55Plus+ January 31, 2022

WHY RETIREMENT LIVING COMMUNITIES AREN’T JUST FOR SENIORS WHO NEED EXTRA CARE VRS COMMUNITIES

MEDICATION REVIEW SERVICES: TALK TO YOUR PHARMACIST FORT ROYAL PHARMACY ASK THE DENTIST! DR. C ROSS CRAPO DDS

LUXURY LIVING WITH EXCEPTIONAL CLUB-LIKE AMENITIES THE VISTA EASE INTO AN EXERCISE PROGRAM SILVER THREADS SERVICE THEIR FINAL JOURNEY: A PALLBEARERS’ ROLE IN THE FUNERAL SERVICE SANDS FUNERAL VICTORIA THE PERFECT TIME TO REDISCOVER CANADA

Why Retirement Living Communities aren’t just for Seniors Who Need Extra Care

While it is true that retirement living communities include staff and services speci cally catered to healthy aging, that doesn’t necessarily mean that those communities and services are only available, or needed, by those in need of extra care.

HERE ARE 5 REASONS WHY RETIREMENT LIVING IS GREAT FOR ALL SENIORS:

• The opportunities for active seniors living

If you are currently living an active senior’s lifestyle and think that moving to a retirement living community means resigning to “getting old”, think again. One of the biggest bene ts of living at a retirement community is daily scheduled recreational activities that are physical, cognitive, and social! Being active and staying active on your own terms is a key part of a happy retirement, and seniors communities come equipped with staff and services speci cally put in place to support your active lifestyle.

• The delicious food Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens seniors communities offer three freshly-prepared, homestyle meals a day. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with other residents in the dining room and enjoy a unique chance to make new friends! With delicious meals such as Wiener schnitzel, pork tenderloin, and butter chicken,

you’ll have to make sure to remember to save room for dessert. Dietary needs are always considered and meals are modi ed as requested.

• The community

A seniors community lets you maintain independence, while still providing lots of opportunities to connect with a community of your peers. Just think, your neighbours are all in the same place in life – the perfect condition for new friendships to naturally grow! Best of all, the recreational options at a seniors community means that you and your friends will have tons of things to do together. Take a walk in the neighbourhood, challenge a friend to a game of pool or shuf eboard, or check out some of the special monthly events planned by residents and staff with your newfound friends.

• The low-maintenance lifestyle

Retirement living means no more shoveling snow, lawn maintenance, housekeeping, or cleaning gutters and windows. You’ll be free of household chores (what a relief)!

• The safety and security

Even though you may not need the extra care, Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens have staff available 24 hours a day to help with anything they can. Having assistance at retirement living communities means someone is there when you do need it.

You, and your loved ones, can experience peace of mind knowing that you’re not alone.

If you’re thinking about making the transition to a senior’s residence in Nanaimo or Victoria, come speak with the friendly people at Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens. Discover the difference an independent and supportive housing community like ours can make.

Visit rossplace.ca or lakeside-gardens.com to learn more today!

Importance of Medications Reviews: Your Pharmacist is a medication expert that can help you better understand your medications

Fort Royal Pharmacy is your local community based pharmacy serving the community of Greater Victoria for over 10-years. They have 3 locations to serve you. With their professional staff, quick and ef cient service, they strive to provide the best customer service to all their clients.

They provide Free Medication Reviews at all their locations. Come into any of their locations and make an appointment with their Pharmacist.

WHAT IS A MEDICATION REVIEW?

The aim of a medication review service is to help patients better understand their medications. When you understand your medications – from why you are taking them, when to take them, and how to best take them – you make informed decisions and have greater ownership of your overall health.

Your pharmacist is a medication expert that can help you better understand your

medications. The service provides you with a one-on-one consultation with your pharmacist in a semiprivate area of the pharmacy to discuss your prescription medications, as well as any overthe-counter meds, vitamins and natural health products you may also be taking

IS THERE A COST TO ME FOR THIS SERVICE?

No.

AM I ELIGIBLE?

