55 Plus, May 2023

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OWNING A NEW CONDO EXCLUSIVELY FOR SENIORS HAS BENEFITS THE VISTA GO NORTH MILE ZERO TOURS DESIGNING YOUR RETIREMENT HOME VRS COMMUNITIES YOUNG BOY IS A WAR AMPS “CHAMP” WAR AMPS SUMMER TRAVEL ASSURANCE CARE AND COMPANY ASK THE DENTIST! DR. C ROSS CRAPO DDS THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL WELLNESS FOR SENIORS TAPESTRY VICTORIA Visit Us Online LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE AT THE VISTA EXCLUSIVE CONDOMINIUMS FOR SENIORS PRESENTATION CENTRE Open Tuesday- Saturday: 11am-5pm 1318 Esquimalt Rd. BC V9A 3P6 778-402-4153

Owning a new condo exclusively for seniors has benefits

New luxury resort-style retirement community offers a new lease on life, with flexible care when needed. Occupancy in Vancouver Island’s latest luxury senior retirement community is around the corner. Ownership opportunities include 34 one- and two-bedroom exclusive condominiums situated on the scenic 9th and 10th floors.

In addition to condo living, The Vista by Avenir Senior Living—a well-appointed 11-storey building—is positioned to deliver a continuum of care with extended support services into any of the 95 independent rental suites. There will also be 48 dedicated memory care studios on two floors, with 24-hour support.

The ultimate in maintenancefree condo living allows you the freedom to live well without compromising on a luxury lifestyle as you age. As a Vista resident, you’ll have the ability to age in place with a menu of services that can be provided in your private suite.

CONTINUE TO PRESERVE CAPITAL

“Condo ownership allows individuals that are normally divesting themselves for the long-term family home to be able to preserve their capital rather than putting their money into continuous rent,” says Wayne Melvin, general manager of The Vista. “Then they’re just transitioning to standard condo fees that they would have in any condominium. Further fees allow residents access to all the services and amenities in the building.”

Fees for one- and two-bedrooms are paid monthly while additional service plans are available à la carte, for instance, meal and dining plans; housekeeping service plans; as well as, a support service plan whenever needed.

Since

ENJOY HIGH-QUALITY INTERIOR FEATURES

The Vista adheres to a model of sustainable elegance by offering bright, beautiful living spaces and quality modern finishes. Choose between a sophisticated design of two floor plans: one-bedroom, one-bathroom with approximately 670 square feet, or two-bedroom, two-bathroom, with approximately 922 square feet.

Every condo and rental suite have a private balcony with panoramic ocean and city views, and space to accommodate a two-person bistro table, perfect for enjoying your coffee or al fresco dining. As outdoor temperatures fluctuate, you’ll be comfortable indoors year-round with individualized climate control: air conditioning and heating. Petfriendly suites means your dog or cat will be content, too.

Stylish and functional kitchens include marbled quartz countertops and premium appliances, like the Fulgor built-in wall oven and induction cooktop, Blomberg built-in refrigerator and dishwasher, and Panasonic microwave. “The refrigerator and dishwasher have finished fronts that blend seamlessly with the custom kitchen cabinetry,” reveals Melvin. “Condo bathrooms have heated tile floors, and the twobedrooms have walk-in showers; the second bathroom has a tub. Each suite is also outfitted with their own washer and dryers.”

SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT, SERVICES AND LUXURY AMENITIES

Being a condo owner and a member of The Vista Club means you have access to a continental breakfast every morning and use of all amenity areas and patios. “Owners have options for meal plans in the building’s different dining rooms, too,” explains Melvin. “The condos have full kitchens whereas the rentals have kitchenettes.”

A heightened focus on social engagement and active living is evident in the fitness studio and art studio on the top floor’s Grand Salon, with a stunning 360-degree view of downtown Victoria and the ocean, out to the Olympic Mountains. On the ground floor, you’ll be delighted

with the convenience of the beauty salon and 42-seat movie theatre. Plus, you’ll experience a variety of dynamic entertainment and stimulating daily social events, plus concierge services. Other services include: scheduled transportation; transportation assistance; 24hour emergency response system (pendant purchase required); and basic cable TV, with suites wired for internet and Wi-Fi.

