special caregiving edition +
BC’s 50 Active BC’sLifestyle 50+ Magazine Active Lifestyle Magazine
september 2015
A Whole
New side to
Kelowna
Caregivers: passionate Champions pLUs:
Cycling through
puglia, Italy
www.seniorlivingmag.com WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
1
Our advantage? A little sparkle goes a long way.
The best part of my day? Preparing my team for another day of exceptional, sparkling service.
Independent and assisted living choices for today’s senior.
2290 Henry Ave. Sidney | 250.656.8827 peninsulanorgarden.ca
Patty, Head of Housekeeping, has been with us since we opened our doors in 2005.
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED by THE TIDMAN GROUP
PREPARED FOR: NORGARDEN PUBLICATION: SENIOR LIVING_”PATTY” SIZE: 7.25” X 4.75” PREPARED BY: BRAVOPlease ADVERTISING 250website 590 1169 under “How to Help” at www.niwra.org visit our
A CANADA THAT WORKS. TOGETHER.
WIldlIfe legaCIes If you are interested in making a living Will or leaving a legacy in your Will to North Island Wildlife Recovery Association, please email us at wildlife@niwra.org for a brochure & video. We provide care to critically sick, injured and orphaned wildlife such as eagles, owls, song birds and black bears. Help care for these animals by partnering with us through your legacy gift or donation.
THEY DEPEND ON US, AND WE DEPEND ON YOU...
Meet your Vancouver Island Green Party Candidates! (From Left-to-Right)
Frances Litman Glenn Sollitt Elizabeth May Paul Manly Fran
Hunt-Jinnouchi
Jo-Ann Roberts
North Island–Powell River brendasayers.ca • 250-465-8112 Esquimalt–Saanich–Sooke franceslitman.ca • 778-817-1010 Courtenay–Alberni glennsollittgpc.ca • 250.240.4934 Saanich–Gulf Islands elizabethmay.ca • 778-351-3335 Nanaimo–Ladysmith paulmanly.ca • 250-591-9222 Cowichan–Malahat–Langford franhuntjinnouchi.ca • 1-866-868-3447 Victoria–Oak Bay joannroberts.ca • 778.747.3064
Authorized by the Official Agents for Brenda Sayers, Frances Litman, Glenn Sollitt, Elizabeth May, Paul Manly, Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi and Jo-Ann Roberts
2
SENIOR LIVING
BN119060549RR0001
Brenda Sayers
THaNK YOU fOR YOUR sUPPORT!
North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre
250-248-8543 | www.niwra.org Box 364, 1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
BN119060549RR0001
“Grandpa, I said PUPPY, not GUPPY!” Typical symptoms of early hearing loss include difficulty hearing softer voices, like those of women and children. If you’re ready to hear what you’ve been missing, Miracle-Ear can help. Visit www.miracle-ear.com today.
Why Choose Miracle-Ear? Expert Advice
Provided by certified hearing instrument practitioners and audiologists.
Industry Pioneers.
More than 65 years of experience and one of the world’s largest hearing aid providers.
Best-in-Class Customer Service. Over 18 locations across Canada aimed at surprising our customers with unexpected solutions
Call to schedule your FREE HEARING SCREENING today!
604-210-4547
MIRACLE-EAR NOW IN CANADA! 13 LOCATIONS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA TO SERVE YOU.
Abbotsford Chilliwack Kamloops Langley Maple Ridge New Westminster North Vancouver
South Surrey Guildford Village Square Richmond Vancouver Nanaimo Victoria
Hearing aids do not restore natural hearing. Individual experiences vary depending on severity of hearing loss, accuracy of evaluation, proper fit and ability to adapt to amplification. © 2014 Miracle-Ear, Inc.
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
13
SEPTEMBER 2015 TICKETS FROM
26
$
www.seniorlivingmag.com
DEPARTMENTS
FEATURES 6 Living in Kelowna
36 Travel – Puglia, Italy
Once a sleepy, summer holiday destination, Kelowna has grown in leaps and bounds.
40 Attractions & Entertainment
10 Leaving Perfection in the Dust Howard Family Stage
A family caregiver dumps strict standards for a more loving and relaxed approach on her journey.
12 The Supreme Juggler
16 A Heart for Family Caregivers Meet the compassionate Executive Director of the Family Caregivers of British Columbia.
20 Prescription for Good Health The key to physical and mental wellness for caregivers is building a network of support.
Do you need support at home? Help with meals? Bathing?
COLUMNS 4 The Family Caregiver by Wendy Johnstone 34 Courageous & Outrageous by Pat Nichol 42 Fashion Forward by Bobbie Jo Reid 44 Forever Fit by Eve Lees
Sage advice for those meeting new challenges as part of the “sandwich” generation.
Under the Tents • Vanier Park, Vancouver On Stage to Sept 26 • Book Today! 604-739-0559 • bardonthebeach.org
43 Classifieds
22 All the Write Moves
Before Donna Randall, a family caregiver agreement didn’t exist – until she made it available for all families.
24 Retirement in Three Dimensions
Artist Arthur Abt’s paintings have texture and depth – jumping the boundaries of traditional art.
26 Back to School
A mother, grandmother and great-grandmother enters university for the first time – in her 88th year.
Cover Photo: Bud O’Connell paddleboarding on Okanagan Lake, where he enjoyed water sports for 30 years. He is a Friend of Fintry Provincial Park Society (north of Kelowna), giving tours and hosting spring, summer and fall fairs. Photo: Santana Brown
30 Finishing is Winning
Barely one per cent of the world’s population have completed a marathon – these two running enthusiasts barely slow down. Senior Living is distributed at all BC Pharmasave locations.
Senior Living is published by Stratis Publishing.
Please call us at
778-866-1083 Operating from North Vancouver to Langley
pronounced ‘She-Ki-Nah’ www.shekinahnursing.com admin@shekinahnursing.com 24
SENIOR LIVING
Publishers Barbara Risto Barry Risto
Head Office Contact Information: Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1
Editor Bobbie Jo Reid editor@seniorlivingmag.com
Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705
Office Manager Shayna Horne 250-479-4705 office@seniorlivingmag.com
E-mail office@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com
Advertising Christine Bollenbach 250-479-4705 ext 102 Lorraine Brett 604-351-8497 (Vancouver) Bob Ramsey 250-479-4705 ext 104 Kathie Wagner 250-479-4705 ext 103 For advertising information, call 250-479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Subscriptions: $32 (includes GST, postage and handling) for 12 issues. Canadian residents only. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag. com Senior Living is distributed free throughout British Columbia. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living (12 issues per year). ISSN 17103584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)
Senior Friendly Businesses WHERE TO FIND ALL OF OUR ADVERTISERS
Attractions & Entertainment • Ballet Kelowna (pg 40) • Bard on the Beach (pg 2) • Bead & Jewellery Show (pg 40) • Chemainus Theatre Festival (pg 41) • First Metropolitan United Church (pg 40) • Silver Reef Casino (pg 33) • University of Victoria Farquhar Auditorium (pg 40) • View Royal Casino (Inside Back Cover) • World Famous Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll (pg 41) Charities • Kinsmen Foundation of BC & Yukon (pg 21) • North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre (Inside Front Cover) • Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation (Inside Back Cover) • Vancouver Foundation (pg 29) Health | Wellness • BC Perio Dental Health & Implant Centre (pg 14) • Canadian Hearing Care (pg 27) • Connect Hearing (pg 18 & 23) • Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon (pg 31) • Health Products Stewardship (pg 44) • Miracle Ear (pg 1) • Motion Specialties (pg 11) • Pharmasave (pg 21) • Saanich Recreation (pg 33)
Housing • Agecare Harmony Court Estate (pg 34) • Alexander Mackie Retirement Community (pg 8) • Beacon Community Services (pg 17) • Beulah Garden Homes (pg 27) • Berwick Retirement Communities (Inside Back Cover) • Chalmer’s Lodge (pg 33) • Concord Retirement Residence (pg 21) • Glenshiel, The (pg 32) • Kiwanis Village Nanaimo (pg 39) • Langley Lodge (pg 32) • Legion Manor Victoria (pg 31) • Norgarden (Inside Front Cover) • Oak Tree Manor (pg 42) • Origin at Longwood (pg 37) • Parc Retirement Living (pg 19) • Revera (pg 27) • Residences at Belvedere (pg 18) • Rose Manor (pg 34) • Saint Francis Manor by the Sea (pg 44) • Sherwood House (pg 43) • Silver Springs Residence (pg 7) • Sunridge Gardens (pg 38) • South Granville Park Lodge (pg 3) • Trillium Care Communities (pg 15) • Wesbrooke Retirement (pg 28) Financial | Government | Insurance | Legal | Real Estate • Carol Cluff/HomeLife Benchmark Realty
Corp. (pg 7) • Green Party of Canada (Inside Front Cover) • Homeowner Protection Office/BC Housing (pg 17) • Island Savings Credit Union (Back Cover) • Kenneth Walton Law Corporation (pg 8) • Travel Guardian (pg 10) • Travel Insurance Specialists (pg 35) Retail • Barbara’s Boutique and Showroom (pg 42) Senior Care • Alpha Home Care (pg 11) • Care & Company Ltd. (pg 12) • Nurse Next Door Burnaby (pg 13) • Saint Elizabeth (pg 4) • Shekinah Assisted Care Services (pg 2) Services • Age-Friendly Business (pg 13) • Casalinga (pg 31) • Everything Organized (pg 18) • Fortis BC (pg 5) • Molly Maid (pg 11) • Royal Oak Burial Park (pg 9) • Streamline Automation Ltd. (pg 3) Travel & Leisure • Accent Inns (pg 37) • Mile Zero Tours (pg 38) • Pitmar Tours (pg 39) • West World Tours (pg 36)
South Granville Park Lodge
Yes you can! You can continue to live independently in your home and...
Our lodge family is committed to each resident experiencing meaningful days by: • Honouring and continuing their life story • Forging respectful relationships with care givers
• Be safe and secure
and other residents
• Be assured that just in case... family, friends, and caregivers will be there to help
• Supporting their ability to be independent and express preferences
• Living in a safe and healthy environment
More than just a PERS system! SL_HalfPage_BusinessDirectory_SEP2015.indd 1
8/26/2015 1:34:23 PM
Call us now to find out how our connected home technology can reduce care giving costs while providing peace of mind not only for seniors and those requiring some in-home care, but also their family, friends and caregivers.
• Provide support for all levels of care needs • 24 hour registered nursing care • Dietician supervised homemade meals • Daily recreational and therapeutic programs
Call 1-855-814-4255 for a free e-brochure Monthly plans starting from $39.99
to enhance meaningful days
1645 West 14th Avenue vAncouver For tours and information call
604-732-8633
email: sgplodge@telus.net | visit our website: www.sgplodge.com A BC-based company
Supporting Meaningful Days for seniors for the past 45yrs WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
email: sgplodge@telus.net SEPTEMBER 2015 3 5 www.sgplodge.com
The Family Caregiver
Talking to Parents About Their Eldercare Needs
M M
y mom turned 70 last month and she is a highly active and vibrant senior. As a gerontologist, however, this particular milestone alarms me for the same reason I cause alarm to my friends and clients when I spout off, “If your parents are 70 years and over, you need to start talking about future care options. Don’t wait for a crisis, start now!” If this seems premature or dramatic, consider this: over twothirds of adult children haven’t given a moment’s thought about their aging parents and eldercare needs, let alone broached the topic in conversation. Looking back, I wish I had. Our family was caught completely off guard when our 69-year-old father had a massive stroke. My three siblings, Mom and I handled Dad’s eldercare responsibilities while juggling family and work commitments. And then the worst happened: Dad suffered a massive seizure. Three days later, with no signs of hope, our family had to make the excruciatingly painful decision to take Dad off life-support. With Mom as a widow, we discovered our father didn’t have a will, had cancelled insurance policies, had hidden debt and his small business had no exit strategy. Here are few tips to consider as you initiate those sensitive discussions with your aging parents: Start Now! The first conversation is the most difficult. Initiate a discussion now while they are still healthy and active. Emergencies rarely allow families the opportunity for full participation. You can start by asking the following questions:
BY WENDY JOHNSTONE
• Will they want or expect a lot of involvement from their children? • How do they feel about having a housekeeper or a private care provider coming into their home? • If at some point they are no longer able to live at home, what kind of living arrangements would they prefer? • What steps in the area of health care and financial planning have they taken? Respect their decisions. It’s important to treat your parents like the adults they are. There is one thing most experts agree on – imposing your way of thinking or trying to control your parent’s decisions will yield undesirable results. Be patient and empathic. More than likely, it won’t be easy for your parents to accept your involvement in their private affairs and life decisions. Their greatest fears are probably loss of independence and control. It’s important the conversation aims at building trust and that you have a thorough understanding of your parents’ preferences and needs. SL Next month: Caring from a distance
Wendy Johnstone is a Gerontologist and a consultant with Family Caregivers of British Columbia in Victoria, BC. Call 250-384-0408 or go to www.familycaregiversbc.ca for more information.
The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of Saint Elizabeth
46
SENIOR LIVING SEPrivatePay-SeniorLivingVancouver-Oct2014-OL.indd 1
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
2014-10-15 11:25 AM
Natural gas rates: you have a choice Starting November 1, 2015, you’ll have a choice when it comes to buying natural gas. A program called Customer Choice lets you buy gas from an independent gas marketer at fixed rates and terms, or from FortisBC at a variable rate. Independent gas marketers may knock on your door to discuss these options. Either way, FortisBC would still deliver your gas. To learn more about your options, visit fortisbc.com/yourchoice.
Compare natural gas prices Residential fixed rates (per GJ)* Gas marketer
Contact info
Access Gas Services Inc.
1-877-519-0862 accessgas.com
Direct Energy
1-877-376-1445 directenergy.com
$3.99
Just Energy
1-866-587-8674 justenergy.com
$4.78
Planet Energy
1-866-360-8569 planetenergy.ca
$5.69
Summitt Energy BC LP
1-877-222-9520 summittenergy.ca
Local natural gas utility
Contact info
FortisBC
fortisbc.com/rates
1 yr term
2 yr term
3 yr term
4 yr term
5 yr term
$3.89
$4.89
$4.89
$4.89
$4.89 $3.99
$4.78
$4.78 $5.19
$5.39
$5.39
Residential variable rate (per GJ)** $2.486
Already a FortisBC customer? If you want to keep your variable FortisBC natural gas rate, there’s nothing else you need to do. *Chart shows gas marketers’ rates for a range of fixed terms, valid as of September 1, 2015. Marketers typically offer a variety of rates and options. Check gas marketers’ websites or call to confirm current rates. **Residential variable rate valid as of July 1, 2015. FortisBC’s rates are reviewed quarterly by the British Columbia Utilities Commission. A gigajoule (GJ) is a measurement of energy used for establishing rates, sales and billing. One gigajoule is equal to one billion joules (J) or 948,213 British thermal units (Btu). The Customer Choice name and logo is used under license from FortisBC Energy Inc. This advertisement is produced on behalf of the British Columbia Utilities Commission.