If you are a B.C. resident with a valid BC Services Card and you have taken at least ve medications within the last six months, you may be eligible to receive Medication Review Services.

WHAT DO I BRING TO THE SERVICE?

Any medications that you are taking can and should be brought to your scheduled Medication Review. This includes prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, vitamins and natural health products. Your pharmacist will

consider each of your medications and discuss with you how to achieve the best health outcomes.

DO I NEED A DOCTOR'S REFERRAL?

No, You don't need a doctor's referral to have a Medication Review, although your doctor may suggest it. FortRoyalPharmacy.ca info@fortroyalpharmacy.ca

Hillside team

Hillside location

Ask The Dentist!

by Dr. C Ross Crapo DDS

Q: Dear Dr. Crapo: I’m a cook. I’ve cooked all my life in the restaurant cooking business for over twenty years. I grew up in Europe where dentistry was not discussed, at least not in my small town. My parents didn’t talk about it and my brothers and sisters had the same experience. I married and came to Canada. My wife insisted, at my first toothache, I see a dentist. I did and had to have

“A Cook’s Dilemma”

many teeth, or what remained, pulled out. I’ve got all my front teeth, top and bottom. I have no back teeth on my lower left side. I have one molar, with spaces in front of them in the other areas of my mouth. I was told I need to get implants because my teeth are starting to move and I need teeth to fill in the spaces. I was also told that I could have permanent bridges and that would fill in the spaces almost like natural teeth – I can brush and floss them and they stay in like my own teeth. This is all new, so I’m wondering what’s best. My wife and her family have always gone to see the dentist and they don’t have

problems, so I’m sure my wife will make me aware of what’s necessary. One thing I know is that I have no decay except one tooth that might need a root canal. I was told that if I choose bridges, this tooth will work after it has been taken care of. I just need to know what’s best.

A: If finances are not a major factor and you have good bone amounts in all those areas you’ve described, implants are by far the best solution. I say this emphatically because decay is more prevalent in cooks who cook to taste than most other adults. It is comparable to those who have a very sedentary

lifestyle that involves high computer or electronic games use, all the while eating and drinking throughout the day. Having said that, bridgework in the areas you’ve mentioned can be a very good approach if you commit to dental maintenance several times a day. After your bridges are placed, fluoride trays can be fabricated to help render your teeth less susceptible to decay. This along with more frequent visits to the hygienist and dentist, will produce good results.

Bridgework can last decades but it doesn’t happen by accident. Good dental work, followed by good dental home

care and in your case good dental maintenance at work, may well allow you to not only keep your remaining teeth, but give you good function. As far as the area where the back teeth are gone, implants will serve you very well.

If we can help, we’d like to. Call 778-410-2080 for a consultation. Based on actual patient cases

©Calvin Ross Crapo

Victoria Implant Centre 778-410-2080

VictoriaImplantCentre.com

Luxury living with exceptional club-like amenities

The

Retirement may be uncharted waters to you, but you're the captain of your own vessel, and as such, you have a choice of how your adventure unfolds.

Keeping your wellness top of mind is an important factor in your pursuit of luxury senior living, while supporting your desire to age in place. Fortunately, a vibrant retirement living community on Vancouver Island is near completion and lls this niche seamlessly.

The Avenir Senior Living team is applying the nishing touches on The Vista, an 11-storey highquality building that supports a luxury independent retirement lifestyle. Here, you'll have the freedom to live well today, with the assurance your long-term needs will be met in the future.

The community is meticulously curated to deliver a continuum of care across a range of living environments, including 34 beautifully appointed one- and two-bedroom condominiums for ownership, 95 independent or supportive living suites for rent, and 48 dedicated memory care studios.

"We encourage folks to come in as independent residents, whether purchasing a condominium or choosing a rental suite," says Wayne Melvin, general manager of The Vista. "Residents will have the ability to age in place with a menu of services that can be provided in their private suites. If the time comes when round-the-clock support is required, we have two oors dedicated to provide a 24-hour support including specialized memory care."

