55 Plus by Times Colonist

February 2021

I BELONG HERE, SAFELY ACTIVE STARTER SERIES BY WESTHILLS UNIQUE NEW HOMES COMING SOON TO OAK BAY AVE “SUPER-AGER” HABITS NURTURED AT TAPESTRY’S ACTIVE AGING COMMUNITY GOOD HEART HEALTH FEAR OF MOVING THE VISTA — PROUD TO CALL ESQUIMALT HOME

Victoria’s Premium Home Care

2 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

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

BC Reg #67275 ZĞŐ ηϲϳϮϳϱ

Limited small group sizes Book Early!

2021

Epic Canadian Experiences

Harrison Hot Springs 4 Days Mar 8 $ 1299 Island Hopping—Discover the Gulf Islands 6 Days April 14 $ 2299 Vancouver—Shen Yun & Chinese Culture 3 Days April 6 $ 1199 Okanagan Spring 5 Days May 6 $ 1999 Island Hopping—Discover the Gulf Islands 6 Days April 14 $ 2299 Epic Canadian Rail Journey Days May May621 8199 Okanagan Spring 516Days $$1999 Complete Atlan�c Canada 21 Days June 5 $ 8599 Epic Canadian Rail Journey 16 Days May 21 $ 8199 Magical Mari�mes 10Days Days June June55 4399 Complete Atlan�c Canada 21 $$8599 Discover Newfoundland 12Days Days June June514 4999 Magical Mari�mes 10 $$4399 Discover Newfoundland Days June $$4999 Southern Alberta –Canada’s Wild West 12 9 Days June14 15 3999 Southern Alberta –Canada’s Wild West 99 Days $$3999 Skeena Adventure Days June June15 26 4299 Skeena&Adventure 912Days Yukon NW� � Beyond the Arc�c Circlestarts DaysatJune July 426& Aug 8 $$4299 6499 Life enriching travel your door! Yukon & NW� � Beyond the Arc�c Circle 12 Days July 4 & Aug 8 $ 6499 Haida Gwaii & Inside Passage 9 Days July 6, Aug 9 & 23 $ 4299 Haida Gwaii250.590.0811 & Inside Passage 9 Days July 6, Aug 9 & 23 $ 4299 1.844.590.0811

isitors and residents love the seaside charm, small-town vibe and remarkable hospitality of idyllic Sidney, B.C. With close proximity to The Butchart Gardens, downtown Victoria, walking trails, hikes and beaches, Sidney is the perfect home base for exploring farms, wineries and ecotourism activities throughout the Saanich Peninsula and the surrounding Southern Gulf Islands. Whether you are an art and culture buff, an outdoorsy type or have older or wee ones to entertain, there is something for everyone. Sidney enjoys a thriving arts and culture community that celebrates local artists and local crafts. From the seaside sculpture walk, to the beautiful totems that welcome visitors at the Mary Winspear Centre, the lovely art galleries and local cafés, Sidney has it all. A new condominium opportunity is nearing completion in Sidney, built by established award-winning local builder Homewood Constructors Ltd. Homes will be ready to move into this April.

Life Life enriching enriching ttravel ravel sstarts tarts aat t yyour our ddoor! oor! 250.590.0811 1.844.590.0811 1 1.8 Full Details at: www.MileZeroTours.com Publisher: Dave Obee Director of Advertising: Peter Baillie #201-655 Tyee Road Victoria, BC, V9A 6X5

Tues, Feb 23, 2021

To advertise in the next issue and or submit content contact: Cathy Webster cwebster@timescolonist.com

65% SOLD

A Victoria Times Colonist publication

Live in Sidney

Sidney life at Breeze by the sea

With a reputation for quality, Homewood Constructors knows that craftsmanship and quality are key to repeat clients. They partner with reputable subcontractors and suppliers including some of the industries most experienced and skilled professionals in the Vancouver Island building industry. Breeze by the sea is a collection of 37 one-, two- and three-bedroom

condominium homes offering all the advantages of living in the vibrant heart of Sidney. Steps to absolutely everything — shopping, markets, restaurants, theatre, waterfront, yoga studios and fitness centres. Want to go carless? No problem: A Modo car share membership is included with every purchase. For further information, call 250-883-2715 or visit breezeinsidney.com.