“We have a list of vendors for the furnishings,” reveals Melvin. “If somebody comes in and loves the bedroom suite, for example, we can share that information.”

“The Vista’s new director of sales, Sharon Unsworth, brings over 10 years of seniors’ housing experience to her role. Sharon is currently conducting tours and getting everybody prepared for the opening,” says Melvin. “We’re excited to be in the finishing stages of the building, and are looking forward to announcing our opening date in the coming weeks.”

For more information, visit liveatvista.ca , or to book a tour, call 778-678-8530. The Presentation Centre is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. –5 p.m., to view the show suite.

2 | TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 TIMES COLONIST 55 PLUS
1975, Avenir Senior Living has been a proven leader in developing, designing,
marketing and
operating
exceptional senior care communities across North America. Their newest upscale boutique retirement community,
The
Vista, in Esquimalt,
British
Columbia, is a resort-style living experience with industry-leading extended support services to comfortably age in place.

In the summer of 1896 gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River in the remote Yukon territory. Little did the discoverers realize, that they would set of one of the largest gold rushes in history. Over the next three years an estimated 100,000 people would hear the call of the “Land of the midnight sun” and make the difficult journey north in search of its elusive treasure.

Most arrived through the makeshift port of Skagway, Alaska to commence the nearly 1,000 km trip to the goldfields. Hauling their gear by foot, dog sled and raft the treacherous journey was too much for many and, of those that did reach the Klondike few found there the prize they had come for. However, the legends and tales of that great era live on in our imaginations to this day immortalized in the poems of Robert Service, the stories of Jack

Go North – The Land of the Midnight Sun is Calling

London and many others who experienced the North firsthand.

While most certainly intriguing, the great gold rush is just a part of the story awaiting your discovery in the North. Travelling conditions have vastly improved but the adventure and a treasure perhaps more valuable than gold still awaits.

On the surface it is a vast remote, wild and rugged land but dig a little deeper and you will discover a rich tapestry of culture and history. From the First Nations who have been living off this land for thousands of years to more recent arrivals from around the globe. Life in the north is truly special.

Come see for yourself this summer with Mile Zero Tours fully escorted Yukon and Northwest Territories- Beyond the Arctic Circle tour departing from Victoria or Vancouver. You will travel

by plane, coach, boat and train exploring the route to the Klondike and beyond. Ride the White Pass Railway from Skagway, explore Whitehorse, pass the fearsome Five Finger Rapids along the Klondike Highway, wonder the historic wooden sidewalks and unpaved streets of Dawson City, experience life above the Arctic Circle in Inuvik, sail down the MacKenzie River and stroll along a sandy Arctic Ocean beach in the remote hamlet of Tuktoyuktuk. Joined by a series of locals along the way you will not only see the sites but be immersed into the captivating north. The land of the midnight sun is calling, join the adventure today. For more information and to get started planning your northern adventure visit milezerotours.com or call 250.590.0811.

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Designing your Retirement Home: 3 Tips for Making Your New Suite more Comfortable

If you are moving to a retirement home, you might be faced with the exciting, but daunting task, of designing your new space. This new home will be where you spend your golden years, so it’s important to make it comfortable and practical for your needs. Here are some tips to help you in the process:

DOWNSIZE BEFORE YOUR MOVE

Before you move, it’s important to decide what items you really need in your new home. Start by taking inventory of your current possessions. Keep the things that

Refresh and Renew this Spring

are important to you and consider donating or selling items that won’t fit in your new space, or that you don’t plan on using in the future. Downsizing will not only save you money on moving costs but also help declutter your life!

