Recovering From A Stroke
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The Silver Song Club in Kelowna – the first Canadian pilot project of a successful UK model – attracted 30 Okanagan Valley elders. Aged 62 to 88 they came together once a month for six months to enjoy participatory singing and music-making. The Central Okanagan Foundation provided funding for the pilot.
The Silver Song Club program is designed for seniors who are aging-in-place (at home) and who may be isolated and suffering from age-related health problems. Seniors attend alone or with a family member or caregiver and participate free of charge.
Singing and music-making has been proven to have a positive impact on mental and physical wellbeing, can sustain and improve quality of life and can help elders live independently longer. Breathing exercises, singing and activities to stimulate blood flow and memories… and, lots of fun are all part of the Silver Song Club experience. During each 90-minute session the songs increase in complexity through the use of hand gestures, omitted words, rounds, layering and the inclusion of percussion instruments and hand chimes. Several songs are “designed to fail” bringing laughter, a sense of relaxation and camaraderie to the group.
The Facilitator/keyboard player was trained in the Silver Song Club program model via Train the Trainer instruction brought back to Canada by one of the local Directors who was taught in the UK in autumn of 2010.
Volunteers from the Kelowna Sweet Adelines White Sails Chorus attended each session to assist the Facilitator and to encourage and socialize with the seniors. To add an inter-generational aspect to the Silver Song Club a 16-year-old student and talented pianist, Amanda Cawley, participated to lead several songs and coach the elders in the use of the hand chimes.
“Our pilot has been a tremendous success,” says, Nigel Brown, Director, Sing For Your Life Foundation, BC. “We created our own distinct song book that incorporated many UK favourites and included popular Canadian songs… we had super turnout and enthusiastic participation for the elders and volunteers – and they’ve all asked for the program to continue!”
Sonia who attended all six sessions adds: “Oh I so look forward to this. I would like to see it more often than once a month. I like it because there are so many smiles. Singing makes you smile. Music makes you smile; especially when they play songs from our era. It gives you a different kind of energy – and it’s such a good feeling energy.”
“We are formally evaluating the pilot now” says Brown. “Our hope is that through our demonstrated success and the keen interest of elders and organizations serving this population… that we may be able to access future funding to hold the program again and even expand within the Okanagan Valley, and beyond.”
You can view a video of the Kelowna Silver Song Club on YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/698cezu and learn more about the model at www.singforyourlife.org.uk or via email Nigel Brown
nigel@sing4yourlife.ca .
Jill Hilderman is a communications professional serving clients in BC and Alberta and is a Director of Sing For Your Life Foundation BC. She helped implement the Kelowna pilot. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions – jill@nimblecommunications.ca
2011
Recovering From A Stroke
South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society
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Strokes can happen at any age, although there is a greater likelihood as a person ages. Since the Canadian population itself is getting older, the number of people who have suffered a stroke is increasing.
A stroke is a brain injury. The effects on a survivor can be mild or catastrophic depending upon the amount of damage and where in the brain it occurred. Often movement or memory are affected. Indeed, in many cases after a stroke there is a new personality and the old person has disappeared. The stroke victim is not alone in feeling the effects – the immediate family also have to deal with what has happened. The role of the spouse can change in an instant from companion to caregiver – one who is on duty 24/7.
After the medical system has done as much as it can to “fix” the damage, how does the stroke survivor regain some quality of life? Many of their friends and acquaintances do not know how to deal with someone whose memory is very poor, or whose emotions are rampant or who cannot communicate easily. Their patience can easily be exhausted.
That is where the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society can help. We have groups with stroke survivors and caregivers who meet weekly to offer each other support. Socializing with others who have had a similar experience can be comfortable and encouraging, as they understand what you are going through. It can also be very helpful, especially as each one of them has developed their own particular ways of coping. From time to time the groups also have guests who speak on a variety of topics such as physical therapy, music therapy, homeopathy, nutrition, finances, exercise and fitness, and stress management. The group’s agenda is developed around the needs of its members.