Maggie – Companion & Therapy Dog

while on a drive or a walk. She was t is with great sadness that we let all those who knew and loved our dog Maggie that she exceptional with people of all ages, babies, children and our older adults! has passed away!

For us, she was the most wonderful addition to our home and for 100’s of our seniors, a solace, a joy and a welcome addition to their day. Maggie impacted so many lives in her 14 ½ years with us all! (July 2006 to February 2021) From the time Maggie was 6 months old, she accompanied me on senior visits. Sometimes she was permitted in the home and other times she stayed in the car, so we could visit with the seniors

Move in this April Sales Centre Open Wednesday to Sunday 12 pm - 4 pm 2387 BEACON AVE. | 250.883.2715 37 ONE, TWO & THREE BEDROOM HOMES, STARTING FROM THE MID $300,000’S This is not an offer for sale. An offer for sale can only be made in conjunction with a Disclosure Statement. E & OE.

Her passing has created a huge void! Therapy dogs like Maggie, love to do their ‘job’ providing companionship to shut-in and lonely seniors. Therefore, we’d like to focus on some of those visits. Often pets are brought into our homes to help in relationships, to provide significant emotional support, or to provide mental health benefits. Having an animal to touch and to feel on your lap can provide so much comfort. When seniors age, there is so much loss. They lose their spouse, friends, loved ones and their pet eventually. They may live at home or move on to care. A companion pet is so needed at this time, and especially during Covid as many cannot get out or come in! A visit from a therapy/companion pet is a wonderful way to fill their needs and the gaps in their life. I for one hope that the concept of resident pets, pet therapy and companionship becomes the norm for seniors living at home, care home or complex care. Johanna Booy – Maggie’s mom – Care & Company Ltd.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

hroughout this COVID-19 marathon, recreation centres and facilities all over Greater Victoria have been diligently rescheduling and adjusting to keep up with the latest health orders in order to offer safe programs to the public. All Saanich Recreation Centres along with Silver Threads Saanich, Cordova Bay 55+ and Goward House follow strict COVID-19 health protocols. When participants arrive for their program, they line up on physically distanced markings, sanitize their hands, and answer health screening questions. Instructors let participants in one at a time so each person stays apart. Rooms have been measured so each person has the required space. Participants are required to wear a mask in the buildings and until they are settled. Cedar Hill Recreation Centre’s art studio is still available for reserved drop-in. For those wanting a quiet, light-filled space to work on their art, be sure to check out the many time slots available. Saanich weightrooms, pools and rinks are open for registered drop-in and have thorough cleaning schedules.

Goward House, Cordova Bay 55+, Silver Threads and Saanich Volunteer Services are also offering programs. Cordova Bay 55+ has embraced technology, offering a number of activities virtually through Zoom, including fitness classes, speakers, digital photography and

PHOTO: KEVIN LIGHT

I belong here, safely active PHOTO: KEVIN LIGHT

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | 3

Silver Threads is open 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday to Friday, offering their Food Share program, library, woodcarving shop, singles pickleball and table tennis. Chair exercises classes are available. Saanich Volunteer Services will be offering free tax clinics again this year and can help with driving to appointments and delivering food hampers. Low-intensity, registered programs are allowed at Saanich Recreation Centres, which means yoga, chair exercises, meditation and gentle fitness classes are available. To view a complete listing of available registered dropin classes and registered programs, along with our current safety protocols, go to bit.ly/Servicedisruption

a book club. Weather permitting, they have keen pickleball players who are still hitting the courts outdoors. Goward House has programs such as tai chi, yoga and strength and balance. Pre-registration is required.

Due to Covid physical distancing requirements, capacity in our reserved drop-in activities is limited, causing spaces to fill quickly. We understand your frustration. Please be aware that our staff are working hard to serve everyone. Your kindness and patience are appreciated.

