Misplaced keys. A forgotten name or password. Forgetting a special occasion like a birthday. As we age, many of us start to worry memory loss means we are getting dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It’s normal for us to be concerned. According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, almost 40 per cent of us will experience some form of memory loss after we turn 65 years old. It’s a natural part of aging. Even if you experience memory loss as you age, the chances are still low, however, that it’s dementia. The World Health Organization estimates that 5–8 per cent of us will live with dementia at some point in our lives.

Name: Dwayne Schroeder (he/his/him)Job title: Health care assistantYears of service: 11Worksite: Three Links ManorCommunity: KelownaAncestral territory: Syilx OkanaganAdvice to live by: Live and let live Dwayne Schroeder has spent over 11 years with Interior Health as a health care assistant (HCA), but if he had his way that number would be a lot higher. “I wish I would have started earlier,” he said. After Dwayne’s previous career in the food industry ended, he was on the hunt for a new opportunity. His wife suggested he enroll in the Health Career Access Program because he is great with people. It’s clear that Dwayne was wise to follow his wife’s advice. “I did very well in the course and after graduation I was able to gain employment with Interior Health,” Dwayne said. “I have loved it ever since.”

Name: Marilyn Winters (she/her/hers)Job title: Registered NurseYears of service: 32 yearsWorksite: Kamloops Home and Community Health—North Shore Community: KamloopsAncestral territory: Whispering Pines/Clinton, T’kemlups, Simpcw, Secwepemc, Neskonolith, Adams lake, and Little Shuswap nations. Advice to live by: Let's not dwell on the problem, let's figure out a solution. Marilyn Winters has dedicated 32 years of her life as a health-care professional to the service of others and her community. After completing her degree from Thompson Rivers University, and becoming a registered nurse in 2012, Marilyn devoted her time, and passion, to helping and caring for her patients across the Interior Health region.

With the holidays upon us, many of us look forward to spending time with family and friends. Holidays are special, and can mean more visits and gatherings, as well as activities and outings. But for someone with dementia or cognitive impairment, large groups, noises and flashing lights, and unfamiliar places and people, can cause increased anxiety and feelings of overwhelm. We spoke with two experts in seniors and dementia care about navigating the holidays and making this time of year pleasant and enjoyable for everyone. Whether your loved one is at home with you, or you’re visiting them in long-term care, here are some tips and things to consider.

With the holiday season here, many of us will be gathering to celebrate with family and friends. Celebrations often include food and sometimes alcohol. While enjoying wine, beer and spirits can be a pleasurable part of holiday celebrations, drinking can also have unintended consequences.

Name: Debbie French (she/her/hers)Job Title: Nursing Unit ClerkYears of Service: 21Worksite: East Kootenay Chronic Kidney Disease ClinicCommunity: CranbrookAncestral Territory: Ktunaxa NationFavourite Quote / Advice to Live By: Work hard, be nice, eat tacos. Debbie French is a nursing unit clerk at the East Kootenay Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Clinic in Cranbrook. She enjoys working with people and helping them fulfill their kidney health needs. She describes herself as hard working and loyal, both on the job and in her personal life. She admits she can also be “fiercely protective” as well with friends and family.

Written by Alexis Blueschke, public health dietitian with Interior Health Food can provoke strong emotions and memories, especially around the holidays. Developing a positive relationship to food can not only help in creating a healthy outlook on life, but also a love for ourselves—all year round.  I have been on a life-long journey developing a positive relationship with food. One of my key learnings has been the connection to intuitive eating.

The festive season is kicking into high gear. You may already be pulling out the ugly Christmas sweaters and are preparing for holiday parties, or have already gone to a few celebrations. Whether you go to a house party, a local restaurant or bar, the office or a bonfire, take a minute to make sure you're prepared to party safely with these holiday season tips from our Harm Reduction team.

Name: Jennifer Turnbull (she/her/hers)Job Title: Child Care Licensing Officer Years of Service: 16 Worksite: Kamloops Public Health UnitCommunity: KamloopsAncestral Territory: SecwépemcFavourite Quote / Advice to live by: “Look for something positive in each day, even if some days you have to look a little harder.” By day, Jennifer Turnbull is helping make sure daycares in the Thompson and Cariboo regions are running smoothly. “I still really like working with children. I have an ECE [early childhood educator] background and worked in daycares for 10 years before I came here,” noted Jennifer, who has been in her role with Interior Health for 16 years.