15-018.1
15-018.1-CustomerChoicePrint-VI-WHI_7.25x9.75_PRESS.indd 1
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
8/20/2015 3:35:15 PM SEPTEMBER 2015
57
Community
Living in Kelowna BY JOHN HARRIS
Sailing in Kelowna on Okanagan Lake. Photo: Al Cotton/tourismkelowna.com
A A
nother summer has come and gone, leaving us full of memories. The children at our feet are still bronzed with the weeks of hot weather and full of stories of bonfires, marshmallows, inner tubes and mosquitoes. When I ask friends about summer holidays when they were kids, many simply say “Kelowna.” Their dad drove the station wagon to the Okanagan every summer, meeting the same summer neighbours at the same cabins and making the same memories kids do today. So it’s not surprising when I ask friends who are 50+ where they would like to live today, Kelowna immediately comes to mind. So, what would it really be like to live in Kelowna? Would it be a childhood vacation rerun? What about work and a place to live? And what is there to do? On those points, if you’re 50+, the news is good. Back in those childhood holidays, Kelowna was a sleepy orchard community of under 10,000; today, there are over 180,000 residents. Like then, Kelowna is still in the fruit growing business, but the major crop today is grapes and the wine industry is booming. In fact, wine is so popular that Kelowna hosts two major wine festivals each year – one during the first 10 days of October and another at the end of April into May. Kelowna works hard at maintaining a strong sense of community and the wine festivals are just part of a long menu of events and festivals. In February, it’s the Canadian Culinary Championships with chefs from across the country. The Great 68
SENIOR LIVING
Okanagan Beer Festival takes over Waterfront Park for a weekend in May, the Hopscotch Festival pours in September and, in October, the intriguingly titled Okanagan Food and Wine Film Festival is three days of food, wine and films. It’s not all about booze and food, of course. The Kelowna Kiwanis Music Festival is one of the largest community festivals in Canada. It’s so big, they schedule it over several months to allow proper space and time for adjudication. The 2016 festival begins with dance in March, strings, concert band and the piano festivals in April, with one day, May 1st for the Musical Theatre Festival. This is followed in May by classical voice and choir. It’s huge! Another event that involves the occasional beverage is the Kelowna Regatta. Founded in the early 1900s, the August regatta has grown along with the city. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing; organizers went so far as to cancel the event in the mid-’80s as “negative elements” caused drunken riots and mayhem during the festivities. Today, the story is very different with 30,000 visitors for the sailing competitions and water events. The Okanagan has a long history of winter events, too, such as the Vernon Winter Carnival now celebrating its 54th year. The first was held on Kalamalka Lake in 1893 but the winter carnival, as we know it, began in 1961 and attracts throngs of visitors from Kelowna and throughout BC. The theme for February 2016 is “Mardi Gras.” All these community events require an engaged population
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
with the time and money to help make them happen. That prosperity is a key factor attracting many newcomers to Kelowna. The city has grown into the largest trading centre in the west between Vancouver and Calgary. The UBC campus here has over 9,000 students and staff, and Okanagan College offers over 120 areas of study. These institutions alone pump over $1 billion into the local economy. At UBC’s Kelowna campus, adults in non-degree programs have an intellectual feast of opportunity; Film, Greek Hebrew or Latin, Human Kinetics, Geography, Visual Arts and Political Science are just a few of the courses on offer. Normally, people over 65 do not pay tuition or student fees. However, students can expect to pay fees of about $100–$150 per course for course materials. Add the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) to the equation and the economy really takes off. Now the 10th largest Canadian airport in terms of volume, YLW features daily flights across Canada and to the US with regular service to Mexico, Cuba and the Caribbean. Kelowna also enjoys many aviation-related firms established nearby. Another Kelowna plus for people 50+ is how easy it is to get there. The building of the Coquihalla highway cut hours off the drive from Vancouver and pours visitors directly into Kelowna. WestJet and Air Canada log more than 25 flights a day between Vancouver and Kelowna. It all adds up to 1,600,000 air travellers a year. Since we are focused on folks 50+, what about local
healthcare? Here again, the news is good. Kelowna General is finally nearing the end of a massive expansion that began in 2008 and cost over $630 million. The final touch is a new cardiac surgical centre due to open this fall. The sense of community, the services, great climate and the strong economy are all important, but probably the strongest draw for Kelowna is home ownership. To give you a comparison to the swoon-inducing house prices in the Lower Mainland, here are the results of a quick scan of recent real estate listings. At the low end, a Westbank mobile home, complete with shade tree and a view of the lake; $28,000. At the other end of the scale, on the eastern shore and well south of downtown, a 17-acre Shangri-La that comes with an 11,000 square foot home and stunning views; $14,000,000. In between these extremes, a three-bedroom condo with a two-car garage within walking distance to the Cultural District; $150,000. With prices like these, and historically low interest rates, it’s easy to see why the Kelowna region has a high percentage of home ownership. Another reason for this is the level of business opportunity. The City of Kelowna says there are 17,378 businesses in the city, most of them smaller firms with under 20 employees. So, even if you want to be “semi-retired” and work part-time, opportunities abound. Along with the UBC campus and the airport, another fastgrowing sector is the digital entertainment industry. When Disney bought Kelowna’s Club Penguin in 2007,
Relax... o ur neiGhbourhood, Relax... your family is in good hands. Your family is in good hands.
Your realTor
Back to School in White Rock, 1914
Senior Living:Senior Living:
• Home Care services available • Home Care services are available through I.H.A. through IHA (must qualify)• 3 Home cooked meals & snacks daily • Close to downtown Vernon • 3 Home cooked meals & snacks daily • Scheduled social activities • Close to downtown Vernon • Medi-alert / 24 hr staffing • Scheduled social activities • Respite room available • Medi-alert / 24 hr staffing • Weekly housekeeping • Respite room available Senior Living: hird eneraTion • Weekly housekeeping
Relax... your family is in good hands. Call Today Affordable Pricing for All Seniors arol T G
C
• Home Care services are available through I.H.A. • 3 Home cooked meals & snacks daily • Close to downtown Vernon • Scheduled social activities • Medi-alert / 24 hr staffing • Respite room available • Weekly housekeeping
Call Today Call Today Affordable Pricing Affordable Pricing for All Seniors for All Seniors
ealTor 250-545-3351 3309 - 39th Avenue, Vernon, BC *
www.silverspringsvernon.ca
250-545-3351
250-545-3351
3309 - 39th Avenue, Vernon BC www.silverspringsvernon.ca
Crluff
3309 - 39th Avenue, Vernon, BC www.silverspringsvernon.ca
*Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist
604.531.1111
www.carolcluff.com • carolcluff@shaw.ca HomeLife Benchmark Realty Corp #1 – 1920 – 152nd St, White Rock WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
79
Live Age Well. Well. Live Well. Well. Age
Carefree Activities, Outings & Great Meals Call forLiving a Lunch– &Peace Tour Today! Carefree of Mind
ALEXANDER MACKIE ALEXANDER MACKIE Retirement Community Retirement Community
250-478-4888 Call 250-478-4888 Station Avenue, Avenue, Victoria Victoria 753 Station www.hayworth.ca www.cherishliving.ca
810
SENIOR LIVING
300-plus staff were deployed in the city as the world-wide headquarters for the Disney gaming division. Two other digital entertainment firms growing in Kelowna are Bardel Studios and Yeti Farm. Both have long-term service contracts with California studios. Robert Fine of the City of Kelowna’s Business Development Office says global corporations have made Kelowna home, but the real heart and soul of the city is small business. “We’re rated in the top five per cent of business-friendly Canadian communities, although we are still one of the smaller Canadian cities,” says Fine. Another advantage to working and living in Kelowna is buried beneath the streets. In 2015, the city launched the first of three phases of improvements to the fibre optic cable network serving the city. The data speed of one gigabyte per second is a windfall to techies working from home and for the newly announced Okanagan Centre for Innovation. The centre includes public spaces and classrooms, as well as office and studio space for online firms. The fibre optic network isn’t just for business, either. Condo buildings and homes need high-speed internet, too. And it’s a boon to Kelowna General Hospital reaching to take advantage of $1 billion in recent capital investments for expansion. And what about when you’re not working? As in “fully retired” or enjoying the weekend? The Kelowna region is famous for its amazing variety of outdoor activities (see festivals list above). The town sits in the middle of the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake with Knox Mountain to the north and Kelowna Mountain to the south. Everywhere are endless kilometres of trails and side roads to walk, hike and bike. The Okanagan has been a holiday mecca for decades, so camping spots are everywhere. Kelowna itself has 19 golf courses, 135 kilometres of lake in which to swim, boat and fish, plus there are courts for tennis, pickleball and badminton, bocce fields, volleyball beaches – you name it, you can play it. As for winter sports, people who know Kelowna remind me that besides the well-known ski resorts nearby, there are many winter activities. There are almost 5,000 acres of parkland in and around the city and snow turns them into excellent snowshoeing country. Another family favourite is skating on the Okanagan Lake waterfront. Since Okanagan Lake is mostly ice-free in the winter, Stuart Park and other Kelowna parks have excellent skating surfaces where families gather. But you can’t exercise 24/7; sometimes you just want to relax. Kelowna has hundreds of cafés and restaurants in an increasingly adventurous downtown scene and, a short drive away, many of the local vineyards offer superb food service. If you’re hungry for some culture along with that latté, and you’re between festival dates, start at the RAC, The Rotary Arts Centre. More evidence of the engagement in the community, this huge performing arts centre offers a packed schedule of events and exhibits, as well as concerts. It’s located in what used to be the centre of the BC fruit packing industry, now trans-
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Photo: Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com
formed into the Cultural District. Here’s a look at a typical Thursday in August at the RAC. Feeling chilly? Thursday is Salsa Thursday, every week, at RAC and it’s free. Need to relax? Tricia Dalgliesh is playing piano in the RAC lounge. That’s free, too. Feeling crafty? The Ponderosa Spinners, Weavers and Fibre Artists have an open studio demo until 7 p.m., after which you can sit down for the open studio in the Painting and Drawing room for a $5 dropin fee. And if you feel like simply looking, there are four other art exhibits throughout the building. Another outstanding example of how Kelowna blends culture and community is the Kelowna Art Gallery. Their famous Family Sundays program gives kids and parents weekly adventures in creating their own artworks. Or there’s the Art Lab program, which is “fun, free and open to everyone.” Down the block from the gallery is the Packing House, a beautiful brick heritage landmark building that was key to Kelowna’s history and houses several museums. The logo for the Kelowna Museums is a red paw print of a grizzly bear containing a human handprint. This curious symbol goes back to the unnamed beginnings of the town in the 1800s. A white settler had dug an underground hut for winter shelter. Overhearing curious Okanagan Indians talking about the smoke curling from the ground where the settler’s “soddie” was built, he popped his head out, complete with fur cap and bristling beard. The natives were so amused at the furry sight, they immediately gave the man the nickname “Brown Bear.” Other settlers liked the sound of the native name for grizzly bear – “kelowna” – and the area was registered under that name in 1892. One thing that hasn’t changed much since those pioneer days is the climate. Even in today’s topsy-turvy weather world, a hot Kelowna summer is something you can rely on. Year-round residents also know Kelowna winter temperatures can sometimes dip to minus 30 with a wind chill. De-
Dining in Kelowna.
spite the cold winters, Okanagan Lake rarely freezes and the relatively warm air over the water rises to form winter clouds that cover the valley. Those clouds ensure there is always snow for Christmas; an average of 42 centimetres over December and January. That steady supply of snow has helped attract three different ski resorts to Kelowna; Big White, 56 kilometres east of the city, Apex Mountain near Penticton to the south and Crystal Mountain, a quick 25 minutes west of the centre of downtown. Happily, with the long hot summers and cold winters, there are still four distinct seasons. Spring temperatures rise an average of 15 degrees between April and early June, making gardening a favourite pastime. There’s a similar drop on the thermometer between September and November with an added bonus of weeks of gorgeous autumn colour in the vineyards and orchards. As I said, friends in the 50+ range still smile and nod at their memories of Kelowna summers. Now with kids and grandkids of their own, we’ve found more reasons for them SL to smile; they’re seeing a whole new side to Kelowna.
100% biodegradable. If you care about your environmental footprint, green burial is the most natural option at the end of life. Let us help you plan the arrangements that reflect your values.
GREEN BURIAL | TRADITIONAL BURIAL | CREMATION | MEMORIALIZATION 4673 FALAIsE DRIvE, vICTORIA, BC | 250-658-5621 | ROBP.CA ROBP_Seniors_Living_Ad_September_2015.indd 1
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
15-08-24 3:37 PM SEPTEMBER 2015 11 9
Caregiving
Leaving Perfection in the Dust BY ROBERTA BEDARD, FAMILY CAREGIVER
II
’ve finally found a solution to my embarrassment and guilt over my inability to maintain my housekeeping standards while being a loving wife, mother, companion, nurse, chef, physiotherapist, and all-around caregiver to my husband, while staying relatively sane and maintaining some kind of life for myself. I’ve given up – trying to maintain my standards, that is. What a relief! I came to my decision after I heard myself snapping at Ray. “I’ve just cleaned that!” when he put a dirty spoon on the counter. The poor man stood there, looking ashamed of himself, thinking he had just committed a terrible deed. He shuffled dejectedly out of the kitchen, sat on the couch, stared straight ahead and stayed out of trouble. And my heart broke. This is not what I want for us. Neither for him, nor for me. “But I can’t do it all!” I told myself, and proceeded to have a severe attack of “poor me” syndrome. I wept in my guilt and frustration. “I can’t do this.” Luckily, I am a practical person, even when I’m feeling terrible. What was it I couldn’t do, exactly? I was happy and content doing everything that needed to be done to be a good wife and caregiver to Ray. I enjoyed my volunteer work, and the occasional Rotary meeting. I
loved having lunch and giggling with a girlfriend. I could manage all these things as well as napping every day. The only thing that got in the way was the housework. “So,” I asked myself. “Why can’t I give up most of the housework?” Other than what the neighbours think, does it really matter if my windows sparkle? All I really needed to do was to lower my standard to just above what was
Life’s too short to make chasing dirt my main mission. required to keep the Board of Health away, which only amounts to sanitary and safe. It doesn’t event attempt at perfection. It doesn’t even care, really, about neat. The clutter need only be kept within reasonable bounds. I don’t always have to be ready for “company.” This decision came hard. I had the sort of mother who could spot a thread on the carpet at 20 paces; who insisted not only must work be done well; it must be seen to be done well.