What’s Happening in Saanich? Lots of classes to safely participate in this March! Saanich Commonwealth Place Yoga for 55+, Take Heart Cardiac Rehab, Pure Stretch, Osteofit, Strength & Stretch Chronic Pain/Mild Movement, 55+ small group training

Gordon Head Recreation Centre Fitness, Women’s Only Weightroom Pilates – Restorative, Chair Yoga

G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre Cedar Hill Recreation Centre Art Studio, Chair Fitness & Brain Games, Osteofit, Yoga, Aging Backwards, Pilates, Buddhist Meditation

Functional Fitness, Adult Hockey Skills, 60+ Weightroom Orientations, Yoga, Osteofit

Looking for more activities? Contact our partner organizations to find out what programs are running.

Goward House 250-477-4401 www.gowardhouse.com Saanich Silver Threads 250-382-3151 www.silverthreads.ca Cordova Bay 55+ www.cordovabay55plus.org Saanich Volunteer Services Society 250-595-8008 www.saanichvolunteers.org

For more information on activities visit saanich.ca/recreation or call one of our centres Gordon Head Recreation Centre 250-475-7100 G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre 250-475-5400

Cedar Hill Recreation Centre Saanich Commonwealth Place

250-475-7121 250-475-7600

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

PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES

4 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

New homeownership and exceptional value with the Starter Series by Westhills

NEW HOMES NOW SELLING TOWNHOMES • SINGLE FAMILY HOMES • DUPLEXES

Build your life here. NEWHOME GALLERY OPEN DAILY 12 – 4 PM | WESTHILLSBC.COM 2979 CONSTELLATION AVENUE, VICTORIA, BC | 250 474 5899

amilies who seek space, value and style in their next home will have all those wishes and more come true with the Starter Series at Westhills, a vibrant, masterplanned community in Langford, B.C. Gorgeous three-bedroom + media room homes constructed by a trusted local builder sit near the shore of Langford Lake, less than 20 minutes from downtown Victoria. The picturesque, amenity-rich Westhills community has attracted more than 3,000 residents since 2008, and will have an elementary school, middle school and child care facility opening in Fall 2022. The first two phases of the Starter Series homes are now sold out! The third and final phase of these coveted homes, starting from mid $600s plus GST is coming soon. Wayne Evans and Colleen Taylor Spicer, new-home specialists for Westhills, say the low-maintenance homes are a fantastic choice for families who need more room, for the right price. In addition to exceptional living rooms, Starter Series homes check off all the other boxes: select floor plan options include media rooms; double car garages; stylish finishing packages featuring custom quartz countertops in the kitchen and bath; designer carpet with eco-friendly underlay on the stairs and in the bedrooms; and stylish tile floors in the main bath. The kitchens feature custom-design cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers, tile backsplashes and top of the line EnergyStar-rated appliance packages. The exteriors feature a 30-year, fibreglassshingle roof, fully landscaped front and back yard with in-ground irrigation, and exposed aggregate patios. The homes are constructed to BuiltGreen standards. Additional energy and cost-saving

upgrade options such as electric car chargers, hot water on demand, and home security solutions can be installed before move-in day. All homes are covered by 2-5-10 year warranty and home sizes range from 1,322 to 1,554 sq. ft. Langford Lake is just minutes from residents’ doorsteps. It is the perfect spot for some swimming, kayaking, paddle-boarding, fishing, sun tanning, or just playing in the sand. The YMCA and YWCA, opened in 2016 in Westhills and Langford’s City Centre Park, offer a wave pool, water slides, lazy river, therapy pools, day care, fitness facilities and more. The Galloping Goose multi-use trail, formerly a railway line, offers a picturesque 55-kilometer journey from Victoria to Sooke. Locals like to cycle, stroll, run or even ride a horse through the rural sections. “People seem to be wowed when they learn about Westhills’ prime location in Langford where city meets nature,” Taylor Spicer says. “This is the perfect location for those who seek adventure and outdoor lifestyle and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, yet be close enough to still commute in for work. Also, when people realize the extreme value that Westhills offers with their exceptional turn-key home package, it is hard to deny that Westhills is truly the optimal choice.” A new elementary and middle school will open in the development in 2022, which is “causing quite a rumble” of excitement in the community, adds Taylor Spicer. Learn more by visiting westhillsbc.com/ starterseries, calling 250 474-5899 or emailing info@westhillsbc.com. The Westhills NewHome Gallery is open daily from noon to 4 p.m. at 2979 Constellation Avenue in Victoria, B.C.

