group, or going for a walk with a neighbor, all of those things contribute to your overall well-being,” Whalen notes. “We really want to help people be the best they can be, recognizing there's a huge continuum.” If you can’t attend the open house on October 5, Whalen says that The Wellness Institute has a variety of educational sessions planned throughout the month on topics such as nutrition, mental health and fall prevention. These will be offered at different times of day and on various of platforms so that folks can participate when it’s convenient for them. health and a better sense of self-esteem,”Whalen says. That’s where the interactive stations come in, she adds.
by Jim Bender MINUK & KOSTER DENTURE CLINICS JOIN FORCES
In
the ever-evolving landscape of denture care, where tradition meets technology, the launch of
scans and precise 3D printing or milling, increasing fit, strength and replicability. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with time constraints, such as travellers, and those in personal care homes. In a remarkable display of innovation, they have earned the distinction of being the first in Manitoba to possess milling capabilities for the fabrication of one piece titanium partial dentures. This achievement underscores their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of denture care and redefining the standards of client convenience. The clinic’s commitment to tradition is equally as important. “Being family-owned and operated offers both tradition and technology all under one roof,” says Manny Minuk. This mantra is not merely a catchphrase; it’s a philosophy that extends to every aspect of patient care. The clinic prides itself on treating each individual who walks through their doors with the same kindness and attention they would offer to their own family. Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic isn’t just a team of Denturists; it’s a family of over 20 dedicated professionals, including Denturists, Dental Technicians, IT Technologists and Support Staff. The clinic’s collaborative environment ensures that every client benefits from a multidisciplinary perspective, with Denturists pooling their insights to provide the most informed and tailored recommendations possible. If you or someone you know is in need of denture services, look no further than Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic. Call their office today at 204-589-6329 and take the first step toward a radiant smile that reflects both the legacy of the past and the promise of a brighter, more technologically-advanced future.
the newly united Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic stands as a testament to the power of family legacy and the pursuit of excellence. Founded by second-generation Denturists Manny Minuk and Andy Koster, this clinic blends decades of experience with the latest advancements in denture fabrication, offering Manitobans a place of unwavering care and top-tier innovation. Manny Minuk and Andy Koster, both graduates of esteemed institutions – Manny from NAIT and Andy from Nova Scotia Community College – have embraced Denturism as more than a profession. To them, it’s a family heritage. Learning the ropes side by side with their fathers, Joe Minuk and Tom Koster, Manny and Andy adopted the values of dedication, compassion, and a commitment to staying at the forefront of their field. The passing of the torch was a seamless transition, marked by Manny’s acquisition of the Minuk Denture Clinic in 2018 and Andy taking over his father’s clinic in 2017. This union of expertise gave birth to the Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic, a harmonious blend of two legacies with a shared vision: to provide the best possible denture care to their community. As well as being highly experienced in complex denture implant restorations, one of the crowning achievements of Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic lies in their embrace of groundbreaking technology. “By offering the latest in technology, we are able to help Manitobans seeking denture-related services with a variety of treatment options,” says Andy Koster. Central to this technological prowess is the revolutionary CAD/CAM or Digital Denture. This cutting-edge approach involves crafting dentures through advanced digital
6 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
TO HOST 2024 MANITOBA 55+ GAMES BRANDON
THE ANNUAL EXPERIENCE WITH OVER 20 DIFFERENT EVENTS, WILL KICK OFF WITH A CURLING BONSPIEL IN MARCH WITH THE OTHER EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN JUNE.
By Kristin Marand
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randon will host the 2024 Manitoba 55+ Games and planning is well under way.
the city last hosted the Games in 2016 – Brown expects an increase in participants and spectators. Jennifer Watson, executive director of Brandon First, says that Brandon’s wealth of experience as a host community for regional, national, and international competitions will be invaluable. “Brandon has a significant history of successful event hosting going back decades. Our facilities, volunteers, organizers, and local hospitality community provide competitors and spectators with a friendly, sportsmanlike environment. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver world- class event experiences.” An exciting addition to the Games next year will be a curling event, held at Brandon’s Keystone Centre in March with both four-person team curling, and two-person stick curling. Curling is part of the Games when a community is capable of hosting it. Venues aren’t usually available in June, notes Watson. “Partnering with the Brandon Curling Club to offer a bonspiel earlier in the year was presented to us as an option. We thought it was an excellent way to include as many people who wanted to compete as we could,” she says. “Brandon loves to host curling, so we can’t wait to see these competitors join us in March.” As with many large-scale events, the Games rely on volunteers to help things run smoothly. Brown and Watson estimate that they will need between 200 and 300 volunteers to help with everything from planning and organizing committees, to admission, scorekeeping,
officiating, information runners, security, and other key jobs. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Brandon First or AAIM to connect with the volunteer coordinator. Volunteer information will also be available on the Brandon 55+ Games Facebook page and website. In addition to the in-person Games, people can also participate virtually for a month following the events in Brandon. This gives people who may not be able to travel or don’t participate in any of the scheduled events a chance to get in on the action in their own way. Every activity counts from horseback riding, to kayaking, waterskiing, playing cards, berry picking – even gardening. Virtual participants log their activity in a tracker and submit it to AAIM for the chance to win prizes, with the virtual games are a great way to continue to promote an active lifestyle after the official Games are over. “It opens it up to anybody in the province,” says Brown. “It’s a way of keeping the Games alive, keeping people active and encouraging people to maybe take up a new activity or carry on their activities over the summer.”
