Hi Dave,
you could use a DataView with datasource microflow and return an Object (e.g. Helper Entity) which you always update (‘Change Object’ and checkbox ‘Refresh in client’) when needed.
You can in addition use the MicroflowTimer widget to update that object in regular basis.
Please find below an example of a possible setup:
Page with two containers (one not going to be updated, the other one going to be updated based on Microflow Timer configuration)
DS_Helper Microflow
Microflow Timer Widget
ACT_Helper_Update Microflow