You’re not just imagining it: along with feeling drier in the winter, your skin may also be distractingly itchy too. It’s a recognized dermatological condition known as “winter itch” or “winter skin syndrome,” and according to a research study for a major skin cream brand, six in 10 Americans suffer from it.

We know we must do better, no matter the environment, and we will. Serving seniors is fulfilling and rewarding work which attracts caring and kind people. Our values of R.E.S.P.E.C.T (Respect, Empathy, Service Excellence, Performance, Commitment and Trust), strong leadership in our residences, inclusivity and opportunities for learning and development is what differentiates Chartwell as an employer. As valuable as this is, it is not enough to solve all our challenges. Here are some new key initiatives we are implementing to attract and retain highly engaged employees.

Looking for a way to boost your walking power that’s also joint friendly, gives you an upper-body and core workout, and helps your balance too? Welcome to Nordic pole walking, a fun—and senior friendly activity—that all people, including those with arthritis, shoulder problems, and Parkinson’s, may find enjoyable and helpful in managing their health.

Have you noticed that November is the hairiest month? For the past 15 years, Canadian men have grown November moustaches in support of prostate cancer research through the Movember Foundation.

Moving into a retirement residence before winter offers many appealing advantages. You get easy access to diverse recreational activities that will keep you mentally, physically, and socially active, regardless of the weather, along with tasty, nutritious meals. You also can avoid winter weather health hazards, the hassles of winter home maintenance, and beat the winter blues by forming new friendships and strengthening your social connections.

Osteoporosis affects two million Canadians and 4 out of 5 injury hospitalizations among seniors are due to falls. Improving balance through tai chi and dancing, doing regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises, and getting enough calcium, vitamin D and protein through diet and supplements can strengthen bones and help prevent falls. Checking vision and hearing regularly, wearing sensible footwear, and using appropriate mobility aids can also reduce the risk of falls.

It’s time to say a fond farewell to sipping gin and tonics on the patio and move into fall’s warm and spicy libations. Think apple cider cocktails with bourbon or an espresso martini. Pair them with prepared snacks or hors d’oeuvres, invite friends from your senior living community or neighbourhood, and you have an instant fun and easy get-together. Check out what’s popular in drink trends for the fall:

Lower back pain becomes more prevalent with aging and professional medical guidelines recommend nondrug treatments as the most effective first line of treatment. You can help prevent back pain by practicing back-healthy habits, along with daily stretching and core strengthening exercises. Studies show yoga, tai chi, physical therapy, massage, and appropriate use of cold and heat therapies may ease lower back pain, speed recovery, and improve quality life.

Who can resist autumn’s cool, crisp days, and bountiful harvest of natural beauty? There’s no better time to be outdoors enjoying the stunning colours and sunshine before the weather turns – and it’s also the perfect opportunity to bring some natural fall fabulousness to your indoor décor. Try these tips for a cozy, vibrant seasonal vibe.

Feeling gratitude and expressing appreciation have a positive impact on your physical and mental health because these emotions and attitudes lower stress, foster strong social connections, and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Studies show thankfulness strengthens and heals the heart, increases empathy, and eases depression. A grateful disposition also bolsters immunity, improves sleep, and promotes healthy habits.

There’s no denying that exercise is good for us and that even a moderate amount of regular exercise can yield both physical and psychological health benefits. Yet, one of the greatest misconceptions is that there’s a point in our lives when we must come to terms with our physical limitations. As a result, age often becomes a reason not to workout. Chartwell Crescent Gardens resident Marion proves this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Many factors contribute to healthy aging, including staying physically, mentally, and socially active, and nutritious eating. Retirement communities support healthy aging by offering residents opportunities to connect socially with peers, engage in mentally stimulating activities, and do physical activities that build or maintain endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance. Participation in the arts and volunteering also enhances and enriches the health and well-being of residents in their daily lives.