55 Plus January 2022

January 2022

5 REASONS WHY JAMES BAY IS THE BEST NEIGHBOURHOOD IN VICTORIA TO LIVE HAPPY HOLIDAYS AT ROSS PLACE AND LAKESIDE GARDENS SENIORS COMMUNITIES GO NORTH – THE LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN IS CALLING COVID BOOSTERS HAVE BEGUN SILVER THREADS SELF-IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES TO MAKE RESOLUTIONS A REALITY THE VISTA, RETIREMENT LIVING REDEFINED

REGISTER TODAY 56 5 R E S I D E N C E S . C O M

250.882.2715 82 15

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5 reasons why James Bay is the best neighbourhood in Victoria to live

mbrace a village feel with urban conveniences at the boutique, 565 Residences,

by Homewood Constructors Ltd. When it comes to the barometer of urban validity, Walk Score, the vibrant James Bay neighbourhood, is exceptional. It rates between a “walker’s paradise” where daily errands don’t require a car and “very walkable,” where most errands can be accomplished on foot.

With its deep sense of community amongst diverse residents and businesses, this picturesque waterfront and spirited ’hood has become a uniquely trendy and desirable place where home buyers look to live.

Full of character and charm, the small-town feel of James Bay will draw you in, and its big personality will captivate you.

You can enjoy everything James Bay has to offer from Homewood Constructors Ltd.’s latest development, 565 Residences, with top-quality finishings from family-owned local subcontractors and suppliers.

EXPLORE EVEN MORE REASONS TO PUT DOWN ROOTS: 1 Convenience From your new one- or two-bedroom four-storey condominium at 565 Toronto Street—just one-and-a-half blocks from the iconic Five Corners (services and retail) core—you’ll find yourself in proximity to every type of establishment imaginable, a game-changer for your busy and active lifestyle.

At 565 Residences (completion approximately 2023), you’ll be in the heart of it all with convenient access to the Dallas Road walkway, key public

facilities like the colourful and quirky Fisherman’s Wharf, with live music, restaurants, fresh seafood, market stalls and services, and Victoria’s lively Inner Harbour, where you can catch the Victoria Harbour Ferry, and musicians and local artisans show-off their talents.

“Being in a small building, everyone knows each other, neighbours walk together, talk in the hall,” says Siobhan Newton, listing agent with NAI Commercial (Victoria), Inc. “With its superior location, just behind the Parliament Buildings, you’ll be within walking distance to downtown, cafes and eclectic restaurants, Thrifty’s and the Red Barn market with locally sourced goods,” reveals Newton.

“It’s about accessibility to all things without hopping on a bus or getting in a car.”

2 Foodie hub and a strong craft scene Whether you enjoy a laid-back bite or venture downtown for a night out, handmade and homegrown are at your fingertips; sustainable, locally sourced, and farm-to-table are hallmarks among many eateries.

Village standouts include hip and homey Floyd’s Diner, funky James Bay Coffee and Books, and Barb’s Fresh Fish & Chips at Fisherman’s Wharf and The Fish Store restaurant and fishmonger on Dallas Road. Food trucks add

you can access it all because you’re so close to downtown,” Newton says.

to the culinary landscape, like year-round options at The Royal BC Museum and the Songhees Food Truck around the Inner Harbour, for a modern take on traditional Indigenous cuisine.

“Farmers’ markets take place every weekend in the surrounding area,” says Newton, “plus the James Bay Community Market from May to September.”

You also don’t need to venture far to find a cold one. Bars and grills, think The Bent Mast, stock abundant local craft brews; the Breakwater Bistro & Tasting Room serves up a view, too.

“It’s all very attractive to savvy foodies, not just James Bay, but

3 Arts and culture The nearby Royal BC Museum keeps the area’s history alive, while other cultural draws are numerous, including art galleries like the Bateman Gallery in the Steamship Terminal building.

“Accessibility to the arts is wonderful: you can walk to the local theatres, walk to the BC Museum, and more,” says Newton. “Victoria is the regional centre for arts and culture.”

Highly noteworthy, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (view works by Emily Carr), as well, the annual James Bay Art Walk, where artists open their home studios.

