55+ July 2023

Residents of The Vista never have to be concerned about relocating

The Vista, Avenir Senior Living’s newly built community in Esquimalt is being welcomed with open arms by seniors because of the wide range of lifestyle choices and amenities it offers.

The Vista blends a resort inspired independent living experience that provides opportunities for social engagement, fitness and entertainment, while ensuring any care or assistance residents may need will be close at hand. There are also dedicated memory care studios which make The Vista a true Continuum of Care.

Along with the breathtaking views, lifestyle choices and amenities, each suite is loaded with quality features and value whether you are buying a condominium or renting an independent living suite.

floor plans which allow for enough space to make their suite cozy and comfortable.”

The Vista has exclusive condominiums for sale on the 9th and 10th floors and independent living rental suites where you can add supportive services as needed. With only a few condos remaining to sell and over half of their suites rented, The Vista is the most anticipated Senior Living Community to open on Vancouver Island in a very long time.

“We chose The Vista because once we move in, we will not have to move again when the time comes when more care is needed,” says Hanny Lester, one of the first buyers in The Vista. “The monitoring of residents’ health needs when the time comes is important to us.” Hanny said a favourite feature of their corner suite is the view to the north and east, made even better because their home is on one of the top floors. That doesn’t mean they will spend all their time in the suite. Hanny says she plans to use the gym several times a week, as well as the entertainment areas at The Vista.

“When we tour our families through the rental suites, they are always amazed that each suite has its own balcony, air conditioning and laundry”, says Sharon Unsworth, director of sales. “They also appreciate the quality of the finishings and efficiency of the

With a wide variety of delicious and nutritious meals prepared by a Red Seal Chef and ongoing themed dining events, residents can reserve tables for family and friends to join them any day of the week.

The extensive amenities on the 11th floor, including the dining area, high tearoom, bistro, polo

Tuesday, June 27, 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

aross@timescolonist.com

sports lounge, art studio and much more, are always highlights of the tours. “I can picture myself sitting out on the patio with my book and a cup of tea, or a glass of wine,” says Mary Wilson, another future resident. I look forward to inviting my friends and family in too. We like that we can remain independent but have all the services we need at our fingertips.”

Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 172, which occupied the land before the construction, will have space in the community too, thanks to a partnership with Avenir. The Legion will be accessible to the community with an entrance just off Admirals Road and will have underground parking for visitors. Additionally, there will be a Pharmacy retail space located on the ground floor to serve the community and residents of The Vista for years to come.

Avenir Senior Living, a family-run company based in Brentwood Bay has a strong track record of developing, designing, constructing, and operating exceptional senior living

communities. “We feel that The Vista is positioned to become a pillar in Esquimalt and Victoria” says Jason Craik – Principal of Avenir Senior Living. “Our family and company are very excited to get the community open and we can’t wait to begin to serve and give back to the seniors of our community.”

Avenir began in Vancouver, where they built four independent and assisted living communities in Langley, White Rock, South Surrey, and Port Coquitlam, then moved into operating and managing three of those communities. Avenir has another independent living community coming soon – Edgewater, on Long Lake in Nanaimo. Plans are in the works for more communities on Vancouver Island and the lower mainland for the coming years.

The Vista sales centre at 1318 Esquimalt Road is open 7 days a week with guided tours of the inside of the community at 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 11 a.m. on Saturdays. “These guided tours allow us to walk

The Vista welcomes pets people through what a day in the life will look like and answer everyone’s questions regarding their specific needs,” says Unsworth.

Visitors are invited to book a guided tour at 778-402-4153, or for more information, visit www. LiveAtVista.ca

The Vista is an 11-storey luxury community offering Vancouver Island seniors four carefree and engaging lifestyles. Choose among condominium ownership, Independent or Supportive Living suites, and specialized Memory Care studios. With flexible care options that evolve along with you, The Vista truly allows you to age in place and never have to be concerned about relocating again.

Dedicated memory care studios make The Vista a true continuum of care

The Vista provides opportunities for social engagement, fitness and entertainment

Six summer safety tips for seniors

Summer is almost here and you might be excited to head outside and enjoy the sun and warm weather. If you’re ready to enjoy your time outdoors, it’s important to take steps to keep yourself safe.