MAXIMIZE YOUR SPACE

Maximizing space is essential when designing your retirement home. Many retirees choose to downsize their homes to save on utility costs, but there are plenty of ways to make the most of your space. Maximizing storage space can go a long way in making your home feel more spacious. You can add storage options in less-used areas around the suite, such as movable cabinets or shelving. Using multipurpose furniture like a sofa bed or storage ottoman,

can also help to maximize your space. By utilizing every inch of your home, you’ll be able to enjoy all the comforts of a more spacious suite. As a bonus, keeping things decluttered and open can also make it safer for those with mobility issues to get around.

PERSONALIZE YOUR SPACE

Making your retirement home your own! Incorporating elements that reflect your personality and style, such as your favourite colour on the walls, unique artwork or photographs, or custom furniture, can help make your new space feel even more like home. Think about adding elements that inspire you, such as a reading nook or a meditation corner to make your space an even better reflection of who you are and what you need. Most importantly, these unique touches will make the space more personal to you.

It’s not uncommon to feel both excited and overwhelmed during the moving process. Just remember: with a little planning and creativity, you can create a space that is functional, stylish, and true to you!

Looking to make the move to retirement living? Check out Ross Place at rossplace.ca and Lakeside Gardens at lakesidegardens.ca to learn more about Independent and Assisted seniors living on Vancouver Island.

250-381-8666 | rossplace.ca 2638 Ross Lane, Victoria 250-756-0799 | lakeside-gardens.com 4088 Wellesley Ave, Nanaimo
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED SENIORS LIVING SUITES ON VANCOUVER ISLAND Book a tour today! Spring is the perfect time for new beginnings! Shake off the cold and experience the warmth of community with all inclusive seniors living. TIMES COLONIST 55 PLUS 4 | TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023

Young Boy is a War Amps “Champ”

Eight-year-old Abel Walker was born missing the lower part of his left arm. Abel, a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, receives financial assistance for artificial limbs and devices and also attends regional seminars where Champs and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and staring, and parenting an amputee child.

His parents Cortney and Ryan describe how The War Amps has supported their family.

“We enrolled Abel in the CHAMP Program and attended our first seminar when he was only a few weeks old. The support and strength of the CHAMP community was undeniable and truly heartwarming. We knew after that first seminar that everything was going to be OK,” say Cortney and Ryan. “As he has grown up, being a part of CHAMP has helped him feel secure in himself and his abilities. His prosthetic arm and

device that The War Amps funded allows him to do everyday tasks as well as play sports. For us, knowing that CHAMP will pay for the artificial limbs that he needs means fewer worries and that Abel can enjoy the same activities as other children.”

The Association encourages Champs to develop a positive attitude towards their amputation and try whatever activity they set their mind to. “Abel’s determination and zest for life is an inspiration to all,” said Danita Chisholm, Executive Director, CHAMP Program. “Thanks to the public’s support of The War Amps Key Tag Service, we are able to help young amputees like Abel reach their goals.”

The War Amps receives no government grants; its programs are made possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.

For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030

estatedonation@waramps.ca waramps.ca • 1 800 465-2677 Charitable Registration No.: 13196 9628 RR0001 Leave a lasting gift with a charitable estate donation in your will. Your suppor t provides amputees, including children, with the essential ar tificial limbs they need to thrive. ADVERTISING FEATURE TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 5
Abel Walker is a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program.
PQ u ic k & Ef f ic ient S er v ice PFre e Medi c al Rev i ews PFr e e Bl i s ter P ac k aging PC om p oundin g S er v i c e s POs tomy S u p pl i e s PA l l Vacc ina ti on s A dmin i s ter ed FREE DELIVERY Across the Isl and! FULL SERVICE D ISPENSING PHARMACY Thank you for voting us one of the “Best Pharmacy Groups” in Victoria. Thanks for supporting local. S e r ving t h e communit y for ove r 10 ye ars for troyalpharmacy.ca Locally-Owned & Family-Operated C OV I D Bo oste r shot s N OW availa bl e at O ak Bay/ Hillsid e lo c at ion 3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU V ICTOR I A 18 0 3 FOR T ST Tel : 250-590-370 7 Fa x : 250-590-3708 V ICTO R I A # 5 0 -797 H ILL S ID E AVE Tel : 7 78-4 06 -20 2 2 Fa x : 7 78-4 06 -20 2 3 OAK BAY 2 217 OAK BAY AVE Tel : 250-590-9 2 17 Fa x : 250-590-9 2 18