Westhills makes home ownership simple. Take ease in knowing that your home is brand new, never lived in and is covered by a 2-5-10 year warranty. We take the guesswork out of new home ownership. Tour our brand new show homes, review finishings and view digital renderings and virtual tours, and get referred to industry experts to help you with the mortgage qualification process.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | 5

Unique new homes coming soon to Oak Bay Ave

Graceful, Modern Living on Oak Bay Avenue.

he Redfern is a boutique collection of new residences coming soon to 1920 Oak Bay Avenue. Located above a curated mix of commercial spaces, including a prominent new location for Oak Bay Avenue’s Discovery Coffee, these one-, two- and threebedroom concrete residences have been thoughtfully planned with large living spaces and stylish features that are unique in their design. “We’ve had such a positive experience working with our neighbours and the surrounding community over the past two years,” says Peter Jawl of Jawl Residential. “It’s been a very collaborative process to make sure this building is beautiful, but also adds vibrancy and value to the neighbourhood.” Homes at the Redfern will feature custom designer kitchens, full size laundry rooms and pantries, spa-like bathrooms, and many additional thoughtful features throughout the bright and airy living spaces. The building’s exterior will feature natural materials, oversized patios with lush landscaping and overhanging greenery, a rooftop garden, and a public seating area along Oak Bay Avenue. A new crosswalk is also planned to help residents and neighbours easily get to local shopping, dining, and parks, which are all steps from their front door. An amenity rich underground parkade features 47 parking stalls, electric vehicle charging, secure e-bike and cargo bike storage, a pet wash, a car wash stall, and large storage areas for each residence. “We have worked closely with our team at Cascadia Architects and Jenny Martin Design to create what we feel is a rare and truly exceptional opportunity to own a concrete residence on Oak Bay Avenue,” says Jawl. “In a few weeks, our on-site presentation centre will open so we can soon share everything The Redfern has to offer.” Jawl Residential will be launching presales for The Redfern soon. To learn more, register attheredfern.ca.

WELCOME HOME ...To AFFORDABLE single level living.

An Exclusive Collection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom concrete residences. Presales starting spring 2021. Register today to be ﬁrst to learn more about this rare opportunity.

T H E R E D F E R N .CA

A great place to...

This is not an offering for sale. Any such offerings may only be made with a Disclosure Statement. E.&O.E.

GROW YOUR FAMILY

February 2021

NOW SELLING 42 One & Two Bedroom Modern Homes on Saanich Peninsula Starting at

329,000

ACTIVE I BELONG HERE, SAFELY LLS STARTER SERIES BY WESTHI COMING HOMES NEW UNIQUE SOON TO OAK BAY AVE “SUPER-AGER” HABITS RY’S NURTURED AT TAPEST NITY ACTIVE AGING COMMU GOOD HEART HEALTH

GST Incl.

250.818.4842 • starlightvillage.ca • sales@starlightvillage.ca

Next Issue Published Mar 23 Booking Deadline Mar 12

FEAR OF MOVING TO THE VISTA — PROUD CALL ESQUIMALT HOME

CARE & CO 10 X 28

6 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

“Super-ager” Habits Nurtured at Tapestry’s Active Aging Community

ging well has long been a topic of global interest and though it is common to notice changes as we get older, not all adults experience aging the same way. Some older adults, known as “super-agers,” are a special group of 70-to80-plus-year-olds who often have the mental and/or physical capabilities of their decadesyounger counterparts. Some researchers believe that aging well has less to do with genetics and more to do with the choices we make. Dr. Waldinger, director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, conducted an analysis on super-agers and found that positive habits and lifestyle choices had a direct correlation to longevity and overall happiness. “People who are more socially connected to family, friends, and community are happier, healthier and live longer than people who are less well connected,” says Dr. Waldinger. In addition to leading a socially active lifestyle, the study found that superagers’ common habits include exercise, a drive to continuously learn, a balanced diet and a positive mindset. Adopting habits that support super-aging can be difficult when living at home on your own, and for many, it has been almost impossible during the evolving pandemic which has amplified social isolation for so many older adults. Tapestry’s active aging communities, including its newest community Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, offers residents a vibrant and engaging environment with programs and services aligned to the seven dimensions of wellness that support super-aging. At Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, residents can enjoy a full schedule of daily programming with activities including fitness classes, educational courses, social clubs, volunteer opportunities and more — all in support of forming healthy super-ager habits. Residents stay engaged and socially connected while enjoying the community’s