The goal of each stroke recovery group is to provide resources and tools to survivors and their caregivers so that they may live their lives to the fullest potential. How much does it cost? These services are provided without cost to survivors and their caregivers.
Just give our office a call at 250-490-0613 and come on and join us.
David Head is the CEO of the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society located at 2-966 Main Street, Penticton V2A 5E4. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions – info@sosbis.com , call 250-490-0612 x204, or visit www.sosbis.com
2011
Has your get up and go gone? Low iron could be the culprit.
submitted by Lorna Vanderhaeghe, MS
Who is at risk?
While one in four women of childbearing age suffers symptoms of low iron such as fatigue, peeling fingernails, hair loss, poor concentration and heart palpitations, if you are 50+, an athlete or have digestive issues, you are at risk for low iron.
Those who diet, who don’t eat a varied diet or who have a diminished appetite also usually consume fewer iron-containing foods such as such as spinach, kale, pork, chicken, beef liver, seaweed and lentils. Reduced stomach acid can further contribute to poor iron absorption from food sources.
After 65, the incidence of anemia rises drastically and is associated with poor health, depression and reduced mobility. If you notice changes in your mental and physical performance, have your iron tested.
Testing for deficiency
You will need two iron tests: serum ferritin and hemoglobin. The former tells you how much iron is stored in your body, while the latter indicates how much iron is found in your red blood cells and helps carry oxygen to cells.
For hemoglobin, the normal test range is 120-160 g/L for women and 140-180 g/L for men. A ferritin test will be 12-150 ng/mL for women and 12-300 ng/mL for men. Note that even low-normal iron levels can be a problem.
Supplements
If you need supplemental iron, keep in mind that dosing mistakes are common. Many people take the wrong dose of iron because of the way doctors prescribe iron and because of inadequate labeling on iron supplements.
As I recently discussed in my monthly eletter at www.hormonehelp.com, most iron supplements do not provide correct information about the elemental iron dose, which is the actual amount of iron being delivered.
A 300 mg tablet of ferrous gluconate, for example, contains 30 milligrams (mg) of elemental iron. Ferrous gluconate is commonly prescribed in tablet form by doctors.
Make sure that your iron supplement states “elemental iron” on the package—10 to 30 mg per day is the preferred dose.
Liquid supplements are also easier to digest and absorb than tablets that are coated and contain fillers and binders to make them hard.
Liquid liposomal iron is the best choice. Iron delivered in a liposome (picture iron in a protective bubble) improves iron absorption because the iron is able to travel through the acidic stomach and is delivered to the iron receptors in the small intestine. Studies on liposomal iron indicate that it increases your iron levels quickly and does not cause the stomach upset and constipation associated with high-dose iron tablets.
Why We Need Iron
Iron is not only involved in energy production in the body but also in other functions including detoxification, cell protection, hormone manufacture (predominantly estrogen and progesterone), and the action of serotonin, your “happy” hormone. Even heavy metal toxicity is related to low iron (women with low iron often are more susceptible to higher mercury levels). For all these reasons, persistently low iron—even if you are not considered anemic—is a serious concern.
There is no need to drag through your days feeling tired or suffering from other iron deficiency symptoms. Reclaim your “get up and go.”
All views presented here are that of the author, Lorna Vanderhaeghe . Comments and questions: email Lorna at askLornal@HormoneHelp.com, call (604) 681-5353, or visit http://www.healthyimmunity.com/
2011
Don’t ignore those dry eyes!.
submitted by Paul Slusher
If this sounds like something you’re experiencing on a regular basis, you just might be one of millions of people who suffer from Dry Eye Syndrome. Amazingly 90% of those suffering from this condition don’t even know it. And most don’t realize that Dry Eyes is a condition that can actually do damage to the eye.
