55 Plus by Times Colonist

ourplace society

Leaving the Lights On Julian Daly CEO of Our Place

New CEO of Our Place, Julian Daly supply, rampant homelessness, and a COVID pandemic. We need people to see there is hope in the darkness. My incredible colleagues at Our Place light that light by bringing people inside one of the shelters or hotels that we are fortunate to operate in the belief that we can provide a fresh start. When Our Place was invited by BC Housing to manage the former Comfort Inn, we didn’t go into it lightly. We knew there would be problems when people who have been living outside of community are invited back inside. There is an adjustment, and some adjust faster than others, but every bone in our bodies vibrates with the knowledge that we can’t stand by and do nothing.

We see smiles and we hear laughter, but we also know it is still a long road to true stabilization. With housing and supports in place, we work on building trust with people who have seen so little of it in their lives, or have experienced the trauma when, far too often, trust is broken. We see housing as hope. It is only the first step, but it is a giant one. Change is only possible through bold actions and we are willing to be bold in pursuit of healthier lives for those we serve. These can be dark times, especially for those with nothing but wounds and scars, but we’re keeping the light on in the hope that the lost can see it shine.

MacLean’s Magazine ranked Our Place Society as one of the best 100 Charities in Canada for 2020!

INSIDE

There are many days when working with people experiencing a disconnection from society is both difficult and heartbreaking. Yet on other days – even the same day you see the joy in someone’s eyes as they are given a clean room that they can call their own. Your heart fills with hope as they marvel at a shower, a comfortable bed, and a toilet they don’t need to share with anyone else. We become attached. We have to. That is the work we do. When people share their stories with us, it’s impossible not to be deeply disturbed by the intense, complex trauma that many have experienced throughout their lives – the very trauma, more often than not childhood abuse and neglect, that leads folk down the path of mental health crises, addictions and to the doors of Our Place. And yet, too often, many don’t see these wounds of trauma and the havoc they create in a life. To those of us who work with this vulnerable population, it’s obvious. Nobody would choose a life struggling with severe substance disorder if they could easily break free. Nobody would choose to lose their children to social services. And nobody would choose to lose their partner or friend to a Fentanyl overdose. And this is why someone needs to leave a light on in the dark and unpredictable storm of a poison drug

The transformation that we are beginning to see in the people living there is incredible. With warm, nutritious meals three times a day, a quiet room to finally get muchneeded rest, and the luxury of a private shower or bath – things that so many of us take for granted – we can actually watch health start to return to someone’s face and body.

A Fresh Start at New Roads

Therapeutic Recovery Community opens doors wider By Grant McKenzie, Director of Communications Tim Dafoe never thought he could have a new start, nor if he was even worth it. Between the ages of 10 and 21, Tim spent 9 years inside one institution or another, learning not how to live in society, but how to hide from it. “I went through a lot of trauma at a young age,” he explains. Addiction became part of his journey, too – it was all around him. In periods where he went clean, Tim struggled for normalcy. He found a partner, had three children, and tried to fit in. The trouble was he hadn’t learned any of the necessary skills to leave the street life behind. When his family life broke apart, Tim returned to the streets where crime and drug use were as easy to slip into as a well-worn sweater – or a prison jumpsuit. “For 35 years, I had been living a certain way,” he says. “But I had assumed this identity, and I wasn’t being true to myself.” With another custodial sentence underway, Tim reached out to New Roads, a therapeutic recovery community operated by Our Place Society. “I didn’t think they would take me,” he says. “But the staff were my champions.” Tim has been at New Roads for nine

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months now, and is a living example of how the program can change criminal thinking and begin the journey of healing trauma. “Coming to New Roads is the best choice I ever made,” he says. “It helps you break away from prison thinking.” And one month ago, the 36-yearold received the best possible news when social services granted him permission to reconnect with his oldest daughter. Tears fill Tim’s eyes as he talks about his children and how he has let them down in the past. “We talk nearly every day now, and for once in my life, I’m keeping my promises,” he says. “I’m free from addiction, free from homelessness, and I’m grateful for all the things I never thought I could have. It’s a long journey, but my life is improving thanks to New Roads.” After 18 months of intense work, inspiring success and fresh renovations, New Roads Therapeutic Recovery Community in View Royal is opening its doors to more intakes.

