55 Plus

S CH ON N I N TI TIO A C C SA NE T SE N LOU O C PUL E

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February 2022

THE VISTA - IT’S NICE TO HAVE OPTIONS VICTORIA LITERACY CONNECTION

SILVER THREADS SERVICE TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEART HEALTH EXPLORING BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA COOKING WITH VRS COMMUNITIES

2 | TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

It’s Nice to Have Options THE VISTA by AVENIR SENIOR LIVING

You’ve earned your pension.

Join us and protect it.

Protect federal pensions and benefits by supporting our advocacy work.

Save money with our partners, including our MEDOC® travel insurance at membership-only rates.

Access expert information to make the most of your retirement.

You don’t have to be retired to join!

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.

Need assistance with a provincial program?

We're here to help!

T

Murray Rankin, MLA Oak Bay-Gordon Head

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

Tues, January 25, 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: Dani Metzmeier DMetzmeier@timescolonist.com

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 the 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, insuite laundry, patios, and private air conditioning.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022 | 3

Dine in the Sky in your 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

4 | TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Victoria Literacy Connection

I

n February 2021 local charity Victoria Literacy Connection launched two new free programs to serve local adults, especially seniors: the Adult Basic Computer and Digital Literacy Program, and the Intergenerational PenPal Club.

Both programs increase human connections and help reduce feelings of isolation, as well as providing a way for participants to increase skills. Both had a successful launch year, and there is room for more participants in 2022!

Adult Basic Computer and Digital Literacy Program Perfect for learners wanting to gain confidence and skills with their computer, tablet or smartphone.

From learning to video chat with loved ones, to safely navigating the internet, or basic computer use, these customized lessons are ideal.

Learn what you want at your own pace!

The average age of learners to date is 65, with our oldest now 94 years young! 1:1 sessions are currently hosted remotely by a trained and screened volunteer tutor, and there is no limit to the number of sessions a learner can have. We are hoping to also offer in-person sessions again sometime in 2022.

Intergenerational PenPal Club Since its inception one year ago, more than 350 PenPal letters have been exchanged! The PenPal Club

stay active * stay healthy * stay connected

Adult Computer Sessions

FREE PROGRAMS Learn online about surfing the web, messaging, social media, support resources and avoiding scams from your own home.

For more information or to register: Tel: 250-385-0014 Email: admin@victorialiteracyconnection.ca

Answers 6. online 7. camera 8. social 9. virtual

Visit www.silverthreads.ca for more information

wifi tablet video email chats

Victoria Centre 1911 Quadra St. 250 388-4268

With COVID cases increasing in our community, it is a challenge to keep connected to others if you are relying on face-to-face meetings. It is becoming clear that we all need to look to other ways to talk to friends and family, and groups. Now might be the time to learn how to zoom!

What exactly is Zoom? It is a computer program that allows you to meet using this video conferencing tool. It is like a phone call where you can see the person or persons you are talking with. You are able to both see and hear friends, and it is a good option to consider.

To use Zoom you will need either your smart phone, a tablet, a laptop or computer with a camera, speakers and microphone. Zoom works on both Apple and Android operating systems. (If you don’t know what that means no worries!)

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Offering great programs & two locations to serve you.

Become a penpal with a young person in your local community.

Stationery and postage will be provided.

Two of our early participants in the PenPal Club were interviewed on CBC radio. It is sweet to listen as they ‘meet’ each other for the first time (QR code below).

CONNECTING DURING COVID

Celebrating 65 years of community service to seniors!

Intergenerational PenPal Club

Here’s what one of our senior PenPals had to say: “The PenPal experience is really inspiring. Making a connection in this world with someone of another generation is profound, especially in the time of disposable items and ideas. I can see where my life experiences may provide them with some storytelling fun or a bit of wisdom. Thanks for providing the avenue for being a PenPal.”

Interested in one (or both) programs? Call 250-385-0014 for more information.

SILVER THREADS SERVICE

Silver Threads Service

Saanich Centre 286 Hampton Rd. 250 382-3151

matches community adults with youth on Lower Vancouver Island for meaningful intergenerational connections. This is a fun way to support the literacy skills of the young writers, and share stories, jokes and life experience with the ‘younger set’.

If you are familiar with using email, you are halfway there, and our staff at Silver Threads Service would be able to provide support and instruction to teach you how to use zoom. You wouldn’t even have to come in, although in person meetings are available.

Silver Threads Service has been serving seniors (55 years and better) for 65 years. We offer two locations: our centre in Saanich is at 286 Hampton Road, and the Victoria Centre is at 1911 Quadra and membership is valid at both.