Two types of tears
Oddly enough, one symptom of Dry Eye Syndrome is an excessive production of tears. Excessive tearing happens because there are two types of tears at work in your eye. The first are called reflex tears, triggered to flow by irritation, such as getting sand in your eyes or slicing an onion, or by emotions that cause tears. The second type is called tearfilm, whose function is to lubricate the surface of the eye during blinking and covers and protects the eyeball when your eyes are functioning normally.
The Problem.
It is this second type of tears which causes problems. In people suffering with Dry Eye, tearfilm becomes unstable, allowing dry spots to form on the cornea- the central portion of your eyeball. These dry spots cause irritation every time the eyelid passes over the cornea, which in turn causes reflex tears to flow as the eye tries to lubricate itself and deal with the irritation
The Cause
There are several different reasons why tearfilm can become unstable. The most common is age, as tear production normally decreases as we grow older. Dry Eyes can also be a symptom of other diseases that affect us, such as rheumatoid arthritis or eye lid disease; they may be a result of allergies, vitamin deficiencies or overly dry climatic conditions, especially in our harsh Canadian winters. Excessive heating or air conditioning can also cause Dry Eyes, as can the use of certain medications, the use of contact lenses, hormonal changes, or even extended computer use.
Common Symptoms.
Some of the symptoms of Dry Eye might include: watery eyes, burning, redness, itching, stickiness, and/or stinging.
What can happen as a result of Dry Eyes?
Dry Eyes can lead to inflammation which in turn can lead to an even more severe condition. Inflammation caused by Dry Eye Syndrome can trigger production of excess, poor-quality “reflex” tears, which don’t soothe, but actually lead to more irritation. The cycle continues unless properly treated by an eyecare professional.
Treatment
Dry eyes should be treated by an Optometrist. Treatment can vary from warm compresses and eye drops, to stronger prescribed medications. Only your eye care professional can do a proper assessment and let you know which form of therapy and which eye drops are most appropriate for you. It is important to note that not all eye drops are created equal, so don’t be fooled by marketing gimmicks and cheap prices by over-the-counter products. Consult with your Optometrist or Ophthalmologist about what products are truly good for treatment.
Prevention
There are a few lifestyle choices you can adopt to help you prevent dry eyes. These include drinking lots of water, reducing your caffeine intake, taking Omega 3 and 6 vitamins, and protecting your eyes from UV rays.
Catching conditions before they become problems is always the best route to perfect vision health. Schedule an appointment with your Optometrist every one to two years for a full comprehensive eye exam.
Remember if you take care of your health and your eyes, they will take care of you!
Paul Slusher is CEO of Lifetime Eyecare -Doctors of Optometry, in New Westminster, BC. All views presented here are that of the author. Comments and questions: email Paul@LifetimeEyecare.ca, call (778) 869-5112, or visit www.LifetimeEyecare.ca
2011
A Lifestyle for Brain Health
submitted by Nigel Brown
Now, brain health is a burgeoning trend within this realm of positive aging.
We used to believe that the brain is a fixed and rigid entity with a limited window of development opportunity. Traditional thinking taught us that this critical period occurred early in life and new skill development could not happen beyond that point. Similarly, the ideas that brain disease is inevitable with advanced age, and that once the brain is damaged it cannot be treated or healed – was generally accepted.
Well, not so; in recent years these ideas have been challenged by research and new learning. Indications are that a proactive approach to brain health and fitness can be implemented at the earliest stage of life and continued throughout the entire life span. Brain health experts believe we can shape our brains for health by exposing ourselves to a specific environment and by engaging in distinct activities as often as possible.
Research indicates there are five critical areas in maintaining our brain health, or cognitive capacity. These are: socialization in community; physical activity; mental stimulation; spirituality; and nutrition. These areas, when integrated, have been documented to foster brain health and to reduce the risk of dementia. These five areas define an optimum “brain health lifestyle” and each of us has the opportunity to enhance our commitment to nurturing and enhancing these aspects in our daily lives.