SNOWBIRDS Our drive is to find the best rates for you! SPECIALIZING IN SNOWBIRD TRAVEL MEDICAL PLANS We have access to over 15 different plans, offering affordable and effective coverage Phone 604 536 2280 or Toll Free 1 844 536 2280 12 10
SENIOR LIVING
Contact us today for your FREE quote
I’m the type of person who schedules housekeeping chores into my Microsoft Outlook, with reminders for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly duties. If these chores are done regularly and well, keeping a small condo up to snuff is relatively easy. But I don’t like housework. I like a shiny house, but I was born to have maids (notice the plural – it would take two) who would do the work for me. Housework makes me snappy and cranky, which is not a good thing to be when your beloved has Alzheimer’s. Hence, the decision. Now we hold hands and watch television while unsorted, un-ironed clothes are piled on a chair. Now my carpet keeps its spots. Forget writing my name in the dust, I could build little forts. But I now have time to cook great dinners, searching through my cookbooks for variety. I don’t rush through eye care and foot care duties. I have the time to just sit and listen, and appreciate what a terrific guy I married. Alzheimer’s or no Alzheimer’s, my husband is smiling more, as am I. I even have time for a belly laugh now and again. The ghost of my mother looks disapprovingly over my shoulder. I still cringe, internally, when the doorbell rings unexpectedly. I am not able to get over my upbringing enough not to be embarrassed, or feel occasionally like a failure at wifehood because I can’t do everything. But I’ve made my choice. Cranky? Dusty? If that’s the choice – and, for me, it is – then it makes itself. Life’s too short to make chasing dirt my SL main mission.
Roberta Bedard, AGCA, is Director of the Alberta Caregivers’ Association. She cared for her husband, who had Alzheimer’s disease until his death. (Revised from “Cranky versus Dusty”
www.travelguardian.ca
Alberta Caregiver® Volume 1, Issue 1) WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
from the Professionals you can Trust!
For all your home health care needs
SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS Daily Living • Lift Chairs • Bathroom Safety • Home Care Beds & Rails • Incontinence Products • Bracing • Cervical Pillows
Contact us today for a free in-home estimate:
1-800-663-6243
Mobility • Scooters • Walkers • Canes • Crutches • Transport Chairs • Transfer Devices
www.mollymaid.ca
24 HR
Accessibility
Support
7 Days
Help for you... A Week
• Ceiling Lifts • Stair Lifts • Porch Lifts • Home Elevators • Ramps
Peace of Mind for Your Family Our Quality People Make the Difference!
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1975
Complimentary In-Home Assessment
Home HealtH Care
• Personal Care & Bathing, Medication Assistance • Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s, ALS Care & Support • Pre- and Post-Surgical Care • Quadriplegic / Brain Injury Care • Palliative Care & Respite & Live-in
Respiratory* • CPAP Therapy • Home Oxygen
NursiNg Care
*respiratory services not available at all locations
• Private Duty Nursing, Wound Care • Nursing Assessment, Vaccination Clinics
Home support
• Home Cleaning, Companionship • Meal Preparation, Grocery Shopping, Pet Care • Transportation To & From Appointments
www.alphahomecare.ca 250.383.4423
1701 Island Hwy, VIctorIa Bc
visit us online at motionspecialties.com Duncan • 250.709.9939 Nanaimo • 250.756.9875 Sidney • 250.656.6228
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Burnaby • 604.516.0009 Victoria • 250.384.8000
SEPTEMBER 2015
13 11
Caregiving
The SupremeQuestions Juggler: Advice from a successful, hard-working member of the “sandwich generation.”
to ask yourself:
BY BARB MACLEAN
JJ
uggling is an art and a skill we’ve all admired. Applied to life, we envision a person who manages multiple demands while staying relatively balanced – no easy feat. Enter Barbra Hopkins. Immaculately dressed, with an open friendly smile, Barbra has a calm presence that in no way reveals her day may have been, quite simply, mayhem. I have admired her positive outlook, her compassion and her willingness to share her extensive experience since we first met a few years ago when Barbra volunteered for a Family Caregivers’ Network fundraiser. She was born and raised in Victoria and is a true member of the “sandwich generation,” helping to care for both grandchildren and aging parents while maintaining a fast-paced career in the financial industry. Barbra is a Financial Advisor and holds the designations of Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA) and Certified Health Specialist (CHS). She also has a certificate in Grief and Loss Counselling and is a CARP recommended advisor. In addition to being a caregiver herself, she comes across many people who end up in a caregiving role either by choice or circumstance, most of whom are totally unprepared and many times overwhelmed with the role. Barbra offers the following sage advice for people juggling work, care and life, in general: Learn about the aging process and the illness/condition “The CPCA designation was a significant point in my life. It helped me understand the aging process. The brain actually changes. I then understood that my 89-year-old mother was going through physiological changes. She was surviving ver-
Helping You Live at Home Care from Hospital to Home n Rehabilitative Exercise Programs n Medical & Non-Medical Staff n Companionship & Home Support n Consistency of Care n In-home Functional Fitness Programs n
sus being demanding. One time, in a store she blurted out to a stranger, “that’s not a good look on you!” Although I still feel embarrassed, I realize her behaviour is not on purpose – it’s a result of changes in her brain. A mini stroke affected her filters. My ability to cope with an aging parent has everything to do with better understanding.” Change your expectations “I’ve had to adjust my thinking about my parents as they age. As people I greatly respect, it’s hard to see once strong, independent people become less able, less strong and more dependent. Once I changed my expectations, and accepted that they have and will continue to change, I felt more at peace.” Ask for help “Asking for help is not a weakness, it’s a strength. Once you start it gets easier.” Practice gratitude “It’s taken a long time to make gratitude part of my regular life. To deal with stress, I realized I had to practice, and practice some more. Repeat often. I feel deeply grateful for the life I have, my family, my supportive husband and for a wonderful childhood. When life gets tough, I focus on gains, not losses. The way I practice is by voicing it – saying it out loud. I breathe deeply for 15 seconds to get centred. I can now do this anywhere, any time. It’s amazing!” Communicate – just talk – with your family – a lot! “It’s not like we’ve aged before. We don’t just automatically know all the ins and outs of aging. Working through things requires communication. This is HUGE. You have to break down
Helping You Be Fit for Life! New Studio ~ New Personalized Programs
www.SeniorCareandFitness.com
www.Fit-4-Life.ca
250-382-2328 / #202 – 2187 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC 14 C+C_SrLiv-1502.indd SENIOR LIVING 12
1
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
2015-02-06 12:03 PM
the ‘why’ of the issue. I think of talking with my family and siblings as collaboration, where you try to consider everyone’s perspectives, needs and wants.” Understand your needs versus wants “Growing up, my dad used to say, “Take care of your needs – because you will never take care of your wants.” That has stayed with me and I live by that. Sometimes it’s not clear, so you have to take time to think critically and remove the emotion. Is it really a need?” Break down your problems to manage them “Problems are part of life. The trick is to actively manage them. Sometimes when my seven-year-old grandson is a bit whiny, he’ll look at me and say, ‘I know; there are no problems, only solutions I haven’t thought of yet and I need to use my big brain.’ I love it when he says that. Write your problem down. Generate solutions. You might not like them all. But that’s life.” Resolve your issues “Studies show we carry our baggage to our deathbeds. It can seriously affect our quality of life as we age; it causes sadness and unnecessary conflict. One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your family is to resolve issues, put them to rest.” Let go of what doesn’t matter “My mom loves to go to the casino, with a budget, for entertainment. I have taken two hours out of my work day to take her there, at first feeling tremendous tension at missing productive work time, and aiding my parent in gambling. After reframing the situation, I have come to value this time immensely. The outing gives my mom some joy, she’s acting responsibly, it’s her choice and I go back to work energized. It all works out. That’s what I embrace.” Spend time with kids “Being with my grandchildren is pure joy for me. Through their eyes, I see everything new again, and reconnect with things long forgotten. Hugs, cuddles, human connection. Nothing like it. I think we were meant to be tribal.” Plan for the future “The best part of my job is being face to face with clients. I focus on some of life’s difficult topics like planning for illness and death. I make people feel uncomfortable, but it’s all about planning for the best future possible. So many people fail to plan financially for later in life, and it costs them dearly. I find great satisfaction in turning that around. Think about it. Who will help you take a bath when you’re 94?” As the interview wraps up, I asked Barbra for any final thoughts. She didn’t skip a beat: “We need to recognize, support and celebrate what family caregivers are doing. There’s nothing more important than the care we give to each other. She paused, and said with tears in her eyes, “It’s a privilege to care for my mom and my grandkids. One day she – or I – will SL not be there. I cherish the time we have together.” Barb MacLean is the Executive Director for Family Caregivers of British Columbia (FCBC).
Have They Earned the Right to Serve You? You’ve worked hard for your money, paid taxes, and served your community well. Daily you are inundated with messages from businesses and professionals asking you for your hard-earned dollars... But, have they earned the right? Many have...
Certified Professional Consultants on Aging (CPCAs)®
CPCA
TM
Certified Professional Consultant on Aging
TM
AND
CAFB
TM
Certified Age-Friendly Business
Certified Age-Friendly Businesses (CAFBs)®
cared enough to learn more to serve you better.
Experience the Difference!
Go to www.AgeFriendlyBusiness.com to find businesses and professionals who have earned the right to serve you!
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
15 13
Say Good Bye to Dentures,
Say Hello to Teeth In One Day! BC Perio’s Teeth in One Day is an amazing procedure that allows you to come in with a denture or failing teeth and leave the same day with a new set of fixed-in teeth. No more dentures. No more painful or failing teeth. Just a new confident smile and the ability to eat all your favourite foods again. If you are losing your teeth or are currently wearing a denture, this ground-breaking treatment is now available and may be the answer for you. This pioneering treatment has been tried and tested with great success! BC Perio’s team of dental experts offers you the highest standards of dental care in two great locations, Vancouver & Coquitlam. We are committed to continuing education to ensure our skills are the finest available. Our experts are in great demand and have been interviewed on television and radio, as well as newspaper articles on cosmetic and implant dentistry.
Don’t Wait Another Minute! Call us today for your free consultation.
Teeth in One Day is a procedure for people in need of full upper and/or lower teeth restorations, or for those looking to replace their dentures with a permanent solution. Unlike other approaches that use six, eight, or more implants and often involve bone grafting, we use a proven technique that involves only four to five specially placed implants and a full set of new teeth in just one appointment. You can be confident in your new, lifelong smile. Not only does this procedure save time and money, this is the only treatment option in dentistry today that can closely replicate the function of your natural teeth. Patients experience less deterioration or shrinkage of the jaw, little pain or discomfort, no loss of chewing ability and no unnecessary facial aging. Now you can enjoy your new confident smile!
Accommodations are provided for patients who live outside the Fraser Valley area.
Vancouver 604-872-0222
Coquitlam 604-936-8244
We welcome you to visit us online:
www.bcperio.ca 16 14
SENIOR LIVING
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
17 15
Caregiving
A Heart for Family Caregivers BY MATHIEU POWELL
Barbara MacLean is the Executive Director of Family Caregivers of British Columbia. Its mission is to inform, support and educate to improve the quality of life of family caregivers – family, friends and neighbours.
M M
y conversation with Barbara starts with our own families, then moves on to discuss what a family caregiver looks like and how her organization supports them. “Think about a time you were sick,” she says. “Think of the comfort only someone who loves you can give. That is a real gift. And that is what we want to protect. The people in our lives who care for us are so important, and we want to keep them healthy and well. That is what will keep our society strong.” Barbara has cared for people all her life – as a volunteer and professionally. It’s in her blood. Her mom, Marj MacLean, modelled compassion while Barb was growing up. “She was the ultimate friend and caregiver for people who came into her world. She always went out of her way to help. Whenever I was sick, there would be a care package for me,” she laughs. “It didn’t matter if I was in university, married, a grown woman, there was a hand on my forehead from a distance.” In elementary school, kids with physical or developmental disabilities found a special place in Barb’s heart. “I’d rush to get my homework done so I could spend time with the kids at the gym. That’s how my involvement with children and their families really started.” She worked with children and youth with developmental disabilities for many years, across many settings – group homes, day programs, classrooms and work placement classes. She noticed how the parents of these children were coping – or sometimes not coping. Everyone focused on the skill building and progress for the kids, with little emphasis on the emotional and psychological needs of the parents. “I remember the day my perspective changed. It was a typical Sunday at a group home where I worked, and a parent was dropping off his son after a home visit. Most drop-offs were filled with obvious emotional turmoil, but that day, something changed. I saw a calm, relaxed father, with relief etched visibly through his whole demeanor. The family had made the very difficult decision to get more intensive and specialized support to deal with their son’s challenging behaviour. It was a difficult decision, but the result was astonishing.” Barb’s interest in how family caregivers deal with life transitions led her to Family Caregivers of BC where she has worked for almost 12 years. “I’m fortunate because I get to sample many situations 18 16
SENIOR LIVING
along the life journey of the caregiver,” she says. “I spend a lot of my time participating in health system improvement at the regional, provincial and national levels, along with research knowledge translation efforts – big picture stuff. But it’s the moments I spend with a family caregiver that ground me. At the end of the day, we can talk policy all we want, but we need to keep a human face. I get to bring that to the table. That’s a real honour,” she says, tearing up.
Family Caregivers of British Columbia Executive Director Barbara MacLean likes to escape to nature to recharge.