The annual experience with over 20 different events, will kick off with a curling bonspiel in March with the other events taking place in June. The Manitoba 55+ Games are open to participants of all skill levels, physical abilities, interests, and ages. While the Games offer a good number of physical competitions, there will be numerous games and other skills-based contests as well. Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM), says that the Games’ primary purpose is to provide an opportunity for Manitobans aged 55 years and older to remain active throughout their lifespan. “A lot of our events at the Games have age categories. For example, there’s an 80 plus category. Maybe you are not running anymore, but you could still enter the Games and walk.” The Manitoba 55+ Games aim to be open and inclusive to everyone, so even if you don’t consider yourself an athlete there are ways to get involved in the friendly competition. In the arts and crafts category, participants can show off their woodworking, painting, quilting or crocheting skills. There are also games like snooker and pool, as well as a variety of card games like cribbage, bridge, and whist. With the event returning to Brandon in 2024 –
Games registration will open online in March 2024. For more information on the Manitoba 55+ Games Visit https://activeagingmb.ca/55games/ or call AAIM at 204-632-3947 or 1-866-202-6663.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 7
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and happy. We were so happy to find Bergen Gardens. Their memory care team cares for all her medical and physical needs in a beautiful cottage setting.” In fact, the setting has been so nurturing there’s been genuine improvement. “Mom’s health greatly improved, so much so that she recently moved into an assisted living apartment. Mom can enjoy all the activities, friendships (staff and residents) and her new independence in her apartment, plus have the security of care. We as a family all love coming to visit Mom at her beautiful home. We are thankful for all the friendly staff for their encouraging, loving care, providing a safe and beautiful environment.” As part of their special fall promotion, Bergen Gardens is offering $250 off studio apartments for the first 50 tenants to sign leases. Couples requiring different levels of care will receive 15 per cent off the leasing of two separate memory care or assisted living suites so they can age in place together. BERGEN GARDENS WELCOMED ITS FIRST TENANTS IN APRIL, AND INTEREST IN THEIR INNOVATIVE ELDER CARE MODEL CONTINUES TO GROW DUE TO THEIR WIDE SPECTRUM OF SUPPORT INITIATIVES, SERVICES, ITS FRIENDLY STAFF, AND ITS LIFE-AFFIRMING OUTLOOK.
BERGEN GARDENS OFFERS THE FINEST IN ELDER CARE, SENIOR LIVING
assisted living suites in a variety of layouts, including studio, one and two-bedroom units. People can stay as active as they like, choosing from options such as field trips, entertainment excursions and regular outings such as special bus trips to shopping.As part of Bergen Gardens’ continuum of elder care, tenants can transfer to the organization’s safe and supported memory care cottages in an on-site, dementia-friendly community environment when necessary. Bergen Gardens welcomed its first tenants in April, and interest in their innovative elder care model continues to grow due to their wide spectrum of support and services, its friendly staff, and its life- affirming outlook. “We want our tenants to be able to age in place with the security and freedom to do the things they want to do, because this is not an institution,” says Wood. “This is their home.” The benefits of this philosophy are seen in ways, big and small, every day in the building. One tenant’s family recently wrote to Bergen Gardens management team to express their gratitude for the outstanding care provided to their mother: “When mom lost her status for geriatric rehabilitation, we had to quickly find a place for her to live. Considering her declining health, and not knowing the future, we wanted her to be comfortable
retirement community. F Bright and welcoming, every aspect of this new, six-storey North Kildonan elder care residence was created to enable residents to live their lives as independently and fully as they choose no matter how their support needs might change over time. “Our whole approach is person-
From the moment you come through the front doors of Bergen Gardens, it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary
promoting fall detection technology and soothing building colours and materials, Bergen Gardens is modern and beautiful. The building offers an impressive slate of amenities, like those one might find in an upscale hotel. Tenants and guests can enjoy amenities such as a full-service dining room, tavern, café, health spa, foot care service, barber/hair stylist, bake shop, theatre, gym, and a chapel. There’s even a dog run and self-serve pet wash area for residents’ four-legged friends, who are also welcome to live here with their human companions. The apartment tower – which is divided into five neighbourhoods – offers 149
directed,” says Senior Living Director Erica Wood. “Our goal is to provide a nurturing atmosphere of community and liveability for tenants and their families who appreciate our residential, de-institutionalized model of assisted living.” From wellness-promoting lighting and air quality technologies, safety-
Call today about in-person tours or explore the possibilities
via virtual tours available through their website at BergenGardens.ca.