Here are six summer safety tips for seniors living on Vancouver Island:

STAY HYDRATED

The most important thing to do during summer is to make sure you are drinking enough fluids and eating fruits and vegetables to stay hydrated, even if you are not feeling thirsty. Remember that caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should also be minimized as they dehydrate your body.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN AND EYES FROM THE SUN

Wearing sunscreen should already be part of your daily routine, but if it’s not, it’s recommended that sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher is worn every time you are outside. It is also recommended that seniors wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays so that they don’t get irritated or damaged.

AVOID THE OUTDOORS DURING PEAK TIME

During summer, there are certain times throughout the day that are considered ‘peak times,’ where the sun is at its strongest and can cause greater fatigue for longer periods of time. If it’s possible, try to avoid or limit your time outdoors between 10 am to 4 pm.

WEAR LIGHTER CLOTHES

By wearing loose-fitting clothing that isn’t too thick or bulky, you can stay comfortable for a longer period of time in the Summer. If you avoid tight, constricting pieces of clothing, you will avoid constricting your joints and overproducing sweat. Natural fabrics such as cotton are the best to keep you cool.

REDUCE STRENUOUS ACTIVITIES

Although the nice weather may have you excited to do a bunch of activities outside, strenuous activities should not be done for longer periods of time as you will feel more exhausted and are at a greater risk of dehydration.

WATCH FOR SIGNS OF A HEAT STROKE

Knowing the early signs of a heat stroke can help save your life and lives of those around you. Signs of a heat stroke are disorientation, confusion, headache, nausea, dry skin, and a rapid pulse.

If you’re looking for a senior’s retirement community, check out Ross Place or Lakeside Gardens on Vancouver Island. With a warm and friendly environment, experience what a independent seniors community has to offer. Book your tour today!

250-381-8666 | rossplace.ca

Silver Threads Ser vice

Celebrating 65 years of community ser vice to seniors!

Offering great programs &two locations to ser ve you.

Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silver threads.ca formoreinformation

stay active *stay healthy *stay connected

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

Are you an older adult 55+ experiencing commitment issues? Do you look around and see others engaged and active, enjoying hobbies, playing sports, keeping busy and feel like you are missing out? Have you been unable to find “the one”? The one special activity that will bring you a happily ever after? At Silver Threads Service we urge you to not give up hope. We are here to help you dip a toe into the dating…I mean activity pool.

This summer Silver Threads has a wide variety of activities available for drop in. No need to commit to months at a time, no need to take an annual membership, you can try one activity one time. If you like it come again, if you don’t move on to the next!

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 a word scramble about the one-time drop in activities at Silver Threads this Summer.

Lily Pad Lingerie at quaint Mattick's Farm provides a warm, welcoming, boutique shopping experience where mothers, daughters and partners all feel comfortable shopping. At Lily Pad you will find beautiful, unique collections of lingerie, sleepwear, loungewear and activewear. We are proud to offer many of the finest lingerie brands in a full range of cup sizes ranging from AA-K and bands from 30-50. Our sleep, lounge and activewear collections feature sizes ranging from XS –XXL. We look forward to helping you find the perfect fit!

There are two locations. Our Saanich Centre is located near Tillicum Mall at 286 Hampton Road. With a full-sized auditorium, drop-in sports include table tennis, Carpet Bowling and the everpopular Pickleball and are offered at a reasonable non-member fee between $5 and $7.

At the Victoria Centre, located near the Victoria Police Station at 1911 Quadra Street, once a month programs include Trivia Quiz, Music

H i g h - q u a l i t y c o t t o n m o d a l t h a t f e e l s s o f t o n t h e s k i n a n d i s e a s y t o c a r e f o r .

Bingo, while games of Mah Jong and Euchre include instruction. The cost is $5 for non-members. Both Centres have a Monthly Social, where you can enjoy refreshments and conversation facilitated by our Leaders. Held from 1:30 to 2:30pm, the dates are July 4th at the Victoria Centre and July 25th at the Saanich Centre. The fee is $2. It will help you hear what others are doing and you can pick up a schedule while you visit. As well, there is a choice of 8 different fitness classes with seated and standing options. Or for walkers, Indoor and Outdoor Walking Groups that accommodate a variety of fitness levels. Be sure to check out the complete Summer Program Guide on our website Programs & Events | Silver Threads

SILVER THREADS SERVICE HAS BEEN SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 65 YEARS. Our Saanich Centre can be reached at 250 382-3151 . Our Victoria Centre can be reached at 250 388-4268. To book a spot in any of our activities or for more information on any other program call our Centres or visit www.silverthreads.ca

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE

DROP-IN WORD SCRAMBLE

The next session of Memory PLUS will be in the Fall. Classes are at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road. Call 250 382-3151 or visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information.

