55 Plus by Times Colonist

March 2022

THE VISTA - IT’S NICE TO HAVE OPTIONS VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WILD SIDE PREPARE FOR YOUR ROAD TEST SILVER THREADS SERVICE EXPERIENCING A NEW LEASE ON LIFE AT VRS SENIORS COMMUNITIES BENEFITS OF A PLANT BASED DIET TO THE SHORES OF THE ARCTIC OCEAN

The Vista by Avenir – the place to make friends and create memories Sales Centre Now Open - 1318 Esquimalt Road Book your appointment today 778.402.1352 For more information visit liveatvista.ca

2 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022

THE VISTA by AVENIR SENIOR LIVING

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

It’s Nice to Have Options

he Vista by Avenir Senior Living is a new era in retirement living. Close to scenic ocean walkways, gorgeous parklands, Esquimalt Recreation Centre, shopping and public transportation, this upcoming community is nestled in at the edge of beautiful Saxe Pointe. The prime location is but one of many reasons to join us. The Vista is an eleven-story steel framed building that will offer 38 exclusive Condominiums for sale and 95 Independent Living rental suites, all with en suites,

Need assistance with a provincial program? We're here to help! Murray Rankin, MLA Oak Bay-Gordon Head

219-3930 Shelbourne Street Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-472-8528

Tues, February 22, 2022

A Victoria Times Colonist publication

Publisher: Dave Obee Director of Advertising: Peter Baillie #201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, BC V9A 6X5 To advertise in the next issue and or submit content contact: Susan Hickman, 250-380-5377 shickman@timescolonist.com

in-suite laundry, patios, and private air conditioning. There will also be 48 Specialized Memory and Complex Care studios for those who require additional support with physical needs and those with dementia or other cognitive challenges. At The Vista, you can truly age in place with the wide range of Continuum Care options designed to meet your changing needs. The Vista is a high quality, pet friendly building with exquisite Hemmingway- themed design and eclectic decor that is reminiscent of exotic travel and adventure. Dine in the Sky in the 11th floor Palm Dining Room where you will enjoy meals prepared by your Red Seal Chef. The 11th floor will also feature many amenity rooms such as the Fred & Ginger Piano Lounge, The Polo Club, Garden Tea Room

and many more all surrounded in floor to ceiling glass windows for you to experience panoramic ocean and city views. Family-owned and operated and Vancouver Island-based, Avenir Senior Living’s David and Violet Craik have spent the last

forty years honing their expertise in senior retirement communities in Canada and the US. With a solid reputation for safety, care and security, your health and wellness are their priority and specialty. Visit avenirseniorliving.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022 | 3

KEVIN J. SMITH, MAPLE LEAF ADVENTURES

Vancouver Island’s Wild Side

The expedition catamaran, Cascadia, overlooks a “raft” of sea otters.

aple Leaf Adventures owner Kevin Smith became a heartened ambassador for Vancouver Island’s rugged northwest coast as a backcountry park ranger; now he’s designed a unique itinerary to share the region’s natural wonder with guests. From ecological treasures like the Great Bear Rainforest to the famed archipelago of Haida Gwaii, the Victoria-based ecotourism operator is no stranger to adventure beyond the norm. But there’s something about this far-out corner of their Island home that sets it apart from anywhere else on the coast. Little-visited, hard to access— this is a multi-day exploration into a side of Vancouver Island that most never see. There are no roads on this coastal safari. Maple Leaf guests live and dine aboard expedition catamaran Cascadia, cruising from Cape Sutil on the northernmost tip down to the Brooks Peninsula, a glacial refugium which juts out almost to the offshore continental shelf. It’s home to wildlife phenomena found nowhere else on Vancouver Island, and provide fodder for BBC

and IMAX shows. Solander Island supports vast puffin colonies and Checleset Bay provides critical habitat for sea otters; once nearly hunted to oblivion, their population comeback is integral to healthy kelp forests in the region. Last summer, George Kourounis, world-renowned explorer and Canadian Geographic ambassador, accompanied Smith and guests on a weeklong expedition. “I’ve travelled to dozens of countries over the years, and there’s no place quite like the wild side of Vancouver Island,” stated Kourounis. Vancouver Island’s remote northwest is a part of Canada that Kourounis always wanted to explore firsthand, and this was undoubtedly the best way to do it: “We were able to spot whales, wolves and eagles, explore remote and pristine rainforests, and enjoy the hospitality of the Kyuquot people as well as the Cascadia, a fine vessel with an amazing crew.” Vancouver Island has become a beacon for international travel, but Kourounis believes even locals are in for a surprise with this special itinerary: “You think you’ve seen British Columbia? Think again. I’ve been to Vancouver Island many times, but the hidden, wild northwest corner is something else entirely. It’s like a different world that is tucked away, hidden from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A nature-lovers paradise.” For more information, visit MapleLeafAdventures.com

GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST HAIDA GWAII ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE SALISH SEA Join our guided expeditions for an insider’s odyssey through the nature and culture of the wild BC and Alaska coast. Private charters available.

Home to bears; some of the world’s largest whales; ancient rainforests; magniﬁcent runs of wild salmon; and a rich, continuing history of Indigenous culture. Desolation Sound Apr 30-May 4 from $4,450 Vancouver Island’s Wild Side Jul 9-15 from $6,700 Vancouver Island’s Wild Side with Canadian Geographic Jul 16-22 from $7,700 Whales & Wild Isles Aug 2-10 from $9,000 Great Bear Rainforest Fall Sep 28-Oct 5 from Cdn $9,850 All dates are for 2022. Prices are all-inclusive per person

ALASKA BRITISH COLUMBIA

Haida Gwaii Great Bear Rainforest

Wild Side

Desolation Sound

VANCOUVER Salish ISLAND

Call 250.386.7245 or visit MapleLeafAdventures.com

Sea

4 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Prepare for your Road Test

We’re Best For Your Re-Test

Call: 250-383-7483 office@wallacedrivingschool.com

Rain shower or full-on typhoon, this H2XTREME® 2-layer storm shell is designed for maximum protection from high winds and rain showers - without the extra weight and bulk of traditional wet-weather gear. Performance features include a high-zip storm collar, adjustable hood, and hardwearing vision zippers. See us for hundreds of other Stormtech styles. We have a good selection of vests, ﬂeeces, golf jackets, rain-pants and warm jackets. FREE waterproof bag included with every purchase. Great for whale-watching trips!

1015 Broad Street, Victoria, BC V8W 2A1 250-385-0127 | victor@treckwear.ca

eniors are understandably nervous about having to take a driving road test. That’s why we are the best for your retest! Most seniors do not properly prepare for the test preamble. They have been driving for longer than most examiners have been alive. So why is it that they have such a difficult time with the road test? The answer is simple. It is not a road test, but rather a checking test. Before going on the road test, a standard vision

test is administered, and after that an explanation and reminder session about traffic signs is done. The examiner knows that seniors, for the most part, are experienced drivers. The examiners are there to see if seniors are doing the proper safety checks. But first, the parking lot vehicle check list must be completed. Here is where things can go terribly wrong. Before the road work begins, all safety controls on the car are examined. This includes the lights, low and high beam, signal, and brake lights, along with the horn, licence

plate insurance decal. Before leaving for the road, the senior will show the hand signals. It is advisable to know the controls for temperature, defrost, AC, and wipers. While on the road there will be skills assessed while turning left or right, at stop signs, lights, and uncontrolled intersections. Playground and school zones, and various speed zones will be encountered along with the surprise construction zones. Turning around with a 3-point, 2 point or a U Turn will be carried out. Parallel parking fortunately is not included. Included in the test the senior will be given several instructions to follow and execute. This is one of the cognitive tests to test short term memory, while asking to change the interior temperature, turn on the wipers or toot the horn. There will be a short break and another round of multiple instructions to follow and return the reverse route just completed. Updating driving skills is essential for success, attending one of our free webinars is recommended. Call to participate, offered on the 4th Wednesday of every month. joan.a.wallace@outlook.com

SILVER THREADS SERVICE DISCUSSION GROUPS

After two years of limiting our social connections due to COVID, it may be time to consider venturing out socially. We are all likely a bit rusty with our social skills but all that can be relearned. At Silver Threads Service we operate two activity centres for those 55 years and better. All programs follow the current

COVID safety protocols, and we are committed to providing a safe and healthy gathering place for all. Our discussion groups have a facilitator that presents information on a theme or topic. The information might be new to you – which means you could learn something! Or it might reinforce something you already knew or believed in. The group would then discuss, share their thoughts and stories. Through the discussion, each of us have the opportunity to look at things with a new perspective. It is healthy to have an open mind, to hone our listening skills and verbalize our beliefs.