The benefit of learning Zoom - aside from amazing your family members - is being able to have social connections and good conversations again. As well, Silver Threads Service offers a number of online classes using Zoom that include Brain Games, Travel Series and more. Call our Victoria Centre at 250 388-4268 for more information. Give it a try, Zoom just may work for you! We are here to help.

Memory PLUS Challenge Zoom 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 all about Zoom meeting.

1. iwfi ____ 2. altetb ______ 3. ieovd _____ 4. emlia _____ 5. tshca _____ 6. nienol ______ 7. maarec _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 8. colsia ______ 9. turiavl _______

We are now offering in person classes with the next session planned for April 2022.

Call 250 388-4268 for more information and to be added to the interest list.

Classes at the Victoria Centre are Tuesdays or Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30am. And at the Saanich Centre Wednesday afternoons 1:00 to 3:00pm. Cost for 8 sessions is $72 for members or $104 for non-members includes GST

CONNECTIONS Saanich’s Older Adult Activity Resource

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Enjoying Music in the Park, 2019

PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES

Community Services Older Adult Programmer Alison Chamberlain 250-475-5408

Cedar Hill Community Recreation Centre 250-475-7121 Gordon Head Community Recreation Centre 250-475-7100 G. R. Pearkes Community Recreation Centre 250-475-5400 Saanich Commonwealth Place 250-475-7600

Community Contacts for Activity, Health & Wellness NEW

Activity Talks! Call 250-475-5408 to speak with an Older Adults Saanich representative about: programs, resources or assistance registering & more! Monday – Friday 9am-4pm

Community Recreation Centres

Older Adult Community Groups

Cedar Hill Community Recreation Centre: (250-475-7121, 3220 Cedar Hill Road)

Cedar Hill Social Club (250-475-5408)

Gordon Head Community Recreation Centre: (250-475-7100, 4100 Lambrick Way)

Cordova Bay 55+ (250-658-5558) Goward House Society (250-477-4401)

G.R. Pearkes Community Recreation Centre: (250-475-5400, 3100 Tillicum Rd.)

Silver Threads Service Saanich (250-382-3151)

Saanich Commonwealth Place: (250-475-7600, 4636 Elk Lake Drive)

Victoria Native Friendship Centre (250-384-3211) Inter-Cultural Association (250-388-4728) Saanich Volunteer Services Society (250-595-8008)

LIFE (Leisure Involvement for Everyone) is available to low income residents in Saanich!

LIFE includes drop-in admissions valid at all Greater Victoria recreation centres as well as a variety of discount coupons for Saanich recreation programs. For those who are 55+ an annual membership to one of the Saanich Older Adult Centres is also included. To see if you qualify apply at any one of our four recreation centres or, for more information, please call Mena Westhaver at 250-475-5407.

FREE Older Adult Assistance Pass: Don’t let balance, mobility, or other impairments prevent you from

participating. Apply for an Older Adult Assistant Card to bring someone with you to assist you in programs and activities for free! Assistants must stay with you to facilitate your visit and register for all programs also. If they would like to participate in a registered program requiring supplies they must pay the associated program and supply cost.

Apply at the front desk of any Saanich Recreation Centre.

Community Resources Special Interest

Transportation

Greater Victoria Horseshoe Pitching Association 250-727-2543 Gluu Society Free Digital Skills for Older Adults https://gluusociety.org Victoria Pickleball Association www.victoriapickleball.org LAWN BOWLING: Burnside Lawn Bowling Club 250-727-0954 Gordon Head Lawn Bowling Club 778-401-9828 Lake Hill Lawn Bowling Club 250-590-8125 LIBRARIES: 250-940-4875 Bruce Hutchinson, Saanich Commonwealth Place Emily Carr, Uptown - Nellie McClung, Cedar Hill Saanich Centennial, Tillicum

BC Transit Route information 250-382-6161 Community Travel Training (FREE) learn all things about using the buses 250-384-7723 Low Floor Orientation (FREE) on how to board with your wheelchair, walker or scooter 250-385-2551 Handy Dart door to door shared transit system 250-727-7811 Taxi Saver for when handyDART cannot accommodate a travel request 250-995-5618 Saanich Volunteer Services Society Volunteer Drivers can provide rides to medical appointments or grocery shop on your behalf, call for details 250-595-8008

Wellness & Support Weekly Friendship Calls Chat about past/current events, family, hobbies, or other subjects of mutual interest.