beautiful amenity spaces such as the rooftop terrace overlooking the Inner Harbour, a full-service restaurant and pub, fitness centre and fireside lounge. Complete with full kitchens, the beautiful and spacious homes at Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, offer residents the perfect community setting to become a super-ager with the goal of remaining independent to continue to pursue life’s purpose and passion. At Tapestry, it really is all about embracing a new age. To celebrate the opening of our newest community, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour is offering new residents a $10,000* move-in credit, whether they choose to own or rent. The presentation centre is open by private appointment only. Visit TapestryVictoria.com or call 250-419-4261 to learn more. *Visit TapestryVictoria.com or speak to a sales representative for more details.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | 7

seeing is believing With Tapestry now complete, it’s easy to picture yourself thriving here. Join our community today and receive a

Grand Opening Move-In Credit of $10,000* A Connected Community Never alone. Part of a vibrant whole. Share your interests, gourmet meals and connect with new friends every day. Be surrounded by a vibrant active aging community as independent and wellness-focused as you. Own or rent – Studio to Two Bedroom + Den homes Presentation Centre Open by Private Appointment 665 Douglas Street | 250.419.4261

TapestryVictoria.com

8 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Good Heart Health January is usually the time for resolutions, as the start of the new calendar seems to signal new beginnings and a time to start — or stop — daily habits.

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

www.HeartPharmacy.com/heart

always thought January was the worst time to plan resolutions. There is much that happens in the fi rst month of the year: There are holiday bills to pay, kids are back to school, snowbirds plan to travel south and it is flu season. Maybe it is best to start new habits in February, a quieter month. Another reason: February is Heart Month. Perhaps the best resolution you can make to help your heart, other than getting regular exercise, is to stop smoking. Let’s looks at all the reasons to stop smoking and ways your local pharmacist can help you stop. While the number of people who smoke have been dropping steadily of the years, it is still a major heart concern. Health Canada estimates that 100 Canadians die from smoking-related illness every day. This does not take into account health care dollars spent on cancer, heart and respiratory diseases. How can your local pharmacist help you quit smoking? You can obtain nicotine replacement therapy free of charge from you community pharmacy. Once a year, all B.C. residents are eligible for a single, continuous 12-week course of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) through the B.C. Smoking Cessation Program. You can choose from nicotine patches, gum, lozenges or the nicotine inhaler. To obtain your NRT products, you need to ask your pharmacist if you are eligible. You must be registered with B.C. Pharmacare and fill out and sign a declaration form. That is it. The rest is up to you.

Do not be discouraged if you don’t succeed with your fi rst attempt. Quitting smoking is extremely difficult, especially for long-term smokers. With any failure, no matter what type, it is best to learn from your mistakes. Why did you start smoking again? Was it something that you saw or did that triggered your craving for nicotine. Was it availability to cigarettes? Or are some habits just hard to break? Make a note of what caused you to start smoking again and try to overcome this obstacle next time. There will be a next time — it often takes people a few attempts to successfully quit smoking. Don’t forget to visit your local pharmacy to obtain your 12-week NRT therapy, even if you do not succeed on your fi rst attempt. Supposing you obtain your fi rst four weeks of NRT therapy in February and stop after four days. If you wish to restart in July, you will not be eligible for the remaining eight weeks. Remember it must be 12 weeks of continuous therapy. If you need some help with motivation, there are many great resources available. Perhaps the best is the Quitnow.ca website. There is information about how you can plan to quit smoking with concrete was about how to deal with cravings and changing your habits. At this website, you can sign up for personalized coaching, receive daily supporting emails or texts. But perhaps the best motivational source is yourself. You are capable of quitting smoking, and you know it. Your friendly Heart Pharmacy Pharmacist

Stairs can be challenging. 1/3 British Columbians over the age of 65 will fall once every year.*

Reduce the risk of falls by scheduling a FREE in-home or virtual assessment to see if a stairlift is right for your home.