Your Gifts Help In So Many Ways! 886,000 , Donor support help Our Place meet a variety of critical needs 365 days a year. Here is just a snapshot of April 2019 to March 2020 services for our community’s most vulnerable citizens.

Hope and Belonging

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Phone: 250-940-5060

“It has been incredible to see the transformation of people,” says Dana Young, director of New Roads. “There is a visible change as these men who have faced so much trauma in their lives discover their true selves. It really is remarkable.” One new change to the program has been allowing the use of tobacco, coffee and sugar. “We found that many of the men cited the inability to smoke and abstinence from coffee was too much when they were already struggling with substance use disorder,” says Dana. The intake process is open to men 19+ who are struggling with moderate to severe substance use disorder. Those entering the program also need to commit to a minimum of 9 months, and the program can run up to two years. Any mental health issues should first be stabilized and/or managed. While open to all, priority may be given to those with a history of homelessness, and/or contact with the criminal justice system. An intake form and more information is available at: https://www. ourplacesociety.com/new-roads

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You can provide A Fresh Start As the new CEO at Our Place, I’m busy meeting the people whose lives are being transformed by a fresh start, too. People like Rathborne, who after struggling with living on the streets for years, is finally able to look to a future with hope in his heart. He now has a safe place to lay his head, rest and recover thanks to Our Place. His downfall was addiction – in particular, alcohol. At first Rathborne would drink to relieve the confusion and anger that flooded his brain, but numbing his pain only led him further down a dark road. For 26 years, Rathborne was able to stay on a steady path – he was employed in moving and installing heavy machinery in Victoria’s construction industry. He began heavy drinking. Naturally, this daily pattern created chaos at work and at home. His inability to control his emotions, and the resulting downward spiral, led to a life on the street. He lost his long-term relationship, his possessions, friends, and eventually his job. He ended up living in a tent — first on Pandora Avenue, then in Topaz Park. And, like many who find their way to Our Place, he felt hopeless and simply couldn’t see a way out. Unfortunately, this can happen to almost anyone.

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Homelessness for Rathborne — as it would be for most of us — was exhausting. Every day, the majority of his time was spent in survival mode: finding shelter, food, warmth, a toilet and shower, clean, dry clothing, and somewhere just to feel safe. He had little energy left to hold down even the most basic manual work. He was on his way to giving up entirely.

“We need to have ave homelessness alleviated”, says ys Rathborne

Rathborne’s recent move to the former Comfort Inn has given him his first home in years. It comes with the supports he needs. His new home has brought him the security and stability needed for a true fresh start. His newfound energy and purpose has encouraged him to add his voice to help others on the street or in temporary housing. “We need to have homelessness alleviated,” he says.

contribution enables Our Place’s highly trained staff to guide people le like Rathborne to build a healthier, r, happier and more productive life. Please contribute to our FRESH START CAMPAIGN to help people le like Rathborne find a supported place to plant their feet and open doors to new opportunities. Your gift will make a real difference and help vulnerable people, like Rathborne, discover a better, brighter future!

You likely share his wish, too. That’s why we’re inviting you to join our FRESH START CAMPAIGN today. Your gift helps hundreds of hurting and hungry people meet their essential needs for food and shelter and offers them a chance to meet their core human need for belonging. Your

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Aug/Sept 2020

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TIMes COLONIsT * 55 Plus

Hospital to Home – Care & Medical Exercise By Johanna Booy, Senior Care Victoria

ylvia returned home from hospital after a muchneeded and long-awaited knee replacement. As it was early summer, and her friends were making camping plans, Sylvia not only wanted the additional home supports, but someone to work through her exercises with her. If you live at home alone, as Sylvia does, it is helpful to have assistance with showering and dressing plus some light housekeeping. (The home support worker can also prepare the odd meal, which is also useful!) The greatest benefit, however, is in having someone remind Sylvia to take her medications and ice her leg prior to starting her exercises. In the case of a knee replacement, you must work hard the fi rst few weeks to gain the extension and flexion required to perform activities of daily living and — more importantly — to go camping! The balance between managing pain effectively, reducing swelling and inflammation and working through the pain of actively performing the range of motion exercises is a delicate process. A lot of hard work and encouragement is required, especially the fi rst few weeks after surgery. Patients often struggle to achieve their range of motion due to the pain not being well controlled. The right dose, time and kind of medication will adequately address your pain and allow you to maximize your therapy.