4 Natural surroundings and outdoor recreation Flanked by 185-acre Beacon Hill Park to the east and water on three sides, the area is known for its outdoor activities, green

spaces, pedestrian walkways and boardwalks.

Bike-centric, the easy to navigate roadways and multitude of paths is a cyclist’s dream; the seaside path beside Dallas Road is a local favourite. Water adventures abound: kayaking, fishing boats and pleasure crafts add to the area’s leisure lifestyle.

5 New homes, reputable developer The building’s aspects include non-smoking (attractive for resale), no age restrictions, and a pet policy (any size); plus, you can rent out your unit long term.

Building in Victoria for 40 years, developer John Newton partners with experienced and highlyskilled local trades, which is extremely important to him, just one aspect that speaks to his solid reputation as a respected developer/builder in the community.

For more information, visit homewoodconstructors.com and 565residences.com

Homewood Constructors Ltd. is a trusted name in local development and the multi-family residential construction market leader. Guided by thoughtful design and a desire to bring leading-edge projects to life, the award-winning Homewood portfolio includes well-regarded properties such as 200 Douglas, Richmond Gate and Uptown Place, to name a few. Architectural rendering of Homewood Constructor’s new boutique 24 unit condominiums at 565 Toronto Street. Photo supplied. A quick walk to Fisherman’s Wharf’s where you’ll find floating homes, boats, piers, restaurants and adventure tours. Photo supplied. The nearby James Bay Community Market offers fresh LOCAL farm foods, produce and craft vendors every Saturday, May-Sept. Photo supplied.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2021 | 3

Happy Holidays at Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens Seniors Communities “When I walked in the front doors at Lakeside Gardens, I liked it right away. It had a warm and inviting feeling. Last year, when I moved in, there were Covid restrictions in place and we socialized very little, but the staff were great then and still are now. This year, Lakeside is decorated amazingly! And all the activities planned make things brighter and happier for everyone. Since moving here, I feel relaxed - I am no longer stressed!” - Sheila “I am looking forward to having Christmas here. I will miss the kids

decorating my home, but it feels like Christmas to me here.” - Tove “I don’t have to worry about Christmas shopping, baking, and all the preparation I did as a housewife - although I did love doing all that.

Now I can sit back and enjoy it here at Lakeside. I have more friends than I did before!” - Inge “I am comfortable staying here for Christmas; it’s a chosen family!

I enjoy the music we have during the holiday season and the staff are excellent.” - Eileen

If you’re thinking about making the transition to a senior’s residence in Nanaimo or Victoria, come speak with the friendly people at Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens and discover the difference an independent and supportive housing community like ours will make.

Visit rossplace.ca for more information on Ross Place Seniors Community in Victoria or lakeside-gardens.com for more information on Lakeside Garden Seniors Community in Nanaimo.

Season’s greetings to everyone from Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens!

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he holidays are a joyful, yet sensitive, time for many of our residents. In later life, the holiday season is a mix of emotions. We have lost so many dear friends, family, and loved ones, but we still celebrate the present by connecting and sharing kind words with each other - all while reflecting on joyful memories in our minds.

At Ross Place and Lakeside Gardens, we appreciate this delicate balance of emotions; and it is a particular joy to see our residents, who have developed so many new friendships within our

communities know that they are not alone. Not only do they have each other, but they also have our supportive team to enjoy seasonal activities with!

Here are some quotes from the residents at Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo, a sister location of Ross Place and one of eleven VRS seniors communities: “The staff here at Lakeside are wonderful! I told my family that I am staying here for Christmas.

They weren’t happy with me, but I said they can come visit me here.”

- Betty

Happy Holidays

from our family, to yours!

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

Call today to book your private tour!

Thurs, December 30, 2021 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: Aaron Ross 250-380-5313 aross@timescolonist.com

Rates from $2800

Rates from $2600

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lakeside-gardens.com 4088 Wellesley Ave, Nanaimo

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Go North – The Land of the Midnight Sun is Calling

n the summer of 1896 gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River in the remote Yukon territory. Little did the discoverers realize, that they would set of one of the largest gold rushes in history.