Attending a discussion group provides the chance to connect with others in a social setting, and make new friends. At the Victoria Centre (located at 1911 Quadra Street) our discussion groups include Learning for Life, Tuesdays 1:00 to 2:30pm on March 1st and 15th. As well as Lunch with TED Talks, Thursday, 11:30 am to 1:00pm on March 10th and 24th. Call 250 388-4268 to register. At the Saanich Centre (located at 286 Hampton Road) our discussion groups include Learning for Life, Tuesdays, 1:00 to 2:30pm on March 8th and 22nd. Call 250 382-3151 to register.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022 | 5

Experiencing a New Lease on Life at VRS Seniors Communities My favourite thing to witness once a resident has moved in, is their newfound (and unexpected) lease on life. I see so many residents not only keep up with their lifelong friends and family, but also quickly develop new, meaningful friendships. The move is a big life change, but in a really good way. Don’t just take it from me though, this is what residents have to say about their life at Ross Place: “Even though I had many long-time friends, living alone

was not great for me. After 10 years of living at Ross Place seniors community, I’ve found that it is a great place for both men and women. With so many activities we can enjoy together, I am never alone.” – Gord “My daughter brought me to Ross Place from out of town so I could be closer to family. It has turned out to be the best! I now have so many new and close friends” – Rita “I was a young widow in Ontario. My daughter moved me closer so that I was not alone.

She felt that my VRS seniors community was the most welcoming and comfortable residence for me. I am so thrilled to be here! I feel at home, especially with the staff looking after us all so well.” – Jean Discover the difference a supportive housing community like ours will make. Visit rossplace.ca or lakeside-gardens.com for more information.

Rita, Gord and Jean.

By Andrew Trinder, Director of Operations, VRS Communities Seniors Living, Ross Place Seniors Community (Victoria) and Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community (Nanaimo)

have spent more than a decade working in seniors communities across BC and Alberta. In this time, I have had the privilege to work with some wonderful teams. I have also spent countless hours meeting potential residents; welcoming new residents; sharing laughs, challenges, and friendships with current residents; and (as is the nature of aging populations) saying many sad goodbyes with the families of residents who have passed. Unlike other hospitality businesses, working in seniors living, we truly get to know our

residents. Day in and day out, we support them and ensure their lives are full. These are not oneway relationships. Anyone who has the honour of working with seniors benefits greatly from the meaningful conversations and priceless teachings from the lived experiences of our residents. I can say, wholeheartedly, this work is truly rewarding. Moving into a retirement community is a big decision and a big life change. There can be anxiety around entering a new place, but perhaps the biggest learnings we see with residents is that they discover there actually is not much to fear. Our teams and volunteers help residents transition into their new homes with empathy and ease.

Because Seniors Deserve

our very best

Quality, affordable seniors independent and assisted living suites on Vancouver Island available now.

Call today to book your private tour!

Silver Threads Service Celebrating 65 years of community service to seniors!

Offering great programs & two locations 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

Rates from $2800

Rates from $2600

250-756-0799

250-381-8666

lakeside-gardens.com 4088 Wellesley Ave, Nanaimo

rossplace.ca 2638 Ross Lane, Victoria

6 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Benefits of a Plant Based Diet

he vegan/vegetarian dietary fad is hardly a fad at all. Reducing one’s intake of animal products can have a positive effect on your health and also the environment. A plant based diet has been shown to reduce one’s risk of heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer. But are there any health concerns about a vegan/ vegetarian diet? There are a few, but nothing that one can’t correct. I will let you in on a secret. I have been a vegetarian for over 30 years and my daughter has been once since birth. We are both healthy and active people. A vegetarian diet excludes meat, fish and poultry. Vegetarians might eat milk products and eggs.