Saanich Volunteer Services Society 250-595-8008 Seniors Peer 1 to 1 Support Program Non-judgmental listening, emotional support and empathy for seniors dealing with loss, life-style changes, challenging decisions to make, problems to solve or loneliness. Beacon Community Services 250-656-5537 Caregivers Support Groups and Support Line 1-877-520-3267 Caregiver newsletters, webinars, training and community initiatives.

Family Caregivers of British Columbia 250-384-0408 BC 211 Resource Line Connection to community, health and government resources, dial 211 on your phone.

Abuse & Neglect Seniors Abuse & Information Line.

BC Association of Community Response Networks 1-866-437-1940 Vision Loss & Low Vision Services and resources.

Canadian National Institute for the Blind Victoria Office 250-595-1100

Community Health Services Call to determine if you qualify for services. If you do, a health professional will work with you to develop your care plan to meet your needs, you do not need a referral.

Island Health 250-388-2273 Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing Centre Health Services, public education and sign language interpreting. 250-592-8144 Self Management BC Knowledge, skills and confidence building programs for adults living with one or more ongoing health conditions (FREE). 1-866-902-3767 Parkinson Wellness Project Exercise, support and connection with others on the same journey. Counselling, support groups and resources. 250-360-6800 Alzheimer Society of BC Services for caregivers and families and those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. 250-382-2052 Arthritis Society Education program and resources for persons with arthritis. 1-866-414-7766 Heart & Stroke Foundation Referral to community based programs and health information. 1-888-473-4636

Anticipated Programs GENERAL DAYS AND TIMES ARE LISTED BUT SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CONTACT THE PROVIDERS LISTED FOR START DATES AND TIMES.

FREE CHINESE COMMUNITY DROP-IN Gordon Head Recreation Centre Wednesdays, 9:30-11am A chance to enjoy the Youth Centre, play cards, table tennis or visit.

Call 250-475-5427 for details.

WEIGHT ROOM ORIENTATIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS 60yrs+ Saanich Community Recreation Centres Various dates and times, please call centre to book. Learn about the equipment in the weight room, feel more confident and practice with one of our certified weight room instructors.

INSPIRED BY NATURE: FOREST BATHING AND CREATIVE EXPRESSION 50yrs+ Community Services and Parks, April, Weekly Join Human Nature Counselling on a mindful series of guided “forest bathing” sessions, with easy walks and creative activities in Saanich parks. Supplies provided, no experience needed.

Please call 250-475-5408 with any questions.

REACH! INCLUSIVE PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAM Saanich Commonwealth Place, Thursdays, 6:30-8pm Inclusive music and performing arts program celebrating diversity - for youth, adults and seniors of all cultures, backgrounds and abilities.

Call 250-475-7609 for details.

ONLINE CLIMATE ACTION SERIES Online, Tuesdays, 7-8pm (6 weeks) Join this workshop series about climate change big ideas and practical actions in your community. Learn from Saanich staff and expert guests! Call Gordon Head Recreation Centre for more details!

SOCIAL CO-OPERATIVE COOKING 60yrs+ Gordon Head Recreation Centre, Tuesdays 2:30-5:00pm, $14/class Meet new friends, try new recipes, enjoy a nutritious three course meal and help maintain your health. This is not a cooking instruction class but a fun, social, cooperative cooking experience. Call 250-475-7106 for details.

WALKERS WITH WALKERS Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Mondays 12:30-1:30pm, 7/$32 Bring your walkers or walking poles and enjoy posture, balance and breathing, stretching and coffee time with other friendly walkers. Learn safety tricks and build strength and stamina! Led by a recreation therapist and certified fitness instructor.

BOOK CLUB & LUNCH SOCIAL 60yrs+ Cedar Hill Recreation Centre First Thursday of the month, 1-3pm, 5/$20 Bring your own bagged lunch to enjoy and discuss the monthly book with other club members.

SOCIAL CROQUET Burnside Lawn Bowling Club, Wednesdays April 20–Jun 29, 10-11:30am, 11/$35 Remember the fun of playing croquet with friends? Rekindle the joy, get some fresh air and meet some new friends. No equipment or experience needed. Cancelled if raining by 9:30am. Call 250-475-5427 for details.

MUSLIM WOMENS ONLY SWIM 13yrs+ Gordon Head Recreation Centre First Saturday of each month, 8:45-10pm, $3 Easy access to swimming can be taken for granted. For Muslim women swimming is not permitted in a co-ed pool. In order to support the community’s need for a culturally safe space, Muslim women-only swim times have been created.