Even so, she admits she initially thought she’d be there for only five years. “I am motivated by the progress we’ve seen, by the increasing attention being paid to the well-being of families. They have been the silent pillars of the health care system, offering over 80 per cent of the care. I am thrilled to say that today they are the “not-so-silent” pillars. Family Caregivers finally have a voice in the system, albeit it’s early days.” Barb attributes much of the progress to the dedicated, longterm staff and the many committed volunteers who have contributed talent, time and skills over the past 26 years since the society was formed. “It amazes me what people give of themselves, and how powerful the experience of caregiving is. Our most passionate champions have been caregivers.” The experiences and the stories of caregivers play an impor-
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
tant part of improving the system. “I will never forget my first experience attending a policy forum in Ottawa. After the formal day of presentations and statistics about caregiving, I was listening to the buzz of people networking. Huddled around one table were the senior officials, and they were talking about the personal stories shared by caregivers that morning. Nothing but the stories! That was a powAre you a low-income senior or a erful lesson for me and I’ve carried it with person with a disability who wants to me for over a decade.” live safely and independently in the Barb has her own family caregiving comfort of your home? story. She helped care for her mom as she fought and lost her battle with cancer. Do you have difficulty performing “I was in the best possible environday-to-day activities? ment, surrounded by the love of an inDoes your home need to be adapted credible family and a workplace that to meet your changing needs? If so, you couldn’t have been any more supportive. may be eligible for financial assistance Still, I struggled with emotions, the pull under the Home Adaptations for of my job, parenting my one-year-old Independence (HAFI) program. daughter and life, in general. I have tremendous empathy for others who don’t Find out today if you are eligible have the same level of support. That’s and if you meet all of the requirements added fuel to the fire. It’s why I’m still so as a low-income homeowner or as a passionate about improving life for famlandlord applying on behalf of an ily caregivers.” eligible tenant. Increasing awareness has been a longterm goal. “A key strategy has been to use the magic of ‘yes’ when opportunity knocks,” To apply or learn more, visit says Barb. “Yes to an interview; yes to atwww.bchousing.org/HAFI tending a consult; yes to presenting to a You can also contact BC Housing: group, a forum, and conference; yes to a Phone: 604-433-2218 partnership.” Toll-free: 1-800-257-7756 The hard work is finally paying off, especially in the last year, as the new Provincial Family Caregiver Program has been launched. H O U S I N G M AT T E R S “The BC Ministry of Health is now adopting a patient and family centred care framework. After 26 years, we have proLicensed Dementia Housing vincial program funding for the first time. Award Winning - Excellence in BC Healthcare Award It’s been a long, slow journey, and then Private Suites Best Available Position: available 15-006 ‘bam!’ The pedal hit the metal, and we’re Licensed Dementia Housing provides a small, home-like setting utilizing a social model of care. 300 dpi, CMYK colour not looking back. It’s a milestone for famA variety of activities and programs are available for residents and families, who in turn help BC Housing ily caregivers in BC. form an optimal care plan for their loved one. There are Licensed Practical Nurses on-site 24/7 Submit by:Hopitality August 15, 2016 in thisLiving secure facility with Residential Care Aides, staff, Cooks, and a Recreation When Barbara needs a break from Make her Your Home Safe for Independent size: 4.75”w x 7.25”h (no bleeds) Coordinator. work, she escapes into nature to relax and Publication: Senior Living Magazine recharge. at 250-544-0925 or 250-589-3354. printable PDF to kathie@seniorlivingmag.com Insertion Date: September 2015 andTo learn more, please contact the Manager “I love to spend time with my daughMarch 2016 Waitlists are accepted - call toAttn: arrangeKathie a meeting. ter and my family. I like fun, spontaneous things like paddle boarding, kayaking Beacon is a fully accredited organization with Exemplary Standing. Re: BC Housing ad for Senior Living Magazine www.beaconcs.ca or inflating an inner tube to float down a
Make Your Home Safe for Independent Living
Living
and
a
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
19 17
river. We recently bought a crazy old trailer and we’re going to go camping.” Barbara’s love of goals and the collaborative process keeps driving her onward. And she has a big goal. “We want to make ‘family caregiver’ a household name,” she says. “By 2018, one million family caregivers will know what ‘family caregivers’ means; they’ll know they have support and where to go to get it.” To arrive there, she works to bring community, non-profit and health care professionals, each with their unique perspectives, together in collaboration. “That’s something I enjoy so much. That and the satisfaction of working towards the goal of ensuring family caregivers truly become partners in care, that they are valued, respected and supported. That’s when my job will be done here,” laughs Barb. Meanwhile, there is plenty of work to do. If you have a heart for family caregivers and want to help, Barb would defiSL nitely appreciate your call.
Services and Support for Family Caregivers: Family Caregiver Support Line 1-877-520-3257. Online Resource Centre www.familycaregiversnetwork.org Find FREE tools and resources, including Network News Newsletter, Educational webinars, Employer toolkit and more.
* “My hearing is fine…”
*
... except when I'm watching TV.
Hearing loss can effect life’s simplest pleasures. There’s nothing “fine” about that. The new Unitron Moxi™ Fit hearing aids with patented SpeechZone technology automatically adapt, making it easier to hear soft voices, music or TV. With over 40 clinics in BC, call for a complimentary hearing evaluation and FREE personal demo today.*
now Demo ee for fr
1.888.850.9979 connecthearing.ca/fine
Exclusive discounts available to CAA Members. *No fees and no purchase necessary. Complimentary Hearing Evaluations are only applicable for customers over 50 years of age. See clinic for details. ®CAA and CAA logo and CAA Rewards trademarks owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. Registered under the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC. VAC, WCB accepted.
20 18
SENIOR LIVING
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Al, spirited tenor PARC resident
Life’s better here “Happiness is being part of a singing group.” Inspiring a singing group of 40 residents has brought Al an extraordinary sense of fulfillment at PARC Retirement Living. He fully engages in life, passionately pursuing his musical interests from Bach to boogie. That’s how it is at PARC Retirement Living: so easy to embrace your interests or start something brand new. Whether indoors or in the surrounding great outdoors. With new friends or old. Life’s just better here.
You can read Al’s full story online at parcliving.ca/ilivehere
Call or visit us online to reserve your tour and complimentary lunch.
Cedar Springs PARC | North Vancouver | 604.986.3633 Summerhill PARC | North Vancouver | 604.980.6525
Westerleigh PARC | West Vancouver | 604.922.9888
parcliving.ca
Mulberry PARC | Burnaby | 604.526.2248
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
21 19
Caregiving
Prescription for Good Health: Don’t care alone.
BY WENDY JOHNSTONE & BARB MACLEAN, FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF BC
A A
n African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Most of us are able to go fast from time to time. We can push the boundaries of our energy and burn the candle at both ends. Then once the urgency is over, we return to a more balanced way of life; at least until the next sprint is required. But what happens when your sprint turns into a marathon?
We’re at a time in history where most of us will take part in the marathon of caregiving. It’s not usually something we anticipate, sign up for or train for, but it’s the new normal of life as our aging population enjoys life - prolonging medical science while grappling with chronic disease. Right now, one million people in BC – over a quarter of the population – care for a family member, friend or neighbour. Despite the monumental number, their compassion and commitment largely go unremarked, unrecognized and unsupported. Canadian statistics paint a clear picture on caregiving. It’s not a matter of “if” you become a caregiver, it’s a matter of “when” you will become a caregiver. If you are woman 45 years old or older, it is almost completely guaranteed you will be caring for an aging parent or spouse. Over three quarters 22 20
SENIOR LIVING
of the male caregivers aged 45-64 are employed, with almost 93 per cent working more than 30 hours per week. And more than 60 per cent of caregivers have been at it for three years or more, especially when their loved one has a chronic disease. Even though caregiving is emotionally and physically demanding, even downright exhausting, it is one of the most rewarding gifts you can ever give to another person. If you want to maintain and enrich the gift of yourself in the marathon of caregiving, never run alone. You may be “fast” for a little while, but it’s the road to burnout. Instead, plan to have a network of support by enlisting the help of your family, friends and community organizations. Think about your personal network. Who can you confide in? Who has time on their hands? Who could you call to help share the care in some way? Who can go for coffee or a walk? Many condition-specific organizations have local support groups well worth attending. Being proactive and making plans is one of the smartest things you can do for a good life. Family Caregivers of British Columbia is a notfor-profit society whose mission is to inform, support and educate to improve the quality of life for family caregivers. We believe in the power of personal networks and that asking for and accepting help is a sign of strength. We’re ready to travel the distance with you. Visit the virtual Resource Centre for Family Caregivers A family caregiver anywhere in BC can find oneon-one support for a variety of issues including emotional support, help to navigate the healthcare system and referrals to community services. Call the Caregiver Support Line toll-free at 1-877-520-3267 and we will find the right type of help, information and support you need. We can even arrange for a Skype call or provide support by email caregiversupport@fcns.ca Gain new skills and knowledge through education Education is an important part of the Provincial Caregiver program, focusing on both family caregivers and health professionals. Webinar or phone-only sessions detail practical solutions to the many issues caregivers face. Health professionals will learn more about these issues and gain ideas for including and supporting family caregivers in their work. You will find a wealth of information. You can also receive upcoming dates for webinars aimed at supporting caregivers in all areas of their
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
lives at www.familycaregiversbc.ca Balance working and caring If you are a working caregiver or if you are an employer, you will find helpful tools and information at www.familycaregiversbc.ca/education/caregivers-workplace. From Lunch and Learn sessions to valuable information from employers, we can help provide support to family caregivers in the workplace. Stay Connected You may not need help today, but it’s prudent planning to know where you can find help and support at a click of a button. Stay connected through our quarterly newsletter delivered to your inbox to read informative articles directly related to caregiving issues. Sign up on our website at: www.familycaregiversbc.ca/education/network-news. If you prefer a mailed copy, call us at 1-877-520-3267. As you look ahead, realize you are in the company of others who understand the length of your journey. So, invest in a good pair of shoes and be willing to SL ask for and accept help.
A little support goes a long way Living an active lifestyle is essential to you and your loved one’s overall wellness, but sometimes injury, disease, or advanced age can limit our ability to walk, stand up and sit down, or get in and out of vehicles easily. That’s when it’s essential to ask for assistance to help get back on track. When you or a loved one are faced with the danger of falling due to weak or injured legs and ankles, it’s a good idea to find products that will provide good support to help improve everyday life. At Pharmasave we’re here to help you and your loved ones Live Well at Home with a variety of Home Health Care solutions.
Ask your Live Well Pharmacist about Home Health Care solutions today! IT’S HOME BY THE SEA
Visit pharmasave.com to find a location nearest you. * Services vary by location. Visit a location nearest you for more information.
Where everything we do makes life easier for you.
Our 60th Anniversary serving the needs of physically disabled throughout B.C.
Our residents have something to smile about!
Our Mission is to help fund & support organizations and individuals facing challenges, and improve quality of life and independence.
Call for a personal tour and complimentary lunch 15869 Pacific Avenue, White Rock, BC
604-531-6198 Email: concordretirementresidence@shaw.ca www.concordretirementresidence.com
Help us to help others! Our Accomplishments include: •Technology for independent living •Noble House •Education programs •Support of Ronald McDonald House And, we are “Calling All kin” as well!
Please support our programs! Learn more, and donate at: www.goingstrong.ca Thank you for 60 years of support!! We have a variety of ways that you can help!! For more info, Email: kinsmenfoundationofbc@shaw.ca WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
23 21
lancing back, it is often surprising to realize how life’s journey can turn on simple, but critical, events. One such event happened for Donna Randall, 59, while she was employed in the Institutional Relations office at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. “My boss was very much in favour of me pursuing my degree, and as my studies progressed, he gave me new responsibilities commensurate with my experience,” says Donna. “One I loved was to research and interview people on campus and write profile articles about them. These people ranged from students, to departmental staff, professors and researchers. I have to say these experiences helped me boost my writing skills and abilities, while increasing the confidence it takes to write effective articles about people from various walks of life.” Those skills would be put to good use over the next threeplus decades as Donna embarked on her career path. Her love of language started at an early age as she grew up in a home built primarily by her parents, and shared with her three brothers. “My parents really valued education and had a strong interest in language. We all learned to banter and throw barbs at one another using more expressive language, which is part of what sent all of us into interests in reading and writing.” After obtaining her BA in English Literature from Laurier and completing her MA and some PhD courses on English Language and Rhetoric at Waterloo, Donna started teaching courses. One of her students talked about doing volunteer work with Planned Parenthood and Donna immediately contacted them about volunteering for them. In short order, she became their first-ever sexuality educator and then executive director for 10 years. At the same time, she served as the part-time director of Planned Parenthood Ontario, where she revamped and updated all their materials with the help of others. “At the time, our funding was in jeopardy for a sexual education phone line and we were successful in keeping it going by appealing to the Bill Davis Conservative government,” recalls Donna. “This was a very successful time of doing some great work and it gave me plenty of opportunities to write and be in the media on television, radio and so on.” Around 15 years ago, Donna moved to Vancouver Island with a partner who had just landed a job at the University of Victoria. The relationship didn’t last, but she decided to stay on the west coast anyway. Three days after arriving in BC, Donna had a job interview for a fundraising position with the University of Victoria. “I didn’t get the job, an internal candidate did, but I got a really neat introduction to all sorts of people in the fundrais24 22
SENIOR LIVING
ing and charitable sectors, which led to a volunteer opportunity with the Victoria Foundation. From there, I landed a job as the first fundraiser at the Prostate Center in Victoria. While there, I found out that as a result of prostate cancer, men often have sexual challenges. I was interested in how BY KEVIN MCKAY couples overcame these challenges. We formed information groups – sometimes just the women, sometimes couples, sometimes just the men to help couples get through those difficult times.” While there, Donna met a prostate cancer survivor named, Philippe, who is now her husband. They volunteered together for years, speaking to other cancer survivors to help with their difficulties. Along the way, Donna landed other jobs, often involving fundraising, where she got to put her writing skills to use. Eventually, she hit upon the idea of starting her own business to help others with the often unwanted task of fundraising. “The emphasis of my business started out helping smaller organizations,” says Donna. “The fundraising component winds through my entire life. I have always wanted to help all these organizations to help others. It was not like Robin Hood, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, but rather helping those with disposable income to locate others they could help. A real win-win scenario. I thought if I could make my proposal stand out by being well-written, the chances were far better they would receive their funding.” While going through the normal aging process, Donna has become passionate about two causes, and she is attempting to use what she knows to help others experiencing similar issues. The first issue she faced head on is menopause. After 10 years of jotting down notes and thoughts, Donna has completed a book entitled, Menopause or Lunacy: That is the Question. According to her website, “[The book] meshes menopause with both trauma and laughter, and women want it because few of us have a symptom-free menopause. Whether you’ve already been there, are there, feel crazy and don’t know why, know you will one day be there, or know and love someone who is losing it for no apparent reason, this is book is for you… honest!” The other cause close to Donna’s heart is issues involv-
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Photo: Sarah Donaldson
Caregiving
G G
All the Write Moves
FEATURED BUSINESS
ing care for aging parents. After helping her brother care for her own mother, who struggled with dementia, Donna and Philippe turned their attention to his aging mother. Years before, she had told them she would move into a suite in her home while they moved in to help her remain there, and they agreed to do so. Donna knew they had to do this right, so when she spoke to lawyers, they mentioned getting a family caregiving agreement. She was told they didn’t have one and that there was nothing worthwhile on the internet. “I knew if we asked the lawyers to do it they would charge us a lot of money,” says Donna. “I told them I will write the agreement. When I finished I handed it to the lawyers like I was handing in a term project only to discover they liked it! We then sat down with Philippe’s mother and it was really good to see how well it all worked and allowed us to address things that are not always easy to talk about. We told her we had to fill out the form, so that helped us get through the sticky parts, like incontinence.” The lawyers told Donna the agreement she wrote was marketable, so she decided to follow their advice after having the Family Caregiving Network Society (now Family Caregivers of British Columbia) help her clean it up with a few more changes. “It is starting to look more onerous than I had first anticipated, but if we knew it was going to be hard we would never start. I see it working this way: Usually there comes a point where family members are talking about the next stage in a senior’s life. They are struggling to stay in the home and they feel they have to do something about it. These types of agreements are not common yet, so the 50+ children will be introducing these to their elderly parents. Once most people are familiar with this agreement, lawyers and financial planners will want these. They start with this, then the conversation begins. They often have wills and powers of attorney, but they realize there is a gap when it comes to the next stage of life.” “Even with someone like Philippe’s mom, who had talked about this for 10 years, it can still be difficult to pinpoint the correct time to have the discussion, which speaks to how important this is.” Donna’s hope is that once our generation does this for their elderly parents, they will quickly realize they can do it for themselves, as well, to make things easier on their children. “The frightening part is that nothing is discussed and suddenly one family member has something difficult thrust upon them when something happens to an elderly parent,” she says. “There can be a much better ending to these stories with a little planning.” For Donna, it is as if her whole life has been an elaborate SL plan to get to this moment.