8 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
By Todd Lewys THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING HYDRATED
Older adults need to drink up on a regular basis to stay properly hydrated.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 9
“
NORMALLY, IF YOU FEEL THIRSTY, THAT MEANS YOU’RE MILDLY DEHYDRATED. BECAUSE OLDER ADULTS DON’T GET THE SENSATION AS READILY, IT OFTEN MEANS THEY’RE A LOT FURTHER ALONG, AND ARE VERY DEHYDRATED.”
Hao-Yi Sim, registered dietitian, the Wellness Institute
A
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recent study from the University of California’s Los Angeles School of Nursing
not the right approach to take.” More often, however, older adults don’t make a conscious effort to stay hydrated. That can be due no only to a diminished sense of thirst, but physical barriers that can crop up due to a lack of mobility. That’s why strategies must be put in place by families and caregivers to ensure that older adults make a habit of drinking up on a regular basis. “There are several things you can do to help older adults maintain a consistent level of hydration,” he says. “If they’re text savvy, send them reminders on their phone. If they’re living on their own, have a family member check up on them. You can also provide visual cues such as placing a water bottle on the counter. Or just make sure a full water bottle is always available.” In some cases, plain water’s lack of appeal can also serve as a taste barrier that lessens intake. “If that’s the case, add flavour to it with a lemon, lime, an orange, or even watermelon – that will add more interest in drinking. If your mom, dad or relative likes milk or smoothies, provide that type of beverage for them. If they enjoy it, they’re more likely to drink it.” At the same time, there are beverages to avoid, such as coffee, colas, and alcohol, notes Sim. “One or two cups of coffee per day is safe, but after two cups, coffee’s diuretic
properties come into play, and can cause dehydration. The same thing goes for colas, which, like coffee, also contain caffeine. Drinking alcohol can also cause dehydration.” He adds that intake of sugary beverages like fruit juices, colas and sports drinks should also be restricted, if not eliminated altogether. “They should be avoided, particularly if an individual has diabetes. Any of those beverages should be the type that’s low in sugar and replenishes electrolytes. It’s also important to be aware that certain types of medication can affect hydration, too.” Another simple strategy can also pay dividends: encouraging loved ones to drink at mealtimes. “Reinforce the fact that they need to have a glass of water with every meal,” he says. “Just doing a little thing like that can help maintain a good level of hydration.” The bottom line on hydration is this: water plays a key role in virtually every body function, from lubricating joints to pumping the blood to the heart, to maintaining self-awareness. Consequently, the importance of staying hydrated can’t be understated. “Hydration unquestionably plays a huge role in keeping older adults strong and mentally alert. The result is less hospital visits, which is our goal.” “There’s a strong link between dehydration and falls,” Sim says.
came up with a startling finding: up to 40 per cent of older adults may be chronically underhydrated. “Being underhydrated is a major contributing issue for older adults in terms of accidents that lead to hospital visits,” says Hao-Yi Sim, a registered dietitian who works regularly with older adults at the Wellness Institute. “Being underhydrated can lead to a lack of focus, which can lead to falls, and subsequent hospitalization.” He adds that a diminished sense of thirst is most often responsible for this chronic underhydration. “As we get older, our thirst sensation decreases,” he explains. “Normally, if you feel thirsty, that means you’re mildly dehydrated. Because older adults don’t get the sensation as readily, it often means they’re a lot further along, and are very dehydrated.” Besides a lack of focus, dehydration can also cause other health issues for older adults such as reduced bowel movements, muscle weakness and being more prone to urinary tract infections (UTI’s). “Unfortunately, some people limit water intake in an effort to control urination and bowel movements,” says Sim. “That’s
10 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
SOCIAL CONNECTION Vital for Better Mental & Physical Health
It
Socializing plays a central role in staying mentally and physically healthy.