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

EASE INTO AN EXERCISE PROGRAM SILVER THREADS

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silver threads.ca formoreinformation

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Now that the nice weather is here and summer is around the corner, it is a good time to think about exercise and your 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. An annual membership is only $55 and this will give you reduced fees for all types of activities.

Our Functional Fitness accommodates a range of physical fitness 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 fits.

Threads? This spring the Victoria Centre will turn into an “After Hours Centre” with new Wellness classes that start at 5:00pm.

Two weekly classes are offered for those who are 55 years and better. Are you working or have family and other day time commitments that make getting to a class a challenge?

250-385-0127

1015 Broad Street, Victoria | www.treckwear.ca

Tues, April 25, 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

The Chair Fitness classes offered at 10:00am Tuesday and Thursday are taught by Anne Casey, who has over 20 years’ experience. Her passion

is teaching those 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 different and every body is different, so I teach each person how to get the most benefit from each move for their body. I offer many choices, adaptions for each exercise and participant.”

The classes are small, with lots of individual attention and support, perfect for those who are just starting out or have special health concerns.

We have two Centres for those who are 55 years and better, one in Saanich and one in Victoria and offer a variety of programs from Fitness, Music, Dance, Games, Discussion and Social Groups and much more. For more information on the Fitness classes or any other program give us a call at 250 388-4268 or check out our website www.silverthreads.ca

Silver Threads Service has been serving the community for over 67 years.

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

EVENING WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Are you over 55, don’t consider yourself a senior and are not ready to join a senior centre like Silver

Beginning Tuesdays there is a Hatha Yoga class where you will be in a comfortable group with others who aren’t as bendy as we used to be but are willing to try. Grunts, groans and giggles are totally acceptable.

On Thursdays there will be Essentrics, a full body workout that unlocks and decompresses joints by stretching and strengthening without impact to the body, improving wellness, increasing energy, and reducing pain. Every time you come to a class, you will enjoy fresh music playlists and new exercise sequences.

We guarantee camaraderie and great peer support, and we won’t call you a “senior.” Call us at the Victoria Centre for more information 250 388-4268

MEMORY PLUS CHALLENGE

MULTI-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 Health word scramble. The next session of Memory PLUS begins Wednesday, May 24th, classes are at the Saanich Centre, located at 286 Hampton Road. Call 250 382-3151 or visit silverthreads.ca for more information.

SEC OND C A R? VAC AT ION RE N T ?
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Three important steps you can take right now to provide peace of mind for summer travel plans.

Weekends at the lake, camping trips with grandkids, reunions with siblings in other parts of the country... the joys of summer. Even though Spring's arrival has seemed slow, summer will soon be in full swing.

For empty-nesters who enjoy their travel freedoms, concerns over care for aging parents may be enough to squash summer travel adventures or even nix the planned attendance of a muchanticipated family wedding.

If the unknown health status of a loved one is causing you to

Summer Travel Assurance

STEP THREE: SET UP HELP. BEFORE YOU NEED IT

Think of this as "travel assurance", although, it could quite possibly be "travel insurance" too. Setting up trusted Companion Care now, [hopefully] a long time before any actual help is needed, will be one of THE best travel plans you can make this spring (or any season).

"But she would never accept help." Or at least that's what you imagine. You're not alone in this belief. Imagined resistance is by far the most common deterrent to setting up a companionship safety net.

"It's not that you need help, I just want to know I have someone we both trust if something were to happen while I'm away this summer."

Suggest a trial period. Ask about household chores that your loved one might want to hand off in favour of something more enjoyable; grocery shopping or laundry.

