As we navigate the challenges of growing older, finding relatable, personalized and effective strategies can be invaluable to helping us extend our lifespan and our health span. As one Vancouver woman will attest to, it’s no easy feat.
Catherine’s approach to healthy aging is refreshingly down-to-earth, likening it to a never-ending game of whack-a-mole.
“Just when you think you’ve sorted one issue, another pops up!” she quips. But jokes aside, Catherine’s path toward wellness is a constant balancing act that encompasses proactive healthcare, continuity of care, and lifestyle adjustments.
“As you get older…”
“‘As you get older’ is a saying I dislike because it rarely precedes anything pleasant, however, you tend to prioritize holistic goals and stop chasing less important things,” says Catherine. Her goal is to fill days with meaningful activities, like spending quality time with her grandchildren, getting sufficient rest, and being productive, while fending off potential health issues that can pop up if you aren’t prepared.
Proactive Healthcare and Continuity of Care
Catherine and her husband are Premier clients at Harrison in Vancouver.
Catherine’s decision to join a comprehensive healthcare program was rooted in a desire for longevity and increased health span. Having witnessed friends struggle with health issues, she couldn’t think of a better investment than preventive healthcare. “It’s been a smart move,” she says, emphasizing the value of continuity of care.
With regular check-ups and a team of experts at her disposal, she feels confident that any health concerns will be addressed promptly and carefully – providing peace of mind for her and her family.
Managing a history of melanoma
Having a family history of melanoma, Catherine has to be very mindful of her skin health. She’s in good hands with her team at Harrison, including Dr. Tasha Bienert, a family physician with special training in dermatology and non-invasive melanoma detection.
A lover of the outdoors, Catherine faces ongoing skin challenges, but she’s not letting that dim her shine. With bi-annual skin checks and expert advice on sun protection, she’s found a balance between enjoying the sun and managing her skin health. “Hats, SPF clothing, and sunscreen are my new best friends.”
If any issues arise or she has concerns, Catherine schedules a thorough check-up and leaves with peace of mind.
“A real benefit of our clinic is the on-site procedure room for biopsy and excision. We are able to immediately perform a biopsy on areas of concern and get the results the week later. Our clients avoid waiting for a specialist referral, going to another appointment, and most importantly, get their results quickly,” says Dr. Tasha Bienert.
It’s not only her physician she cherishes, but the entire team.
Catherine recalls a time when there was a small issue with a prescription refill, which was followed up on by her Care Coordinator and quickly corrected. Though a small gesture, it spoke volumes about the exceptional level of service and care.
“Whether it’s sorting a prescription snafu or finding the right specialist, Harrison’s got me covered.”
Pragmatic Nutrition for Sleep and Vitality
Catherine’s approach to nutrition is equally pragmatic, taking sleep and dietary advice from Gelina Berg, her Registered Dietitian. Like many women who have gone through menopause, Catherine struggled with sleep. Through discussions with Gelina, she discovered solutions that improved her rest, including a specific melatonin regimen to target her regular 3am awakenings. Nutrition-wise, she’s embraced new recipes that align with her dietary needs and often consults her care team for advice via phone, email, or video chats.
Embracing Strength and Mobility
“Post-menopause, I’ve often felt a persistent lack of energy. What truly resonated with me was that every clinician I consulted—be it a physician, exercise physiologist, or registered dietitian—emphasized the importance of strength training. Each brought their own unique perspective on how it benefits mobility, boosts energy, assists in weight management, and more,” says Catherine.
She values the team’s dependable, compassionate advice, the insightful guidance, and the respect for her goals and values.
Although she admits she hasn’t been perfect in integrating strength training into her routine, she’s making a more deliberate effort to incorporate it into her lifestyle.
“I train two days per week and hopefully more in the future,” adds Catherine, who already enjoys gardening, walking, tennis, and being active outdoors.
Healthcare confidence
Catherine’s zest for life is infectious, and her perspective on aging is inspiring. She reflects, “As you get older, you start looking at the big picture. It’s about living a life aligned with your values and staying vital for my grandkids. I’m so glad to have found medical care that aligns on these goals with me.” Catherine also credits her Harrison team for significantly enhancing her life, providing a richness that’s often hard to maintain with age. She feels confident that her serious health concerns are being managed with precision and minimal disruption to what truly matters.