2SLGBTQ+ SWIM Gordon Head Recreation Centre Second Saturday of each month, 8:45-10pm, $3 An inclusive swim for 2SLGBTQ+ community members and their friends and family.

CEDAR HILL SOCIAL CHAIR FITNESS FUN 55yrs+ Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Tuesdays Register monthly $3.50 per Tuesday Join us for a 45 minute chair fitness class that will be more fun than fitness! Move around in your chair to music; choose to stand or use the wall for some exercises too and enjoy connecting with the group! 250-475-5408 CEDAR HILL SOCIAL FRIDAYS 55yrs+ Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Fridays Register monthly $3.50 per Friday Enjoy a variety of sport and game activities including carpet bowling, table tennis, cards and board games! Bring friends or make new ones!

250-475-5408 OLDER ADULT NEURODIVERSITY SOCIAL AND MOVEMENT CLASS 55yrs+ Saanich Commonwealth Place, Wednesdays April 6–June 8, 12:30-2:30pm, 10/$80 Celebrating all older adults! This is a fun, welcoming, social and movement class including those with diverse neurology, such as mild dementia, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s. This class is led by an older adult fitness instructor and program assistant. New participants please call Alison at 250-475-5408 prior to registering to determine whether the program is a great fit!

Anticipated Programs GENERAL DAYS AND TIMES ARE LISTED BUT SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CONTACT THE PROVIDERS LISTED FOR START DATES AND TIMES.

GENERAL HEALTH, WELLNESS, FITNESS & ARTS MINDS IN MOTION® Pearkes Recreation Centre Minds in Motion® is a fitness and social program for people living with any form of early stage dementia along with a family member, friend or other companion. The program is offered in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. Gentle exercises are followed by social activities designed to be enjoyed in pairs. Participants must attend with a companion. Please call 250475-5408 for details!

BIRD WATCHING FOR BEGINNERS Rocky Point Bird Observatory Leaders, Wednesdays April 6-27, 9-10:30am, 4/$45 Do you love birds? Want to know more about local species? Learn the basics of birding including identification, sounds and great locations to view in Victoria. Each week features a different location to view different types of birds. Call 250-475-5427 for details.

COMMUNITY ART CIRCLE Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Fridays 10-11:30am, March 4-April 29 or May 6-June 10, $30 Connect with others through the joy of art making, bring your works and supplies; some supplies available to get started. All welcome, no experience required. Call 250-475-5557 for more details.

PICKLEBALL PROGRAMS There are multiple instructional programs for Pickleball at: Saanich Commonwealth Place (250-475-7600) and Cedar Hill Recreation Centre (250-475-7121).

These range from Pickleball for Beginners or Learn to Play, to Skills Clinics and Improving Your Game programs. Call for more information!

QIGONG: BEGINNERS Gordon Head Middle School, Mondays March 14–April 11, 6-7:30pm, 5/$10 Learn the fundamentals of Aung Medical QiGong.

This introductory class focuses on breathing patterns and gentle flowing movement exercises to increase your Qi. Call Gordon Head Recreation Centre for details!

BUDDHIST MEDITATION Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Tuesdays 12noon-1pm, 6/$57 or 8/$76 Happiness is a calm, clear and peaceful mind.

Discover the power of meditation to decrease stress, think more positively and creatively in the face of problems, and respond more openly towards others. Ideal for everyone, on chairs or mats.

SIRvivor Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Tuesdays & Fridays Weekly 10:15-11:15am, Feb 1-April 26 In partnership with BCRPA and UBC,SIRvivor is a researched and specialized exercise program for men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, in any stage of treatment or recovery.

Improve muscle and cardiovascular fitness, meet new people, and maintain a strong, healthy body with safe and effective exercises.

First time participants $50.

CYCLING: STRENGTH FUSION Saanich Commonwealth Place, Sundays 9:30-10:20am, 7/$74 or 9/$95 Combine a variety of cycling drills with strength based exercises. This progressive program for all fitness levels will help you build on your endurance and strengthen your muscles.

Enjoy a small class size.

DEEP WATER FITNESS CONDITIONING Saanich Commonwealth Place, Tuesdays & Thursdays Weekly, 12:30-1:30pm, 14/$126 or 16/$144 Ideal class for people wanting a smaller deep water interval workout to improve cardio, strength, or recover from injury or joint replacements. Work on balance, core, total body strength, co-ordination and cardio fitness. Great for everyone!

FALL PREVENTION AND BALANCE CLASS 50yrs+ Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, Fridays 9-9:55am, 8/$66 Balance specific exercises to improve strength, coordination, and stability to improve mobility and aid in fall prevention. Light weights, tubing and balance equipment will be used to simulate functional movements and daily tasks.