The bespoke offerings are more akin to a ve-star allinclusive resort with state-ofthe-art services and premium amenities that supports residents' mental and physical well-being. You have the exibility to add services and care whenever your needs change, not change to a new building—you won't have to relocate; a hallmark of living at The Vista, your forever home.

At some point, your daily routine might be easier if you can get help with personal care, or transportation to appointments, errands or events, for example, or it might be simpler if you don't have to cook for yourself. As Melvin mentions, "having all your meals provided makes for a really ful lling lifestyle."

"Our assisted living services are available in your independent suite, with supports like administering medication, assistance with bathing, and selecting wardrobe," explains Melvin.

"Some residents may need a little help getting moving in the morning, but are quite capable of continuing their day, perhaps eager

to take in one of our art classes, tness classes, music sessions, or spa treatments—all the types of activities and amenities we offer. We've been described as a cruise ship on land—you can participate in as much or as little as you want."

THE PEAK OF AMENITIES

Like the name suggests,

a stunning 360-degree view envelopes the top oor through oor-to-ceiling windows, where the Grand Salon encompasses a host of superior amenities, backdropped by spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria and the ocean, out to the Olympic Mountains.

"The social dynamic keeps seniors vibrant," says Melvin. "It's

Esquimalt, British Columbia. Actual view of the ocean. Photo by The Vista.

Vista delivers resort-style living and flexible care with ocean, city views

been intentionally designed for community and comfort in mind, and we really took advantage of all the views around the building."

Hemingwayesque touches bind the common spaces: the palm trees, Montmartre art studio, the library, and such, re ect the writer's life and times.

Enjoy resort inspired dining prepared by Red Seal chefs in the Palm Dining Room and French Bistro, or partake in high tea in the English Garden Tea Room. Get in the groove in the Fred & Ginger piano lounge, and don’t be shy to unleash your best moves.

EXCLUSIVE CONDOMINIUMS FOR SENIORS

A special space on the ground oor will house the Royal Canadian Legion, Esquimalt Branch #172, the original property owners.

HOME-LIKE ATMOSPHERE

Melvin notes, the gentle care and compassion provided are really something to behold.

"Our staff members become like family to residents. We're not a revolving door of caregivers and we get to know you to provide that personal touch."

Visit avenirseniorliving.com

Imagine waking up every day surrounded by world class ocean, mountain, and city views. At The Vista your imagination becomes reality. With exclusive access to the 11th floor amenity areas, you will enjoy resort style dining , entertainment, themed events and wellness classes, all with these views as your backdrop. Purchase a spacious 1 Bedroom or 2 Bedroom plan and experience the ultimate

Int erior Features

• Continental breakfast every morning

• Use of all amenity areas & patios

• Daily social, fitness & wellness programs

• Entertainment & themed events

• Concierge services

• Delicious meal plans available*

• Housekeeping service plans available*

• Individualized air conditioning & heating

• Private patios with ocean, mountain, and city views

• Custom kitchen cabinetry

• Marbled quartz counter tops

• Built in refrigerator, dishwasher, and full appliance package

• In suite washer and dryer

*some fees and conditions apply

The Vista in Esquimalt, British Columbia, seamlessly blends a boutique, resort-style living experience with industry-leading extended support services. This provides unmatched opportunities for engagement and entertainment, while ensuring any care or assistance you may need is close at hand.

Photo by The Vista.

EASE INTO AN EXERCISE PROGRAM

Fitness, Music, Dance, Games, Discussion and Social Groups and much more. For more information on the new Tuesday and Thursday Functional Fitness classes or the Functional Walking Program give us a call at 250 388-4268.

SILVER THREADS SERVICE HAS BEEN SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 65 YEARS.