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The services of a Medical Exercise Specialist, in addition to a care worker, provided Sylvia the therapy and home care services she needed to get her up and literally running. Not six weeks later, she had almost full range of motion and minimal swelling and inflammation and was planning a camping trip. The increase in chronic diseases has heightened the need for supervised exercise programming for clients after their discharge from rehabilitation services. The Medical Exercise Specialist (MES) is uniquely trained to provide post-rehab and medical exercise services to a wide range of clients with medical needs. There are several reasons to utilize an MES when planning the discharge of clients in need of supervised exercise programming. 1. The MES has completed advanced competencies in anatomy and pathology, which establishes a solid foundation beyond the level of the traditional “personal trainer.” 2. The MES is trained to develop conditioning programs for a wide range of clients with musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological disorders. 3. The MES understands his or her role and scope of practice in the rehabilitation spectrum and works in conjunction with the client’s referring medical professionals to develop a safe and effective conditioning program. 4. The MES’s role is not to provide any form of diagnosis or treatment, but to design safe and effective conditioning

programs for clients with chronic conditions after their discharge from rehabilitation services. 5. The MES will effectively communicate with medical professionals and insurance carriers to ensure the highest level of safety. 6. The MES is trained to identify “red flags” that indicate the client is inappropriate for exercise and/or requires a referral to a medical professional. 7. The MES understands how to screen clients to identify any potential problem areas that may be exacerbated by exercise. 8. Utilizing a MES after discharge will improve the client’s functional capacity and minimize the possibility of re-injury. 9. Our aging population and the large influx of clients with chronic disorders necessitate the need for the development of safe and effective exercise programs as well as the implementation of these programs by the MES. 10. The MES not only develops the client’s conditioning program but is also able to establish a wellness program that will enhance the client’s overall level of health and well-being. If you are awaiting surgery, not only can you arrange for post-surgery care, you can also utilize the services of an exercise specialist. Home support can assist you from hospital to home and back again, to recover and do the things you love most.

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Walk in comfort, and style

he original Birkenstock footbed is the heart of all models. The anatomically shaped inner soles feature special support elements in a multi-layer design. The fi rst layer is jute, which forms the foundation. It stabilizes the natural cork and latex core. The second layer has shock-absorbing and flexible cork and latex core supports, which relieve pressure on the feet. The natural materials insulate against heat and cold. A second layer of jute is placed around the sides of the footbed. This increases the flexibility and makes it more durable. The suede lining absorbs moisture and the natural property of the layer helps ensure a pleasant foot climate.

Why wear Birkenstocks? COMFORT – They have spacious toe area and a great support system. ARCH SUPPORT – Birks take good care of your feet. You have a choice of standard footbed or soft footbed. ADAPT TO YOUR FEET – Over time, your Birks will mold themselves to the unique shape of your feet, making them even more comfortable. ECO-FRIENDLY – Birkenstock was manufacturing in an eco-friendly manner long before it was the thing to do. REPAIRABLE – Birks can be repaired, which increases the value of your investment. It also helps keep them out of landfi lls. Along with comfort, Birkenstock footwear presents designs for today’s market — women’s, men’s, and unisex styles offer a selection for individual tastes. So, enjoy comfort while you walk. Or as we say — “Walk in Comfort”. walkincomfort.ca

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6 | Tuesday, augusT 25, 2020

TIMes COLONIsT * 55 Plus

Safely shop for groceries while social distancing

s recently as a few months ago, grocery shopping was an uneventful chore that few people were likely to remember after returning home. But in the wake of efforts to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, grocery shopping changed in ways that few people will ever forget. Social distancing guidelines and recommendations urged consumers to stay in their homes as much as possible, but grocery shopping requires people to spend time outside their homes. A few simple strategies can help shoppers stay safe as they shop for groceries. WEAR A MASK: Safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are evolving as scientists learn more about COVID-19. One of the more significant changes the CDC made to its initial guidelines was to recommend people wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. As communities begin to reopen, certain restrictions may be relaxed, but the CDC continues to advise people to wear masks while out in public, including when shopping for groceries. The CDC notes that wearing masks may slow the spread of the virus by preventing people who have it but are asymptomatic from transmitting it to others. SHOP DURING OFF-PEAK HOURS: Traditionally “off-peak” hours may no longer apply at many grocery stores, the majority of which have changed their store hours so staff can thoroughly clean and disinfect stores each night. But even if stores are not open as late as they used to be, there’s still times of day when fewer customers will likely be in the store. Early mornings may be designated for shoppers in vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. However, many stores remain less crowded in the mornings than they are during the rest of the day.