Helping People Stay Connected
to the sounds of life... Every sound, every nuance, every note connects us to our world. Connect Hearing’s services aren’t simply about informing and protecting each of us from hearing loss, they allow us to engage in life and to “Stay Connected” to the sounds around us.
A leader in hearing health for more than 30 years, we have grown from two Vancouver Island clinics into the largest hearing company in the country. At each of our 120 clinics across the country, clients are offered exceptional service and value through complimentary hearing evaluations, free hearing aid demonstrations and our industry-leading SoundCare Assurance program. Our Hearing Care Professionals provide full hearing assessments and sound solutions that include state-of-the-art hearing aids, hearing protection and everyday listening products. From Victoria to Halifax, we are proud to be focused on the communities in which we belong. Our clinics make it a point to be active at many local events, working hard to inform Canadians of the effects of hearing loss and the ways to prevent it. We also proudly support local and national charities as well as champion excellence in the health-care community through sponsorship of scholarships and donation programs for hearing-health professionals in training. With over 45 clinics located in British Columbia, call 888.850.9979 or visit connecthearing.ca to book your complimentary hearing evaluation with one of our Hearing Care Professionals.
For more information or to read her blog, check out Donna Randall’s website at caregivingessentials.com or for her book on menopause, visit menopauseorlunacy.com WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
ADVERTISEMENT
SEPTEMBER 2015
25 23
The Arts
Retirement
in Three Dimensions
H H
Arthur Abt’s 3D art.
ikers pause to contemplate a forest-ringed mountain lake. A red-roofed log cabin crouches beside a mountain stream. A family walks on a sandy beach beneath the tortured twist of an ancient arbutus tree. Canoeists freeze in mid-stroke, gazing at a mother bear and her cub. These scenes are familiar to British Columbians. They are depicted by many artists who work with paint on canvas. What is unusual about the paintings of North Delta artist Arthur Abt is that he produces these scenes in three dimensions. His paintings have not only height and width, but also depth. So filled with action, they frequently explode beyond the inner edge of the frame. “I feel the need to work in three dimensions to get my ideas across,” says Arthur, “and I sometimes let the scenery extend beyond the frame to emphasize the exuberance of outdoor life in British Columbia.” Nothing in Arthur’s schooling or work experience predicted a retirement career in the fine arts. He grew up in Oberzell, Germany, within view of the Swiss Alps. His mother tended the house and garden while his father worked in the sheet metal industry. Arthur completed school after World War II, just as the Allies permitted Germany to once again manufacture airplanes. Without any clear idea what to do with his life, he took a job with Dornier Flugzeugwerke, helping build their two-seater trainer aircraft. In 1960, aged 20, without knowing a word of English, he followed his brother’s lead by immigrating to Canada. He found work hauling milk for a cheese factory. His lack of English was no handicap as the farmers in Waldheim, Saskatchewan were Germanspeaking. While there, he made the acquaintance of the owner of 26 24
SENIOR LIVING
Reimer Express Lines Ltd. who invited him to move to Winnipeg to join the firm as a driver. “I drove over a million accident-free miles during my 15 years with Reimer,” says Arthur. “I drove between Winnipeg and Ontario, hauling raw materials like sunflowers and flour, then bringing back manufactured goods.” While in Winnipeg, he married Hildegard, a registered nurse. They planned to raise their family there, until one February day when they received a letter from Arthur’s brother who had moved to British Columbia. He reported mowing his lawn in February. Looking at the snow banks outside their Winnipeg home, Arthur and Hilde decided they would move to the coast. Once there, Arthur began installing cedar siding. The business prospered but cedar dust can take a toll on the lungs when it’s inhaled, so at 63, Arthur gave up the business. What was he to do with his abundance of free time? Use the day. It’ll never come back! “Those were my mother’s parting words as I set out for school each day,” says Arthur. He indicates a painting of his childhood home, his mother waving goodbye from the second floor balcony. “I wanted to do something with my hands, but what would it be? I always enjoyed other people’s art, particularly the works of Robert Bateman and Ted Harrison. I picked up some scraps of lumber and began to work.” He points to his first two landscapes carved from unpainted cedar. He keeps them in the hallway outside his basement gallery, a gauge against today’s more adventurous creations. “Red cedar is a softwood, but it’s too awkward to work with on a small scale,” says Arthur, “So I switched to balsa wood.” Using an
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Photos: Robert L. Ramsay
BY ROBERT L. RAMSAY
F
S
Artist Arthur Abt in his studio.
X-Acto knife, he slices through the wood, building his three dimensional Douglas-firs, seaside cottages and lighthouses by layering the balsa until he gains the desired effect. After sanding, he paints each component with acrylic paints. “I have to be careful painting,” he explains, pointing to a row of cottages in one scene. “If I paint the side edges they may not fit exactly the way I want.” Most of the sea and mountain views show places familiar to British Columbians: the old, switch-backed highway to Whistler, Black Tusk, and Lighthouse Park in North Vancouver. Other scenes show Main Street at Fort Steele in the East Kootenays, and, in homage to Ted Harrison, a snowy village with parka-clad people entitled, “Under the Yukon Sky.” Arthur’s paintings are alive with colour and often include people: hikers with backpacks, mittens and baseball caps, out for a walk with their dogs. Bald eagles soar over the forest; pileated woodpeckers cling to leaning trees; salmon leap from streams. An avid traveller and outdoorsman, Arthur has hiked to many of the beautiful locations depicted in his paintings. “If I’m not able to get there, I’ll use a photograph from Beautiful BC Magazine,” he says, pointing to the painting of Fort Steele. “My most popular scene is this night one.” Arthur indicates a dark forest in which wolves skulk below the long branches of shadowy Douglas-firs, the whole scene rendered mysterious by the light of a full moon. “Another popular theme is doorways.” He points to a row of paintings sitting on the floor. “We visited Greece where some of
the towns have bylaws stating that all buildings must be white with blue doors. One customer in Washington State has bought five of these.” Each scene is much more than just a doorway: cats sleep on doorsteps, bougainvillea explode from clay pots, and sailboats pass by on the Aegean Sea. Arthur has shown his work through the Delta Arts Council and at Mind and Matter Gallery in South Surrey. However, his favourite location is in Stanley Park, where he has an opportunity to talk with those who admire his work. “This will be my eighth season in the park’s Painters’ Circle,” he says. If you are in the Vancouver area, head for Stanley Park on fine weekend days from April to the end of September where you’ll find Arthur displaying his 3D panoramas beneath the giant trees that form such an important part of his landscapes. SL Unable to get to the park on a weekend? Arrange for a private showing by emailing Arthur Abt at: haabt@telus.net
55+ Lifestyle Show October 20, 2015
11am - 8:30pm
Creekside Community Centre at Olympic Village • 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver BC
Exhibitor Booths Still Available
65 Exhibitor Spaces • Presentation & Sponsorship Opportunities Meet new customers face to face, network with other businesses.
FREE Workshops & Seminars Deborra Hope, RETIRED TV ANCHOR “The Adventure of Retirement” From home renovations to world travel - the challenges and joys of retiring.
Cheryl Wilson-Stewart, BLOGGER “The Fearless Re-Discovery of You”
Move beyond self doubt, fear and not knowing to create the life you love.
Submit your seminar topic for consideration.
travel
leisure
wellness
passion
housing, fashion, beauty, financial & more
the venue
If you are a senior, have a senior in your life, or thinking about future retirement... come explore a variety of lifestyle options, products and services for people over 55. Presented by
Senior Living
Info & Booking: 1-250-812-8782 caroline@seniorlivingmag.com WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2015 25 27 www.seniorlivingmag.com/eventshome
Back to School BY THELMA FAYLE
M M
om and I played scrabble on a picnic table near the university. She looked at the nearby students and said she thought they were lucky to get a good education. When I suggested she take a university course, she looked at me as though I were daft. “I wouldn’t qualify to get in,” she said. Mom had to leave school in Grade 6 when her mother died. Her step-father insisted she stay home and take care of her younger siblings. As a result, she has always been embarrassed about her lack of formal education. I told her she could easily get in as a mature student, and with her attitude toward learning, she would likely have a ball. “The main reason I would like to take the University 101 course is to prove to myself that I could do it,” she explained in her application to UVic. “My lack of education has always been a thorn in my side,” she added. Before we dropped off her application, I sat her down for a heartto-heart chat. I told her that as much as I wanted her to take this course, because I knew she could do it, I needed to know that she was motivated by her desire – not just mine. “Well, to tell you the truth,” she said, “last night when I got into bed, I was imagining myself as the class valedictorian. I kind of wrote a speech in my head,” she confided. That was all I needed to hear. We had a good laugh together. After a hiatus of 75 years, Thelma Fayle Sr., mother of six, grandmother of 13 and great-grandmother, entered a university for the first time in her life, in her 88th year. Our mother-daughter roles reversed, and it was my turn to take my mother to school. “I hope I don’t have to memorize things,” she said on our way to class that first night; “my memory isn’t so good anymore.” She nervously wondered aloud if she would have her own desk like she 28 26
SENIOR LIVING
did in Grade 6. I tried to sit and read while I waited, but couldn’t concentrate. Instead, I paced the halls anxiously for three hours and even tried to discreetly peek in the classroom window to see if Mom looked comfortable. I was relieved when she finally came out of class waving her new ID card. “I am a university student,” she beamed. “I am going to have to look up some words in the dictionary,” she announced; “like ‘social sciences’. I don’t even know what some of these things are. I am going to have to concentrate. We talked about Aristotle. There is so much to think about. I certainly don’t want to be a failure at university.” I enjoyed the barrage of excitement that tumbled out and tried to assure her that she would not fail. Twice a week, class started with a meal in the cafeteria, followed by a lecture from a different professor every week. The class of 30 students wrapped up in small discussion groups to share impressions. When I picked up Mom after her class one night, she was walking down the hallway and chatting with a young woman in her 20s. Judging by the warm round of waves and smiles from other students, school life was off to a good start. “Tonight I had dinner with a student from Japan,” she told me. “I said ‘Konichiwa’ to her and she had a big smile on her face. I think she appreciated that I could say something to her.” “How do you feel in class?” I asked. “It feels neat. We are all learning a lot from each other,” she responded. “How is your hearing?” I asked. “Not great; so I sit close to the teacher.” “I am figuring out I have a certain way of learning,” she said. “In general, I like working from a pattern. I have to see something and work it out in my head, and then understand it. I didn’t know that about myself.” Her usual smile changed to some small terror after another class.
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Hurry in
FOR YOUR FREE HEARING SCREENING
Welcome home to ideal living.
HEARING SOLUTIONS STARTING AT $999
Mention this ad to receive your free screening
NORTH KAMLOOPS SOUTH KAMLOOPS ASHCROFT SALMON ARM SORRENTO REVELSTOKE VERNON KELOWNA PENTICTON
250.376.4188 250.372.2683 250.453.9670 250.832.3530 250.675.2202 250.837.3011 250.542.3564 250.762.7228 250.770.8111
Looking for a place to call home for adults aged 55+? At BG Homes, we provide affordable, independent living suites in Vancouver. Lots of green space, great views and a friendly community. For rental applications, call BG Homes
604-255-7707 3350 East 5th Ave Vancouver www.bghomes.ca
CANADIANHEARINGCARE.COM
BG Homes 3350 East 5th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5M 1P4 604.255.7077 admin@bghomes.ca
Thursday, October 1 2 – 4 p.m.
Experience something new. Drop in and explore retirement living at its best at your local Revera Retirement Community. Look around, talk with staff and residents and enjoy a selection of coffee, teas and desserts. Living at Revera is all about choice – the choice to do what you want, when you want. WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Call today! Parkwood Place 3051 Shelbourne St, Victoria 250-598-1565
The Kensington 3965 Shelbourne St, Victoria 250-477-1232 reveraliving.com
SEPTEMBER 2015
29 27
Newly Opened and in full operation
Reflections, Rejections, and Other Breakfast Foods by Gipp Forster A collection of Gipp’s humorous and nostalgic columns. A wonderful read for yourself, and Reflections, ���������� a thoughtful gift and Other Breakfast Foods for friends and family members.
