PULLOUTSECTIONINSIDE
AFFORDABLE, FAMILY STYLE, INDEPENDENT LIVING
ABBEYFIELD HOUSE ST. PETERS
CALLING ALL ACTIVE ADULTS 55+! BC SENIOR GAMES
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING AT NIGEL LIVING BROADMEAD CARE SOCIETY
TO THE EDGE OF THE WORLD MILE ZERO
15 YEARS OF ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH BETTER HEARING HEAR CENTRAL SAANICH
EXPERT TIPS ON DOWNSIZING: JOIN THE EXCLUSIVE SEMINAR MCLEAN REAL ESTATE GROUP IS THIS MY FATE? DR. C ROSS CRAPO DDS SPRING HAS SPRUNG! SILVER THREADS SERVICE
EXPLORE RETIREMENT LIVING AND HOME CARE OPTIONS
BC CARE PROVIDERS ASSOCIATION
SENIOR DRIVING EDUCATION VS ASSESSMENT
WALLACE DRIVING SCHOOL LTD
GRIEVING: STRENGTH IN NUMBERS SANDS FUNERAL VICTORIA
Abbeyfield St. Peters House
Abbeyfield St. Peters House
is an affordable, family style, independent living residence for 12 seniors (65+.)
Quietly situated at 1133 Reynolds St in the Quadra-McKenzie area of Saanich, Abbeyfield House is within walking distance to amenities (medical, grocery, shops, public transit).
Over the several months, they have undergone extensive renovations. Upgrades ensure safe and sustainable housing for older adults well into the future. The home now boasts a
“ I love
it
here, The food is good, I love that I can walk right outside my unit thru sliding doors”
new roof, in-suite windows and sliding glass doors, heat pump ventilation for warmth in winter and cooling in summer, new plumbing and electrical and a new fire suppression system. The new showers and flooring are top of the line. Each single occupancy unit has a private entrance, a spacious bed sitting room, a 2-piece bathroom and a small, raised garden plot right outside their private, sliding glass door.
Shared amenities include a friendly, sunny dining area with deliciously prepared lunch and dinner, two comfortable common areas with cable TV and internet access, laundry facilities and resident parking. The "Abbyfield" concept of fewer residents (12 at capacity) creates a home-style, independent environment where people may socialize as they wish or enjoy their privacy.
Rent is based on 30% of one’s income plus a flat rate charge for food services.
Calling All Active Adults 55+!
Registration opens April 1 for 2025 55+ BC Games
Are you 55 or older and looking for an exciting way to stay active, meet new people, and challenge yourself? The 2025 55+ BC Games are coming to Nanaimo from September 9 to 13, and registration opens April 1!
As the largest multi-sport event in British Columbia, the Games will welcome over 3,000 participants competing in 25 different sports and activities. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or simply looking to try something new, there’s a place for you. From swimming and cycling to pickleball and golf, the Games offer a diverse range of events to suit all skill levels.
More than just competition, the 55+ BC Games celebrate active living, camaraderie, and community spirit. Hosted annually by the BC Seniors Games Society (BCSGS), the Games rotate between different cities, bringing energy and excitement to communities across the province. Secure your spot by registering at 55plusbcgames.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the action in 2025!
Lily Pad Lingerie has what you need - from lingerie and sleepwear to activewear and swimwear.
Whether you're looking for breathable cotton pajamas or luxurious modal loungewear, we've got a variety of sizes, colors and patterns to choose from.
We're open 7 days a week at Mattick's Farm, so stop by anytime! We appreciate the community shopping local.
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
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
Broadmead Care Society
Broadmead Care is pleased to announce we are now accepting applications for Independent Living suites at Nigel Living (www.nigelliving.com) at 851 Nigel Avenue in Saanich, across Vernon Avenue from the Save-On Foods plaza.
WHAT IS NIGEL LIVING?
Broadmead Care ( broadmeadcare.com)
owns and operates non-profit Homes in the greater Victoria area, with 24/7 long term care services for adults with disabilities (Nigel House), and seniors (Beckley Farm Lodge, Rest Haven Lodge, and Veterans Memorial Lodge).