TIME FOR CHANGE Saanich Commonwealth Place, Sundays 10:30-11:25am, Fees Vary Is bending over to tie your shoes a challenge?

Does climbing a flight of stairs leave you breathless? Maybe it is Time For Change?

Join our low impact group sessions that sample a variety of workout formats, such as group fitness and weight room, while covering many different aspects of fitness including strength training, agility, balance, and flexibility.

Workout with others who face the same life challenges as you, and have fun while becoming the best version of yourself. Drop-in available if space permits.

TAI CHI THERAPY Saanich Silver Threads, Tuesdays 1-2pm, 6/$54 Member or 6/$78 Non-Member Tai Chi Therapy is the fusion of Tai Chi wisdom, Osteopathic philosophy and Biomechanics principles. Its regular practice helps improve posture, movement, breathing, organ function and contributes to a more focused and peaceful state of mind. Registration: 250-382-3151

Anticipated Programs GENERAL DAYS AND TIMES ARE LISTED BUT SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CONTACT THE PROVIDERS LISTED FOR START DATES AND TIMES. DANCE PROGRAMS (When allowed by Public Health Order) Available at many community recreation centres such as: UKULELE – ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS • Line Dancing (Cordova Bay 55+) Saanich Silver Threads, Wednesdays • Nia Fitness, Hula Hawaiian, Aqua Zumba 9:30-10:30am, 6/$59 Member or 6/$83 Non-Member (Saanich Commonwealth Place) For individuals who have never played the ukulele • Zumba Gold and Hula Hawaiian (Cedar Hill) before. You will learn how to hold and tune your • Drop-in Ballroom Dancing (Gordon Head) instrument. Simple chords will be introduced, and participants will learn how to strum a few Please call centres for details. basic songs. Registration: 250-382-3151 GENTLE EXERCISE PROGRAMS ZUMBA GOLD There are a variety available at your Saanich Silver Threads, Fridays community recreation centres such as: 1:15-2:15pm, 6/$54 Member or 6/$78 Non-Member • Gentle Fit 55+ (Cedar Hill) Zumba Gold is an exercise program using • Gentle Hip & Back Release (Saanich the rhythm and movements of Latin dance.

Commonwealth Place) It involves low-intensity, easy-to-follow • Chronic Pain & Mild Movement and choreography that focuses on balance, Restorative Movement (Cedar Hill) and; range of motion and coordination.

• Balance Booster 45+ (Gordon Head).

Registration: 250-382-3151 Please call centres for details.

COMMUNITY GUYS COFFEE BREAK ON ZOOM STRENGTH EXERCISE PROGRAMS Victoria Native Friendship Centre There are a variety available at your Everyone welcome, chat with Indigenous Elders community recreation centres. For example and members of the public. Visit together! at Saanich Commonwealth Place there is: Call 250-384-3211 for Zoom registration.

• 20-20-20, Aqua Strength & Stretch ZOOM BINGO • Small Group Training 55+ Victoria Native Friendship Centre, Tuesday • Strength & Conditioning 60+ 1-2 pm Monthly • Strength & Stretch 50+ Have fun meeting others in our community • Strong & Mobile 50+ including Elders and Seniors. Please reserve Please call centres for details. for the phone-in/zoom link and pick up bingo cards at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.

Registration 250-384-3211.

GENERAL HEALTH, WELLNESS, FITNESS & ARTS CONTINUED

MEN’S ZOOM FITNESS Cordova Bay 55+, Mondays 8:45-9:45am and Wednesdays 8:55-9:55am on Zoom.

Please call to register 250-658-5558. iPAD & iPHONE COURSES Saanich Commonwealth Place & Cordova Bay 55+ Join us for these two week courses learning how to use iPads and iPhones! Please call Saanich Commonwealth Place to enquire.

YOGA PROGRAMS There are many Yoga programs available in your community recreation centres such as: • Chair Yoga (Gordon Head, Cedar Hill & Saanich Commonwealth Place) • Gentle Mat Yoga (Cordova Bay 55+, Tuesdays, 3-4pm) • Healing Yoga (Cedar Hill, Fridays, 10:30am-12noon) • Slow Flow (Cedar Hill, Saturdays 9:15-10:15am) • Yoga and Mobility 55+ (Saanich Commonwealth Place, Tuesdays, 11:45am-1pm or Thursdays, 2-3:15pm) • Yoga for Healthy Aging (Cedar Hill, Tuesdays, 9-10am and Gordon Head, Thursdays, 9-10am) • Yoga Therapy with chair option (Saanich Commonwealth Place, Tuesdays, 2:30-3:30pm) Please reach out to your recreation centres or community centres and see what there is to offer!