“Reflections” MAIL-IN ORDER FORM Name_____________________________________ Address___________________________________ City______________________________ Prov ____ Postal Code____________ Ph _________________ ____ BOOKS @ $14.65 each = $_________ (incl. $3.95 shipping & GST)
Limited Edition
MAIL TO:
128 pages
$10
+ GST & SHIPPING MAGAZINE
30 28
SENIOR LIVING
Make cheque payable to Senior Living
A Collection of Published & Unpublished Writings by Senior Living Columnist Gipp Forster
Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1
Please allow two weeks for shipping. WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
“I have to write a paper about the ‘Artifice of Being Human,’” she said. “Well you have more life experience than anyone in class, so I am sure you will do well with it,” I suggested. Mom’s world kept expanding. In class, she learned about Karl Marx, Aristotle, critical thinking, archeology and economics. Every class was an adventure that gave her new things to think about. Mom has always had a distinct peoplefocus. Every week she noted intuitive responses to classmates: “Denise’s father is sick. She is under a lot of pressure.” “Don is trying to quit smoking. I hope he can do it.” When the cafeteria cook was away one week, she made a point of finding out his name, and telling Douglas when he returned, “I missed you last week.” “It seems the more we learn about other people, the better off we are,” Mom concluded. “Taking this course makes me realize how much I have missed,” Mom said more than once. I countered, the beginning of wisdom for all of us is in realizing how much we have to learn. Each student was invited to bring two guests to the formal completion ceremony. With 17 family members in town, that was a problem for Mom. But not for Becky Cory, the University 101 project coordinator, who kindly considered the circumstances and was determined to accommodate Mom’s whole family. Mom was one of two students to give a speech that night. Leaning on her cane, with her tiny frame barely visible from behind the podium, she said, “My dream now is to complete University 102 before I turn 90.” With that feisty ending, Mom received her first standing ovation from the audience of 300. She had completed a university course. University 101 offered Mom an unexpected, late-life sense of satisfaction where there had been a 75-year-long feeling of embarrassment for having had to drop out of school. Today, she has three framed certificates on her bedroom wall – to remind her of the time she spent, proud to be a university stuSL dent.
Plant your legacy today. Be forever. Find out how at vancouverfoundation.ca/belikealice or call Kristin at 604.629.5186
#BeLikeAlice
vancouverfdn
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
31 29
W
e drive past them on the way to appointments without a second glance. We share space with them on bike paths and walking trails with little more than casual nods. They go largely unnoticed until the inclement weather rolls in. That’s when we take notice. Who are these individuals, leaning into the biting wind and driving rain, putting one battered running shoe in front of the other? They are the hard-core, built to withstand adversity. In fact, they welcome it. Often, the accomplishments in their sport reflect the accomplishments in their lives. They are marathon runners. Richard Stewart started running in 1973 after he completed basic training in the Canadian Army. Today, the 61-yearold has completed 112 marathons. He ran his first in 1988, at age 35. Twenty years later, he had 50 under his shoes. It took only four more years to reach 100. A glance at this year’s race schedule gives insight into how he attained this impressive tally. Richard has already run two marathons in Red Deer, Alberta and Yakima, Washington. He plans to run the Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon on Thanksgiving, and chase it down with another in Seattle the following month. Richard is a rare breed. Less than one-tenth of one per cent of the world’s population has completed a single marathon. Even fewer have challenged a double (two marathons in two days), a triple (three in three days), or a quadzilla (four in four days). He’s done them all ... more than once. That adds up to a lot of mileage. Richard estimates he’s run in excess of 84,000 kilometres; enough to circle the globe at the equator – twice! Richard belongs to Marathon Maniacs #581, a running club with over 10,000 members, and says his accomplishments “pale in comparison to some members.” While not the fleetest of foot, he’s been an inspiration for many others who took up the sport. “I’ve helped train folks to learn to run and several to train for [marathons],” Richard says. “I run it with them, so they complete their first marathon.” He also volunteers at Learnto-Run groups at the local YMCA, passing on knowledge and providing encouragement. “I really enjoy helping new runners get started.” A passion for running can involve considerable travel. For Richard, it’s the most exhausting part of the sport. The benefits, however, far outweigh the fatigue: the camaraderie among runners, the chance to meet new people and overcome new challenges, and the opportunity to support novices. He often helps out first-time marathoners, especially those suffering in the latter miles. “This is often where you see the most character, courage
32 30
SENIOR LIVING
Photo: Stephen St. Laurent/www.videonexus.ca
Fitness & Leisure
Finishing is Winning Marathon Maniac Richard Stewart on a training run with his rescue dog, Bingo, near his home in Prince George.
BY BOBBIE JO REID
and perseverance,” Richard says. “One year, a fellow Marathon Maniac and I came upon a 13-year-old lady struggling in the last 10km of the Red Deer Marathon. We provided some food nibbles, as she was bonking badly. We discovered she had dislocated her shoulder in a fall a week before and it was her first marathon. Yet, here she was.” Richard and his fellow Marathon Maniac, being dads as well as seasoned runners, decided to escort the ailing girl to the finish, just to make sure she got there. “We dropped back in the last 100 metres,” he says, “so she could cross the finish line alone for her photo. We were as pleased as she was at her finish.” The long-distance runner’s Holy Grail – the Boston Marathon – has remained unattainable for Richard, but the excitement he feels at the start of every event has never grown tedious. Nor has the satisfaction of finishing. “The finish-time monkey on my back was an issue for a few years, but I found it drained the pleasure I experienced, so I shed the ‘beast.’ After the finish time became irrelevant, it was surprising how much fun running became again. Finishing is winning.” Finishing, however, isn’t the only item in the win column. What started as an activity to shake off a “pizza-and-beer” lifestyle flourished into a way of life that garnered numerous health benefits, including a resting heart rate of around 40 beats per minute. “I quickly became addicted to running,” says Richard. “Running ceased to be an activity that I did. Running became what I am.” His doctor, 15 years his junior, has been apologetic about his own comparative activity level, but fully supports Richard’s efforts. “I must admit I enjoy the look of surprise, shock or disbelief on people’s faces when they find out what I do at an age when many are becoming sedentary or are somehow expected to become sedentary,” says Richard.
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
When he’s not practicing personal-injury law as a partner at his firm, Richard trains four to five times per week at a range of 40-60km. Whether he’s running with his dog, his running buddies or on his own, the open road serves to clear his mind and relieve stress. Despite his unswerving dedication to the sport, he still holds a place for good food, scotch and wine. In addition to his career, his 26-year marriage to Patty and two successfully raised children are further testaments to the achievements of this marathon runner. Calling Comox’s Roslyn Smith the Canadian record holder for the female 65-69 age group in a marathon is an understatement. Consider this: she shattered the previous record by finishing approximately two hours before the next competitor in her group. With 25 marathons under her water belt, Roslyn says she’s not running as fast as she did in her early 60s, but she still enjoys the experience. “It’s important to remain physically active and remain in shape as I age,” she says. “The reason I compete is to see how well I can maintain my level of fitness. It’s still challenging to get as close to [faster] times as I can. I enjoy this challenge.” A recreational runner for 40 years, Roslyn didn’t focus her efforts on competing until 2005 when she retired and had more time to dedicate to the sport. Today, she trains five to six days a week. In addition, she and her husband, Bob, cross-
RUN ON OCT. 11, 2015
The GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon is the most scenic and record-breaking route in Western Canada. Home to beautiful coastlines and Mile Zero, the legendary Terry Fox memorial. Whether you’re running the 8K, Half Marathon, or Full Marathon, you’re guaranteed to experience some beautiful pieces of Victoria during your run.
MARATHON • HALF MARATHON 8K ROAD RACE • THRIFTY FOODS KIDS RUN 36TH AN
NUAL
2015 BC MARATHON CHAMPIONSHIPS BOSTON MARATHON QUALIFIER
RunVictoriaMarathon.com Enter the code “SeniorLiving” when you register for a chance to WIN your Race Entry! Contest ends July 15, 2015.
Home Cooked Meals Delivered to Your Door
Expanding Service in the Victoria area!
Lower Mainland • Greater Victoria • Coming soon to mid-Island
LEGION MANOR VICTORIA
Your comfort is our goal.
Gourmet quality meals using the freshest ingredients.
Ready to Heat Meals Delivered toorYour Door! No processed foods, pressed meat products additives.
VETERANS! • Gourmet Quality Our menu includes: ••No Processed Food or Additives Chicken & Dumplings • Thai Curry Prawns • Seafood Lasagne SENIORS! • No preservatives • BBQ Baby Back Ribs • Salmon Wellington • Stuffed Sole • Gluten Free & Vegan Options EVERYONE! Filet with Crab Shrimp & Scallops • Liver and Onions
• Fried Chicken • Shepherd’s Pie • Gluten free & vegan meal selections. Casalinga Food Services provides frozen desserts Mealsmeals start and as low as $5.50. Delivery $5, free delivery on orders over $40. delivered to your door. If you are currently meal or we don’t make it at all.” “We make getting the best service, we would like to send you Greater a sample ofVancouver our home to Chilliwack • Greater Victoria cooked meals at noChicken cost. Pot Pie FEATURE DISH:
Call now 604-435-1994
Come join us for a cup of tea and a tour.
A Great Place to Call Home Legion Membership not required
Independent and Supported Living Suites for seniors located in a rural setting in Central Saanich.
Made with roasted garlic, fresh basil, chicken
• No Preservatives breast, carrots, onions, celery in a pastry toll freewith 1-855-768-1994 chicken broth. Fresh baked, not frozen. •homemade No Pressed Meat You do not www.casalingafoods.com Products settle foron poor Meals starting as low as $5.50 •need FreetoDelivery Orders over $40 quality food! REGISTERED AFFAIRS CANADA • Gourmet QualityWITH VETERANS
Call now at 604-435-1994 and let us cook for you.
Call us today for information or to book a tour 250-652-3261 legionmanor@shaw.ca | www.legionmanorvictoria.com
7601 East Saanich Road, Saanichton
toll free 1-855-768-1994 WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM Call now at 604-435-1994 and let us cook for you
REGISTERED WITH VETERANS AFFAIRS CANADA REGISTERED WITH VETERANS AFFAIRS CANADA | www.casalingafoods.com www.casalingafoods.com
SEPTEMBER 2015
33 31
THE GLENSHIEL Affordable Living for Independent Seniors
All-Inclusive Downtown YouFriendly, don’t have to pay a&lot to get a lot.
country ski in the winter and cycle during the other seasons. Fitness has governed much of Roslyn’s life. Always an active child, she was considered a “tomboy.” Bats and balls held far more allure than braids and baubles. In public school, she played on most sports teams. In high school, she focused on volleyball and basketball. Naturally, she gravitated toward physical education when she attended Dalhousie University. When she relocated to the Northwest Territories (NWT), Roslyn initially taught physical education at the secondary school in Inuvik. Over the next 30 years, she went on to work in recreation, supporting many communities in the region. Later, while in Yellowknife and still with the NWT government, she worked in a wide range of recreation positions: leadership; facilities; and, finally, volunteer development.
Join Us... EvenCome on a small budget.
“This is a great place to be spoiled” “I love having my bed made every day”
“This is a great place to be spoiled”
“I don’t have to worry about what to cook”
“I love having my bed made everyday”
250.383.4164 250.383.4164 606 Douglas Street www.theglenshiel.bc.ca
606 Douglas Street
theglenshiel.bc.ca
Seniors Care is Our Business • We provide 24-hour professional, person-centered care. • Single rooms afford privacy and dignity. • Our contemporary residence is elegant, modern, safe and comfortable. • Therapeutic programs are engaging and uplifting. • Private placement available, call now for an appointment.
Visit our website for a Virtual Tour www.langleylodge.org | 604-530-2305 5451-204th Street | Langley, BC /LangleyLodge
34 32
SENIOR LIVING
@LangleyLodge
Canadian recordholder Roslyn Smith during the 2014 Vancouver Marathon.
In 2005, Roslyn and Bob moved to Comox, where she immediately joined the Comox Valley Road Runners. There, she benefitted from weekly speed workouts led by a qualified coach. The Road Runners benefitted as well; for the past two years, Roslyn has served as its president. “Vancouver Island is an ideal environment to run in,” Roslyn says. “At the Goodlife Victoria Marathon, for the first time, Bob will cycle around the course to support me.” Satisfaction comes from knowing the training she has done over several months can result in a good performance. “I get a sense of accomplishment when I run a race well,” says Roslyn. “A number of factors come into play: the temperature needs to be cool; the course not too hilly; nutrition before, during and after the race has to be on; and the pace throughout the race has to be maintained as the strain to maintain it becomes harder. I get a lot of enjoyment out of the interplay of all these factors that go into training the body to perform at its best. It is fun, of course, chatting with fellow runners on how their race went and learning from others.” On October 11, Richard and Roslyn will be ready at the start line of the 36th annual Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon. And 42.2 km later, they’ll each have one more hard-earned check mark in their impressive running logs. SL Come out and cheer them on!
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Photo: Wayne Crowe
“I don’t have to worry about what to cook” Call Laurie to arrange a tour
Chalmers Lodge Affordable assisted living in the heart of South Granville
NO NEED TO SIT AT HOME ALONE THIS FALL!
Proudly serving seniors for 45 years
Lots of free, low cost and social programs to join this fall. Registration begins Aug 5th
Studio Suites with balconies and great views
Social Cooking & Dinner - Tuesday & Friday Free Social Drop in times - Tuesday &Thursday Free Ballroom Dance - Wednesday Gentle Walk & Talks - Thursday Drop in Table Tennis - Wednesday & Thursday Drop In Bridge - Monday & Thursday
Caring and committed staff Meet your needs within your means Call to arrange a tour
Lots more ideas in the Saanich Fall Active Living Guide. For more details go to saanich.ca Call 250-475-5408 for specific program information.
1450 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver BC www.chalmerslodge.ca 604 731-3178
WINNING
la ot
CAN HAPPEN
EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE JUNE JACKPOT WINNERS WHO TOOK HOME A COMBINED
2,329,769
$
THAT’S A TON OF CASH! With 105 beautiful hotel rooms and suites, a luxury spa, headline entertainment, 10 diverse COMING SOON dining options and exciting gaming, make your next destination at the place where, 100 new everything can happen! hotel rooms SilverReefCasino.com EASY TO FIND, HARD TO LEAVE
I-5, Exit 260 | Ferndale, WA | 866.383.0777 Events subject to change without notice. Must be 21 or over to play. Management reserves all rights. ©2015 Silver Reef Casino
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
and luxurious suites, plus more flexible event space.
SEPTEMBER 2015
35 33
Over the Hill? Never!