Vegan diets go one step further and exclude all animal products; so no milk, cheese, eggs, honey and sometimes even figs. People sometimes ask what we eat. We never run out of tasty and interesting meal options. Don’t believe me? Visit the vegan/ vegetarian cookbook section at the library or bookstore. In terms of nutritional concerns, there are a few things to watch out for with any diet. With any diet, variety and colours are important. We have a term for unhealthy vegetarians, the “salad and fries vegetarians”. With a varied diet of fruits and veggies, grains, nuts and legumes one should have little concern about getting enough

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

protein and vitamins to stay healthy. That is with a few exceptions: iron, vitamin B12 and choline. Meat products are rich sources of iron and vitamin B12, which are really hard to find in vegetables. Lower levels of iron and vitamins B12 are a known concern for plant based diets. That is why I recommend vegetarians take a regular multivitamin to ensure they get enough of these important nutrients. Then again, I also recommend that everyone take a multivitamin for this reason. The dietary nutrient called choline is an oddball. Its used by many organs of the body to keep us healthy. It’s uses range from production of brain neurotransmitters to helping the liver process fat and much more.

But we don’t know how much choline is needed by the body, because it is found in so many foods that deficiency symptoms are rarely seen. The main sources of choline in the diet are animal products and eggs. So what about vegans? Again this emphasizes the importance of a varied diet. Nuts, wheat and other grains are good sources of choline. Plant based diets can be a healthy option, both for you and the environment. There is no shortage of things to eat, there are six vegetarian/vegan restaurants in Victoria. However as with all diets, variety is important. Ask yourself this question, “Did you eat a piece of fruit or raw veggie, every day this week?” – Brought to you by your friendly Heart Pharmacy pharmacist

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022 | 7

To the shores of the Arctic Ocean

onsidered by many to be the ‘last frontier,’ Canada’s Yukon and Northwest Territories remains an unchecked item on many a traveller’s bucket list. Far more than a frozen wasteland, Canada’s North is absolutely brimming with life. Long days of sunlight in the summer and unbelievably breathtaking sights as far as the eye can see, await you in this beautiful untouched wilderness. It’s a region where Canadian heritage is accentuated, with breathtaking flora, abundant fauna and a culture formed by the union of Indigenous Peoples and European settlement. Each summer, local tour operator Mile Zero Tours operates fully guided tours to the Yukon and Northwest Territories. On the twelve-day tour, travellers will experience northern culture fi rsthand. Highlights include trying your luck at gold panning in the Klondike, taking in a show at the famed Diamond Tooth Gerties, riding back in time on the stunning White Pass and Yukon railway, traveling the Top of the World Highway and soaking

up the midnight sun. Stunning landscapes with breathtaking vistas can be seen across the north on trips to Tombstone and Kluane park. But perhaps the most memorable part of this journey is hearing the heart of the locals through enthralling tales and legends of this magical land where the compass leads rather than the clock. While all this would certainly make for a once-in-a-lifetime excursion, the true highlight of this journey is venturing well beyond the Arctic Circle to the shores of the Arctic Ocean over the majestic expanses of tundra by airplane to the far northern community of Inuvik, Northwest Territories.

Explore the vast Mackenzie River Delta on a boat trip with local guides. Then travel the new Arctic Highway to the secluded seaside community of Tuktoyaktuk, nestled on the edge of the Arctic Ocean. Learn about northern life both now and in days gone by, taste traditional arctic fare and dip your toe in the waters of the Arctic ocean. For many, travelling to remote destinations like Canada’s North may seem like an unreachable destination. But on a guided tour with Mile Zero Tours, your dream becomes a reality. The tour operator makes travel at any age a possibility for residents of Vancouver Island and offers home pickup and return throughout Greater Victoria. Whether traveling alone or with a friend, small group sizes allow you to create lasting connections with your fellow travellers, as you discover North America’s wonders together with the services of a caring and professional Tour Director to make your journey easy. What are your travel plans for 2022? For guided tours that begin and end at your front door, contact Mile Zero Tours at 250.590.0811. Mile Zero Tours adheres to the latest public health guidelines, should it be deemed unsafe or unfeasible to travel trips will be cancelled and all deposits promptly and fully refunded. For more information on upcoming tours please visit MileZeroTours.com

Limited small group sizes Book Early!

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LIFE ENRICHING TRAVEL STARTS AT YOUR DOOR!

250.590.0811 1.844.590. 0811 Full Details at: www.MileZeroTours.com 208-620 View Street, Victoria BC Reg #67275 All deposits fully and promptly refunded if travel cannot occur

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8 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

YOU. FIRST. First with the dish on tasty meals.

Eric Akis presents new recipes and original food combinations every week in the

Eric is the author of 8 cookbooks and has been the food writer for the Times Colonist since 1997.