is one of the great ironies of modern life that, in a world increasingly interconnected via technology, a growing number of older people
mood disorders, dementia, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality. Dr. Verena Menec, a professor in the department of community health services Community Health Sciences in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba, conducts research into the social determinants of healthy aging, social isolation, and age-friendly communities. She and colleague Dr. Nancy Newall lead Targeting Isolation, an initiative designed to provide research-based information and resources to help address and prevent social isolation and chronic loneliness among older adults. “Decades worth of research shows that
both social isolation and loneliness have negative consequences for physical health, such as increased risk of heart disease and mortality,” says Menec. “Social isolation is as strongly related to mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.” She adds that It’s also as strongly related to mortality as a lack of exercise. “Social isolation and loneliness are also negatively related to mental health. Loneliness, in particular, is strongly related to depression.” Menec says it’s important to differentiate between solitude and social isolation. “Loneliness is very different from solitude. It is an unpleasant state when one’s social
connections do not match what one would like,” says Menec. “It has been likened to physical pain.” Since research continues to find that social engagement is linked to positive physical and mental health, Menec says even those who are alone by choice can benefit from social connections. “While a person may be just fine not having many social contacts, it may cause problems in emergency situations. What happens if they have a fall, and nobody checks on them?” To help recognize the signs of loneliness and social isolation in ourselves and others, Newall and Menec developed the
are at increased risk of experiencing loneliness and social isolation. According to recent studies, older adults are especially vulnerable to the negative impact of both conditions, due to factors such as the loss of loved ones, declining health, and mobility challenges. Research has shown that social isolation can cause a range of adverse health outcomes among older adults, including
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 11
“
SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS ARE ALSO NEGATIVELY RELATED TO MENTAL HEALTH. LONELINESS, IN PARTICULAR, IS STRONGLY RELATED TO DEPRESSION.” Dr. Verena Menec, professor in the department of community health services Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba
C
Find a centre near you Visit our website
www.manitobaseniorc ommunities.ca
Having a friendly chat in a beautiful setting can be very therapeutic.
Exercise your body and brain to stay active and alive all year long. Centres are places where older adults come together to improve their health and quality of life, for services and programs, and to support personal independence and encourage involvement in community life. Visit our website today for a complete listing of Centres in Manitoba. We may have a Centre near you! Be Active All Around!
CARE acronym: Connections (is the person lonely?); Activities (does the person lack participation in meaningful activities?); Relationships (do they have contact with family or friends?); and Emergency contact (do they have someone they can call in a crisis?). There’s also Dwelling: do they live alone in a safe environment? The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities available for older adults to make social connections, such as clubs and activities offered by community organizations and volunteer work. Menec recommends exploring the activities available in the community, with
a good source of information being the 211 Manitoba phone info line or website. While some older adults may not be tech-savvy or have access to the Internet, there are also activities and supports available by phone. A good example is the A&O Support Services for Older Adults’ Senior Centre Without Walls program, a free service offering programs via phone for those who may be housebound or socially isolated. Menec says that in-person contact is always the best bet in lending a helping hand to those who may be socially isolated. It can start with a simple conversation. “Ask about the person’s interests and find out what might be holding them back from
pursuing them. Then, make suggestions about activities they might enjoy. “People who are socially isolated or lonely may not be ready to engage with others,” says Menec. “Reasons include low self- esteem, lack of self-confidence, or even social anxiety.” Consequently, it may take time – and plenty of encouragement – for a person to get socially connected. “There are many community organizations that offer a wide range of activities. The challenge is to reach those who are feeling socially isolated. There is something for everybody,” she says.
204-792-5838 info@manitobasenior communities.ca
Join a Centre Today!
12 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023
40 YEARS OF MARRIAGE AND HIS SENSE OF ADVENTURE Treasure the gifts they’ve given you.
cropo.com
October 2 - 8 FREE drop-in visits
for adults 55 + at all four branch locations!
Wherever you yearn to explore – and whatever your tour style, we can take you there!
• Lane Swim/Aquafit • Fitness Classes • Indoor Track
• Strength Training • Cardio Equipment plus more!
1. No hidden or surprise costs: all of our tour prices include flights, hotels, transfers, most meals and excursions, all taxes and gratuities, plus, insurance for health (while outside Canada), cancellation and trip interruption, even home pick-up and drop-off. 2. Carefully selected hotels: we personally inspect each property for quality, service, and value. 3. Most meals are covered: and they are delicious ones too, allowing you to sample the best of local cuisine.
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4. Exceptional Tour Managers: who go above and beyond to make sure that everyone has a wonderful experience – and each day’s activities are at just the right pace. 5. Roundtrip transportation right from your doorstep to the airport: and safely back home again (from most Canadian cities).
$0 Join Fee until October 14 th ! Visit us online at ywinnipeg.ca 301 Vaughan St. • 454 Kimberley St. • 5 Fermor Ave. • 3550 Portage Ave.
Ready to travel? Book today! 1.800.268.3492 SeniorDiscoveryTours.ca
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