Community Health Connect  is the Calgary West Central Primary Care Network's newsletter dedicated to providing members of our community with the latest healthcare information.

Hi , in this issue you can get information about:

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

• Fall into wellness bingo challenge 
• Know your risk, take action, live well with diabetes 
• Cold and flu season: Myths versus facts you should know 

Fall into wellness bingo challenge 

As the weather cools and routines shift, November is the perfect time to focus on small habits that support your physical, mental, and social well-being. 

 This fall into wellness bingo challenge  is all about progress, not perfection. Each square on the bingo card represents a simple way to boost your health, from moving your body and eating well to taking digital breaks and connecting with others. Try completing five in a row or go for a blackout by finishing them all! 

 Download the bingo card and try these weekly challenges:  

Week one: Move your body, boost your mood

A short walk, a few stretches, or some time outside can make a big difference. Just 20 minutes outdoors can lower stress and improve sleep. Whether it’s walking during lunch or taking a fitness break, movement is a proven mood booster. 

Week two: Nourish to flourish

Healthy eating fuels energy, focus, and immunity. Add colour to your plate with fruits and vegetables, try a new recipe, or simply drink more water throughout the day. Even small nutrition changes can improve how you feel. 

Week three: Digital declutter and mental rest

Screen time adds up quickly. Taking small breaks from devices, decluttering your workspace, or turning off notifications before bed can help you rest and recharge. Try the 20-20-20 rule for your eyes: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. 

Week four: Mindful moments and connection

Wellness also means strengthening relationships and practicing gratitude. Share a laugh, write down three good things, or thank a friend; it’s amazing how these moments can lift your mood and strengthen connection with others. 

This November, every small action counts. Take a walk, try a new recipe, tidy your space, or simply pause to reflect on something positive. Together, these simple habits help build balance and resilience — one bingo square at a time. 

Know your risk, take action, live well with diabetes 

Did you know that 30 per cent of Canadians live with diabetes or prediabetes? 

Diabetes can affect people of all ages, and early detection makes a big difference. Regular screening, healthy lifestyle choices, and knowing your risk factors are all key steps in prevention and management. 

Our teams are here to support patients with resources, education, and care tailored to their needs. 

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean facing it alone. With the right support, you can take control of your health and live well. 

 Our PCN's teams can help you with:  

• Understanding your medications
• Building healthy eating habits
• Finding ways to stay active
• Monitoring your blood sugar with confidence 
  

Your health is worth checking in on. If you’re over 40, have a family history of diabetes, or face other risk factors, talk to your healthcare provider about screening. 

Type 2 diabetes makes up 90 - 95 per cent of all diabetes cases in Canada, but many of those cases can be delayed or prevented through lifestyle changes. 

Preventive care starts with daily choices that support your long-term health. Here are four ways to take charge of your well-being: 

1. Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week
2. Eat well: Choose whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals
3. Maintain a healthy weight: Even a modest reduction can lower risk
4. Know your numbers: Ask your healthcare provider about your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels 

Prevention is about progress, not perfection. Every choice you make to move more, eat better, and care for your health adds up. 

Talk to your family doctor about your risk and steps you can take to protect your health. 

Stay informed, stay connected, and discover new ways to take charge of your health. 

Cold and flu season: Myths versus facts you should know 

 Cold and flu season has arrived,  and so have the myths that come with it. From vaccine misconceptions to home remedies that don’t work, misinformation spreads almost as quickly as the viruses themselves. Staying informed helps protect not only your health but also those around you. 

Don’t get misled by misinformation — let’s bust some common myths with facts you can trust. 

Myth: The flu shot can give you the flu. 
Fact: The flu vaccine does not cause the flu. It helps your body build protection and reduces the risk of severe illness. 

Myth: Antibiotics cure colds and the flu. 
Fact: Colds and flu are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics won’t help, but rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies can. 

Myth: If feeling healthy, the flu shot isn’t needed. 
Fact: Even healthy people can get the flu and spread it to others. Vaccination protects you, your family, and your community. 

Stay informed, protect yourself, and help stop the spread this season. Talk to your family doctor or pharmacist for more trusted advice. 

You can book an immunization appointment online or by calling Health Link at 811.

If you have feedback on any health topics you would like to learn or read more about, please contact us directly at hello@cwcpcn.com.

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