When it comes to physical activity, many boomers are engaged in aerobic fitness and strength training; we can feel and see the difference this effort delivers. However, we pay far less attention to our brain muscle – “exercising” it less often, if at all. It’s as if we believe it will continue to perform optimally without conscious new and complex exercises.
Studies into brain stimulation confirm that we need to present the brain with ongoing and unfamiliar challenges. Despite some benefits, doing crossword puzzles or games like Sudoku do little to provide on-going stimulation because the brain soon adapts to these repetitive challenges.
Stimulating the brain can literally generate new neurons and strengthen their connections which results in better brain performance and in having a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s symptoms. Studies suggest that people who exercise their mental muscles throughout their lives have a 35–40% less risk of manifesting Alzheimer’s
In today’s world there are several advanced technology companies developing brain training software that is scientifically researched and proven for the cognitive benefits they provide. Some of the software products focus on auditory or visual brain skills while others include specialized programs that promote driver safety through on-line activities to quicken reaction time to potentially reduce crash risks.
Whether aided by technology or accessed in more traditional ways, learning a new language is also known to be one of the best ways to boost your brain’s functioning and resilience.
Today, brain health has become correctly acknowledged as an inherent benefit of overall physical fitness. Experts better recognize the link between physical activity and brain stimulation and activities like dancing are particularly noted as providing both physical and cognitive benefits. The complexity of learning new steps such as in ballroom dancing, in particular, is accepted as great for both body and brain fitness.
When it comes to the other three important aspects of positive brain health: community, spirituality and nutrition – books and web resources abound with recommendations, tips and recipes! Bottom line: immerse yourself in formal and informal groups that bring positive interactions and experiences helping you build connections to others. Explore, nurture and build your spirituality whether through main stream religions, meditation or practices such as yoga or walking at peace in nature. Overhaul your diet to include brain boosting foods including rainbow coloured vegetables and fruits, nuts, omega three fats…and, oh yes, current wisdom suggests that glass of Okanagan Merlot is a “good-to-have” too!
Nigel Brown is a Kelowna-based coach and facilitator. He is an advocate for brain health education, involved in elder issues, and helps individuals who are within thinking distance of leaving their primary careers to explore and plan for what comes next. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions: email info@healthybrainmatters.com, call (250) 860-5408 or visit www.healthybrainmatters.com
2011
submitted by Robina Palmer, Certified Vestibular Therapist
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It is estimated that one in five people will develop vertigo in their lifetime. What’s more notable, is that over 50% of vertigo sufferers will be over the age of 60. The most common cause of vertigo is a condition in the inner ear known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when there is ‘debris’ or more specifically, a calcium carbonate crystal, which has been displaced within the inner ear. The presence of this displaced crystal within the inner ear can disturb one’s balance and equilibrium, and sense of motion. This disturbance is created when the crystal over stimulates or influences hair cells that are responsible for relaying head movement to the brain, thus resulting in vertigo. |
Most of my patients with BPPV report having episodes of dizziness with certain positions. Most commonly, it is lying flat in bed, rolling over in bed, getting up in the morning, looking up to the ceiling, and bending forward. They also report that avoiding these positions allows them to function pretty well during the day. Some say they have experienced previous attacks, either months or years prior.
Treatment for BPPV is very effective. It consists of ‘repositioning’ the crystal in the inner ear. This is done through a series of head and body positions, which will move the crystals away from the sensitive hair cells within the inner ear. Improvement is almost immediate following the repositioning treatment.
Although BPPV accounts for a large percentage of vertigo, it is not the only cause. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist certified in vestibular rehabilitation if you have these symptoms or think you may have BPPV.
Robina Palmer is a Certified Vestibular Therapist with the Sun City Physiotherapy Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Clinic in Kelowna, BC. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions –rpalmer@suncityphysiotherapy.com, call (250) 861-8056 or visit www.suncityphysiotherapy.com
2010
North Okanagan Falls Prevention Program
submitted by Pat Black
North Okanagan Falls Prevention Program Coordinator
The North Okanagan Falls Prevention Program operates in the Greater Vernon Area and is a free service for seniors.