YOGA DROP IN

At the Victoria Centre you can drop-in to our evening gentle yoga class. If you have never tried Yoga or have been away for awhile this is an excellent class to try. Hatha Yoga is the perfect way to still your mind and move your body at the end of your day.

This class considers our levels and physical limits, with variations offered.

Mats and props are available. Call 250 388-4268 for more information and to book your spot.

Dates: Every Tuesday, July 11th to August 15th

Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm

Cost: $15 non-members

Leader: Paige Driedger

Audiology is so much more than hearing aids!

Most people think of an audiologist as someone who tests hearing and fits hearing aids. That’s part of the role, but there is so much more that an audiologist can do for you.

At Hear Inc., our holistic approach starts with a review of your history and concerns, followed by a thorough diagnostic assessment. The auditory system can be compromised by something as simple as excess wax in the ear canal or as complex as a tumor on the nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain.

Based on the issues an individual reports during the initial consultation, an appropriate test battery is determined. Targeted tests are completed to assess each patient’s unique auditory status and recommendation are made for medical and/or audiological follow up. Audiological follow up may involve wax removal, hearing conservation, tinnitus management, Auditory Processing Disorder therapy,

hearing aids, or a combination of these.

Tinnitus is ringing, buzzing, whistling, or other sounds in the ears without an external source.

If tinnitus is disrupting sleep, affecting a person’s work and social life, or putting them at risk of depression or anxiety, tinnitus therapy may be recommended.

At Hear Inc. we us a program called Tinnitus Activities Treatment, which includes counselling of the whole person, and considers individual differences and needs.

Auditory Processing

Disorders affect the way the brain interprets information the ear hears. If someone reports problems understanding speech, especially in complex environments, but their basic audiometric testing is normal, we will recommend a battery of tests to determine if an APD exists. If so, there are therapies that can be initiated, often with very positive results.

Call Hear Inc. at 778351-1145 to schedule your evaluation.

Senior driving education vs. assessment

Many geriatric researchers presenting at safety conferences agree that education, not testing, is the answer to seniors driving longer and safer.

Prior to intervention by family, government, medical personnel or police, seniors should take charge of their driving situation. It is best to prepare for an impending driver assessment well ahead of time. It will relieve the stress of the unknown and the arrival of the dreaded letter. Seniors should be proactive, not reactive, when it comes to all sorts of things, particularly as it pertains to driving.

Many people believe seniors have a higher-than-normal crash frequency. This is not true. They do have a much higher chance of

injury in a crash because of the frailty brought on by advanced age, particularly those over 75 years of age. Two presenters at a DSAA conference made a very strong case that senior-driver harassment by governing bodies exists throughout North America.

The most common crashes listed in order of frequency and cause of injury are:

• The left turn at intersections, crossing multiple oncoming lanes of traffic, causes injury for all drivers. This type of crash is often due to declining depth perception in seniors and lack of experience in teens.

• The fact that oncoming vehicle drivers could change to the outside through-lane at an intersection, without

warning, and be hidden behind the inside lane of two lanes approaching, was also a factor. For both seniors with slower reaction times and teens lack of experience, lack of scanning contributes to this crash.

• Rear end crashes are very common. This is caused by all drivers not understanding time and distance for stopping. Understanding the consequences of tailgating is a lesson to be learned by all. Again, seniors are more likely to experience more injury than a teen.

Joan Wallace Driving School offers a free seminar for seniors at 2:00 pm every fourth Wednesday monthly. Call to sign up.

250-383-7483.

Ever yone recognizes the challenges facing us with cost-of-living and global economic uncertainty on the rise.

I’m here to support you.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me: Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-472-8528 @leg.bc.

Walk your way to wellness

We all know that walking is good for our health, but how far do we need to walk to experience the benefits? In a recent study from a medical journal, older adults who walked five to six kilometers (or 6,000 –9,000 steps) per day were found to be 40 to 50 percent less likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke than those who walked less than two kilometres per day. And in research cited by Harvard, regular walking was shown to ease arthritis-related joint pain, boost immune function and even curb sugar cravings. Simply remarkable!

