– by Doreen Marion Gee –
This is the second in a six-part series of profiles on some great local businesses that are working to keep us all in good health.
Saanich is probably the envy of Canada. In a recent survey that gauges quality of life, we hit the ball out of the park. In my interviews with health professionals, residents, business owners, entrepreneurs and recreation centre staff, I have formed my own personal conclusions as to why we blew the top off the happy-meter. Please read on.
In a survey of Saanich residents and business owners in January 2015 by Forum Research Inc., ninety-nine per cent of the respondents said that their quality of life is either good or very good (Times Colonist, Feb 20). Certainly the relatively high level of affluence in Saanich contributes to a better quality of life, but the overall physical and mental health of local residents is also a major determinant. One study stresses the importance of health in life-satisfaction by giving it distinct status: “Health-related quality of life.” In a discussion paper by A. Bowling for the World Bank Organization (1999), the author says “Research on valued states of existence has reported that health is the most valued state. Health-related quality of life is defined as optimum levels of mental, physical and social functioning.” My talks with local stakeholders revealed how we take care of each other in this community – regarding support around physical and mental health needs of residents.
There is a virtual cornucopia of health-care services provided by highly trained professionals on the Saanich Peninsula specializing in all areas of human health – with every kind of treatment, service and information imaginable to help every inch of our bodies function optimally. I discovered a “brave new world” of new age health care in my travels around the community. Here is just a sample of the health treatments that promise a long healthy stay on planet earth and a higher quality of life: Medically based professional massage and physiotherapy treatments that facilitate healing and reinstate mobility to injured joints; dental implants that literally give people a new life; accessible dental care for children of low income families; compassionate sedation so that anxiety will not be a barrier to good dental care; treatments to remove fungal infections from toes, restoring health to feet and nails; physio treatments to help women with pregnancy and birthing; laser hair removal giving people back their confidence; treatments for injuries to help athletes stay on top of their game; tender treatments to give cancer patients back the mobility in their arms after scarring due to surgery.
Recreation programs in Saanich are affordable and accessible to everyone, giving all residents a chance to maintain their physical and mental health. Children, teens, adults and seniors benefit from exceptional programs to keep their bodies and brains in premium condition. Overall, I find that this is a very supportive and caring community. So many people I have met are doing something to improve the lives of others – either directly through their business and work or in their off-time – and sometimes all of the above. Whether it is an activist trying to find a solution to homelessness, businesses holding fundraisers to help people who are sick or realtors supporting philanthropic causes, ‘love thy neighbour’ is practised on a regular basis. These recreation opportunities and the supportive caring community all bolster and enhance the overall mental and physical health of local people.
My conclusions are obviously subjective but are still based on my experience. In my opinion, the reason why we are such a healthy community and why we aced the quality-of-life test is because our community invests heavily and regularly in the people who live here. Health professionals, business leaders, entrepreneurs and recreation professionals are all investing incredible energy, talents and skills into improving the lives and health of people on the Peninsula. They do it willingly, beyond any expectations.
When people care, it shows – even on surveys. Even in the face of challenges, such a supportive community has a bright future.