Information and prevention education for seniors and the community is carried out by staff and volunteers through workshops and presentations.
Home safety checks are also conducted by senior volunteers and this is a free service on request.
Identifying safety issues and facilitating action to make change is another important initiative – such as the downtown Vernon Sidewalk Safety Survey and the upcoming Pedestrian Safety Symposium.
If you would like more information on this program, please call us at 250-545-8572 or email us at nofalls@socialplanning.ca
Pat Black is the Program Coordinator for The North Okanagan Prevention Program which is located in People Place in the Seniors Information and Resource Bureau office in Vernon, BC. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions –nofalls@socialplanning.ca, call (250) 545-8572 or visit www.socialplanning.ca
2010
Salmon Arm’s Blue Bottle Program
submitted by:
Marilyn Bjorkman, Seniors’ Resource Centre, Salmon Arm, BC
This is where planning ahead is so important.
Blue Bottle Program at work
Most people don’t plan ahead for these things to happen, but if they do, they can be prepared and help the situation by having the information needed by emergency personnel ready. A lot of valuable time could be saved.
In Salmon Arm, we have blue pill bottles, but you may find another provider with a different colour bottle for your use. The magnets are printed up through a local printer and the labels are printed on our printer. We find it important to have a magnet or label on the entry door in case the person is in a room other than the kitchen. The emergency personnel will be alerted upon entry that they can obtain your information quickly. Some new refrigerators do not have a magnetic door, so you may want to put a label on the door or tape it to the door instead. Our magnets say, “Blue Bottle – In Case of Emergency”.
We have had great support for this program from Remedy’s Rx, Salmon Arm Savings & Credit Union and the RCMP. This is a very worthwhile program to have in your area and to have your local ambulance, police and fire departments aware of the program. Have the bottles available at your Seniors Centre, doctor’s offices, or anywhere that people will see them and be able to pick one up. Some seniors may need help with filling out the information. Remind people to update the information as changes are made in medications, etc.
If you would like more information on this program, please contact the Seniors’ Resource Centre in Salmon Arm at 250-832-7000. www.seniorsresourcecentre.org
The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions – call (250) 832-7000 or visit www.seniorsresourcecentre.org
2010
Seniors’ Care and Our Grandchildren
by Eric Foster, MLA
Vernon-Monashee
Times certainly have changed and will continue to do so. In 20 years, our province’s seniors’ population will more than double from 676,000 to more that 1.3 million. That’s 23% of our population. How do we plan today to ensure we are able to keep pace with this substantial growth?
This year alone, the provincial government expects to spend more than $2.44 billion on home and community care for seniors. In less than 10 years, we’ve built more than 6,327 new residential care beds, assisted living and supportive housing units, including 13,780 renovations. We’ve also made great strides to ensure those who require care are able to get it faster. In 2001, an individual would have waited a year for residential care and today wait times are less than 90 days.
In addition to ensuring our seniors are properly cared for in their later years, we’ve established ActNow community parks in 18 communities, designed to help seniors stay mobile, physically active and healthy.
To help alleviate any financial pressures seniors may face as they continue to live in their own homes, we’ve taken several measures. We have increased the Home Owner Grant and doubled the rent subsidy program for low income seniors.
In the Vernon-Monashee area, there has been a significant investment in supportive seniors’ housing. Through federal and provincial government cooperation , we are seeing the construction of Monashee Place, a 16-unit modular housing development for low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. The Province has also built 14 new units in Lumby on Glencaird Street. Similarly, through Independent Living BC, Vernon has seen 38 assisted living units at Creekside Landing, a newly renovated campus of care for seniors. These beautiful new homes will allow seniors to stay in their familiar communities, close to their families and friends who are their life support units.
It’s incredibly important to our seniors’ health and well-being to keep them close to their friends and family. That’s why the Province has continued to build on our $180 million investment in the Vernon Jubliee Hospital. Improvements include a new emergency department and operating rooms, new intensive care unit, new acute care beds and a new maternity and pediatrics ward. All of these new facilities will keep families together during times of care and decrease the number of patients who will need to travel to other hospitals for treatment and reduce unnecessary stress.
All of these projects, whether it is the new patient care tower at Vernon Jubilee Hospital or new housing for seniors, have significant implications for our grandchildren’s generation. By investing in our local infrastructure, we are creating jobs for young people in our community. They do not have the need to pack up and leave our towns, when they can easily find good paying supportive jobs right here at home.
Our grandchildren’s schools are vibrant community hubs, which is why the Province has invested more than $55 million on the replacements of both Vernon Secondary School and Coldstream Elementary School. Every student deserves to learn in a safe and engaging facility to ensure they are getting the most out of their educational experience.
We are putting particular emphasis on our early learners in order to ensure the next generation gets the best start possible. In the Vernon School District alone, we’ve opened four StrongStart centres in Harwood Elementary, Alexis Park Elementary, Okanagan Landing Elementary and Mission Hill Elementary. This early learning program provides school-based early learning services for adults and their young children, from birth to age five, at no cost to families. Children have access to high-quality learning environments and benefit from social interactions, while the adults who accompany them learn new ways to support learning, both at the program and at home.
For a child’s next learning step, by September of next year, full-day kindergarten will be available to five-year-olds across the province. Research shows that a high quality kindergarten program has long-term benefits for children’s academic and social skills and helps them to succeed in school and in life. Full day kindergarten is another step towards building a strong foundation for lifelong learning, in a nurturing, play-based environment.
The Province will continue to prioritize investments in senior’s housing and in-home supports because they deserve as many options as possible to help them live independent and fulfilling lives. A large part of a senior’s fulfilled life is ensuring their grandchildren are well cared for. We will continue to ensure B.C.’s economic climate continues to keep families together.
Mr. Eric Foster, MLA
Vernon-Monashee
3209 31st Avenue
Vernon, BC V1T 2H2
Tel: (250) 503-3600
www.ericfostermla.bc.ca.
Eric Foster is the elected represenative of the BC Legislature for the Vernon-Monashee constituency. The views expressed are those of the author and are provided as a general source of information only. Comments or questions –eric.foster.mla@leg.bc.ca, call (250) 503-3600 or visit www.ericfostermla.bc.ca
2010
What is a Kinesiologist?
by Majorie Lauzon B.Sc. Phys. Ed. (Kines)
Minda Chittenden B.Sc.(Kines) MA(Gero)
Natalie Lussin B. Kin.
Meridian Rehabilitation Consulting Inc.
How we help.
As three practising Kinesiologists here in Vernon, we often have people ask us what is it that we do; we offer a wide variety of assessments and services that assist with injury prevention, rehabilitation, general health management, and athletic training.
Our Knowledge Base.
Within Canada, the term Kinesiologist refers to someone who has completed a 4 year university degree in kinesiology and has an extensive understanding of human structure and function in relation to health and movement. Kinesiologists have a scientific background of physics, biology and statistics; they take a holistic approach to health while studying the human body from a physiological, sociological, and behavioural point of view. Kinesiologists take many courses such as physiology, anatomy, sport injuries, cardiac rehabilitation, human growth and development, nutrition, psychology, biomechanics, and psychomotor behaviour.
How our knowledge is applied.
Kinesiologists apply their knowledge to different fields: Health and Safety, Ergonomics, Fitness, Physical and Vocational Rehabilitation (preparation for returning to work), just to name a few. A Kinesiologist may be just the person you are looking for to design your individualized exercise program, evaluate your work space design or help you recover from an injury. Keep in mind, when you hire a Kinesiologist you have a highly qualified professional working for you.