It’s a new year and the time we think about exercise and new health goals. At Silver Threads Service we have just the answer for those who are 55 and better and want to enjoy exercise classes that are geared to our age group. There are two locations and 8 classes a week, with new Tuesday and Thursday morning classes just being added at the Victoria Centre. Beginning in January a three-month membership is only $25 and this will give you reduced fees for all types of activities. Our Functional Fitness accommodates a range of physical fi tness levels and can be done seated, standing or both depending on how you feel during the class. Our Instructors are experienced, well-trained professionals who love what they do, and you will too. The fee for members is $4 and you can pay as you go and see that it fi ts.

The new classes o ered at 10:00am Tuesday and Thursday are taught by Anne Casey, who has over 20 years’ experience. Her passion is teaching those

Tues, January 31, 2023

A Victoria Times Colonist publication

Publisher: Dave Obee

Director of Advertising: Ed Kennedy

#201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, BC V9A 6X5

To advertise in the next issue and or submit content please contact: Aaron Ross, 250-380-5313

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who want to get more active and helping find ways to work through challenges. Her goal is to get participants to be stronger and more stable. Anne states, “Every one is di erent and every body is di erent, so I teach each person how to get the most benefi t from each move for their body. I o er many choices, adaptations for each exercise and participant.”

Using a similar approach, Anne will be instructing the Functional Walking Program on Tuesdays from 9:00am to 9:45am. This unique class takes place at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre, and you will gradually learn to use Activator walking poles to benefi t your strength, core, balance and stability. The program takes place indoors, around the concourse on an even surface with no tripping hazards. It is safe and fun to learn.

We have two Centres for those who are 55 years and better, one in Saanich and one in Victoria and o er a variety of programs from

Our Saanich Centre is located at 286 Hampton Road, in the Tillicum Gorge neighbourhood and can be reached at 250 382-3151. Our Victoria Centre is located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Police Station and can be reached at 250 388-4268. For more information on any other program call our Centres or visit silverthreads.ca

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE WORD SCRAMBLE

Memory PLUS is a Silver Threads Service program for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting. The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies. We encourage you to exercise your brain by solving an all about the New Year scramble.

Our next session will begin Wednesday, February 13th, 2023. Classes are at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. The cost is 6 sessions - $54 Members or $78 Non-members. Call 250 382-3151 or visit silverthreads.ca for more information.

This month’s word scramble is all about the benefi ts of exercise. Have fun unscrambling some habits to help make 2023 the best year possible.

Anne Casey, Silver Threads Fitness Instructor

Their Final Journey: A Pallbearers’ Role in the Funeral Service

Esthetics by Gina Lavertu

Self care is something that is really key for our well being, especially in recent times when so many around us need our care and attention. It’s about giving ourselves permission to take time for ourselves. Something as simple as a eyebrow wax, pedicure, manicure or facial can not only make a person’s physical appearance look better but also make them feel better on the inside giving them more confidence.

I have been doing esthetics for over thirty years, I love what I do and I am passionate about providing great service, helping my clients feel and look better on the inside and out.

Located in a private room at Wild Oak Hair Collective, a boutique salon in Royal Oak, with no stairs and free parking is where I reserve time for you.

By: Laura Van Sprang, Manager of Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria by Arbor Memorial

When I was young, I remember reading the poem Footprints by Margaret Powers, which is still one of my favorite pieces of writing today. It impacted me greatly, particularly the part where the individual sees only one set of footprints in the sand. When you continue reading, we nd out they haven’t been abandoned, but rather had been carried during the lowest and most hopeless time in their life.

This poem reminds me of the human connection we have for one another. To know that someone cares so deeply for you, they would bear some of the weight when they are needed most. That’s special. It only seems tting, and in our nature, to want to provide that time-honoured tradition of carrying our dearly departed loved ones to their nal resting place.

Being asked to be a pallbearer for a family member or close friend who has died can be a very emotional yet meaningful

experience. Being chosen is a clear sign that you are a trusted and valued individual who has played a signi cant role in the person’s life to be given this responsibility. You want to make sure it is done with the dignity and respect it requires. Possibly, you have participated as a pallbearer before or perhaps it is your rst time …maybe even your rst funeral. Rest assured, there will be a team of funeral professionals on-site to guide you and lead you in the process.