Over the next three years an estimated 100,000 people would hear the call of the “Land of the midnight sun” and make the difficult journey north in search of its elusive treasure.

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

stories of Jack London and many others who experienced the North fi rsthand.

While most certainly intriguing, the great gold rush is just a part of the story awaiting your discovery in the North.

Travelling conditions have vastly improved but the adventure and a treasure perhaps more valuable than gold still awaits.

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

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

You will travel by plane, coach, boat and train exploring the route to the Klondike and

beyond. Ride the White Pass Railway from Skagway, explore Whitehorse, pass the fearsome Five Finger Rapids along the Klondike Highway, wonder the historic wooden sidewalks and unpaved streets of Dawson City, experience life above the Arctic Circle in Inuvik, sail down the MacKenzie River and stroll along a sandy Arctic Ocean beach in the remote hamlet of Tuktoyuktuk. Joined by a series of locals along the way you will not only see the sites but be immersed into the captivating north. The land of the midnight sun is calling, join the adventure today.

For more information and to get started planning your northern adventure visit milezerotours.com or call 250.590.0811. Mile Zero Tours adheres to the latest public health guidance.

Should it be deemed unsafe or unfeasible to travel trips will be cancelled and all deposits refunded in full.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2021 | 5

COVID Boosters have begun!

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he best way to start the new year is with the peace of mind from receiving your next dose of COVID vaccine.

The Province has rolled out a new process which will hopefully get British Columbians their boosters more quickly and efficiently.

While the process is straightforward, we appreciate that with all of the incoming COVID updates and announcements, the instructions for getting your booster may have been lost among the noise.

SO HERE ARE THE STEPS TO GETTING YOUR NEXT COVID VACCINE: 1 Register with Get Vaccinated BC - you can do so online at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca, or call 1-811-838-2323. You likely have already registered for your 1st or 2nd dose.

This is the official Provincial Registry - it is the only list the Province will use when determining eligibility and sending booking invitations.

2 You must wait for your booking invitation. You will likely not receive an invitation the very fi rst day you become eligible. Hang tight! Even if you are currently eligible, you

cannot schedule an appointment without the booking invitation from the Province.

3 When you receive your invitation you will visit the Provincial scheduling platform. Here you will see a list of ALL vaccine providers in your area who have vaccine supply and available appointments. You can choose whichever date & location is best for you.

4 If you need to cancel, reschedule or modify your appointment, you will have to use the Get Vaccinated portal (the same place you registered), or by calling 1-833-838-2323.

Visit www.heartpharmacy. com/covid19 to learn more about the vaccine booking process, and read our COVID-19 FAQ. Take care, The Heart Pharmacy Team

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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SILVER THREADS SERVICE RESOLVE TO MAKE 2022 A BETTER YEAR As 2021 comes to a close, we can all look forward to a new year and hopefully a better 2022. By now, we all know that COVID is going to be a part of our lives for the foreseeable future and we have all adapted in many ways. Know that Silver Threads Service requires proof of vaccination for everyone in our centres. We put safety first and follow COVID safety protocols. If you have been hesitant about resuming some of your favourite activities or are feeling complacent about getting out, it will do your head and heart good to connect, and you can breathe easy (with a mask on) knowing that we take your health seriously.

Of course we always think about starting a new fitness program in the new year, and sometimes the thinking even leads to “doing”! This year, let us help with the “doing”.

We have standing and seated exercise classes at both of our Centres, as well as Chair Yoga, Meditation, Zumba Gold, and Tai Chi Therapy and more. In January we will announce an exciting new indoor Walking Program in a great new location that you will not want to miss.

After an 18-month COVID hiatus we are beginning to offer

our Memory PLUS Programs and have spaces in January for the Tuesday and Wednesday morning classes at the Victoria Centre.

The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies. The purpose of Memory PLUS is for participants to learn in a group setting led by a qualified facilitator and explore techniques, play brain games and do other challenges to increase cognitive function. It is a relaxed and social setting perfect for connecting with peers.

The Learning for Life Discussion Group meets twice a month in each of our centres.

In January we will start the year reflecting on the past years’ news and big events and discuss current issues that are of interest.

The group is facilitated and is a safe place to share ideas and learn from each other.