Free Outdoor Walking Programs EASY WALKS

Mondays 1:30-2:30pm

One-hour, easy-paced social strolls on pavement and groomed trails through parks and interesting neighbourhoods. Routes avoid steep hills and busy trails where possible. Most walks start near bus stops.

Please wear supportive shoes. No dogs please.

Feb 7 - Cadboro Bay/Queenswood

Meet by washroom block, Cadboro Gyro Park, Cadboro Bay

Feb 14 - Royal Oak Ramble

Meet near front entrance of Saanich Commonwealth Place, Elk Lake Drive

Feb 21 - Family Day - no walk Feb 28 - Bowker Creek/Saanich Panhandle

Join us in Saanich parks, trails and neighbourhoods this year! Social friendly walks that run throughout the year! Various levels, please bring sturdy footwear. For an ongoing full listing of the walks, and start locations, search online for “Saanich Trails and Treks”, phone 250-475-5427 or email jason.jones@saanich.ca.

GENTLE WALK AND TALK 55+ Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30-11am

Enjoy fresh air, beautiful scenery, friendly chat and gentle exercise as we take different walks through Saanich parks and trails. Walks follow mainly chip or gravel trails but may have some steep sections.

No registration required. Sorry, dogs not permitted.

Feb 1 - Cadboro-Gyro Park – 10 Mile Point Area

Mar 3 - McMinn to Kentwood - Outerbridge

Feb 3 - Lochside Trail to Beckwith Park

Mar 8 - Gordon Head Parks – South

Feb 8 - Braefoot Park to Blenkinsop Lake

Mar 10 - Beaver Lake

Meet at Cadboro-Gyro Park end of Sinclair Road beside washrooms Meet on Lochside Trail parking lot by Don Mann Excavating, off McKenzie at Borden Meet at Braefoot Park parking lot; 1359 McKenzie Avenue

Feb 10 - Rithet’s Bog to Brydon Park

Meet at kiosk on Dalewood, off Chatterton Way

Feb 15 - Vantreight Park to Tyndall Park

Meet on Townley Street behind Richmond Elementary School, opposite Victoria Alliance Church

Meet at Vantreight Park, on Vantreight Road, off Ferndale Ave

Mar 7 - Beckwith/Lakehill

Meet at end of Nelthorpe, off McKenzie

Meet at Beckwith Park, Beckwith Avenue, off Quadra Street

Mar 14 - Glanford Area

Meet in Glanford Park, Kenneth Street, off Glanford Avenue

Mar 21 - University Trail & Finnerty Gardens

Meet in Henderson Rec Centre parking lot, off Cedar Hill X Road, by bike storage

Mar 28 - Layritz/Hector Loop

Meet in Layritz Park parking lot, Layritz Road, off Glyn and Wilkinson Roads

Feb 17 - Swan Lake

Feb 22 - Hampton Park to Gorge Park

Meet Hampton Park parking lot; 225 Hampton Road, off Burnside Road West, beside Les Passmore Centre

Feb 24 - UVic Alumni Chip Trail

Meet at Henderson Rec Centre, outside main door, 2291 Cedar Hill X Rd

Mar 1 - Braefoot Park to Mt. Douglas Park Meet at Braefoot Park parking lot; 1359 McKenzie Avenue

WALKING ROUND THE PARK

NEW

Mondays 11am-12noon

Pace and distance up to you! Walk/ talk around the park multiple times, or take the whole hour for one loop resting with benches. Bring your walking sticks, poles or other mobility aids!

Meet at McMinn Park; 4820 Maplegrove Street at Lochside Dr Meet at Gordon Head Rec Centre entrance, 4100 Lambrick Way, off Feltham

Meet at Beaver Lake parking lot (Nature House) off of Elk Lake Drive

Mar 15 - Hampton Park – Swan Creek Trails

Meet at Hampton Park parking lot; 225 Hampton Road, off Burnside Road West, beside Les Passmore Centre

Mar 17 - Cadboro Bay to Queen Alexandra

Meet at Cadboro-Gyro Park end of Sinclair Road, beside washrooms

Mar 22 - Gorge Waterway

Meet at Gorge Water Waterway Park near canoe club off Tillicum

Mar 24 - Cedar Hill to Playfair Park

Meet at Cedar Hill Rec Centre main doors

Mar 29 - McMinn Park and Broadmead Trails

Meet at Lochside School parking lot; 1145 Royal Oak Drive

Mar 31 - Colquitz to Hyacinth Park

Meet at Colquitz Creek park sign near Silver City Theatre at Tillicum Mall

Saanich Community Services & You I BELONG HERE, OPENING POSSIBILITIES

Volunteer Opportunity!