Nigel Living is a new initiative within the soon-to-open Nigel House, offering independent living for veterans of any age and seniors aged 55+.
WHAT IS INDEPENDENT LIVING?
Independent living offers the perfect balance of freedom and convenience, allowing you to enjoy life without the burden of home maintenance. At Nigel Living you set your own schedule, while we take care of the details.
Our brand-new building provides unfurnished one-bedroom and studio suites in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether
you prefer an active lifestyle or quiet relaxation, you’ll appreciate easy access to shopping, transit, and scenic trails. A small pet is welcome with approval.
We take care of the essentials so you can focus on what matters. Tenants will enjoy:
• Two delicious meals daily
• Weekly light housekeeping
• Weekly light laundry services for linens and towels
With no house or yard to maintain, you’ll have more time to pursue hobbies, connect with friends, or simply relax in your own space.
Security and convenience are top priorities at Nigel Living. A secure building entrance and concierge services available during business hours (Monday – Friday) provide peace of mind and assistance when needed. Whether you need help with deliveries or local recommendations, our friendly team is here to support you.
Choosing independent living at Nigel Living means embracing a lifestyle of ease, comfort, and community. Every day presents new opportunities to engage, explore, and enjoy life to the fullest. Make Nigel Living your next home and experience the freedom of independent living!
To find out if you qualify, and to learn more, visit NigelLiving.com today!
Haida Gwaii, meaning "Islands of the People," is a magical destination often referred to as the "Edge of the World." This remote archipelago is a must-see for those seeking an exotic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Located just 100 kilometers off the northern coast of British Columbia, Haida Gwaii is home to fewer than 5,000 residents and lies at the westernmost edge of the continent, offering an escape to a land of unparalleled beauty and mystique.
To the Edge of the World
A true paradise for nature lovers, Haida Gwaii is defined by its pristine landscapes, highlighted by the breathtaking Gwaii Haanas National Park in the south and Naikoon Provincial Park in the north. Towering cedar and Sitka spruce trees stretch toward the sky, while the rugged coastline is lined with both rocky and sandy beaches where the crashing waves meet the howling coastal winds. The skies above are filled with soaring ravens and bald eagles, and if you're lucky, you might catch a
glimpse of orcas gliding along the shoreline in search of sea lions. This untouched environment is home to a diverse range of marine and terrestrial species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
However, Haida Gwaii is more than just a sanctuary for flora and fauna—it is also a place steeped in rich history and cultural significance. The islands have been inhabited for thousands of years, and the Haida people’s vibrant culture is being revitalized. Visitors can explore ancient, abandoned village sites where Haida ‘watchmen’ protect and preserve their history amid the remains of longhouses and totem poles—some of which are slowly returning to nature. A visit to the award-winning Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay brings the island’s legends and rich traditions to life, offering an immersive look into the fascinating history of this storied land.
While Haida Gwaii’s past is celebrated, its culture is very much alive. The current residents of the islands are a blend of Haida and non-aboriginal descent, and there are numerous ways to interact with the local community. You might
join a guided boat tour through the wilderness, dine on a delicious seafood feast prepared by a Haida chef at their seaside home, or explore one of the island’s many artistic studios and galleries along the main roadways. A visit to the Long Houses of Old Massett provides a deeper understanding of Haida tradition and life on the islands.
Though Haida Gwaii may seem far from the ordinary, reaching this remote corner of the world can be a bit challenging. Its isolated location and small population mean that transportation options are limited, but those who make the effort are richly rewarded with a truly unique
and transformative experience.
For an unforgettable journey to Haida Gwaii, consider booking a tour with Victoria-based Mile Zero Tours. Their 9-day small-group tour departs in July and August and combines the stunning BC Ferries Inside Passage cruise with a journey through BC’s northern coast and the enchanting Haida Gwaii. The fully escorted tour includes all transportation, many meals, locally guided tours, museum visits, and airfare back to Victoria or Vancouver.
For more information, visit www.milezerotours.com or call 250-590-0811
Hear Inc. – 15 Years of Enriching Lives through Better Hearing
In my 34 years as an audiologist, I’ve worked in a variety of environments in the hearing healthcare industry – hospitals, government run clinics, a large chain, a corporate head office, and for the last 15 years, my own private clinics. Each experience built on the last to deepen my understanding and appreciation of the complexity of my chosen profession.