Silver Threads Service offers two locations, our centre in Saanich is at 286 Hampton Road and the Victoria Centre is at 1911 Quadra. We will be closed during the holidays and will reopen on January 3rd. For those of you who are computer savvy, check out our programs at silverthreads. ca And for those of you who aren’t familiar with computers but are curious we do a number of opportunities to learn about technology in one We are now offering in person classes with the next session planned for January 2022.

Call 250 388-4268 for more information.

Memory PLUS Challenge New Year Word Scramble Memory PLUS is a Silver Threads Service program for those 55+ who would like to increase their memory in an active and social group setting.

The PLUS stands for Practice, Laughter, Useful Strategies.

We are now offering in person classes. Call 250 388-4268 or visit silverthreadsservice.ca for more information.

We encourage you to exercise your brain by solving an holiday puzzle.

1. ophe

____

2. ribnob

______

3. ayre

____

4. alssg

_____

5. ohnrs

_____

6. alpns

_____

7. irdnfe

______

8. iscum

_____

9. eyrmom _ _ _ _ _ _

VICTORIA CENTRE Dates: Tuesdays, January 18th – March 8th Times: 9:30 to 11:30am Dates: Wednesdays, January 19th – March 9th Times: 9:30 to 11:30am Cost: 8 sessions Members $75.60 Non-members $109.20 includes GST

ANSWERS 1. Hope 6. Plans 2. Ribbon 7. Friend 3. Year 8. Music 4. Glass 9. Memory 5. Horns

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on one and group settings talk to us to learn more.

We can be reached at the Saanich Centre 250 382-3151 or the Victoria Centre 250 388-4268. Together let’s make 2022 a better year all around!

ll yoga is potentially therapeutic. Yoga Therapy specifically applies yogic tools—postures, breathwork, meditation, and more to address an individual’s needs— physically, mentally, emotionally, & even spiritually. A certified yoga therapist has at least 1000 hours of training. The sessions are tailored to the specific concerns and goals of the client. The individual is empowered with choices to

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

5 - 831 Devonshire Rd, Victoria

A

Yoga Class vs. Yoga Therapy Session

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

Visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

enhance their wellbeing. In contrast, general yoga classes offer instructions on yoga technique in a group setting. They are generally focused on the physical body and offer limited individual adaptations.

Yoga teachers have a minimum of 200 hours of training. If you are uncertain about trying yoga, you may appreciate the expertise and individualized attention offered by a yoga therapist. samanthalaurayoga.com

Private Yoga Therapy for Seniors

from the comfort of your home YOUR FIRST CLASS IS FREE Visit samanthalaurayoga.com to book a free consultation or call 250-880-3238.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2021 | 7

Self-improvement strategies to make resolutions a reality • Change your perception of setbacks. Many a New Year's resolution has fallen by the wayside due to setbacks.

For example, someone who aspires to lose 20 lbs. may be trying to lose one pound per week for 20 weeks running. If an individual fails to lose that pound in a given week or even gains weight, that setback may compel that person to abandon the larger goal. But instead of seeing and even accepting that setback as a sign of failure, individuals should see it was a learning experience that can

S

elf-improvement is at the heart of the majority of New Year's resolutions. Individuals resolving to read more or live a more active lifestyle or travel are all attempting better themselves.

Resolutions can be hard to keep, as the hectic pace of daily life can make it hard to find time for new activities. Individuals who want to see their resolutions through to the end can try utilizing various self-improvement strategies to help them achieve their goals.

• Share your goals with others whom you respect. Resolutions may involve intensely personal goals, but sharing those goals with people you respect can have a profound effect on your ability to achieve them. A recent study from researchers at The Ohio State University examined the effects of sharing target goals with others. In the study, which was published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, 171

undergraduates were asked to move a slider on a computer to the number 50 as many times as they could within a given time frame. After doing this, they were asked to do it again but this time they were asked to set a specific goal regarding how many times they could do it within the allotted time.

Someone identified as a "lab assistant" then went to check on their goals, but the assistants were presented differently to different groups, and one group was not checked on at all. One assistant was well-dressed and introduced as a doctoral student, while the other was casually dressed and identified as a community college student.