Y Y
ears ago, when you turned 50 or 55, the joke was that you were “over the hill.” Today, the saying goes, “if you didn’t know how old you were, you could be any age you wish. “Over the hill” doesn’t exist anymore. So, imagine my distress when, recently, I witnessed a giant bouquet of black balloons with “over the hill” emblazoned on them, along with one that said, “Happy 50th Birthday.” Standing stunned in the parking lot wasn’t going to cut it, so I hesitantly said something inane, like, “I thought we had gotten past that idea.” But have we? I was tempted to go into the store where the balloons were purchased and buy up all the “over the hill” balloons. I quickly realized that was silly as they would then think it was a popular idea and order more. I posted a note on Facebook about my concern and it got some response, so I am coming to you with the same question: do you feel like you are over the hill? How would you feel if you received a bouquet of black “over the hill” balloons? What would you say to people
Beauty, dignity and the best value in Victoria. The Oak Bay Kiwanis Rose Manor Society invites you to join us at Rose Manor, a comfortable, warm and friendly home in downtown Victoria. 3 meals and 3 tea times Weekly laundry & housekeeping Activies & much more Suites Available Now Call today for a viewing appointment (250) 383–0414
&
Outrageous BY PAT NICHOL
who thought they were being funny and charming and loving by giving you this gift? The year I turned 40, I threw myself a birthday party because I had heard that “Life begins at 40.” The year I turned 50, I left corporate Canada, started my own business (still going), bought myself a sexy black car and proceeded to begin a whole new chapter in my life. The year I turned 60, I wrote a book titled Becoming Courageous and Outrageous. I can’t remember what I did the year I turned 70, but this year I turn 75 and there is NO way I am over the hill! To the person who received that balloon bouquet, I wish you happy birthday. May each year that comes along be better than the last. May you dance a jig at the top of that hill for many years to come! For all of us, know that we have much more to give and SL much life to live. Pat Nichol is a speaker and published author. Reach her by email at mpatnichol@gmail.com
Harmony Court Estate, Burnaby BC
Retro OPEN
HOUSE & TOURS Live Music by
Elvis Tribute Artist Light refreshments and door prizes.
We hope to see you there!
Sept 12TH at 2:30PM SPACE IS LIMITED! RSVP BY SEPT 8TH
Call 604-527-3323 www.agecare.ca/Retro
857 RupeRt teRRace, VictoRia (250) 383–0414 www.rosemanor.ca
HARMONY COURT ESTATE
36 34
SENIOR LIVING
Photo: Frances Litman
Courageous
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Harmony Court Estate 7197 Canada Way, Burnaby BC
www.agecare.ca/HarmonyBC
Color profile: Generic CMYK printer profile Composite Default screen
C:\Users\mmacewan\Documents\Senior Living ad AUG 2015 final.cdr Thursday, August 20, 2015 12:29:58 PM
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
37 35
Travel
On a Roll through Puglia BY CHERIE THIESSEN
Beautiful beach at Santa Maria Al Bagno.
A A
t the heel in Italy’s stylish boot is the Salento Peninsula. Part of Salento’s southeastern area consists of the region of Puglia, an area of historic towns, olive groves, fields, broad plains, vineyards and low lying hills. “Low lying” is one of the reasons we chose this particular bicycle tour from Mac’s Adventure Tours. We’re past covering 200 kilometres a day on busy roads, slogging up mountain passes on bikes rearing from the weight of saddlebags and slithering sideways down steep gravel old railway beds. Ergo, today’s 60 kilometres to the easternmost town in Italy, the Roman town of Otranto, sounds just fine with us. Besides, we’ve gotten off to a late start. We’ve had snazzy Bottecchia bikes to acquaint ourselves with and Carlo Cascione to meet, one of
Australia & New Zealand
the principles of Bici Tours. Over lattés and pastries at our excellent B & B, Palazzo dei Dondoli in Lecce, he explains the GPS, gives us a detailed written itinerary with a description of our 263km, seven-day route and explains the philosophy of his fledgling, but flourishing, business: “We want to contribute to the diffusion of the bicycle as a means of transport, developing cycle tourism in Salento. We collaborate with administrations, local agencies and schools, with projects about eco-transport and, together with tour operators, we organize guided and self-guided cycling excursions with the intention of engaging all of the senses and allowing visitors to really know Salento’s hidden corners. We promote a lifestyle that’s focused on a reduction of energy.”
The Land Down Under
River Cruise on the SAVE UP Danube TO $850 per
January 22 - February 16, 2016
July 2016
Three night stays in Sydney, Cairns, and Melbourne Sydney Opera House Tour • Sydney Harbour Cruise Blue Mountains • Great Barrier Reef Day Adventure Uluru sunset & sunrise • Uluru & Alice Springs Outback BBQ • Warrook Cattle Farm • Koala Conservation Centre Phillip Island Penguin Parade • Sydney & Melbourne city tours All breakfasts included • Airfare Included 12 day cruise aboard Princess Cruise Line’s “Diamond Princess”
person
Visit: Vilshofen and Passau, Germany • Linz, Melk, Krems and Vienna, Austria Bratislava, Slovakia • Budapest, Hungary Pre-cruise tour options to Munich and Prague Post-cruise tour options in Budapest 7 nights deluxe cruise accommodation • Fine dining Shore excursions in every port • Local wine & beer with onboard meals
Book before September 30, 2015 to save $450 - $850 per person
For further information or to make a booking visit your favourite Travel Agency, call or visit: 877-522-TOUR (8687) www.westworldtours.com 38 36
SENIOR LIVING
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
BC Reg #59580
This travel article brought to you by the generous sponsorship of Accent Inns Just what we like – travel that indulges all of the senses, enables us to travel slow enough to stop and chat with the locals, that lets us go at our own pace but takes care of luggage transfer, that books excellent accommodations and has done all the research and planning involved in creating a perfect country route well away from busy traffic and crammed with attractions and scenic beauty. Of course, we also love that it keeps us fit at the same time. I figure this cycling tour will allow me to eat more pizza rustica, polpette di carne (meatballs) and the regional delicacy, fizo di zucca in pastella (zucchini flowers in a tempura batter), as well as drink more Primitivo (local white wine) and Lattes di Mandorla (ice coffee with almond milk) without gaining a pound! The author’s partner, David, cycling on quiet back lanes.
Photos: Cherie Thiessen
Terry Farmer, Founder
BC owned & operated
We’ve chosen Puglia to explore in slow motion after discovering that the National Geographic Traveller voted it as one of the best trips for 2014. And now, we’re actually here, following Cascione on this hot late May morning as he leads us through the twisting, skinny streets of the Baroque town of Lecce, wobbling past tables encroaching on the already narrow streets and the locals who sprawl contentedly at them, before waving us goodbye. No iced coffee for us just yet. We’re soon rolling on country roads fringed by red wild poppies, blue cornflowers, yellow daisies, purple thistle and the red ripening fruit of the ubiquitous prickly pear cactus. Birdsong trills in our ears and the tantalizing licorice aroma of abundant flowering wild fennel fills our noses while the shade under the olive trees cools our faces. (Puglia produces 40 per cent of the country’s olive oil, in addition to much of its wine.) Within an hour, we’re rolling into Acaya, a medieval village with castle, old walls and deserted streets, the only example of an intact fortified medieval town in southern Italy. Now where’s a Latte di Mandorla when you need it? The village snoozes, however; we’re on Italian time now. So, we carry on, following a sylvan stretch of trail through a wildlife refuge, with the Adriatic winking beyond. So far, only three cars have passed us. Carlo and his friends spent months exploring and charting the quietest routes through
Central Vancouver Island’s Premier Active Lifestyle Community
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
ACTIVE LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY
6205 Oliver Road, Nanaimo (At Uplands)
250-751-7755 www.originlongwood.ca
SEPTEMBER 2015
39 37
Travel Vancouver Island’s Own Guided Travel Company
Last Minute Fantastic Fall Getaways: Oct 2: 10 Days- Rockies and Okanagan Fall Splendor
Fantastic Value from $2499 + gst Oct 19: 4 Day- Tofino Escape
$899 + gst only a few seats left!
Just Released for 2016 April 16: New York, New York! 7 day May 20: Epic Canadian Rail Journey 16 day June 4: Magical Maritimes 10 day June 13: Discover Newfoundland & Labrador 11 day Plus many more. Click or call for more details.
Prices listed are per person from Victoria based on double occupancy Mile Zero Tours Ltd. 208 620 View Street, Victoria V8W 1J6 BC Consumer Protection Travel License #67275
From $1875 a month
40 38
SENIOR LIVING
Salento – a job well done. Hot and hungry, we arrive at San Foca on the Adriatic and allow ourselves to be tempted by the waiter at a tiny seaside café into trying the local delicacy, sea urchin, accompanied by glasses of Primitivo and the tiny doughnut-shaped local Taralli (tasty ‘biscuits’ flavoured with fennel seeds and white wine). The afternoon unrolls languidly and, a few kilometres on, we pass Roca Vecchia, the Bronze Age ruins of a Messapian village dating from 3000 B.C. These ancient Indo-European peoples spoke a language called Messapian, which became extinct after the Roman Republic conquered the area. We wander in a landscape of wildflowers and prehistoric ruins, looking across the sea to the mountains of Albania. Mac’s Adventure Tours offered several different regional routes, but we were snagged by the variety in this tour and by the fact that it took us through what has been called the largest megalithic garden in Europe, festooned with ruins, with ancient gravesites, dolmens (a single chamber megalithic tomb) and menhirs (standing stones). Finally, sunburnt, dazed and too ecstatic to be tired, we enter the magical seaside town of Otranto, with its iconic castle on the hill, its sliver-sized cobbled streets, and its lazy, picturesque harbour and parks. Happily, we are spending two nights here, as tomorrow we explore the area more fully, sample some of the local foods and wines as part of the tour, and see more of this “megalithic garden.” Everywhere we roll, it seems we have Puglia’s special places all to ourselves. We ogle Neolithic cave paintings, splash in both the Adriatic and Ionian seas, peer inside Byzantine crypts with traces of colour from frescoes painted on the rock walls, roll through the “megalithic garden” near Giurdignano, and sample local foods in Specchia Gallone at
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
604-596-9670 pitmartours.com
CasCades Fall Foliage
October 13-16th, 2015 - 4 Days, 6 meals.
Not too late to enjoy the serene beauty and fall colours of the Cascades and Campbell’s Resort at Lake Chelan along with a private cruise tour. Discover treasures in the European shops of Leavenworth and enjoy a Bavarian dinner. Great value at $885 Cdn pp Dble occ.
leavenworth and warm BeaCh
December 3 - 6th, 2015 - 4 Days, 6 meals.
This 4 day adventure is bound to lift your Christmas spirits to new levels. Staying at the Tulaylip Casino Hotel you venture out to a 1.5 million light display at Warm Beach, Stanwood. There you are entertained while dining on a 5 course dinner to a live state production. In Leavenworth you are treated to a horse drawn sleigh ride, a Bavarian Dinner and the famous lighting festival. Book before October 3 and save $50 each. $795 Cdn pp Dble occ. Chemainus theatre and ButChart gardens December 15 - 17th, 2015 - 3 Days, 4 meals.
More Christmas lights await as you stroll through Butchart Gardens in Victoria. A live stage production of “The Elf” along with a lunch buffet. More lights in Ladysmith to enjoy. $695 Cdn pp dble occ. Book before Oct 15 and save $50 each.
The walled city of Gallipoli, built on an island. Forno Caroppo, a traditional bakery where three generations of family grow and grind their own brand of wheat and serve it up in breads and meals. We wander around the ramparts of more castles than you can shake a lance at and we peer inside hillside caves at Ciolo Bridge. At Italy’s own Gallipoli (not to be confused with the more famous city in Turkey), our circle almost completed, we stare up at the ceiling in our own little Sistine Chapel in the old town, a huge room in an 18th century home with an enormous painting across its high expanse. The artist may not be Michelangelo, but you wouldn’t kick his work out of your home. Olive oil put this town on the map as a bustling port, exporting the fragrant liquid to the rest of Europe for use as lamp oil. From Leuca to Ugento, from Ugento to the walled city of Gallipoli and from Gallipoli back to Lecce via Copertino, our route was perfectly planned and delivered daily surprises and pleasures, even on our one day of rain. When you know you’re going to snug up at the end of a day in a local masseria (a fortified farm house) or a cozy B&B, and when there is always a café or bar to stop and dry off at while you try out a different coffee or wine, somehow getting wet doesn’t seem to be much of a bother. Before beginning the last 50km of our journey back to Lecce, we feast on an al fresco breakfast of fresh strawberries, pastries, cheeses, pizza rustico, local breads and cappuccinos while chatting with the Bici Tours representative, who has come to collect our luggage and our thoughts about the tour. “We were just getting on a roll,” we tell her. “You need SL to make the tour longer.” For IF YOU GO information and other “must-sees” in Lecce, visit online www.seniorlivingmag.com/articles/rollingthrough-puglia
BoB & Teresa Marshall
Door-to-Door Pick UP anD retUrn Within the LoWer MainLanD caLL for yoUr fULL 2015 brochUre
VILLAGE AMENITIES INCLUDE • Fireside Restaurant • On-site Hairdresser • General Store • Frith-Radcliffe Auditorium • Village Activity Bus • Guest rooms Kiwanis Village is owned & operated by the Nanaimo District Senior Citizens Housing Development Society, an innovative non-profit organization. Our mission statement is “to provide a campus of care with a full range of services that foster pride and dignity.”
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
HOUSING & CARE OPTIONS INCLUDE • Kiwanis Manor (Independent Subsidized Living) • Kiwanis Villa (Supportive Living) • Kiwanis Soroptimist Suites (Supportive/Assisted Living) • Kiwanis House (Assisted Living) • Kiwanis Lodge (Complex Care)
250-753-6471 WWW.KIWANISVILLAGE.CA SEPTEMBER 2015
41 39
Ballet Kelowna Ballet Kelowna’s stunning 2015/16 Subscription Series includes The Nutcracker and two mixed programmes of dance, Boundless and Renaissance. Subscribe before Friday, Oct. 9, 2015 and be entered in weekly Early Bird Prize draws! Visit www.balletkelowna. ca for more details. See ad, page 40.