When I opened Hear Inc. in 2010, I wanted to amalgamate the things I loved most about working in each of those environments, but above all, the goal was to create the kind of clinic I would want to send my mom to. I made appointment times longer with the philosophy that spending extra time upfront to truly gain appreciation for each individual's issues and priorities with their hearing, better outcomes would result. We opted to keep the price of hearing aids down by charging for non-hearing aid related services.
Over the next 10 years the client base grew through wordof-mouth and physician referrals to the point that we needed to expand. Hear Inc. Saanichton opened in 2020 – during a global pandemic. With some agility we survived and the team is now made up of three audiologist and three administrative staff.
Everyone who works at Hear Inc. shares the objective of providing audiology services with kindness and uncompromising adherence to the highest level of professionalism. In addition to hearing diagnostics and hearing aids, our services have expanded over the years to include the assessment and treatment of dizziness, tinnitus, auditory processing disorders, pediatric hearing loss, and excess ear wax. We remain one hundred percent locally owned and retain the ability to prescribe and fit hearing aids from the top manufacturers from around the
world. To answer a question we’ve been getting a lot in the last month or so, almost all of the products we deal with have global headquarters in Denmark and Switzerland. Thank you to the current and former team members of Hear Inc. Shane and I are so fortunate that each of you have chosen to join us on this journey and we hope you know how appreciated you are. I would also like to extend my thanks to those individuals who have put their trust in us for the provision of their audiology services. We promise to continue to do our best to earn your support going forward.
Donna Stewart, M.A.,Aud(C),RAUD/RHIP Audiologist and Owner, Hear Inc.
Martine Schlagintweit
Expert Tips on Downsizing: Join Informative Seminar on March 27
For those contemplating downsizing but unsure where to begin, an informative seminar hosted by Geoff McLean from McLean Real Estate Group offers expert guidance and practical solutions. Whether you’re seeking a more manageable home, planning for retirement, or simply exploring
your options, this event is designed to help.
The Downsizing Seminar will take place on Thursday, March 27, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Chartwell Vista, 622 Admirals Rd
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from five industry professionals who will
share valuable insights on how to downsize effectively. The seminar will cover crucial topics such as maximizing your home’s value, navigating the selling process, and ensuring a smooth transition to your new living situation.
Whether you’re overwhelmed by the logistics of moving or uncertain
about how to simplify your current space, this seminar aims to provide practical strategies and expert advice to make the process easier.
Spaces for this exclusive event are limited, so early registration is encouraged. To reserve your spot, call 250.744.5551 or email team@ mcleanrealestategroup.ca.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and take the first step toward a simpler, more manageable lifestyle. Whether you’re downsizing for convenience, financial reasons, or lifestyle changes, this seminar will equip you with the tools and confidence to make informed decisions.
Ask The Dentist!
by Dr. C Ross Crapo DDS
Q: Dr. Crapo: Twenty years ago, I decided I’d had it with my teeth. I just didn’t have anything but decay. I’d get things fixed and six months later more decay. I decided that with a denture my problems would be solved. After healing on my upper, the denture felt pretty good. I managed to hang onto my lower front teeth and two teeth behind my lower eyeteeth on both sides. I had a lower partial made and it seemed to work okay. For the first two or three years, I wore my upper denture all the time and it really stayed in place. I think at about year three I saw a dentist and he said I should be taking my upper denture out every night. He said I had some red swollen areas in the roof of my mouth and I needed to let the gums and palate rest at night. It was tough because when I put in my denture in the morning it didn’t suck into place very well. It’d take several hours before I’d get that tight secure feeling that it was going to stay. A year went by and it began to feel loose, so the dentist relined it. He also said I was losing bone, and my palate wasn’t really able to give me a lot of suction because it was losing shape as the bone where my teeth once were was dissolving away. This was quite frightening because I was losing that secure feeling of my denture staying in. Now I use powders and other liners to keep my teeth in, but it is still a very big problem. Over the years, I’ve also lost the back teeth on the lower, so I’ve just got my lower six front teeth. When I try to bite into anything now, it pops my denture loose. I’ve been told that most of my bone is gone so I can’t have implants. It’s very worrisome and I find I’m dwelling on my problem throughout the day. Is this my fate?