Researchers found that those who shared their goals with the doctoral level assistant reported feeling more committed to their goal and in fact performed better than participants in the other

groups. Researchers concluded that individuals who share their goals with people they respect are more likely to commit to those goals than people who keep their goals to themselves.

• Start small, but don't stay small. Setting small goals may not make individuals feel like they're en route to the dramatic changes they feel they need.

However, research indicates that incremental goals can provide the early motivation people need to achieve larger goals. However, researchers at Peking University in China discovered that, while incremental goals helped people make more early progress, that progress waned if they did not eventually transition to their larger goals. Individuals can use their early successes to instill the confidence that makes them believe they can achieve their larger goals

ultimately help them achieve their larger goal. In the weight loss scenario, individuals who fail to lose a pound in a given week can examine their habits over the previous seven days.

Identifying why an incremental goal was not achieved can reassure individuals that they will know how to avoid those same pitfalls in the future.

Self-improvement strategies can help individuals making New Year's resolutions see those resolutions through to their successful conclusion. –MC

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To become a memeber, visit www.federalretirees.ca/join or call us toll-free 1-855-304-4700.

Membership is exclusively for those eligible to receive or who are in receipt of a pension from the Public Service of Canada, RCMP or Canadian Armed Forces as well as federally appointed judges.

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The Vista, Retirement Living Redefined Here, “Nice to Haves” Are Just the Beginning.

W

hat does an ideal retirement community look like? A stunning view? Engaging activities that support a healthy lifestyle? A beautiful environment designed for aging-in-place? Avenir Senior Living’s Island-based, family-owned “The Vista” has you more than covered. Read on.

Lifestyle options are a top priority for many retiring couples and individuals. You know what you like and what you want, but you are not certain what the future holds. With a range of condominium and independent rental suites that allow for Assisted Living services provided in your private residence, The Vista sees you and says “We get it. How about this?”

All of the units in this elevenstory development have balconies.

Sip a coffee as you soak up the ocean, seaside and city views.

Each unit also features individually controlled air conditioning to ensure your comfort regardless of the weather outside.

The modern, wood-tone, luxury plank flooring has an acoustic backing layer, providing sound insulation and a cushioned feel.

Condominium appliances include Blomberg built-in refrigerator and dishwashers with front panels that match the cabinetry, Fulgor built-in wall ovens, Panasonic microwaves, Fulgor induction cooktops, Faber pop-out range hoods and Whirlpool washers and dryers. No detail has been overlooked in the design and commitment to style and function.

Your vision of a fulfilling retirement is unique. We respect that and cater to many tastes while maintaining our Hemmingway and travel-themed aesthetic for all to enjoy. Picture our 11th Floor 16,000 sq ft Grand Salon with floor-toceiling glass windows showcasing

panoramic views. Are you craving roast beef in the Palm Dining room, or perhaps a decaf Americano at the coffee bar? Fred and Ginger’s Piano Lounge is the place to catch a little live music and an evening drink. Indulge your artistic side in the Montmartre Art Studio, savour solitude in the Library or join a class in the La Mossa Fitness Studio as part of the robust social calendar.

The ground floor will feature a variety of commercial services.

Pamper yourself in the Salon D’Or offering esthetics and hair care treatments. Enjoy your favourite shows with friends in the Casablanca Movie Theatre. A Concierge and ground transportation services will be available for your added convenience. The Vista will also be home to the redesigned Esquimalt Legion Branch 172.

For more than 25 years, David and Violet Craik have dedicated themselves to creating senior retirement communities in Canada and the U.S. Their focus balances state-of-the-art design and construction with exceptional hospitality, provided by caring enthusiastic staff.

The Vista, this is The Life.

To book an appointment with a Sales Representative, please call 778.402.1352 or for more information visit liveatvista.ca The Vista, located at 622 Admirals Road, is coming to you close to Saxe Point Park in Esquimalt, BC. Currently under construction, the expected completion is Spring 2022.

Register today at LiveatVista.ca and keep in touch. We’d love to discuss your promising future with us. Curious to learn about other Avenir communities?

Visit avenirseniorliving.com or call 778-410-2066.