Have questions? Call a trusted in-home care provider to ask how you can create a simple companionship support strategy that's a win-win for your loved one...and your summer plans. Call 250-382-2328 , or visit our seniorcarevictoria.ca

hit the brakes on your summer plans, keep reading. Here are three simple steps you can start taking today to provide valuable peace of mind so you can start getting excited about summer travel again.

STEP ONE: BE HONEST

Do you have a loved one who would depend largely on you in the case of an accident or health challenge? Or maybe their dependence is more on your companionship or regular assistance with upkeep around the home.

Either way, underestimating your presence isn't helpful here. Take stock. How many hours

do you currently dedicate to supporting your loved one?

STEP TWO: IMAGINE THE WORST

This is hard. No one wants to go there, especially where our loved ones are concerned. But ignorance won't feel like bliss if something happens and you suddenly need to cancel your plans.

Take a moment to think of friends who have supported their parents through a fall or illness. What extra was required of them? Not sure? Ask. Take a friend out to lunch or coffee so you can formulate an accurate picture of what may be required.

Customized support plans to honour the life & contribution of your loved one. We specialize in dedicated caregiver relationships to foster physical independence and emotional vitality Ask about our introductory companion care through to respite, dementia care and home-from-hospital services. Give the gift of aging-in-place Call 250-382-2328 careandcompanygroup.ca ADVERTISING FEATURE TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 | 7
Up to $6500 Buyers Cash Back Ray Kong REALTOR® Prof. Engineer 20 years experience MLS® Gold Awards One Percent Realty 250-590-7011 raykong2020@gmail.com FULL MLS® SERVICE $7950STARTING

Ask The Dentist!

Q: Dear Dr. Crapo: I’m hard on my teeth. My dentist brings that to my attention just about every time I go in, which is regularly. I’ve had crowns done on breaking teeth on my molars. I’ve worn, off and on, a night guard. The last visit he said I’d have to get my front teeth capped because I’m breaking the edges and he’d filled them about three times, so they weren’t strong enough to hold

What Comes First?

more fillings. He also pointed out I had some gum recession and I’d need grafting to hike up the gums on my bottom front teeth and secure them so they wouldn’t recede anymore and the same would have to be done on the top front teeth. He laid out a plan of what needed doing but I don’t know what to do first. I haven’t been bothered by the recession, so I thought let’s get the crowns done; then worry about the gums. I asked him about straightening my teeth because when I was a kid, they took out my upper right eyetooth because it was coming in wrong. People don’t notice it, but my upper front

teeth don’t exactly line up with my lower front teeth. He said the teeth could be made to look straighter, but crowning couldn’t compensate for the

amount of drift that occurred after they took out my eyetooth. I know I need to get this done but where do I start? I don’t want braces.

A: Your situation is complex; giving you a definitive answer is difficult, so I’ll give you principles and an ideal scenario with the hope it falls into your timeline, budget, and personal commitment. Bite instability due to misalignment is common. Destructive bite instability is less common and often hard to manage or correct because it is unpredictable in what is causing the forces on the teeth to wear and break them. Bite imbalances, stress, physical exertion, sleep apnea, anxiety, grinding and clenching while in delta or deep sleep are causes for forceful tooth on tooth destruction. Some people are functional grinders, meaning they chew their food with excessive force for longer than the average period of time before swallowing. In your situation talk to your dentist about getting the teeth balanced as best possible. Sometimes tooth breakdown and gum recession go hand-in-hand.

After this is accomplished, have the grafting done that is necessary to support the bone around the teeth that show recession – there is a direct correlation of gum loss to bone loss. Three millimeters of gum recession means three millimeters of bone loss around the roots.

After grafting, wait about three months for maturing of the gum grafting, then have the teeth crowned in a way that promotes ideal tooth-to-tooth function.

Good planning and execution will give you a strong and beautiful result.

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 TIMES COLONIST 55 PLUS 8 | TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 778 410 2 06 7 #202-440 Chatterton Way • drcrapo com Welcoming New Patients FAMILY • RES T ORATI V E • IMP L ANT & C OSMETIC DENTIS TR Y Stophiding yoursmile

When people nd 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 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

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 nal 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 eld, in any eld. 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 ful ll 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.