Is This My Fate?
A: Your dilemma is more common than you think. Many denture wearers are forced to keep their teeth in with denture adhesives of one kind or another. In most cases however, this can be nicely handled with bone grafting in the sinus. It is an everyday thing to see bone grafting in the sinus provide good bone and great stability for implants. In over twenty years I have seen grafting in the sinus provide excellent bone for implant placement without complications of any magnitude.
Each individual is unique, but the techniques and materials are readily available
to those who provide this service so that the resulting reconstructions are beautiful and long lasting..
At the Victoria Implant Centre we treat all types of patients. It may be that we must get you on a healthy periodontal care program to ensure our implant procedures have the best foundation for success
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
Spring is just around the corner, and there is more than just nice weather to look forward to! The Silver Threads Service Spring Program Guide is now available and features great programs, services, presentations, and social activities for those 55 years and better. We are featuring 49 different registered programs, and 37 monthly events in two locations. There is sure to be something to spark your interest.
At the Victoria Centre located at 1911 Quadra Street, near the Victoria Police Station, some interesting programs include include a Bone Foundations Workshop, Zentangle, and Modelling Clay. Some interesting partnership programs include Choose to Move with Beacon Community Services and Walking to Wellness with the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Functional Fitness is offered daily Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 11:00am and is a combined seated and standing class suited to a variety of fitness levels.
The Saanich Centre is at 286 Hampton Road, not far from Tillicum Mall and has good parking for those who are driving. Many of us are looking to stay sharp and are proactive in improving our cognitive function. To that end, our Dynamic Discussions, Parlez Vous Francais and Brain Games Programs take doing crosswords or Sudoku to the next level. It is fun, social and our facilitator will make sure everyone has an enjoyable experience!
Both Centres offer Monthly Socials, Movies, Ukulele, Yoga, Essentrics, Fitness and so much more! We have online registration as an option to sign up for our Annual Membership. Visit our Program page on our website www.silverthreads.ca for complete information. Or give a call, you can reach the Saanich Centre at 250 388-3151 and the Victoria Centre at 250 382-4268.
Annual membership fees remain at $55 again this year. Our Annual Membership starts April 1st, 2025 and is valid to March 31st, 2026. Membership will give you reduced drop in and program fees.
Silver Threads Service is a charitable, not-for-profit that has been serving the community for 69 years.
SPRING 2025 PROGRAMS NEW AND EXCITING! EVENING CLASSES AT THE VICTORIA CENTRE
GENTLE PILATES
Victoria Centre New!
This class is slower paced and suitable for beginners or those seeking a gentler approach to Pilates, focusing on awareness of movement and strengthening of the core muscles along with hip mobility, balance and posture.
Dates: Thurs, April 10th to May 15th, May 22nd to June 26th
Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Cost: 6/$78 members, $120 non-members
Leader: Regina Flueck
SPRING HAS SPRUNG! SILVER THREADS SERVICE
T’AI CHI
Victoria Centre NEW!
Discover the benefits of Tai Chi in this introductory course. Each class, you’ll learn gentle, flowing movements that enhance balance, flexibility and mindfulness to build on a basic form. We will focus on and review basic principles, breath techniques and relaxation to improve overall well-being. Wear comfortable clothing; no experience needed.
Dates: Thurs, April 10th to May 15th, May 22nd to June 26th
Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Cost: 6/ $66 members, $90 non-members
Leader: Frances Weick
PAINTING WITH WATERCOLOURS: WATER AND SKIES
Saanich Centre
Learn how to create seascapes using for reference your own photos of water and skies.
Date: Fri, April 11th to May 23rd
Time: 9:30am to 11:30am
Cost: 6/$60 members, $84 non-members
Leader: Diana Jenks
LEARN TO PLAY
BRIDGE BASICS
Saanich Centre
Learn the basics of bidding and playing bridge in a fun and friendly atmosphere
Date: Tues, April 8th to May 13th
Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Cost: 6/$24 members, $42 non-members
Leader: Norm
BRAIN POWER CHALLENGE CREATE WORDS FROM EASTER
If you are ready to amp up your cognitive function and take a proactive approach to your brain health, Silver Threads Service offers programs that can support you in this health practice. Our Spring Programs start in April and include Brain Games and Dynamic Discussions. These programs are for those 55+ who would like to enhance their memory skills in an active and social group setting. Call 250 3823151 or visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information.