*Per Government of BC

Contact Connor for a FREE In-Home Assessment!

CONNOR MENTIPLY Seating & Mobility Consultant 101 - 2657 Wilfert Road Victoria, BC V9B 5Z3 HMEStairlifts.com Call: (236) 638-2605

Connor.Mentiply@hmebc.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | 9

Downsizers, first-time homebuyers, and furry family members discovering life on the Peninsula

Meet Louie, a valuable member of the team at Starlight Village

ew homes starting at just $329,000 offer an ideal alternative to condo living on the beautiful Saanich Peninsula. Starlight Village is a community of one- and twobedroom homes ideally situated with easy access to all amenities: schools, hospital, ferry terminal, airport, Sidney by the Sea, grocery stores, farmers markets, restaurants, parks, walking paths, and so much more. While there are many condos in the area, most of them are not pet friendly. Four-legged Louie is just one of the valued team members at Starlight Village — helping to make sure that homebuyers and their furry friends have a place to call home. Brand-new single-family homes at Starlight Villages start at just $329,000 including GST. These affordable entry-level homes are the ideal alternative to condos and were designed with living and comfort in mind. There are three floor plans to choose from with a variety of options for 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. There’s plenty of open space and comfort in the vaulted living and dining areas, 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, his family and team have built more than 300 similar homes in Greater Victoria. To Don and his family, it’s all about making it possible for young people to buy their first home and be part of a community. Past projects include the Hawthorne Village in Saanichton, Hummingbird Village and Hummingbird Green Village on the Saanich Peninsula and the Songhees Retirement Park. 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 are just as excited as you are to call it home. 250-818-4842 • sales@starlightvillage.ca starlightvillage.ca

Connecting you to community With Covid-19 vaccines becoming available, let us help you get safely settled to enjoy all-inclusive services in our welcoming community. To help with your move, we’re ȌǏǏƵȲǞȁǐ ɯȌɐȲ ˛ȲȺɈ ǿȌȁɈǘ ǏȲƵƵ ɈȌ ƵƊȺƵ ɯȌɐȲ ƦɐƮǐƵɈ‫ خ‬

HOT MEALS

HOUSEKEEPING

No need to run to the grocery store, fresh meals prepared daily.

Extra help cleaning your suite ensures your home is clean and sanitized.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Enjoy safe, socially-distanced activities that keep your mind and body active.

Intergenerational PenPal Club & Adult Computer Sessions

Become a penpal with a young Learn online about surfing the person in your local community. web, messaging, social media, Stationery and postage will be support resources and avoiding provided. scams from your own home. For more information or to register: Tel: 250-385-0014 - Email: admin@victorialiteracyconnection.ca

ׂׄ‫ ׇغ‬²Ç§§ ªÀ

No one should have to go through this pandemic alone, we’re here for you 24/7.

Suites Available Now Book your safe, private tour today! 250-381-8666

rossplace.ca | 2638 Ross Lane, Victoria | 250-381-8666

10 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Fear of Moving We Do Home Care Differently

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

In Partnership with:

Veterans Affairs Blue Cross

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

o you have a fear of moving? Are you living in a house that is too big for you, too much to handle on your own? Are you stressing about the garden, the exterior and all the cleaning? Do you feel like you are a burden to your children? Maybe you have too many stairs and it stresses you daily that you could have a fall. These are all very common and valid fears. Moving from your big family home full of memories can feel overwhelming and emotional all at the same time. HERE ARE SOME REASONS WHY YOU NEED TO JUST DO IT! • Safety is No. 1. If you are living in a place where you are at risk of hurting yourself, then that is a big sign it is time. Wouldn’t you rather take on the task of moving instead of having a fall, breaking a bone and dealing with the pain and treatment or even possible surgery? • Loneliness. Living alone is just lonely. Eating alone is lonely and cooking for one is no fun. Were you always a social butterfly and now find it difficult to get out to visit friends or go to social events? Retirement living can give you a community feel and countless opportunities to join social groups and activities with the freedom and independence in your own personal space. • Moving into all-inclusive retirement living like Shannon Oaks in beautiful Oak Bay can offer community and social opportunities. You can meet age-like people, play cards, games, attend social events and dine with others on a daily basis. We have a full time activities coordinator who creates monthly calendars