Including pallbearers in a service is a time-honoured tradition that should be considered even if a cremation is chosen as the nal disposition. We also see individuals chosen to carry the urn for a service, on its own or with 2 to 4 urn bearers using an urn arch. This is a beautiful way to enter and exit the chapel and the cemetery with an urn.

There are no rules to who can perform the respectful duty. Even if someone is unable to carry to the casket or urn physically, perhaps due to a disability or being of a young or old age - they can still participate by walking

beside the casket or urn as an honourary pallbearer. As our family members age, we are often faced with less family and friends available and it’s a good idea to have the conversation about who you would call upon, when the time comes, for you and your family members. It is also okay for you to let important people in your life know, it would be something you would be available and honoured to do.

It is so impactful to watch a casket being carried. The weight that is being taken on is more than just the individual them self - it is also the love, the loss, the honour, the memories, and the realization of this being the nal journey, that will be taken together.

When we are at our most vulnerable and no longer have the ability to carry ourselves, what an amazing gift and duty we perform for our loved ones, ensuring they are carefully transported on that nal journey, by those who loved them most. Many times, it is those who once carried us as children, that we may one day be called upon to carry ourselves, and our two sets of footprints, will again become one.

Wh ether yo ua re pl an nin gi na dvan ce or re qu ireo ur co mp as sio nate ca re im med iate ly -p le as ec ontact our te am to honour yo ua nd yo ur love do nes wi sh es with in yo ur budgeta ry ne ed s.

Southwest

Okanagan

The Perfect Time to Rediscover Canada with Mile Zero Tours

Looking for your next big adventure? Well you are in luck then, because Canadians are blessed to live in such a diverse and large country. However, oftentimes exploring our own, albeit very large, backyard takes a backseat to overseas bucket list destinations. This doesn’t need to be the case as there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to visit and experience within Canada and no better time to reap the bene ts of travelling domestically. Canada certainly has an abundance of wondrous destinations worth visiting. From coast to coast, our country is bursting with charming towns, natural geographical wonders, and fascinating histories. Mile Zero

Tours, a local Island-owned tour operator, knows and understands this and specializes in crafting rst-class guided tours from Vancouver Island to some of Canada's most breathtaking gems. This spring, summer and fall travel opportunities include every province in the country. From the majestic landscapes of Alberta’s Badlands to the rocky shores of Nova Scotia, to the cosmopolitan cities of Quebec and Ontario. Mile Zero Tours is going everywhere from St. John’s to Tuktoyaktuk. Plus there are many tours highlighting the many wondrous regions of our own home province. These include short escapes of 3-6 days to the Okanagan, To no and the Gulf Islands or more in-depth explorations featuring

Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, the Kootenays, a train ride across northern BC on the Skeena or a historic journey following the path of gold prospectors along the Fraser.

Not to mention that by supporting Canadian businesses you are doing your part to strengthen the backbone of the economy. And you can rest assured that Mile Zero Tours guarantees all deposits fully refunded if conditions do not permit the trip to go ahead. So go ahead, make the plans and dream big for 2023!

For unforgettable travel that starts right from your front door in Victoria, call 250-590-0811 or visit MileZeroTours.com

As we age and begin to lose our mobility and sense of balance, bathing can not only become difficult but also a cause of additional stress and anxiety Fear of falling and a fear of not being able to get out of the tub are two of the most common occur rences with many of our seniors today Walk-in tubs have become extremely popular in the last decade and estimates show that people who g o ahead and install a walk-in tub in their homes today, will be able to live independently for an additional five years

Walk-in tubs are exactly what the name implies, tubs that have large doors that open, and you simply walk in and sit down on a 17-inch-high seat. You close and lock the door and the tub fills rapidly while you are sitting comfortably and safely inside All the taps and controls are easily accessible at your fingertips Once you are done your bath, tum the dial and the tub quickly drains and you simply open the door and walk out of the tub The various models all have numerous g rab bars and nonslip surfaces making getting in and out wor r y free Walk-in tubs are designed for an aging population who desire to remain independent for many years to come