THE CHALLENGE THIS MONTH IS TO CREATE WORDS FROM THE LETTERS IN EASTER
4 LETTER WORDS
Explore Retirement Living and Home Care Options with Route65.ca
Are you or a loved one considering retirement living or home care in B.C.? With so many options available, navigating this journey can feel overwhelming. That is why BC
Care Providers Association (BCCPA) developed Route65. ca – a free, B.C.-specific directory that helps the public explore the range of seniors living, wellness and care options available in their
local communities, along with information about navigating the system and accessing services.
In the Greater Victoria area, there is a wide variety of retirement living communities and home care services to choose from. Route65.ca simplifies the process by offering detailed information on retirement living and home care options. It also features helpful tools, including a glossary, FAQs, and community resources, to support those navigating the system in B.C.
Whether you're looking for a retirement community to meet social and lifestyle preferences or seeking home care services like personal support, nursing care, or respite services to help you age in place, Route65.ca highlights a broad range of options. The platform connects you to a network of reputable community providers and allows you to find services tailored to your individual needs.
The Route65.ca platform reflects BCCPA’s broader commitment to improving access to seniors living,
wellness, and care services across the province. By centralizing information, Route65.ca provides individuals with the opportunity to easily explore services tailored to their unique circumstances and connect directly with community providers.
For anyone beginning their journey of navigating the seniors
living, wellness, and care continuum in B.C., having a reliable starting point like Route65.ca can make a meaningful difference.
Visit Route65.ca to explore available options and resources or call our team toll-free at 1-877-955-6565 for navigation support.
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 Driving School Association of the Americas 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 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month.
To sign up, call 250-383-7483
Grieving: Strength in Numbers
In today’s hectic world of juggling family, a career, school, social commitments and everything else we have on our plates, I can promise you, death doesn’t usually come at a convenient time. It
happens when it happens, whether or not you are prepared. You will now need to take the time to deal with everything there is to do and on top of that, you are also grieving. It is important to note, when a death occurs; take your time, surround yourself in support and let your community funeral provider assist you with all the necessary steps that will need to be taken. Even for those who have done pre-planning, which can assist greatly when faced with a loss, you are now bereaved and this emotion requires support and guidance from those you love and trust. It is worth mentioning, that the faster you take care of your loved one’s disposition, will not make the pain of the loss go away any faster. It is important to remember when you and your family are faced with a loss, you are not alone. Your community will be there to support you and what is sometimes overlooked, is the members of the community are also in need of support. They want to extend their condolences, share their stories of what your loved one meant to them and also take the unscheduled time to attend a funeral, celebration or gathering to show their support in
person, when words can sometimes not seem enough. Community support and participation is as important in death as it is in all other major life events we celebrate and come together. This gives permission for friends, colleagues and acquaintances to participate in the tributes and share stories of who that person was to them.
One example of how a funeral service can facilitate memories and sharing, was hearing a story of how a coffee shop barista knew the departed. He served him his coffee every morning… and a muffin. However, the muffin was never for himself, he would give the muffin to a person living on the street outside the coffee shop. He would take a few minutes, exchange some pleasantries and wish him a good day. He’d end the interaction with; “see you tomorrow!” and he would. Everyday he would get his coffee, buy a muffin for this less fortunate community member, and visit with him. As his friend, as a fellow human being, and for nothing else except to be nice. This was not known by the family and they were so touched to hear this act of
kindness was done by their loved one each day, without the need for praise, acknowledgment or anyone even knowing. They would have never known this amazing story, if it was not for the gathering and opportunity for the barista to share.
There is strength in numbers, and when you lose someone you love, accepting community support may just be the strength that you need. You are not alone.
Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria has proudly been serving our community since 1912. We are here to guide and support you through your loss.
By Laura Van Sprang, Manager, Sands Funeral Chapel of Victoria