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Silver Threads Service We are a charitable, not for profit society that enhances social connections and well-being for seniors. We provide programs and services for those 55 years of age or better with two centres and outreach programs to serve you. Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE: The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology note that respiratory infections can be caused by an assortment of bacteria, viruses and other diseasecausing germs. Scientists believe COVID-19 is spread through the respiratory droplets of infected persons. These droplets are essentially invisible, but when people come into contact with them and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth, viruses can spread. So people should avoid touching their face with potentially dirty hands. Grocery shopping has changed as the world reacts to the COVID-19 virus. As communities begin to reopen, it’s important that people remain diligent when shopping for groceries, taking every step necessary to protect themselves and others from contracting this potentially deadly virus. –MC

Victoria Silver Threads Service and Senior Serving Seniors are joining forces and sharing space in a newly renovated centre located at 1911 Quadra St. he store front location will provide a variety of programs and services as well as information, referral and support for seniors in the community from their new, central location, across from the Victoria Police Station and near the Crystal Pool. The two organizations have compatible missions and a combine 103year history of serving seniors in Greater Victoria. Seniors Serving Seniors is a registered non-profit charitable society in British Columbia that supports the well-being of seniors. They are the go-to organization in connecting the information needs of seniors with relevant resources and programs. Seniors Serving Seniors is a responsive, accessible, flexible and transparent. Silver Threads Service is a charitable, not-for-profit society that enhances social connections and well-being for seniors. They do this by providing programs and services that are accessible to everyone. Their vision sees seniors in Greater Victoria as engaged and supported, with an enhanced quality of life. For details, call Seniors Serving Seniors: 250 413-3211, or Silver Threads Service: 250 388-4268.

* Prices listed are per person including all taxes from Victoria

WASH HANDS BEFORE AND AFTER GOING TO THE STORE: The CDC continues to tout the importance of washing hands as a means to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Scientists are still unsure about how easily the virus can spread from contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, but washing hands before and after shopping is a simple safety measure that prevents the spread of germs and potentially harmful viruses like COVID-19.

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Victoria Silver Threads Service and Senior Serving Seniors, 1911 Quadra St.

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Avoid shopping on weekends if you want to steer clear of crowds, as these are the only times when people who are still working can fi nd time to shop. Weekday mornings or late afternoons may be ideal times to shop for shoppers who want to avoid crowds.

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Tuesday, augusT 25, 2020 | 7

Planning your retirement? Why this expert wants you to think about airplane oxygen masks when you do For many retired investors, the idea of market-based investments is uncomfortable due to today’s economic environment and stock market volatility. Retirees facing these money decisions sometimes choose to gift funds to their loved ones instead. While their heart might be in the right place, there are risks involved if they haven’t fi rst thoroughly planned for their retirement. This includes taking a good look at things like infl ation, living longer than anticipated or facing unexpected health care costs. Assistedcare homes, private nurses and medical equipment can run into the tens of thousands. Without a plan and supporting savings strategy, these expenditures can transform

t’s a metaphor that seems to resonate the best with her clients nearing retirement. “Before you take off, the fl ight crew will advise you to put your oxygen mask on fi rst in an emergency, before you help others,” says Arwen Martyn, CFP, a Financial Consultant for Vancouver Island-based Coastal Community Credit Union. “That’s how we need to approach retirement planning — by making sure our needs, including those unanticipated ones, are taken care of fi rst through thoughtful planning. And we should be doing this before helping our loved ones fi nancially.” She’s speaking from her experience of seeing more and more new retirees transferring their wealth to kids or grandkids early in their retirement. The would-be gifters often come into excess cash after downsizing their homes or receiving an inheritance, but are hesitant to put that money into low-paying guaranteed investments. “They paid record-high interest rates in the ’80s to borrow money, and now they’re receiving record-low interest rates on their investments,” says Martyn.