Armed with so much research that supports the many health benefits of walking, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, a new seniors’ community in the heart of the city, encourages walking and other forms of exercise through its extensive daily schedule of events and activities which includes wellness walks and walking work outs. In fact, every aspect of the community is designed with the residents’ health and wellness in mind. Keeping moving is one of the seven dimensions of wellness at Tapestry, where residents are encouraged to stay engaged and socially connected while enjoying beautiful amenity spaces such as a gym, theatre, games room, restaurant, fireside lounge and the rooftop terrace that overlooks the gorgeous Inner Harbour.

Located just one block from the waterfront, Tapestry’s location is ideal for enjoying walks along this iconic oceanside pathway while taking in the many summer festivals, markets and musical entertainment along the way.

“I always believe if you stay active, you’ll be healthy,” says Don Ross, a Tapestry Resident since 2021. “Keep moving and you’ll be OK. As they say, a rolling stone gathers no moss.” Don added that moving to Tapestry was one of the best decisions he ever made.

And Tapestry’s award-winning streak indicates that others share Don’s opinion. Once again Tapestry was the only seniors’ community in Victoria to win a ICAA NuStep Beacon Award, crowning their community as “Best in Wellness” among communities across North America.

Condominium home prices start from just $595,900, and for a limited time you can save up to $48,000, equivalent to 5% GST. Or if you prefer to rent, you can receive up to $5,000 towards your moving costs*. To experience the Tapestry difference for yourself, join them for a personalized tour of the display homes, enjoy a complimentary lunch or even stay the night and try it out.

Visit TapestryVictoria.com or call 250.419.4261 for more information.

*Speak to a Sales Representative for more details on their promotions.

Embark on a magical journey through enchanted Ireland with Mile Zero Tours!

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure?

Brace yourself for a journey through the breathtaking landscapes, captivating history, and warm hospitality of Ireland. And what better way to experience this mystical land than with Mile Zero Tours’ 13-day Enchanted Ireland tour in October?

Picture yourself stepping into a world where ancient castles stand proudly, rolling green hills stretch as far as the eye can see, and quaint villages beckon with their cozy charm. Ireland is a place where legends come to life, and Mile Zero Tours is your ticket to this enchanting realm.

One of the many reasons to choose Mile Zero Tours is their exceptional door-to-door pick-up service. From the moment you leave your home, you’ll be greeted by friendly and professional tour director, tour guides and drivers who will ensure your journey is as comfortable as it is memorable. No need to worry about transportation logistics or navigating unfamiliar

roads; simply sit back, relax, and let the beauty of Ireland unfold before your eyes.

As you set foot in Ireland, you’ll be captivated by its rich history and folklore. The Enchanted Ireland tour takes you on a stunning adventure, visiting iconic sites such as the majestic Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the “gift of gab.” Explore the stunning Cliffs of Moher, standing tall against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and let the ancient stone circles at Bru na Boinne transport you back in time.

But Ireland isn’t just about landmarks; it’s also about immersing yourself in its vibrant culture. Get ready to tap your feet to the lively tunes of traditional Irish music in cozy pubs, where locals will welcome you with open arms and a pint of Guinness.

Discover the art of whiskeymaking at the renowned Kilbeggan Distillery, and learn the intricate steps of Irish dancing at a fun evening show.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the mesmerizing landscapes that Ireland has to offer. From the breathtaking Ring of Kerry to the otherworldly landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway, every twist and turn of the journey reveals a new vista that will leave you speechless. Marvel at the serene beauty of the Connemara region and explore the mystical beauty of the wild and rugged Burren.

Skeena Adventure 8 Days June 24 $4299

Discovering Vancouver Island 8 Days July 19 $3799

Yukon and Nor thwest Ter ritories 12 Days July 20 $6699

Picturesque Por tugal 13 Days Aug 31 $6199

Fraser Gold Quest 8 Days Sept 6 $3099

Autumn in Quebec and Ontario 10 Days Sept 24 $4899

Enchanted Ireland 13 Days Oct 8 $6699

At the end of each day, you’ll retreat to charming accommodations that exude Irish charm and hospitality. From cozy inns to elegant hotels, you’ll be treated to a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like a home away from home.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Ireland with Mile Zero Tours. Their Enchanted Ireland tour in October promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with unforgettable memories. For more information or to book your spot please visit milezerotours.com or call 250.590.0811 and let the wonders of this ancient land unfold before your very eyes.