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

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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.

Ahead of the Curve

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

• The left turn at intersections, crossing multiple oncoming lanes of traf c, 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.

Many crashes happened at night. The hypersensitivity of seniors to the bright lights of

oncoming traf c is a recognized contributing factor. For teens it is teenage myopia.

Many of the geriatric researchers I have spoken to at various conferences agree that education, not testing, is the answer to seniors driving longer and safer and the same for new drivers. 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. 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.

TIMES COLONIST 55 PLUS 10 | TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023
FREE SENIOR SEMINAR 55+ 4TH WEDNESDAY EVERY MONTH AT 2:00 PM. CALL TO REGISTER! 250 383 7483 Hatley Memorial Gardens: A special place to remember Arbor Memorial Inc. You are unique. Your loved ones are unique. So at your time of need or when planning ahead, rely on our specialists to provide everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind remembrance. Get started today. Scan the QR code to visit us online or call 778-402-4963 for a FREE planning kit.

The Importance of Social Wellness for Seniors

We often hear about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet as we age, but did you know that social health provides just as many benefits for seniors? Studies have shown significant health and wellness gains from socializing including better cognitive function, reducing stress and maintaining independence.

Tapestry at Victoria Harbour is a new seniors’ community that encourages and supports residents in staying socially active and engaged. Through a wide range of programs, fitness classes, events, educational opportunities, social clubs, and more, residents have opportunities every day to meet friends and build friendships.

“If you like living in a community with like-minded, fun people, this is the place for you,” said Angie, a Tapestry resident since 2021 in a recent interview. Angie recalls a particularly memorable social outing when Tapestry hosted a surprise summer picnic in a nearby park. “We went for a hike and when we returned there was a BBQ and music playing, so we all danced. It was a lot of fun.”

Inside Tapestry, thoughtfully designed amenity spaces including the in-house restaurant, pub, roof terrace and lounges invite residents and their guests to gather, relax, and enjoy delicious and healthy meals. As well there are spaces for events and activities, allowing residents to have fun and make memories together.

Don, a Tapestry resident who also volunteers as the chair of the social committee notes, “My friend Angie came up with the idea to make a quilt to support displaced Ukrainians. Our Sip and Stitch Club, with the help of Tapestry, raffled the quilt and raised nearly $20,000. We even made the news!”

Tapestry is an entirely different type of seniors’ community, one where residents live independently in fully equipped homes while enjoying the benefits and

conveniences of being part of an award-winning community just steps to the Inner Harbour.

If you are interested in learning more about Tapestry, there has never been a better time with their spring promotions on now. Those who purchase a home can save up to $57,000, equivalent to 5% GST on that home*. And those who

prefer to rent can receive up to $5,000 towards 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.

ADVERTISING FEATURE TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023 | 11
*Speak to a Sales Representative for more details on the spring promotions.

Come for lunch , spend the night, tr y it out. Rental homes from $3,625/month .

If you prefer to own your home, ask a bout our sales promotion .

TAPESTRY AT VICTORIA HARBOUR 777 Belleville Street, Victoria TapestryVictoria.com | 250.419.4261 *Lease a home (for a minimum of 6 months) before May 31 2023 and receive a credit va ued up to $5,000 on moving-re ated costs Ask us for deta ls Apri 2023 E &O E ® Registered trademarks of Concert Properties Ltd , used under l cense where app icab e Angie, Tapestry resident since 2021 “ I didn’t let anything hold me back.” Rent this spring with up to $5,000 towards moving* Aſter travelling the world and crossing the countr y, Angie found a retirement community that felt like home. Today, she’s
she chose Tapestr y – for the creative activities with
and
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friends, wellness programs, social events
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cuisine. And just steps to the Inner Harbour.
e (fo TIMES COLONIST 55 PLUS 12 | TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2023

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