We are starting to rebuild our Community Ambassador Program! Are you an outgoing, caring community member who has recreation and leisure passions you would like to share with visitors to a community recreation centre? Do you want to be a welcoming host, supporting visitors to know more about the centre and the community that surrounds it? We are seeking Volunteers for a start-up later in the year. If interested please call 250-475-5408 to discuss the program!

Feedback Sought!

What sort of social opportunities do you want to see being offered in your community recreation centres for Older Adults (55yrs+)? Call 250-475-5408 to share your ideas!

Connect with us about Older Adult programs, strategies and interests!

Leadership Community Services Senior Manager Cristina.Caravaca@saanich.ca

Inclusion & Accessibility 250-475-5473 Alyssa.Staples@saanich.ca Financial Access 250-475-5407 Mena.Westhaver@saanich.ca L.I.F.E, Low Income Access

Inclusion & Accessibility

Your Community Services Team

Financial Access

Older Adults 250-475-5408 Alison.Chamberlain@saanich.ca Programs • Connection • Strategy • Opportunities Cedar Hill Social Club, Volunteering, Outreach, Community Partnerships, Feedback

Community Events

Leadership

Older Adults

Diversity & Equity

Community Events 250-475-5558 Rob.Phillips@saanich.ca saanich.ca

Arts

Youth Services

Arts 250-475-5557 Brenda.Weatherston@saanich.ca Art Exhibits, Community Art Programs

Youth Services Regan.Pemberton@saanich.ca

Diversity & Equity 250-475-5427 Jason.Jones@saanich.ca PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022 | 13

Take Care of Your Heart Health

F

ebruary is Heart Month not only because of Valentine’s Day, but also because the images of hearts posted everywhere serve as a reminder to take care of your heart & cardiovascular health.

There are a wide variety of prescription drugs that can help reduce cholesterol and reduce high blood pressure, but showing your heart some extra love isn’t just about reducing or eliminating “bad” foods, but can also involve adding beneficial foods & supplements to your daily routines.

As always, please consult your Heart Pharmacist or primary care provider before starting a new supplement or therapy to make sure it’s right for you.

1. COENZYME Q10 - Your body naturally produces its own CoQ10, but as we age our ability to produce our own diminishes.

Additionally, statin medications which reduce cholesterol can further reduce your body’s levels of CoQ10. Supplementing with CoQ10 has been linked to good heart health, a reduction in blood pressure, and prevention of periodontal disease.

2. FISH OILS - A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids (a natural anti-infl ammatory), studies have shown that fish

oils have a positive impact on heart health. While eating fish is an even better way to ingest these fatty acids, for those who don’t like fish or want a more consistent intake of omega-3’s, supplements are considered a safe addition to your diet.

3. ASPIRIN - If you have a history of heart disease or diabetes, low-dose Aspirin therapy can help reduce your risk of blood clots that cause heart attacks. Aspirin therapy can cause stomach upset and should be avoided if you have a bleeding disorder.1 4. PLANT STEROLS - Also known as phytosterols, these come from plant-based foods and can help lower LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) by blocking its absorption.

For more information on supplement uses, dosages and to avoid possible drug interactions be sure to speak to your Heart Pharmacist.

1 http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/ daily-aspirin-therapy/HB00073/ METHOD=print

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

14 | TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

Exploring Beautiful British Columbia

Limited small group sizes Book Early!

Haida Gwaii and the Inside Passage.

Book now to take advantage of up to $250 per person Early Booking Discounts Harrison Hot Springs 4 Days March 7 Island Hopping 6 Days April 20 The Kootenays 9 Days April 29 Okanagan Spring 5 Days May 6 Skeena Adventure 8 Days June 25 Haida Gwaii & Inside Passage 9 Days July 6 & Aug 9 Discovering Island 8 Days 20 LifeVancouver enriching traveL startsJuly at your door!

Fraser Gold Quest 8 Days Sept 14

$1299 $2299 $3799 $1999 $4299 $4399 $3599 $2999

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

EARTH’S OPTION CREMATION AND BURIAL SERVICES Contracted provider to the Memorial Society of BC

WE COME TO YOU All arrangements made in the comfort of your home and all pre-arrangements are fully transferable at no cost.