Ask The Dentist!

by Dr. C Ross Crapo DDS

Q: About ten years ago I gave up on my teeth. They were crooked and full of fillings and every time I went to the dentist he’d say, “You’ve got three new decay spots or five.” It seemed like no matter what I tried, nothing worked. So finally, I said “to heck with this pull’em and give me dentures.” I thought, I won’t have to go back and hear that I’d failed again. I also thought, finally I’ll have some nice teeth. So, I went through with it and had my teeth out and dentures put in. I had a terrible time adjusting, in fact I never did. At first, I had to get used to the fitting and I must say during this time I’d gag every time I put them in. I could get one in but not both at the same time without feeling like I was about to lose breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It was awful! My dentist tried to make the dentures as small as possible and still have them stay in but to no avail. So, for five years I’ve gone without teeth. I’ve managed but despite trying to think it’s just my cross to bear, I really know I sound toothless, I look toothless, and my diet has to be cooked and soft. I’ve read about implants, would they help? I’ve been told I’ve got enough bone for the bottom implants but not enough for the top. I can’t see getting teeth on the bottom with no teeth on the top to work against. What can be done?

A: Individuals who have severe gag reflexes demonstrate several areas in the mouth that produce over reaction to foreign body stimulation. At times flossing and tooth brushing will cause gagging. Classically, the roof of the mouth and back of the tongue are the culprits for

This is not a gag!

gagging but I have patients that are so volatilely prone to gagging that I can’t even put the mouth mirror past their lips without them retching. Interesting enough, food and its chewing and swallowing does not cause gagging. When I have placed bridge work in these individuals (they’ve

been sedated during these procedures) it has been readily accepted (i.e. no post-op gagging).

In your case, bridgework could be fitted to your lower jaw with implants. At the same time sinus grafting will produce more than adequate bone for future implants and bridgework to be placed in your upper jaw. All of this work can be done with intravenous sedation – a

gentle procedure, not a general anesthetic, that eliminates an awareness of the procedures. If you’re not able to wear an upper denture while the graft is healing, know that it is only time before the bridgework will be placed, and your chewing and smiling return.

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

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and balanced while caring for an aging loved one. Chat with one of our care professionals to star t building YOUR suppor t team today.

Call

In-flight wisdom for life at sea level

Admit it. You’ve been tuning out those in-flight safety demonstrations for years. Understandable. If you’ve travelled for work or have out-of-town family you could likely give the safety presentation yourself.

But there’s a nugget of wisdom that warrants your attentionespecially if this season of life no longer finds you seated next to small children, but caring for an aging loved one.

TIMELESS WORDS OF WISDOM

“In the event of a sudden change in cabin pressure, an oxygen mask will drop from the panel above you. Place the oxygen mask securely over your own face first before assisting other passengers.”

In the context of a high altitude oxygen shortage, this reminder is crucial. Many generous, well-meaning people - especially mothers, are inclined to put others’ safety before their own.

This is beautiful and noble... and, as every airline reminds us: dangerous.

For those of us who take on the responsibility of keeping others alive and safe, we would be wise to apply put-on-your-own-mask-first wisdom to our sea-level life as well.

THE SLOW CREEP OF EXHAUSTION

The reality is, most of us will never face an emergency involving a lack of actual oxygen gas. A far more common scenario is the slow creep of exhaustion that develops when our help isn’t required for a one-time crisis - but rather a monthly need... that grows into a weekly need...and, before we realize it, into a daily need for our dedicated assistance.

But for the most beautifully well-meaning and selfless caregiver, “Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others,” can feel selfish, or even irresponsible.

The danger to such a dedicated caregiver is subtle and easy to miss. It starts with a skipped walk, a cancelled lunch date, meals on the run, a later bedtime, neglected hobbies.

THE RISKS OF CARING

While the benefits of personally caring for an aging loved one are many, when the time required to do so displaces important habits, activities or relationships, the health risks of the caregiver begin to rise rapidly.

Family members engaged in long-term care for an aging loved one; especially

those dealing with high-stress, emotionally taxing situations such as dementia, are at an increased risk for more frequent colds, flu, chronic illness or degenerative diseases.

Sacrifice in caring for an aging loved one is a beautiful thing. But it’s vital, if you are in this role, that you commit to the important work of caring for yourself as well; restocking your fish pond with restorative activities, necessary rest and life-giving relationships.