that include daily exercise, movie nights, theme days and opportunities to grow and learn new things. • Security. Living in a retirement community can make you feel safe and secure. We have 24-hour on-site monitoring. We have a maintenance team available seven days a week that can tend to that plugged toilet, light bulb out or closet door falling off the hinges. We have a personal help button that is monitored all hours of the day and night. • Carefree living. It is time for you to sit back and be served. Living at Shannon Oaks, you can enjoy delicious meals prepared by our executive chef in our open seating dining room. No more dishes or cleanup for you. You will also receive weekly housekeeping and linen service in your private suite. Making the choice to move can improve your quality of life in so many ways. Please call Kailee today for a tour and see why Shannon Oaks could be your wonderful new home. – Kailee Haaksma, Marketing Manager

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | 11

The Vista — proud to call Esquimalt home

customer service and quality products on a daily basis.” The Vista is a home, a community and a neighborhood, ready to welcome you and your loved ones in the years to come. Located at 622 Admirals Rd., The Vista is currently under construction. Stay connected as this epic new senior’s community unfolds. Register with The Vista today at liveatvista.ca, and we will keep in touch. Curious to learn about other Avenir communities? Visit avenirseniorliving.com.

hen you move into The Vista, Avenir Senior Living’s latest development, you will also join a supportive, safe and vibrant community. Located at the edge of gorgeous Saxe Point in historic Esquimalt, you are always a short walk, ride or drive away from all that this fantastic community has to offer. Esquimalt is home to approximately 17,000 residents who enjoy its many amenities, including beaches, parks, scenic waterfront walkways, modern recreational facilities, a library and a diverse array of stores and commercial services. From April through to September, the Esquimalt Farmers Market is a treasure trove of locally made food, drinks, textiles, candy and more. It’s a community hub and a great place to hear live music and explore the many vendors. You’ll meet a few locals, including Katrina Dwulit, the market’s executive director and founder, who shares: “It’s so exciting to see Esquimalt expand with The Vista. Esquimalt Farmers Market is excited to welcome the residents to help better support our local food systems.” In terms of art, the Esquimalt town council set out in 2016 to “cultivate a more vibrant community full of visually exciting and identifiable spaces where art in all its forms is incorporated into everyday life.” As

such, there is fantastic public art to study as you wander the quiet and tree-lined streets of your new neighbourhood. Also, with more than 10 parks to explore, many winding Garry oak and arbutus-lined trails and the mesmerizing ocean close at hand, nature is at your doorstep. Fond of swimming or aquatic fitness? Then you’re in luck: The Esquimalt Recreation Centre is one of the best. “Our centre has a wide variety of programs that will be a great fit for The Vista’s residents,” says Robbie Young, recreation co-ordinator for Esquimalt Parks and Recreation. “We have the warmest pool in the region with options for early risers and night owls alike. Aquatic options include lane swimming, hydrotherapy pool and a wide range of aquatic fitness options.” For all your grocery and shopping needs, Red Barn Market is literally next door to The Vista. It boasts an array of fresh and local food items, ice cream bar, full deli, sandwich bar, wide aisles and is fully wheelchair accessible. “The Red Barn Market is looking forward to welcoming our new neighbours at The Vista,” says owner says Russ Benwell. “We have been anxiously waiting for this development as it continues to build upon the foundation of this great community. You can count on our team to deliver friendly

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12 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

This is the life. The Vista by Avenir is a new era in retirement living at the edge of the beautiful Saxe Point neighbourhood in Esquimalt. Life is an adventure and you’ve arrived at the right place. At The Vista, dining excellence, vibrant amenity areas, fulfilling socialization and flexible living options are all at your doorstep. Each suite comes with air conditioning and a balcony - and did we mention the views?

Opt-in to condominium ownership Occupancy Fall 2021

Avenir Senior Living is a Victoria-based, family-owned company building and operating premium seniors’ residences across British Columbia and North America.