“That’s how we need to approach retirement planning — by making sure our needs, including those unanticipated ones, are taken care of first through thoughtful planning. And we should be doing this before helping our loved ones financially.” – Arwen Martyn

into fi nancial burdens. What can make things worse is if the loved ones you were hoping to help fi nancially are the ones now shouldering these costs. So what does Martyn suggest you do? “Plan for a variety of retirement situations, and consider engaging the help of an expert when you do so. They’re skilled in applying a critical and objective eye to various situations and helping you plan accordingly.” These conversations can lead to deep dives into other important topics like living wills, Powers of Attorney, estate planning and insurance. “When you can breathe easy knowing you’ll able to live sufficiently through retirement and its many scenarios, the joy of gifting your surplus can begin.”

Arwen Martyn, CFP, a Financial Consultant for Vancouver Island-based Coastal Community Credit Union.

Worried about the safety of living at home alone, but not ready for long-term care or full home-care? Sometimes a little help means a lot.

Heart Pharmacy’s Heart at Home program helps with: • Daily in-home medication support, ensuring that your loved one is taking their medications daily • Assistance with more challenging medications like patches, inhalers, eye and ear drops, and insulin • Regular reporting to your doctor and loved ones of any issues with medications or general health • Companionship and structure, with the same faces every day at consistent times To discuss how it works and whether it’s right for you or a loved one, contact us anytime by: Phone: 778-817-0417 or Email: heartathome@heartpharmacy.com

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8 | Tuesday, August 25, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

Starlight Village brand-new homes

o you’ve decided it’s time to downsize. Great. Now comes the hard part: Are you going to purchase a house, or a condominium? Whether you buy a condo vs. townhouse vs. single-family home will largely depend on your stage of life and what’s available to you. One big advantage of buying a house is that you have total control over the property — unlike in a condo, you can remodel or make changes without the consent of others. Since you don’t own the exterior of the condo, you can’t do anything with it. A house is an entirely different story. You can decorate and paint it in whatever colours you like, build a playhouse for your kids or grandkids in the backyard, or put flowerbeds throughout the property. It is easy to customize a house, in a way you could never do with the condo. Condo owners can also face restrictions on things like parking and pets. It’s been found that pets help decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels. They also help feelings of loneliness and increase opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and opportunities for socialization. Another advantage of a house is the extra indoor and outdoor space — which makes it easier to host family and children and offers more room for storage. Houses also offer more privacy because neighbours aren’t as close as in condo buildings. Brand-new homes at Starlight Villages start at just $299,000 including GST. These affordable single entry level homes and are the ideal

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alternative to condo living and were designed with living and comfort in mind. There are three floor plans to choose from with a variety of types of flooring, cabinets, countertops and more. Couples and small families can enjoy cooking for themselves or friends in the upgraded open-concept kitchen, which includes quartz countertops and a stainless steel appliance package. Vaulted living and dining areas add to the comfort, and all homes are equipped with heat-pump systems and fully fenced private backyards. Starlight Village is proud to have an experienced builder building your new home. Don Gress is a registered CSA builder with 50 years experience in residential and commercial construction. Don and his team have built more than 300 similar homes in Greater Victoria. Some past projects include the Songhees Retirement Park, Hawthorne Village in Saanichton, and Hummingbird Village on the Saanich Peninsula. You can see that every home is built with pride to the highest quality and standards. Call the folks at Starlight Village for a private tour. They’re just as excited as you are to call it home. 250-818-4842 • sales@starlightvillage.ca starlightvillage.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2020 | 9

Saanich Community Services Provides unique opportunities for all Saanich residents

s part of the Saanich Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, Saanich Community Services Division supports citizens who may otherwise be unable to participate in recreation and leisure activities. Staff at the recreation centres offer a variety of extraordinary programs and many people can participate without extra support, however there are many who cannot. Community Services staff work with community groups, non-profit organizations, cultural groups, youth, seniors and low income residents to help provide access for those who may otherwise be unable to participate. Some Community Services programs are offered hand in hand with the recreation centre programs while others are offered off site at other partner locations.