NOT A SIGN OF WEAKNESS

Reaching out for professional care support or scheduling respite is not a sign of failure or weakness, but an act of leadership and generosity. Building a reliable support network is as essential as oxygen if you want to remain strong, healthy and joyful for the long haul.

A professional senior care provider can help you with strategies for introducing new, non-family caregivers into your loved one’s daily or weekly routine. You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you have additional support in case of emergency or illness. Plus, those few extra hours added back into your week will help you remain your best and healthiest self, able to enjoy the precious time you have with the loved one you’re caring for.

~ Lee-Ann dos Santos, Care and Company.

When people find out what I have chosen to do for a profession by working in end of life care as a funeral director, embalmer and now a manager, I am often asked how I do it. Many people will comment on how depressing it must be dealing with bereaved people everyday and the morbid and scary thought of handling the deceased. People feel awkward asking me if I am busy at work, assuming that would be a bad thing, as being busy must mean a lot of people are dying. And it is

Have a nice day

rare someone will say “have a nice day”, without following up with, “well as nice as it can be working at a funeral home”.

Once people have given me the time to explain a little bit about why people become funeral directors and the daily running of a funeral home, I am always met with comments of, “wow, I never thought of it that way” or “that is very different than I imagined”. So, if you have a moment to continue reading I would like to share with you a little bit of the how and why we do what we do and the incredible trust and honour it is to serve a community through funeral service.

First of all, yes, people are sad, yes, people are grieving and yes, someone they loved has died. It’s never easy for a family to come in to make arrangements and the realization of the immense loss that comes with it. But then, we get to know each other and once we have gathered the required information needed to register the death with the government… we start to chat. We get to hear all about these amazing people who have passed away, where

they came from, what they did for a living, their hobbies, their accomplishments, their passions and the list goes on. There is always a fresh box of tissue in the room and it is used, however once the door is closed it is usually not long until laughter can be heard and you know a precious memory or story has been shared. And we so appreciate the trust and openness of our families to share these with us.

Then there are the decedents. They are not “dead bodies” to us, they are someone’s, mother, father, sister, brother, child, relative or friend. Yes, we talk to them, yes, we call them by their name and their dignity, respect and proper care is of the utmost importance to us. Don’t forget we also just heard all about this person, so it is even more of an honour to care for them and give the family the best possible experience for their final goodbye. What an honour to curl a woman’s hair for the last time, pin a medal of honour on a veteran or even just place that special family photo in their hand to hold forever. We do not take this privilege lightly.

Finally, if you ask me if we’re busy at work, and we are, it is actually a good thing. It does not mean more people are dying, we have no control over when and how people die. It means the families in and around our community are choosing us to care for their loved one and serve their family. It means we are doing our jobs properly, it means we are providing the important and necessary care and guidance that is so needed when a death has occurred and it means our community trusts us enough to pick up the phone and let us in to assist with one of the most intimate and important moments in their lives. We feel honoured when we are chosen and will do everything we can to assist with our support, guidance and professionalism. Our days are like most people in the working field, in any field. Some days are tougher than others,

some days are busier than others and it takes a team of committed individuals to make each day be as positive and productive as possible to fulfill the role we have chosen in the community. And as previously mentioned, it is a privilege and an honour to assist in any way we can for those in need. So please do not hesitate to tell a funeral service professional to have a nice day, we do have them and it is appreciated.

~ Laura Van Sprang, Manager of

Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria

As we ag e 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 g et 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 larg e 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 comfor tably and safely inside All the taps and controls are easily accessible at your fing er tips 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 T he various models all have numerous g rab bars and nonslip surfaces making g etting in and out wor r y free Walkin 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.

T here 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, multispeed war m air jets, water jets, ozone, light therapy, aromatherapy, and more.

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

T he Canadian Gover nment 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 larg e

percentag e of these falls take place in the bathroom. Aside from all the pain and suffering it also ends up costing the Canadian medical system two

billion dollars annually. T herefore, the British Columbia and Federal Gover nments are helping many people who decide to purchase a walk-in tub now T he help comes in the for ms of a tax credit, a Provincial Sales Tax waiver, and in cer tain qualifying cases a $7,500.00 Gover nment Grant

As we all ag e 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 ag e in place, comfor tably and independently in the home they love g Sponsored content provided by Island Walk-in Tubs.

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