Personal Care

Live independently for as long as possible by taking care of yourself. Get personal and consider tips that work for you below:

Body Care

  • Take care of your teeth! Believe it or not poor oral hygiene is linked to respiratory disease, diabetes and gum disease.
  • Is bladder control a disease? Absolutely not but one in five seniors in Canada experience it and will often isolate themselves due to embarrassment. So it's important to learn to manage it. Find out how at this link.
  • Vision care is critical to keep mobile and independent. Avoid driving late at night, take regular eye examinations, turn on the lights, don't smoke, reduce glare, and eat your carrots! More info here.
  • Prevent hearing loss by avoiding loud noises, wear hearing protection and contact an audiologist if you have ear pain, if you hear ringing or muffled noises or have trouble hearing the TV.
  • Fun and exercise in one. Consider engaging in group activities like yoga or bocce. More info.

Illness Management

  • Arthritis is very common among men and women over the age of 55. Get to know the risk factors and find out what can help. Arthritis Society even provides arthritis friendly recipes!
  • Over 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimer's or another type of dementia and there is physical and emotional support available. Find out if it's hereditary, what to do if you are concerned with your memory and what steps to take. Call First Link Dementia Helpline toll free 1-800-936-6033 or visit Alzheimer.ca.
  • 89% of Canadian Seniors have at least one chronic condition like high blood pressure, diabetes or back problems.BC provides workshops and online help to manage chronic illness, check out self-management bc.ca. If you have concerns with other specific illnesses check out Healthy Families.
  • Learn about osteoporosis and what treatments are available through the National Council for Aging Care.

Mental Health

  • Keep as stress free and happy as possible. Know the signs of depression and anxiety. Plan ahead. Get enough sleep and use alcohol wisely. For more information click here.
  • Personal Care also involves keeping your mind active. There are fun ways to do it. Try out some Brain Teasers or Everyday Brain fitness to enhance your memory skills. Or get informed with expert Brain facts and myths.
  • Personal care also involves keeping your mind active. There are fun ways to do it. Try out some Brain Teasers or Everyday Brain Fitness to enhance your memory skills.

Sexual Intimacy in Later Life

Keep Informed

  • Use trusted medical sources for your personal care, visit Health Link BC online. Call 8-1-1 from anywhere in British Columbia to speak with a nurse any time of the day or night. On weekdays, you can speak to a dietitian about nutrition and healthy eating. At night, this line has pharmacists available to answer your medication questions.

Resources