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November 2023

A Month of Remembering

Chilly days and frost are upon us: just remember that Mother Earth is likely relieved for the break from forest fires and drought. Unfortunately, as the weather changes, so do our moods and bodies. One of the features this month focuses on social isolation and loneliness. It’s a great lead-up to the November Provincial Learning Event (PLE) on this topic on how to combat loneliness and increase happiness. 

With colder, dark days, our aches and pains can be emphasized and you may wonder if you’re on the right medications. Last month’s PLE on over-prescribing is our other feature article this month. If you take a variety of drugs, it’s important to ensure they’re still right for you. But first – don’t quit your meds without a review!

And remember, daylight saving time ends on November 5 so set your clocks back an hour. Remembering is also important on November 11, Remembrance Day. But most of all, remember that all of us at BC CRN wish you a warm and cozy fall.
CRNs IN THE COMMUNITY

PLE Line Up, Celebrating Seniors and Connecting with Community

Mid-fall for our CRNs was full of educational and social events spotlighting the older and vulnerable people within our communities. Highlights from around the province included Celebrating Seniors Week in recognition of International Day of the Older Person, the October PLE examining the topic of over-prescribing, and how Kaslo and Kitimat CRNs supported their local communities with a book fundraiser and a paint night.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Mental Health Resource: Cooking Up Calm

In a joint project with BC CRN Board Member Gloria Gutman and Dr. Gail Low, the Living Well Research Team completed a study on the effects of the pandemic to the mental health of older adults. The results of the survey are captured in an ebook called Cooking up calm. The book delivers tips on the six most effective mental health strategies to relieve day-to-day stress, and the benefits of cooking beyond nutrition. Included in the booklet are nutritious and easy-to-make recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

FEATURED STORIES

Deprescribing for Older People: Do I Still Need this Medication?

Overprescribing, or polypharmacy, is when people take too many medications, at times including drugs that are no longer necessary. Multiple meds may lead to new illnesses, dangerous side effects, confusion and falls. An annual medication review with a health professional may result in deprescribing – discontinuing medications that are no longer beneficial.


Social Isolation and Loneliness in Seniors: A Growing Challenge

A growing number of older Canadians are experiencing social isolation and loneliness. While one doesn’t necessarily accompany the other, these can result in both physical and mental harm. Community services can support older adults to develop new relationships and maintain their health.  

UPCOMING EVENTS
Provincial Learning Event: End Loneliness, Spread Happiness
November 21, 2023 | 10:30am - 12:00pm PST

Loneliness and social isolation are epidemic, affecting so many older adults. Research tells us that enhancing emotional connections is key to solving the problem. While that sounds easy—just go and talk to your neighbour—it isn’t. Typical social programming addresses loneliness with entertainment and distraction. Learn how Java Group Programs bring people together with an innovative approach that ends loneliness and spreads happiness. 

It’s Not Right! Workshop
November 7, 2023 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm PST

You are invited to join us for this dynamic online workshop. Learn how to recognize the warning signs of abuse among older adults and determine how to respond safely and supportively. True to life scenarios are explored to facilitate discussions and to build skills.
 
We're interested in hearing from you!

We welcome your feedback, story ideas, and photos for consideration in a future edition. Email us at info@bccrns.ca.


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BC CRN acknowledges the generous financial support of the Province of British Columbia.
For more on the BC CRN and our free programs, visit us at | bccrns.ca.