The Leisure Involvement For Everyone (LIFE) is an example of one program that is managed through Community Services. LIFE helps low income residents access recreation programs. Citizens below the Low Income Cut Off can obtain free fitness drop in access, reduced registration fees or subsidized membership fees to a Saanich Senior Centre. There are program options if you qualify. Other financial assistance for children and families is also managed through Community Services. For more information contact call 250-475-5407. The Older Adult Strategy that was created in 2018 is also overseen by the Community Services Division. Staff work towards achieving the goals outlined in the strategy. The strategic priorities in the strategy;

programming, collaboration, enhanced communication, age friendly facilities all aim to improve social connectedness and health for seniors in Saanich. Community Services’ staff partner with low income housing, Island Health, other seniors organizations with the goal to keep older adults connected, socially engaged and active. Grants and partnerships with other organizations help Community Services to be able to offer low cost programs both within the recreation centres as well as at housing facilities, or other organizations’ buildings. If you have an idea or see a need in your Saanich community for older adults call 250-475-5408 to discuss what opportunities could be considered. The Diversity, Multicultural and Accessibility staff in Community Services works to ensure all residents of Saanich feel included and respected. Building relationships with First Nations, LGBTQ, and a multitude of cultural organizations is crucial to understanding what kinds of programs and leisure activities are needed in Saanich. The Accessibility Programmer ensures people with unique abilities have Leisure Assistants available in order to enjoy activities. Working with these groups and liaising with recreation staff help to provide more inclusive programs and welcoming facilities for everyone. Community Services staff regularly provide training for our

employees to improve the understanding and empathy for other cultures. And of course, Saanich wouldn’t be Saanich without our special events and dedication to the arts. Community Services is the heart behind community events such as Strawberry Fest, Deck The Halls, Music In The Park, Moon Festival and all the other memorial and cultural day celebrations. New public art installations and art exhibitions in the Cedar Hill Gallery and Municipal Hall are coordinated through Community Services. For more information on art exhibitions or display opportunities call 250-475-5557. As expected, the COVID pandemic has created many barriers to accessing recreation; artists have not be able to exhibit, many residents have been hit financially and many seniors are finding themselves very isolated not being able to socialize in the centres. Community Services has continued through this time to maintain communication and offer opportunities through pop-up concerts, online festivals, HeArts project, and outdoor, offsite programs. As recreation centres begin to reopen we are here to help Saanich residents get back to being active, socially connected and offer places to learn and belong. For assistance or more information on any of the programs or supports that Community Services offers call the office at 250-475-5422.

We Do Home Care Differently

Saanich Community Services Providing support, assistance and access to recreation for all Saanich residents. Tuesday, August 25, 2020 A publication of the Victoria Times Colonist Publisher: Dave Obee Director of Advertising: Peter Baillie 2621 Douglas Street, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8T 4M2 To advertise in the next issue of 55 Plus, contact: Simone Fibiger Phone: 250-380-5358

• • • • • •

Seniors, youth Low income Unique abilities Diversity & cultural groups Special events Community Arts

Let us know how we can help!

Don’t settle for anything less than what your loved one deserves.

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In Partnership with:

Creating inspiring community spaces where everyone can connect, learn and belong.

Veterans Affairs Blue Cross PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES

Live well at home with your personally selected Caregiver, from hourly to 24/7 live-in and short term respite care. Home Care Assistance is the only home care agency that offers Cognitive Therapeutics, a research-backed activities program that promotes brain health and vitality. Call for a free in-home assessment.

www.HomeCareAssistanceVictoria.ca

Unit 16, 21 Dallas Rd., Victoria 250-592-4881 Flader Business Centre, 101–9837 7th St., Sidney

10 | Tuesday, August 25, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

Lot 1 Pasta Bar Home Improvements • Interior/Exterior Painting • Laminate/Hardwood/ Tile Flooring • Decks/Drywall • Tree Removal/Retaining Walls Call - Derrick Power (604) 655-1064 | 12dpservices@gmail.com

take out

Family Meals We are now offering take out family meals Choose from a selection of items from our Family Meal take out menu!

$45

+ taxes

Includes: 1 salad, 2 pastas + 2 drinks* *only applies to items on our family meal menu

bonus + add any kids meal for $5 each To order visit lot1pastabar.com

rom the founders and owners of Victoria’s original burger lounge comes Lot 1 Pasta Bar. With the same Red Seal executive chef, gourmet fare and price-driven value their burger fans know and love, they’re bringing Victoria’s pasta scene to the next level. The warehouse-style locale merges modernism with an industrial feel, from brushed concrete floors to 17foot ceilings, and piping to polished subway tile. It’s the place to unwind after work, savour a glass of wine. Lot 1 Pasta Bar sources ingredients locally, whether it’s free-range chicken from the Cowichan Valley or fresh fruit and veg from throughout B.C. Pasta is made fresh in-house every morning with the highestquality Italian equipment. After air-drying overnight, it’s ready to melt in your mouth. They’ve reinvented classic Italian fare to impress 21st-century foodies, from linguine mixed with Moroccan spices to bucatini combined with Asian sauces — they believe pasta is no longer about the noodles alone. It’s about what you add to it, put next to it and wash it down with, from

fresh salads and savoury sides to local beers and handcrafted cocktails. Most of the pasta at Lot 1 is egg-free, and they serve a gluten-free pasta, play to all allergies and can personalize any dish to your diet. Lot 1 Pasta Bar is currently open for dine-in Monday to Sunday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and they offer 15% off takeout from lot1pastabar.com or when you order on their new app. Select bottles of beer and wine are also available. If you don’t feel like picking up, you can also order for delivery through Skip The Dishes. Lot 1 Pasta Bar, 815 Cloverdale Ave. Reservations / Take-out 778-265-9311 Order online at lot1pastabar.com

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Tuesday, augusT 25, 2020 | 11

Right-Sized Living Without Compromise Spacious master-on-main homes

PATIO HOMES NOW SELLING

iscover your sanctuary. Down-sizing doesn’t have to mean small. Enjoy the benefits of a low-maintenance lock and leave lifestyle in a brand-new home featuring luxurious interior fi nishing in a vibrant community with a friendly neighborhood vibe. Located just minutes from Langford’s Downtown core, Westhills is surrounded by fantastic parks and trails, all levels of schooling, shopping, dining, golf and all within easy access to West Shore Parkway, Highway 1 and Victoria General Hospital. Westhills is a community built for every generation. Nestled along Centauri Drive is our Starter Series collection of new homes, the larger Carriage Homes with laneway detached garages with suites, and our latest new home design, the Patio Home. These spacious, but not too large, homes were designed for those looking for the master on main floor living, but with additional space for overnight guests and entertaining. The lower level offers a rec room and access to the patio and back yard. Design details include generously-sized ensuites, open-concept main living areas, a kitchen any chef would love, and low-maintenance, professionally landscaped front and rear yards with inground irrigation.

NEW HOMES For a limited time, you are able to choose your favorite interior fit and fi nish package. The Chestnut fit and fi nish package features warmer tones and textures of woodgrain cabinets, a unique tiled backsplash with a pearl-like fi nish and a blond oak laminate flooring. Light and bright but still a cozy and rustic feel with modern touches throughout the home. For a more classic option, our Summerhill fit and fi nish package features luxurious and bold Caesarstone quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. The popular white shaker cabinetry and custom subway tile result in a kitchen that will exceed your expectations for a spec home. Rich medium toned wood grain laminate flooring complete this classic and modern look. A selection of upgrades are available to customize your home, including heated-tile flooring, multiple shower options, interactive security bundle and crown moulding are just a few options to personalize your home. Stop by for a tour of our show homes and see the fi nished product. Our NewHome Gallery is located at 2979 Constellation Avenue and is open daily 12 – 4:00 PM. To stay up-to-date with the latest Westhills news, register online or follow us on Facebook.

NOW SELLING FROM

MID $700s + GST 3–4 BED | 3 BATH | 2,300 SQ. FT. Master-on-main patio homes featuring ﬁnished walk-out basements and spacious master suites.

INTERIOR DETAILS

Warm Living Spaces • Effortless Energy Efficiency • Coastal Inspired Interior The developer reserves the right to make modifications contained herein. Sizes, specifications, layouts, plans, features, finishes and availability may change without notice. E.&.O.E. NEWHOME GALLERY OPEN DAILY 12:00 – 4:00 PM 2979 CONSTELLATION AVENUE | 250 474-5899 VIRTUAL TOURS AVAILABLE AT WESTHILLSBC.COM

12 | Tuesday, August 25, 2020

TIMES COLONIST * 55 Plus

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Embrace a New Age.

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Now available to own or rent. Studio to Two Bedroom + Den Homes. Presentation Centre Open by Private Appointment Only 665 Douglas Street 250.419.4261

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Tuesday, augusT 25, 2020 | 13

Eating Well and Aging Actively

he saying “you are what you eat” is not far from the truth as a healthy diet not only keeps our body functioning optimally, but also provides the mental and physical energy for everyday life. Diet plays a crucial role in protecting us from infectious illnesses and chronic diseases. And while nutrition plays an important role in any person’s life, the benefits for seniors are particularly significant.