Specializing in low cost cremation and green burial.

778.440.8500 EarthsOption.com

5 - 831 Devonshire Rd, Victoria

R

eady to get away somewhere again? Perhaps start with something close to home and take advantage of a preplanned tour to one of the many world class attractions right here in our own Beautiful British Columbia. To make that simple, Victoria based tour operator Mile Zero Tours has organized a series of small group tours featuring destinations right here in our own backyard.

Mile Zero Tours – Short Escape trips run from 3 to 6 days and take care of all the planning to whisk you away to some not-too-distant spots.

With just a phone call or a few clicks you could be relaxing and rejuvenating at the iconic Harrison Hot Springs Resort or diving into Chinese culture in Vancouver while you tour historic Chinatown and attend the mesmerizing Shen Yun show. Perhaps you’d prefer to live life on island time for a while as you

explore five of the Gulf Islands on the Island Hopping tour or embrace the changing seasons with fi ne wines and beautiful resorts on the 5-Day Okanagan Spring tours.

All these trips are available now for this spring.

Of course sometimes we need a little longer escape to truly get into a new place. For that, Mile Zero Tours has also planned a series of 7 to 9 day all BC adventures. These could fi nd you heading for the mountains on a 9-day journey through the stunning Kootenays region or charting a course on the road less travelled as you ride the rails from the Pacific to the Rockies on the Skeena Adventure. Experience fi rst-hand the vibrant Indigenous cultures and history on the 9-day Haida Gwaii and the Inside Passage tour or take the time to take a deeper look into our own stunning Island on

the Discovering Vancouver Island tour - a journey that will take you from Sooke to Cape Sutil. History buffs can enjoy a fascinating journey following the footsteps of gold prospectors on the Fraser with the Fraser Gold Quest tour. These tours are also available now with departures this spring and summer.

All trips are limited to a maximum of 18-25 guests and feature many meals, great attractions and tours, deluxe transport, professional Tour Director and door to door pickup service from Greater Victoria.

Mile Zero Tours adheres to the latest public health guidance on tour and you can rest assured that in the event it is deemed unsafe or unfeasible to operate any planned trips all deposits will be promptly and fully refunded.

To make booking or for further details on these trips and others please visit MileZeroTours.com or call 250.590.0811. Please note spaces are limited and bookings are confi rmed on a fi rst-come basis.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022 | 15

Cooking with VRS Communities

By Sean Greenlay, Culinary Specialist at VRS Communities, which owns and operates Ross Place Seniors Community in Victoria and Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community in Nanaimo.

W

hile I have found this to be true everywhere, it is especially true in VRS retirement communities when you speak to our residents, the conversation will often involve food! We believe this is a direct result of our culinary teams, who strive to make the residents feel excited about dining.

One way our chefs help keep residents excited about their food is by listening. Chefs regularly attend VRS town hall meetings, where they get input on what the residents would like to see and eat. A lot of our residents are very knowledgeable about cooking, and we invite them to share their family recipes (recipes that are sometimes beautifully creative and complex!) so that we can make VRS feel a little more like home.

Another way we keep our meals top notch and creative is by participating in a friendly culinary showdown every month! Chefs present their best dishes, often beautifully and artfully plated, to all VRS staff for judging. Aside from making our staff very hungry,

Someone more eloquent than me once said: “the kitchen is the heart of the home.”

this has also brought our chefs from all over BC and Alberta closer together. They have begun to share recipes, borrow ideas for improving service, and push each other to get better.

Our culinary team brings a wealth of different experiences.

We have chefs with decades of hotel experience, some with fi ne dining experience, and a couple of them have even been featured in local Fusion Festivals. No matter what the experience, one thing is the same; we adhere to one main philosophy: make each dish as if you were serving it to the people you care for the most.

Our chefs take great pride in their work, genuinely care for the well-being and happiness of their communities, and do their best to ensure that your loved ones are happy, healthy and well fed.

HERE’S WHAT OUR RESIDENTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT OUR COOKING: • “I’ve lived here for 7 years, and the food is better than ever” – Elizabeth • “The chef and the serving staff are unbelievable; they take great care of us” – Brenda

Because Seniors Deserve

our very best

Call today to book your private tour!

• “The food is always good, especially our Summer BBQs” – Lyle • “The soups and desserts are always great” – Bruce • “It’s like going out for a fi ne meal every day!” – Bobby For more information visit vrs. org/seniors-communities/

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

16 | TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022

TIMES COLONIST | 55 PLUS

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