Archived Mature | 2021

SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021

Prioritize what matters in 2021

Living your best 40+ life MATURE

MATURE SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS

BALANCING ACT Experts weigh in on the balancing act to juggle kids, careers and other responsibilities THE ABCs OF CBD Discover need-to-know facts about cannabidoil NEVER TOO LATE Certified financial planner Jennifer Diggle offers advice for making your money work for you

10 12

PREPARE TO ZOOM Learn 7 simple tips for video-conferencing success

View online at winnipegfreepress.com/publications For advertising information, call: 204-697-7573

Publisher Bob Cox

Director, Advertising, Niche Publications Charlene Adam Charlene.Adam@freepress.mb.ca

Editor Jennifer McFee Design Tammy Mitchell

ACT Mature

ct mature! No doubt, if you are over 40, you have heard that retort. It was a response commonly given to a class clown who stuck straws up his nose or pulled someone’s ponytail.

Today, acting mature means something entirely different — being responsible. We over-40s have a lot on our plate. Many of us long for days when choosing between a VHS or Beta VCR was a dilemma. When we were younger, did we ever think we would be living through a pandemic? Close behind COVID-19 worries are concerns over bills, wealth management, work, caring for parents and mental health concerns (yours and the rest of your family’s). This spring edition of Mature magazine addresses many of these concerns. It will touch on mental health and family therapy, assistance for aging parents, charitable giving options, dating advice, tips on Zooming, and advice to prevent argon exposure. There is even a story on nail treatments for males. Whenever we can, we should embrace the help when we need it but not forget to enjoy the lighter side of life. It’s what’s called acting Mature.

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MATURE 3

HELP, ON’T W WHERE RN? mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1

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NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1 Dial or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1 Dial or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1 Dial NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1 Dial • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment or visit mb.211.ca • • Dial or visit mb.211.ca 2 • • Dial or visit mb.211.ca • • Dial

NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 Dial or visit mb.211.ca 2 • 1 • 1 Dial NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? NEED HELP, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN?

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211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! NFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES ealth Support ealth Care for an Aging Parent c Violence Shelters ns Treatment 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! 24/7 FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment + LANGUAGES 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES 24/7 211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba:

211 connects you to community resources and services anywhere in Manitoba: • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES • Mental Health Support • Home Health Care for an Aging Parent • Domestic Violence Shelters • Addictions Treatment • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES • Parenting Resources • Food and Clothing • Income Tax Clinics • and so much more! FREE | CONFIDENTIAL | 150 + LANGUAGES

4 MATURE

Your Happiness May Be Closer Than You Think – My Name is Mary

Mary and Adaobi having fun in the kitchen!

My name is Mary. I am a retired school teacher, mother and proud grandmother. I am on my way to celebrating my 82nd birthday. Unfortunately, I lost my husband a few years ago and now I live alone in our home with memories of happier days. I have three amazing children, a wonderful daughter-in-law, and a very hard-working son-in- law. I am a grandmother to six beautiful and smart grandchildren whose photos are everywhere in my home. My two sons live here in Winnipeg; however, my daughter lives out of province and I don’t see any of them as much as I would like these days. They all have busy lives, balancing work responsibilities and the challenges of being parents with younger children. The lockdown restrictions of the pandemic have made visiting my family almost impossible, and I have been spending more and more time alone. Prior to the pandemic I had moments of loneliness between periods of seeing my family however, I had activities to help fill my days. I enjoyed, traveling, walking, baking, sewing, visiting friends and family. These gave me purpose, joy and contentment. But the isolation created by the pandemic compounded my loneliness and I found I lost interest in the things I used to enjoy. One day somehow just blended into the next day, and then to the next and so on. One night at my home I had a serious fall in the bathroom. I am slowly on the mend but months later the bruising is gone and I am still experiencing some rib pain and now some loss of confidence. My children and the rest of the family were all extremely concerned about what had happened to me when they learned of my fall. They certainly were also becoming aware of my loneliness, lack of enthusiasm and lost confidence and started to push me towards considering care. I am not, and was, not ready to sell my home and

move into assisted living, although I was persuaded to put my name on a wait list. The idea of losing my independence with any type of care did not appeal to me and my reluctance was evident to my family. My daughter became adamant that if was to remain in my home I needed to have regular help to manage my household and to have some companionship. She was referred by a friend to call Nurse Next Door Home Care Services. She made the call and, reluctantly, I agreed to a meeting with Nurse Next Door based on my family’s insistence. Two lovely women showed up from Nurse Next Door to see me a short time later. We talked about my life, my family, my health, my goals, what makes me happy and my strong desire to stay in my own home. By the end of the Caring Consult I decided to push past my fear and accept just a little bit of care. I would sign up with Nurse Next Door for a short trial period and reevaluate after a few visits, if for nothing more than to satisfy my family (especially my daughter). The Nurse Next Door Care Designer came back the following week and introduced me to “my perfect caregiver match” Adaobi. I was skeptical at first as to how things would progress with my scheduled visits. I have been very pleasantly surprised at how things have worked out. During my weekly visits with Adaobi, we work together on projects like sewing or making my favorite muffins, and have even made a holiday ham with fruits. She helps me to keep my household clean, tidy and fresh. We do laundry together and change the bed sheets. She organizes my fridge, sweeps, wipes countertops and dusts. Although I bath myself, she draws my bath and ensures I am safe getting in and out of the tub (as I am scared to fall again). Every week is a little different in terms of what gets done here and what projects we start on or outings we plan and that’s okay because it keeps things interesting.

The trial period has long since passed and I am on continuous visits now. I greatly look forward to seeing Adaobi and spending time with her as we do a lot of laughing together. My disposition has completely changed and my whole outlook is much more positive. Having this little bit of weekly care has allowed me to safely and happily stay in my home and has given me a new type of independence. Really, it’s changed my life’s path. Actually, the assisted living facility just called me the other day to tell me that my turn had come up and they had space for me to move into a nice two- bedroom suite. I declined their offer and told them I was managing at home fine for the moment thanks to Nurse Next Door Home Care Services. I really just want to stay in my own home, and I think my family is happy with this decision as well. I am enjoying my hobbies again and am looking forward to traveling one day, socializing with my friends, spending time with my family and giving big hugs. I have a happier life now because of the team at Nurse Next Door and am feeling hopeful. I wanted to share my story. I thought my story may help others to consider care as personally I know how hard this decision was for me. Maybe when you read my story you will see yourself in my words. Maybe you too are struggling and are not sure what to do. There is help. You don’t need to be afraid. Your family’s worry can be lessened and your happiness may be closer than you think. Call Nurse Next Door Home Care Services, they helped change my life and I promise you, you too can start looking forward to happier days.

Sincerely,

Mary from Winnipeg

204-800-0251

www.nursenextdoor.com

MATURE 5

BY JENNIFER MCFEE Life sometimes seems like a balancing act in an effort to juggle kids, careers, aging parents and endless other responsibilities. Throw in a global pandemic and we teeter even closer to tipping the scales. A BALANCING ACT

or Karen Duncan, associate professor in the University of Manitoba’s community health sciences department, paid

“There may be children who need attention or older family members who need increasing levels of care. There may be financial stresses. Work itself can be demanding because it’s a time when people are looking to advance their careers,” Duncan said. “I think work-life balance has been much more difficult in the pandemic for people in this demographic. It’s phenomenally difficult trying to continue your paid work while you are taking care of your children, particularly for single parents.” Katherine Breward, associate professor in the University of Winnipeg’s business department, said persistently high stress will lead to burnout typified by diminished personal achievement, emotional exhaustion and depersonalization — and all of these things can negatively impact the work environment. Beyond that, Breward said a lack of

work-life balance disrupts life in other undesirable ways that can lead to family conflicts, anxiety, guilt and a lack of

availability to family members. “I think it is important that these

work is important — but so, too, is leisure time. “People are experiencing a lack of balance among these activities in their lives and it can lead to a number of negative outcomes such as lower satisfaction with family, relationships and life in general,” she said. “It’s also been shown to have negative health effects such as stress, poor sleep, depression and poor coping mechanisms such as addictive behaviour. If I’m not paying attention to this, I could be on the road to some serious health difficulties.” For those in the 40-plus demographic, it’s often a life stage filled with many demands.

personal emotional and social impacts on the broader family are recognized in addition to business impacts,” she said, adding that changes to expectations for parenting styles might also contribute to the problem. “There is a lot of research that suggests females are more negatively impacted by work-life issues than men (although both are affected), due primarily to ongoing gender-related imbalances in childcare and domestic work responsibilities.” For those sandwiched in the middle of competing demands, self-care is a good place to start — although Breward acknowledges it might not always be possible due to time constraints.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

6 MATURE

WORK

“For those sandwiched in the middle of competing demands, self-care is a good place to start.”

MATURE 7

CONFIDENCE & COMPETENCE - IT DOES A BODY GOOD

By Jean-François Bérard, physiotherapist at Pure Physiotherapy

As with anything, practice leads to mastery. The more we use certain proficiencies, be it physical or otherwise, the more we develop and build confidence as well as competence in them; the same is true when physiotherapists address injuries. In an attempt to re-establish regular activities of daily living, as well as resuming normal levels of activity in sport and at work, a gradual and sure progression yields best results. The term physical literacy is defined as moving with confidence and competence in a wide variety of activities and environments. In other words, the more you practice, in both repetition and variety, the better you will be become. Until fairly recently, the philosophy around physical fitness was to focus on less variety, rather to train specifically for one task. For example, if you wanted to play better tennis then all you would have to do is play more tennis. And although it’s true, playing more tennis will likely lead to a better game, you may at some point reach a plateau. Physical literacy however tells us that the more varied skills, events and activities we partake in, the more versatile our body will become. So, while you may not think that going for a swim or climbing up a wall or playing basketball will make you a better tennis player you may be wrong. A

variety of activities challenge the body in different ways, which in turn pushes your muscles, joints and nervous tissues to be stronger, more agile and more coordinated. In fact, the more chances your body has to challenge itself, in different ways, the more adept and more capable your physical skills will become. Although recovering from an injury isn’t necessarily easy, especially in the presence of pain and dysfunction, physiotherapists can help you to restore your movement, recover your strength and improve your physical literacy. The best part is that exercise always works. It makes us stronger, fitter, leaner, and gives us more energy in our day, every time. With a tailored plan based on your history and your goals, you will feel like youself again in no time. Do your best to listen to your body and seek professional help when pain or soreness lasts more than a few days. Physiotherapists have the expertise and practical knowledge to help you deal with injuries, progress properly through the stages of recovery and give you the confidence you need to return to sport or work, whether it’s been days or years. Have you had your 30 minutes of exercise today?

“There’s a real bottom-line incentive

for employers to have policies in

place that are going to be helpful to their employees’ work-life balance.”

To find a physiotherapist, visit mbphysio.org today.

- Karen Duncan , associate professor in the University of Manitoba’s health sciences department

YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPIST HAS THE ABILITY TO USE A BROAD RANGE OF TREATMENT TECHNIQUES TO HELP YOU GET BETTER.

To find a physiotherapist in your area, visit www.mbphysio.org

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8 MATURE

WORK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

“Really, though, the help needs to come more from employers. We need to have more realistic workplace expectations, paid sick and mental health days and paid days off for family care,” she said. “Offering flextime can really help since it gives people more flexibility to attend to family appointments and other needs. Work-from- home options can also help if people have a suitable space in which to work.” Although there’s a tendency to put responsibility on individuals, Duncan agrees employers have a role to play. “Research shows employers incur costs when their employees are experiencing work-life conflict. There’s a real bottom-line incentive for employers to have policies in place that are going to be helpful to their employees’ work-life balance,” she said. “It’s so tempting to think of this as an individual thing but, really, it’s societal. Work-life balance is not a luxury for those who can afford it — it is essential for everyone.”

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Heart to Home Meals, Canada’s leading meal delivery service for seniors, is excited to announce the opening of their Winnipeg location. This is big news because the need for healthy, contactless meal deliveries is at an all-time high as the importance of social distancing for seniors continues to increase. Fred, the new owner of Heart to Home Meals Winnipeg, is very excited to be able to provide a service to the thousands of seniors living in the community who are hoping to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. “I am so excited to offer Heart to Home Meals to Winnipeg. I wanted to do my part in making it easier and safer for Parents and Grandparents to live in their own homes as long as possible, having access to great foods specifically made for seniors. Ask me about my friend JOY and you will understand why I wanted to do this; it was to make it easier for her to remain independent.”

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MATURE 9

ABCs of CBD The

BY JENNIFER MCFEE

esearch is underway to determine if cannabis use — including cannabidoil (CBD) —has increased during the pandemic.

Dr. Lynda Balneaves, associate professor in the College of Nursing at Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, says more detailed research is still needed to reach any firm conclusions. However, some studies suggest self-isolating folks report an increase in general cannabis use, which might include CBD-rich products.

10 MATURE

HEALTH

Dr. Lynda Balneaves, associate professor in the College of Nursing at Rady Faculty of Health Sciences

BALNEAVES SUGGESTS INDIVIDUALS CONSULT WITH A HEALTH-CARE PROFESSIONAL ABOUT WHETHER CBD CONSUMPTION WILL INTERACT WITH MEDICATIONS.

‘high’; however, it can affect mood and possibly feelings of anxiety,” she said. “In terms of side effects, it can interact with other medication as well as cause some stomach upset or diarrhea when used in large amounts, and fatigue and sleepiness in some individuals.” As a chemical, CBD impacts the body through the endocannabinoid system, an internal regulatory system comprised of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids and enzymes, Balneaves explained. “CBD is still being researched, but it’s thought to have an impact on how endocannabinoids are broken down by the body,” she said. “CBD can be found not only in plant material but also in oils and edibles that are available through the cannabis

market in Canada.” Through the legal market in Canada, CBD comes in many forms such as dried cannabis, vaping liquids, gel capsules, creams and lotions, and edibles like candies, beverages and baked goods. Some licensed producers in Canada even sell bath bombs with both THC and CBD. Balneaves suggests individuals consult with a health-care professional about whether CBD consumption will interact with medications. In addition, they should ensure they’re getting CBD through a legal licensed producer. “Consumers should always use legally produced sources of cannabis in Canada,” she said, “to ensure they are receiving regulated cannabis with known quantities of CBD and THC.”

“Given the possible mood effects of CBD, particularly related to anxiety and sleep,” she said, ”there is some potential that during the pandemic individuals are using more CBD to cope.” CBD, or cannabidoil, is one of more than 120 phytocannabinoids that exist within the cannabis plant, Balneaves explained. “CBD does not that have the same psychoactive effect as THC, the other well-known cannabinoid in cannabis. In other words, CBD does not cause most people to feel

green.eps; Customer is responsible for accuracy

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Thorvaldson Care Center is a government approved, family owned and operated Intermediate Care facility providing care to seniors since 1959. ‘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.

MATURE 11

Jennifer Diggle is a certified financial planner in Winnipeg and co-author of Financial Success for Women by Women.

12 MATURE

FINANCES

NEVER TOO LATE

SET YOURSELF UP FOR A WORRY- FREE FINANCIAL FUTURE, STARTING NOW

J BY SHERRY KANIUGA

ust picture it: you start your day with a leisurely cup of coffee, read a book, catch up with

Sound like a dream that’s beyond your reach? Not necessarily, says Jennifer Diggle, a certified financial planner in Winnipeg and co-author of the recently released book Financial Success for Women by Women. No matter what stage you’re at in life, she says, now’s a great time to start planning, saving and investing in your future. “It’s never too late to align the decisions you make, and the actions you take every day, with where you want to be in the future. The most important thing is to start now — don’t put it off thinking you have lots of time because the next 10 or 20 years will just fly by,” Diggle says.

a friend for lunch, maybe spend some time volunteering. This relaxing, stress-free day is one of many like it, all thanks to the one million dollars you’ve accumulated by the time you’ve retired.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

MATURE 13

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

BUT HOW AND WHERE DO YOU START?

Top 5 tips to help you get started at any age. Here are her

1 . Pay yourself first: have some money drawn automatically from your bank account, either bi-weekly or monthly. More frequent, smaller deposits let you forget about the amount being withdrawn, and take advantage of highs and lows in the market over time, compared to an annual lump- sum contribution. Already doing this? Challenge yourself to start investing larger amounts. 2. If your employer has an investment matching program where they will match all or part of a certain percentage you contribute each pay cycle, join the plan. Taking advantage of this type of plan is a no-brainer and one of the biggest ways to grow your wealth.

3. Pay off any debts you have — but invest at the same time. It’s possible you’ll always have some form of debt, so if you’re only ever focusing on the debt, you’re not moving towards your long-term goals. 4. Identify the tax strategies that can help you build your wealth — or, better yet, enlist the help of a professional financial planner or accountant, who will be familiar with the ever-changing tax system, rules and credits available. 5. Partner with a financial advisor who makes you feel comfortable, and who you get along with, to figure out your best path so you can get your money working for you.

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14 MATURE

FINANCES

“FINANCES SHOULD BE SIMPLE AND FUN,

NOT SCARY OR INTIMIDATING.” - Jennifer Diggle,

Finances should be simple and fun, not scary or intimidating, Diggle insists. More and more people are realizing the importance of investing — especially women, she says. “In the last decade I’ve witnessed a shift in the average woman’s involvement with her finances. Women are becoming more confident and knowledgeable about our financial affairs, and taking action — which is having a strong and positive effect on our financial future.” If the best time to start investing was years ago, the next best time is now, Diggle says. “With what we’ve been going through with this pandemic, everybody knows someone who was doing everything right, but they’ve lost their job or their business — or maybe it’s happened to them. Now more than ever, it’s clear that it’s crucial to have a plan and to be putting money aside for your future.”

certified financial planner

For a copy of Financial Success for Women by Women, contact Jennifer Diggle at jdiggle@ipcc.org.

UPSCALE MATCHMAKING SERVICE FOR EVERYDAY PEOPLE

Lianne Tregobov, Matchmaker

people settle for, which is ‘better than nothing’ love,” Tregobov said. “COVID has demonstrated that if there is a void, it’s magnified and amplified. Camelot’s clients range in age from late 20s to early 90s as love ought not to have an expiration date. People want love, and there’s nothing wrong with that.” To embark on the journey to find your match, visit www.camelotintroductions.com email camelotintroductions@mymts.net or call 204.888.1529.

over the past 27 years. “When you work with me, you’re meeting people who are hand-select- ed and vetted with criminal record checks performed on them. Their in- tentions are clear and they’re serious about finding love.” Camelot Introductions’ $1,200 service works within its pool of clients to find a match. For those seeking broader options, the $10,000 prestige service involves recruiting suitable matches from outside the pool. “Gone are the days when people feel matchmakers are for the desperate or dateless. It’s for people who can afford the luxury. We believe in finding true love as opposed to what many

By Jennifer McFee

I n our increasingly virtual world, it’s a refreshing change to look for love in an offline environment. Camelot Introductions offers an offline dating solution for those who realize they would welcome love in their life — and who desire a no-nonsense expert approach. “When friends of friends don’t have someone to match you with, it’s natural for people to hide behind the internet with online dating — and it’s not what they expect it to be,” said owner Lianne Tregobov, who is known for her uncanny intuitive ability that has facilitated thousands of matches

MATURE 15

ZOOM PREPARE TO

Video conferencing apps themselves have a lot of tips on how to use their app better.

This site has great advice for larger conferencing formats: https://uit.stanford.edu/ videoconferencing/bestpractices

16 MATURE

1) Dress appropriately. Plain shirts work better than busy prints. And don’t chance it — wear pants!

2) Natural lighting is best. Sit with the light in front of or beside you. If the light is behind you, it can appear as if you are conferencing from a cave. 3) If you have no access to natural light, or if you are conferencing during the night, have a conferencing light handy. A range of options exists starting from $30. Local stores offer them, but you can also order from an internet site.

4) Background matters; note what is behind you. You may opt for a filtered background, but some are distracting. 5) Filters are an option on Zoom. Go into the settings section and you will find a useful option called “Touch Up My Appearance.” It softens lines and wrinkles. 6) Emojis can be used while you are on mute — everything from a raised hand to a heart. (In settings, you can also choose the emoji’s skin tone.) Zoom and other apps allow for side chats. 7) Play around with different video conferencing apps. Get used to them ahead of time. It will save you some stress.

MATURE 17

BEST FEET FORWARD Blacksmith Parlour helps you put your

Good grooming is necessary in this new world of virtual meetings. Face and hand care for men have become especially important. Blacksmith Parlour has been ahead of this trend for five years.

Healthy nails for males and relaxation, too. Photo by Darcy Finley

• Three nutritious Meals a Day • Complimentary 24 Hour Bistro

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18 MATURE

BY CHARLENE ADAM

B lacksmith Parlour is the services to downtown customers in a setting catered to male relaxation. Services range from hand and foot treatments to facials and waxing (discreetly done, of course). With a scotch (or libation of choice) in hand and a game on the screen, men can feel pampered and relaxed. Over the last three years, however, inspiration of Steven Zacharuk. H e op ened the business to provide professional esthetical “40 to 50 per cent of clients come to us for the health benefits,” noted Zacharuk. Clients seek to address concerns, such as cracked heals and ingrown nails. They are treated with regular monthly appointments, added Zacharuk. The medicated creams used to soothe these painful ailments can also be purchased for home use.

Zacharuk recently discovered that doctors suggested treatments such as those found at Blacksmith Parlour to individuals with “diabetes who are unable to care for their own feet,” he said. Zacharuk, a strong supporter of local businesses, uses lotions, creams and oils sourced from Manitoba companies. He feels that supporting local companies is especially important now with so many small businesses being hit hard by government COVID-19 restrictions. Blacksmith Parlour follows all government guidelines and is open by appointment only. Zacharuk explained that you can book online “and even purchase gift cards online for that hard-to-buy-for guy.” “Nails for males” may be the company tagline, but relaxation, comfort and health are the benefits.

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MATURE 19

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AGING WELL A & O ASSISTS MANITOBANS IN

BY JENNIFER MCFEE A dult children can seek support through programs and services available to enhance the lives of their older adult parents. A & O: Support Services for Older Adults, rooted in the community since 1957, focuses on service delivery, education and advocacy to aid older Manitobans with aging well. Chief executive officer Amanda Macrae said many specialized programs were in place prior to the pandemic, and they’re now bolstered by additional COVID-19 assistance for older Manitobans. “We all want to age well. This means different things to different people. We need to be able to accommodate these differences through providing a variety of innovative programs and services that Manitobans know they can rely on,” she said.

“Aging is not a bad word, despite the ageist stereotypes that have been perpetuated within society. To grow old on our own terms with the right support in place, if and when needed, is something all Manitobans are entitled to.” Particularly during the pandemic, adult children might be concerned about issues that impact their aging parents such as social isolation, safety and food security. To address these concerns, A & O offers programs and services focused on safety and security, social engagement and counselling. To bolster social engagement, Senior Centre Without Walls allows Manitobans age 55 and older to join free educational and interactive programs from home using a toll-free phone number. Through the Connect Program, registered social workers connect socially isolated Winnipeggers who are 55-plus and living in the community with resources that facilitate independent living. In addition, Senior Immigrant Settlement Services is available for newcomers age 55 and older. For those in need of counselling, registered social workers provide a variety of services that address grief and loss, finances, depression, loneliness, family issues and loss of health. Support groups are also available to address these topics. Through safety and security programs, registered social workers offer elder

abuse prevention services. In addition, the Safe Suite Program provides temporary housing for adults age 55-plus who need a safe place to stay due to abuse or neglect. A & O also works with the Winnipeg Police Service through Older Victim Services to help older adults who are victims of crime. Other useful resources include a falls prevention program called SafetyAid as well as This Full House program, which focuses on homes filled with saved items. Macrae notes that A & O continues to assist older adults during the pandemic with its 311 Food Security line to help with grocery delivery and other specialized services. Wellness kits are also available with hand sanitizer, soap, toilet paper, facemasks, tissues, a crossword puzzle book, notepad, pen and more. Regardless of age, Macrae encourages everyone to be proactive and educate themselves about resources available to support older adults to age well in their own communities. “Age is just a number. The needs and concerns for someone who is 55 are not the same as someone who is 105,” she said. “The population is aging, so we need to advocate for the development and maintenance of innovative programs and services for older Manitobans.” For more information about A & O, visit aosupportservices.ca or call 204-956-6440 or toll-free 1-888-333-3121.

- Amanda Macrae, chief executive officer, A&O “The population is aging, so we need to advocate for the development and maintenance of innovative programs and services for older Manitobans.” ( )

20 MATURE

SUPPORTING THE CORNERSTONES OF OUR COMMUNITY

emergency support valued at $3.9 million, as well as $8.9 million in Stabilization Grants, which support the short- and medium-term financial needs of local charities affected by revenue loss and unexpected expenses due to the pandemic. The Winnipeg Foundation continues to focus on the pandemic-related needs of the community, as well as support new opportunities. Based on feedback from the charitable sector, The Foundation is now offering a new round Stabilization Grants, with $8 million available. Applications are due March 31. “Our granting is only possible because of generous community members, who choose to give to their favourite Causes and charities through The Foundation,” Tate says. “Dedicated community agencies are working hard to support our collective well-being. Please support your favourite charities to whatever extent you are able.”

Being a part of community gives us purpose, support, and friendship, the importance of which crystallizes as we age. Our charitable sector is a cornerstone of so many communities in Winnipeg – and throughout the pandemic it has faced challenges. Since the onset of COVID-19, The Foundation has listened closely to charities about the challenges they are facing today, and what they expect in the months – and years – ahead. “Community agencies’ ability to deliver services and programs has been profoundly disrupted, but they are adapting and providing support where it’s needed most,” says Megan Tate, The Foundation’s Director of Community Grants. “The Foundation has supported charities in a number of ways since the pandemic began.” Between March and August 2020, The Foundation distributed immediate COVID-19-related grants totalling more than $12.8 million. This included

Megan Tate, The Winnipeg Foundation’s Director of Community Grants

When you give through The Winnipeg Foundation, you support the most pressing needs of our community. Support local charities working in your favourite Cause!

Left to right: Pablo Felices-Luna, Manitoba Theatre for Young People, and daughter and Isabel Felices-Luna; Phil Chiappetta, Rossbrook House; Ron Thiessen, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society Manitoba Chapter; Connie Newman, Manitoba Association of Senior Centres; Sukhy Mann, Literacy Works; Doris Koop, Vision Impaired Resources Network. Photos taken prior to the arrival of COVID-19.

Your Community Found since 1921. For Good. Fo

Your Community Foundation since 1921. For Good. Forever.

1350-One Lombard Place Winnipeg, MB R3B 0X3 204.944.9474 | 1.877.974.3631 wpgfdn.org

MATURE 21

“Being both preventive and proactive with therapy can ensure a healthy, sustainable relationship.” - Murielle Jennings ) )

Family therapist Murielle Jennings is seeing an increased need for therapists at the one-year mark of the pandemic. Photo by Darcy Finley

IT CAN GET BETTER — EVEN IN COVID-19

sustainable relationship,” she added. Learning to communicate is key. “Relational therapy helps clients learn more effective, intimate communication tools to deepen understandings of each other as a new partner,” she said. The goal is sustainable, strong and healthy relationships. “Therapy can address relational hurts and provide potential tools to minimize possible future ones,” she added. Her private practice office was reaching full-time status last March — just as the lockdowns began. Her business suffered. Jennings could have been gloomy about the prospects but instead she said, “It can get better — even in COVID.” As one of approximately 150 Manitobans who has this specialized degree, Jennings has had to adjust and move her practice to video or telephone sessions due to COVID-19. Like all mental health practitioners, Jennings said she is already seeing an increased need for therapists now that we are past the one-year mark. She is currently working on her next dream to create a website and blog, which will help provide some help and resources to those who could benefit. No doubt, Jennings will succeed with this goal, too.

BY CHARLENE ADAM P assion for therapy is important for family therapist Murielle Jennings. As a mature woman, she has a story that could be found in an inspirational novel. Jennings lived in many places in Canada and abroad. Her career life is equally diverse. She has worked for the military and in administration at Queens University and the University of Winnipeg. As a lifelong learner, she became a part-time university student, obtaining not only a four-year bachelor’s degree in Conflict Resolution skills but also a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has enjoyed all of her work and life experiences, but she has now found her passion as a therapist focusing on family, couples, unions and individuals — or, as she calls it, “relational therapy.” At her Zoom University of Winnipeg retirement party, colleagues described her as a “resilient and passionate role model who continually strives to create positive change for herself and others.”

“You can do anything you want as long as you put your mind to it and work hard to achieve your goals,“ added Jennings, a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, “and sometimes on that journey you find your passion!” She loves to encourage others to follow their passions as well as to push personal and social barriers, including age, gender and other “isms.” “Clients often struggle with the stigmatism of mental health issues,” Jennings said. “This includes not seeking help for relational issues, which heightens the ongoing challenges and situation.” While she loves all forms of therapy, she said she’s discovered “a forté for relational therapy.” Many of her couples- clients have remained together with her help. She has also assisted some couples to separate amicably. She said she admires the couples who recognize early and attend therapy with their new relationships. “Being both preventive and proactive with therapy can ensure a healthy,

www.alliancefamilytherapy.com www.muriellejennings.com

22 MATURE

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM RADON EXPOSURE

BY TODD LEWYS

Pretty much everyone knows that Manitoba is a summer vacation hot spot. Many people don’t know that Manitoba is also a hot spot for radon gas exposure, says Hailey Coleman, Radon Awareness Coordinator for the Lung Association, Manitoba.

“One in four homes in Manitoba have high radon levels,” she says. “Radon is a serious health risk in your home, as well as in the workplace, schools, and other buildings. Yet, many people don’t know much about it.” Here’s what you should know. First, radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally as the uranium found in rock and soil breaks down. Second, radon is invisible, tasteless, and odorless, making it incredibly difficult to detect. When released outdoors, fresh air and wind dilute it, rendering it relatively harmless. However, it becomes a severe issue indoors. Without anywhere to go, radon gas – without anyone knowing it – can build up. That build-up occurs most commonly in our home, the place where we (especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic) spend much of our time working and relaxing. “Radon levels are unique to each home,” Coleman explains. “It can come up through cracks in your basement floor, through the areas around sump pumps, or even through the water during a shower if you have a well.” She adds that while radon gas build- up can be dangerous in older homes, it can also reach toxic levels in new homes. “Because newer homes were designed

with tighter building envelopes to be more energy-efficient, they keep more air in. That can lead to a greater concentration of radon in the home.” As statistics are now showing, the consequences of long-term radon exposure can be deadly. “Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer of non-smokers, and the second overall leading cause of lung cancer of smokers,” she notes. “Non- smokers exposed to high radon levels have a one-in-20 chance of developing lung cancer, while smokers are at much greater risk with a one-in-three chance of getting it.” How can long-term radon exposure be avoided? Simple: buy an easy-to- use kit to get your home tested. It’s a worthwhile investment, says Coleman. “That’s the only way you’ll know if it has high radon levels. Just order it online, and it will be delivered right to your mailbox for just $65 plus tax,” she says, adding that radon testing is best done during the winter when your home is tightly closed up. The detector setup is easy, with follow-along instructions provided in the kit. Place the small

most time in, either downstairs or on the main floor of your home. Once it’s set up, leave the sensor in place – in a bedroom, media area, or family room – an area where you spend at least four hours per day - and let it do its work. After three months elapse – that’s how long the test takes – all you have to do is mail it off to the testing laboratory in Saskatchewan using the pre-paid label that comes with the kit (shipping is free!). “If it shows that your home has high levels of radon, Health Canada recommends one to two years to put a mitigation system in,” she says, adding that the cost of a system runs from $1,500 to $2,500. “The most important thing is that you’ll be protecting the long-term health of your family. You can’t put a price tag on that.” To order your test kit today, please visit mb.lung.ca; if you have a question about radon, email info@mb.lung.ca or call 204-774-5501.

testing sensor in the area you spend the

“How can long-term radon exposure be avoided? Simple: buy an easy-to-use kit to get your home tested. It’s a worthwhile investment.”

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