According to a Harvard publication, “lifestyle factors may help delay the onset of cognitive decline — the erosion in mental skills and memory often seen before dementia — and dementia itself.” Food plays a prominent role in Harvard’s lifestyle factors, suggesting that cognitive health may be bolstered by a diet rich with fruits, vegetables and healthy sources of protein while limiting red meat and refi ned carbohydrates such as

sugar and white flour. Smart food choices can also help to control cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol. Tapestry, an industry-leading operator of active aging communities across Canada, understands that a healthy and well-balanced diet is a central element of aging well and staying independent longer. Residents of Tapestry at Victoria Harbour benefit from the care and attention put into the food that is available. Across the full-service restaurant and casual pub, meals are prepared to order by professional chefs using the highest-quality, local, fresh and sustainable ingredients that reflect Victoria’s unique geography as well as the changing seasons. Menu selections are reviewed by a registered dietitian and emphasize plant-based nutrients and high-quality proteins — reflecting the goal of creating meals that are not only unique and delicious, but also healthy and balanced. And with cooking and nutrition classes integrated within the daily calendar of events and activities, residents are inspired to continue to create their own culinary creations in the comfort of their own full kitchen. For nearly 20 years Tapestry has been creating vibrant and connected communities

where individuals stay healthy, strong, engaged and socially connected. Tapestry’s focus on nutrition is just one component of a unique, holistic approach that supports residents across the seven dimensions of wellness — which encompasses physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, environmental and occupational wellness. This truly is a great place to embrace a new age. Currently under construction, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour is on schedule for occupancy in early 2021. The presentation centre, complete with fully furnished display suite, is now open by private appointment. Visit TapestryVictoria.com or call 250-419-4261 to learn more.

Join Us September 12 for Our Live Hungry Hearts Facebook Event

Participating Restaurants: • 10 Acres • Frankie’s Modern Diner • Aura Restaurant at the Inn at Laurel Point • Heron Rock Bistro • Boom and Batten • Il Covo • Boondocks • Irish Times Pub • Chuck’s Burger Bar • Smuggler’s Cove Pub • Courtney Room • Spinnakers • Crooked Goose Bistro • Darcy’s Pub (Westshore) • Virtuous Pie

The winners of the People’s Choice “Favourite Mac and Cheese” dish will be announced at Hungry Hearts live-streamed Facebook event on September 12th at 5 PM. The virtual event will also include a special musical performance, auction items and a culinary demonstration “We definitely have all of the ingredients for a great from last year’s event,” says event chair Charlotte Salomon. “It will be a Hungry Hearts virtual experience that I can’t wait to share with the entire champion, community.” Chef Nicolas Hipperson, Executive Chef of the Union Club of British Columbia and a special Q & A session with Our Place’s new CEO Julian Daly. The money raised from the Sept. 12 virtual gala will address the triple pandemic affecting the Island’s most vulnerable residents through boosting health and wellness initiatives, including funding for outreach paramedics, medical supplies, extended hours for Our Place and other vital resources for people in crisis in our community. For more information and to catch the Hungry Hearts Facebook event, click the link at: www.ourplacesociety.com

What do Donors to Our Place Society have to say? Place has, I believe Our se au ec b e at n ce in many I do ake a differen m l il w d an es do – Paula people’s lives.

Because we feel fortunate, we feel it is our honour and our duty to contribute. – Harvey etter make things b to ay w ly n o e Th ther to help. – Hea

I struggle with mental health of those who manage the co , and have such awe trauma, povert mpounded stru y, ggles of a privilege it is addiction and health challe nges. W hat for me to have This donation is sent with dee the resources to share! p compassion rt o p p and love. to be able to su ork. l fu te ra g so – w A s n u onymous o We feel d their tremen Our Place is an Our Place and Susan exceptional – organization th at offers hope, to have a healing and transform luck y enough security am I at io n to some d food I admire the wonderful, Victoria’s most job, housing an p people who v ulnerable. Ble of compassionate work you do. for the work yo el ss so I want to h – Curt u do. – Anony you – Jane mous o n may t. Bless all of yo u those who do for what you are doing for n’t have the m heroes!!! – Step eans. You are all hanie