Manufacturers have optional tub designs accommodating ever y shape and size of person and bathroom. There is a tub size that will fit in the space where your existing tub or shower is Walk-in tubs can be as basic as a soaker tub to as deluxe as your own personal spa. Offering numerous options such as heated back, multi-speed war m air jets, water jets, ozone, light therapy, aromatherapy, and more

The benefits of a walk-in tub are numerous Many people crave being able to confidently have a bath again and find relief by just soaking in a war m tub. Owners say they believe they sleep better after a soothing bath. The war m air or water jets give a deep massage and help to stimulate circulation, thus car r ying additional healing oxygen throughout the body to the hands and feet This has shown positive results increasing mobility and helping to relieve the pain and symptoms of such conditions as arthritis, chronic back pain, fibromyalgia, diabetic and peripheral neuropathy, as well as various other acute and chronic conditions

The Canadian Government website states that 1 in 4 seniors fall ever y year,

and 25% of these falls are serious, leaving the victims per manently disabled and bedridden. A large percentage of these

falls take place in the bathroom. Aside from all the pain and suffering it also ends up costing the Canadian medical

Perhaps, one of the best decisions I’ve made is when I decided to go ahead and put a walkin tub in my house. I no longer have a fear of falling and this will help me live in my home for many more years to come.’

Jean S.

system two billion dollars annually Therefore, the British Columbia and Federal Governments are helping many people who decide to purchase a walk-in tub now The help comes in the for ms of a tax credit, a Provincial Sales Tax waiver, and in certain qualifying cases a $7,500.00 Government Grant

As we all age and the years fly by, many seniors are faced with the reality that taking proactive steps today and deciding to retrofit their homes with a walk-in tub is one of the best investments they can make to help them age in place, comfortably and independently in the home they love.

g Sponsored content provided by Walk-in Tubs Fraser Valley.

Thank You Victoria! For Voting Us the #1 Optometrist

“Hiring the right people for the right positions is the “secret sauce” to Mayfair Optometric Clinic. The person chiefly responsible for that success is Mary Lou Newbold, Chief Eyecare Officer, who has been overseeing operations at Mayfair Optometric Clinic for over 20 years. “Having skilled employees who have been with us for many years is what we are most proud of,” says Mary Lou.

Mayfair Optometric Clinic proudly serving the

greater Victoria area for over 20 Years.

Mary Lou Newbold CEO - Chief Eyecare Officer

Dr. Stephen Taylor Optometrist

Mayfair Optometric Clinic has been proudly serving clients from all over Greater Victoria at its current location for over 20 years. Dr. Stephen Taylor has been seeing patients for over 35 years since receiving his Doctorate of Optometry from Pacific University in 1986 and Dr. Trevor Peddle has been practicing in the city for 13 years after graduating from the optometry program at the University of Waterloo in 2009. Both optometrists at the clinic make use of the latest diagnostic instruments and cutting-edge medical research as well as their extraordinary depth of experience to help you maintain optimal eye health.

Routine exams not only check the health of the eye and visual system but may also non-invasively detect issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases that may require further investigation. Doctors of optometry work closely with other medical professionals to help ensure you receive the care you deserve.

Lastly, the newest imaging equipment and most thorough examination can only get you so far if the results of all that data do not ultimately end up in the hands of skilled people. Many of MOC’s staff have decades of experience and are passionately dedicated to helping you achieve the best vision possible. If corrective lenses are recommended by the doctor their team of optical experts will guide you through the newest frame, spectacle lens, and contact lens options offered from the top manufacturers in the world. Then they will precisely fit your eyewear so that you have comfortable vision that matches your lifestyle, flatters your face, and preserves your eyesight for a lifetime.

The doctors and staff work hard to earn every client’s trust and are proud of the work they do to help you “live your life with happy eyes.” They deeply appreciate the acknowledgment and support from their community as they endeavour to achieve this goal every day.