10/05/2026
Hello Life Long Care Members!
We have a fantastic lineup of events this month designed to bring us together, spark creativity, and share great company -and an October meal!
Mark your calendars and join the fun!
The centre will be closed on October 12 for turkey day. LLC would like to offer a turkey dinner to our folks on October 22 from 5:30pm to 7:30 pm.
Turkey, potatoes, gravy, seasonal vegetables and dessert is on the menu. Bring your feast plates and your appetite!
We always look forward to our Monday Crafts Groups. This months group activities are:
October 5 – dowel pumpkins
October 19 – Paper Skeletons
October 26 – Open Crafting
On October 8 from 10am to 3pm Elaine from SOAHAC will be in the centre offering free retinopathy eye and AIC screening. This eye test checks for early signs of damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes and the AIC screening gives a 3 month average of your blood sugar levels. Both are important to those who are prediabetic and walk with the diabetes disease. To book your appointment please call Dennis or email [email protected].
The leaves are changing colours and Mother Earth is preparing for the colder months ahead. LLC will be with WIIS (Robyn) on Tuesday October 13 on a Connect with Mother Earth hike. We will meet at the centre at 10am. If you would like to join please dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and don’t for get to bring your walking stick and water. You can sign up by reaching out directly to Robyn.
Refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime! The M’Wikwedong Fall Clothing Swap takes place on October 15 from 12 to 4 pm and again on October 16 from 9am to 12pm. We are now accepting donations of clean, gently used clothing. Please do not donate during the event. Drop off your donations by October 14th at the front desk. This is a come and go event. You can browse the tables to find new-to-you treasures. All remaining items at the end of the day are donated to other local thrift stores.
We have had a lot of requests to bring back sewing days and we are glad to be able to offer 2 full days of sewing in the craft room on October 27 & 29 from 11am until 4 pm. We will be bringing Patricia back and she will be available to help you between 1pm and 3 pm each of those days. Sew in a supportive, creative environment full of like-minded makers.
You just need to bring your machine (if you have one), your project materials, and your enthusiasm. Over the course of two days, you can work on your own with guided help from staff and Patricia.
Bring a project you have already started, a pile of clothes that need love, or materials for something new – like a ribbon shirt or skirt. Our experienced instructor Patricia will be on hand to guide you step-by-step.
***We highly encourage you to bring your own sewing machine so you can get more comfortable navigating its settings and features. If you don't own a machine, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate you.
There are very limited spots so please sign up quickly.
October marks the ramp-up of respiratory illness season. Aging immune systems and underlying chronic conditions make LLC individuals highly vulnerable to severe complications of these illnesses. For those clients who are interested about receiving their annual flu shot, updated COVID-19 booster, and RSV vaccines please note that M’Wikwedong has Public Health coming in to offer a free vaccine clinic on Friday October 23 from 10am until 2 pm. For those over 60 please RSVP your spot.
Fallen leaves, damp outdoor surfaces, and early dusk significantly increase the risk of slips and falls. Be mindful when walking on fallen leaves, we suggest wearing slip-resistant shoes, grippy boots, or high-friction footwear.
Don’t forget to test your HVAC and heating systems before winter arrives to prevent any breakdowns and high repair costs during the colder weather.
October is also Emotional Wellness Month and includes World Mental Health Day (October 10).
Darkness is starting to come earlier. The shorter daylight hours in fall and winter disrupt your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm). Decreased sunlight can lower serotonin levels and raise melatonin production, affecting mood and sleep. The sudden reduction in sunlight can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and worsen isolation.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—often referred to as seasonal adjustment disorder—is a type of depression linked to changes in seasons, most commonly starting in the late fall and winter and resolving during the spring and summer. If you suspect you have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), you should consult a healthcare provider or mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Halloween Safety:
This night presents unique challenges—ranging from increased tripping hazards to sensory overload and security risks—taking a few proactive steps ensures a comfortable and safe evening for you and your family.
Managing Trick-or-Treaters Safe and Stress-Free -
Use the "Bowl on the Porch" Method: To avoid the physical strain and fall risk of repeatedly rushing to answer the door, place a bowl of candy outside with a polite sign.
If you choose to answer the door, always look through a window or peephole first. Keep the interaction at the doorway; never invite strangers inside to use the phone or restroom
If the frequent knocking is too stressful, turn off your front porch lights, close your window curtains, and place a visible sign on the door reading "No More Candy, Please".
Sensory and Cognitive Comfort (Dementia & Alzheimer's) -
Motion-activated decorations that scream, move, or flash strobe lights can cause severe disorientation, distress, or sundowning agitation. Stick to calm, neutral autumn decorations like whole pumpkins and colorful leaves.
If a neighborhood is particularly loud, create a safe indoor space. Play familiar, calming music or put on a favorite movie to distract from the noise outside.
Inclusive Costumes & Healthy Treats -
If dressing up, choose clothing that is comfortable and flame-resistant. Avoid long capes, heavy robes, or loose fabrics that can catch on objects or tangle around feet. Strictly avoid masks, which impair vision and breathing.
Be mindful of candy types. Hard or excessively chewy candies pose a choking hazard and can damage dentures or worsen swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). Keep soft, sugar-free, or diabetic-friendly treats on hand so everyone can indulge safely.
Most of all have fun, whether you are staying home to pass out candy and enjoy all the different costumes, or going out in your own. Halloween is supposed to be fun!
Miigwetch for reading!