Exploring Aging “The Upside”
with Arthur Black and Friends
October 21 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Earlybird Deadline: Oct. 13 First Metropolitan United Church www.firstmetvictoria.com
Bard on the Beach Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival’s 26th season runs until September 26, 2015 in Vancouver’s Vanier Park. Enjoy Shakespeare’s great comedies, romances and dramas in modern theatre tents on the waterfront, performed against a spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea and sky! Tickets and information: www.bardonthebeach.org or 1-604-739-0559. See ad, page 2. Bead & Jewellery Shows Two great fall shows featuring jewellery lovers, hobbyists, artisans and supplies to jewellery makers. Vancouver, Sept 11-13 & Vancouver Island, Oct 3-4. www.vbjs.ca www.vibjs.ca See ad, page 40. Chemainus Theatre – Jeeves Intervenes Witty, wealthy and wandering Bertie Wooster heads to London with an ingenious new scheme. Will his iconic va-
Sept 11-13
e day e wknd
Fri 4-8:30 ~ Sat & Sun 10-5 Croatian Cultural Centre
3250 Commercial Drive
$8 Single Day $10 Entire Wk nd
www.vbjs.ca TWO GREAT SHOWS www.vibjs.ca
Oct 3- 4
e day e wknd
Sat & Sun 10-5
Day $8 Single knd re W $10 Enti 42 40
SENIOR LIVING
SENIOR_LIVING_BC_SEP15.indd 42
Main Hall
Saanich Fairgrounds 1528 Stellys X Road WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
8/26/2015 6:51:48 PM
let, Jeeves, save Bertie from marriage, exile from India and other plights of high-society – all in time for a cup of tea? www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca See ad page 41. Exploring Aging: The Upside with Arthur Black and Friends An eclectic exploration – often serious, sometimes silly – of the senior years. It explores aging as a spiritual practice, men’s and women’s health, finding meaning in the concluding years, and much more. October 21, 9:30 am–3:30 pm. For more details, www.firstmetvictoria.com See ad, page 40. The Original Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll The Legends of Rock ‘n’ Roll show presents the musical history of Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly in concert. An incredible “live” tribute to the greatest rock ‘n’ roll performers of all time. www.legendsofrock-n-roll.com See ad, page 41.
Coming up
UVic Farquhar Centre Enjoy a variety of performers this fall - including the acrobatic “Cirque Peking,” “The Kingston Trio” who launched the folk revival of the 1960s, six “sexylarious” improv dudes in “The Comic Strippers” and more. See ad, page 40.
Jeeves Intervenes From the stories of P.G. Wodehouse
Adapted by Margaret Raether
Sep 11 - Oct 3
Grace & Glorie By Tom Zeigler
Oct 16 - Nov 7
Elf - The Musical
Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin Music by Matthew Skar Lyrics by Chad Beguelin
Nov 20 - Dec 31 call about our
Luxurious Theatre Getaways 1.800.565.7738
| chemainustheatre.ca WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
43 41
Canada’s top designers weigh in on questions from mature women about how to dress, what to wear, what to avoid and how to look their very best. Each month, we’ll tackle a new question to help you stay stylish and feel great! Have comments or suggestions? Email fashion@seniorlivingmag.com BY BOBBIE JO REID
Q: How important are accessories? What kinds of accessories make the biggest impact?
SIMON CHANG:
“Accessories are important because they allow you to quickly change or update a new look. Jewellery is probably the favourite and what most women are comfortable with. A statement necklace always creates a ‘wow’ factor!”
PETER NYGÅRD:
“Accessories are essential to any outfit. They complete the look. Shoes, belts and jewellery can all change the outfit. But today they are more casual, more fun and better co-ordinated to the ensemble. It’s all about head-to-toe looks.”
JAN STIMPSON: “Tasteful accessories are a great way to show off your personal style and add some playfulness to your basics. Statement necklaces are the perfect way to draw attention to your face and to add embellishment to everyday pieces that you love. A chic bag or scarf can add a pop of colour to an otherwise neutral outfit; this is a great way to incorporate trends into your classic look. In our offices, a good pair of flat slip-on shoes is essential and comfortable. As long as your accessories are easy to wear and don’t get in the way of your comfort – go for it!”
Barbara’s Boutique and Showroom 2392 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC www.badenbadenboutiques.com We carry Simon Chang and Sympli.
Simon Chang is the sole creator, designer, president and owner of Simon Chang Creations, Inc. Simonchang.com Peter Nygård is the creator, designer and owner of Nygård International. Nygard.com Jan Stimpson is the designer and owner of Sympli Fashions. Symplithebest.com
44 42
SENIOR LIVING
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
CLASSIFIEDS WANTED: OLD POSTCARDS, old photographs, and pre-1950 stamped envelopes. Also buying old coins, medals and badges. Please call Michael 250-6529412 or email fenian@shaw.ca DRIVER, COMPANION For regular senior outings. I’m here for you. Plan to shop, go to medical appointments, beauty salon or library. Richmond area. Reasonable fee. Rosemary 604-999-0094 for trustworthy service. HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE provides compassionate, personalized home care services customized to your needs in your own home. Our CAREGiversSM are extensively dementia-trained, bonded, insured, professional, and matched to clients’ preferences. For a complimentary care consultation in home or in our office, call 250-382-6565. Visit our website at www.HomeInstead.com/victoriabc Celebrating 10 years serving seniors! MOBILE RECREATION & FUN Specialist! Supporting physical & cognitive health through Chair Fitness, Brain Games, Singing, Pet Visits, more. Individuals and groups. Victoria/Sidney. Susan (CPCA) 250-686-8909 or send an email to mobilerecreationforseniors@shaw.ca ALWAYS GREAT FEET. Nanaimo’s professional mobile foot care nurses. Debbie Mason LPN and John Patterson LPN. Home, facility, and hospital visits. Experienced, qualified nursing foot care for toenails, corns, calluses and ingrown nails. Direct billing for DVA clients. Please call 250-390-9266. SENIORS ACCOMMODATION - private home. Bright, no stairs. Meals, housekeeping, laundry, companionship, escorted transportation/outings. $2490/month negotiable. Twenty years exp. in seniors services. 250-544-0767 or send an email to seniorsaccommodation@gmail.com
Sherwood Hou Sherwood Sherwood House Hou Sherwood House Independent Retirement Living with Supportive
NURSE HEALING FOOTCARE Specialist Be Healthy Head to Toe starting with Independent Retirement Living with Supportiv Independent250Retirement Living with Supportive Services your feet! Call Marcia R.N.,B.Sc.N. Independent Retirement Living with Supportive Services 686-3081. Victoria Area. WANTED: OLD STEREO/AUDIO equipment. Any condition. Amplifiers, turntables, speakers, receivers etc. Honest/ friendly. Victoria and V.I. Call Bob, 250 896 2268, northtowns26@gmail.com SENSUAL MASSAGE. Are you missing touch? I’m a Certified Sexological Bodyworker, I work with Couples and Individuals. Sher 250-889-4166 or send an email to sexeducator@telus.net CHANGING PLACES Downsizing and relocation specialists SINCE 1991. Moving? Aging in place? Need help? Don’t know where to start? Let us take care of all the details from start to finish. Call. Jane 250-721-4490 Victoria and the Island, John 778-628-0725 Vancouver for a free estimate www.victoriamoves.com COLLECTOR SEEKING vintage/collectable cameras, binoculars and microscopes. Nikon, Leica, Contax, Rolleiflex, Zeiss, Canon, etc. Mike 250-383-6456 or e-mail: msymons6456@telus.net Victoria SENIORS DRIVING SERVICE – Able Angels $5 off first booked appointment. Driver/Companion medical, dental, groceries. Clean, late-model scent-free vehicle. Fully Licensed & Insured. Greg 250-886-0244. Victoria Area. SEEKING SHORT TERM accomodation senior married couple mid 60s quiet ns no pets seeks 2 bed suite/apt/condo /house flexible on location and duration prefer nov- may but open contact: email: etjd@ islandnet.com or phone 778-847-9834. DOWNSIZING? OVERWHELMED? Downsizing Diva can take the stress out of a move. Sorting, packing, unpacking, advising, and more. Free estimate call Cathy 250 634 3207. BBB
Call today to book your Complimentary lunch & tour! Delicious chef prepared meals 24 hour emergency response Daily activities House keeping & fresh linens We are pet friendly! Suites with balconies & views
280 Government Street, Duncan
250-715-0116
www.sherwood-house.com
Nurse Tree Health home care services
Companions & Caregivers Helping Families with Senior Care CALL NOW!
(604) 655-2636 www.nursetree.ca
Accessible TRAVEL Ventures “TRAVEL BEYOND THE ORDINARY”
778-233-7234 Toll free 1-844-878-5225
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
SOUTH AFRICA - 19 Days (Nov 14) JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN all inclusive with hotel, transfers, sightseeing & more. From CAD 4,850 pp. Call us.
Kenya & Tanzania Wild Life Safari - 15 Days
Is the care of someone in your hands?
all inclusive with all meals & safari visit - CAD 5,950 pp.
CRUISE ON OCEANIA - 35 Days Mar 22 - Apr 28, 2016.
Old World Odyssey Hong Kong to Istanbul. All inclusive with return flight from Istanbul. From CAD 8,900 pp (shorter modules avail.)
CRUISE ON EUROPE - on AMA WATERWAYS or EMERALD
We can help with
The Essential Family Caregiving Agreement
WATERWAYS (EUROPE). 7-10 Days on Rhine or Danube. From CAD 3,895 per person including airfare.
www.jalalnanji.thetravelagentnextdoor.com www.accessibletravelventures.com accessablevacations@shaw.ca
Lic - 67026
www.dfrent.org | dfr@dfrent.org 1-778-426-4800 WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
Basic: $45 for 20 words $1.75/extra word. BW only. Ads must be paid at time of booking. Cheque / Credit Card accepted. Phone: 250-479-4705 ext 100 office@seniorlivingmag.com Deadline: 15th of the month. Make cheque payable to: Senior Living, Magazine 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC, V8T 2C1 SEPTEMBER 45 OCTOBER2015 2009 43 39
Forever by the Seafor Seniors • Affordable Pricing • 3 Home Cooked Meals & Snacks Daily • Laundry and Housekeeping Weekly • Regular In-House Activities • Near Cook Street Village & Beacon Hill Park • Transportation close to downtown Victoria • 24 hour response staff on site A supportive living • Home Care Services available through VIHA residence for seniors in an • Couples, Singles and Respite Units Available affordable, safe, and comfortable homeManor by the Saint Francis environment. Sea Seniors’ Residences
www.saintfrancismanor.com
om
a” 1128 Dallas Rd., Victoria BC
250-382-7999
r
e
Fit
Senior Living with Spectacular Views in a Home SaintYou Francis Manor Can Call Your Own!
1128 Dallas Road Victoria, B.C. 250-382-7999 www.saintfrancismanor.com
Don’t throw it out Take-it back to your nearest pharmacy, or visit www.healthsteward.ca for more information.
46 44
SENIOR LIVING
T T
BY EVE LEES
Setting Up a Home Gym
he convenience and privacy of a home gym offers a greater chance of sticking to your fitness promise. And if you are already an avid exerciser with a gym membership, home equipment allows a quick workout when you are just too time-strapped to hit the gym. Before you start buying equipment, make a plan. First, you need to establish your goals. Are you exercising for weight loss, muscle strength, or increased flexibility? Are you a recreational exerciser or an athlete training to compete? All these goals require different types of equipment, and possibly room size. Next, consider the space you have available for the gym. You’ll need the right height, width and depth to accommodate your equipment, and your exercise form (you don’t want to be swinging your arms into a wall!). A mirror to check your technique is also a good idea. Flooring isn’t a big issue unless you are frequently jumping on it – or you worry about dropping weights onto expensive hardwood. If that’s the case, a cork floor will absorb the shock on your joints and avoid any floor dents. Interlocking rubber tiles may also work. These can also be placed under heavy or larger exercise equipment (treadmills, etc.). Proper ventilation is also an important consideration for the room: install ceiling fans or set a large portable fan by an open window. If you plan to have mechanical cardio equipment (like a treadmill, rowing machine or stair climber) measure the equipment to ensure it will fit into the available space. Draft a rough floor plan. Upright stationary exercise bikes take up less space. Rebounders (mini-trampolines), skipping ropes or bench stepping are othWWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
er less expensive “cardio” options, but be sure you have sufficient ceiling height. If your fitness goals include strength training, you can choose free weights and a bench. These are compact and inexpensive. Your own body weight can also be used for many exercises and there are specially designed machines that take up little room, using your bodyweight as resistance. Machines, also called weight stack systems, may or may not take up lots of room (depending on the design), so you’ll have to do some research. Machines are much more expensive than free weights. Think about accessories too: weight training gloves, if you are using free weights, proper footwear to use on the treadmill (suitable for either walking or running). Resistance bands or exercise elastics work for a variety of exercises. Stretching mats (or yoga mats) and foam rollers assist with various flexibility (stretching) exercises. And don’t forget storage ideas to conceal the smaller exercise items, like large baskets or ottomans that also serve as storage units. Another cost consideration, especially if you aren’t knowledgeable about exercise, is hiring a Certified Personal Trainer. One session may be all you need to learn how to use your equipment properly and design a routine to help you achieve your goals. You can also consult the trainer before you begin setting up your gym, to be sure you choose the right equipment for SL your needs. Eve Lees was a Personal Trainer and Nutrition Counsellor for 30 years. www.artnewshealthnews.com
Berwick House (Victoria)
Berwick Comox Valley (Comox)
Berwick Royal Oak (Victoria)
Berwick by the Sea (Campbell River)
Berwick on the Lake (Nanaimo)
Berwick on the Park (Kamloops)
How do you save a life?
Exceptional care. Exceptional gifts. Every Monday - Wednesday, September 1 - 30
!
Use Funny Money to learn the most popular card & slot games in an engaging, fun tournament. Winner gets a River Rock Casino Resort Getaway!
SLM-SEPT
For more information, please contact: Catherine Cornish, Manager, Planned Giving Phone: 604.520.4902 Email: catherine.cornish@fraserhealth.ca www.rchfoundation.com/legacy
!
Include a gift in your will to Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation and ensure exceptional care for generations to come.
Bring in your non-winning Lotto 649, BC49 or LOTTO MAX tickets purchased in Sept 2015 for up to in Slot Play! ! REGISTER for the SENIOR CASINO VIRGIN ACADEMY September 30 | 1-6pm Open Invitation to Players 55+
Sun-Wed: 10am-2am, Thu-Sat: 10am-4am 1708 Island Hwy, Victoria • 250.391.0311 viewroyalcasino.com
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
47 45
Be ready for anything. travel insurance
travel insurance
Vacations should be carefree. At Island Savings, our local insurance experts can ensure you leave on your trip with the right coverage to protect your health care, lost baggage or even an unexpected trip interruption.
For a quote, visit us in branch or at islandsavings.ca/Travel Island Savings Insurance Services Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of First West Credit Union.
48 46
SENIOR LIVING
WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM