Darryl Plecas, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health, issued the following statement today in support of seniors during the holiday season:

“For many, the holiday season means being with loved ones and celebrating traditions. However, we know that there are those, including seniors, who will be spending the holidays alone.

“I encourage British Columbians to think about ways they can help to make those around them feel more connected at this time of year. This could include inviting someone to your home for coffee and conversation, or even dinner.

“Something as simple as a call can lift spirits. Paying a visit to someone living alone or in a care home can make a difference during the holidays and throughout the year.

“There are also steps seniors can take if they are feeling the holiday blues, such as seeking out activities at the local community centre, volunteering for a charity, or getting a group of friends together.

“I attended a meeting a year ago in Courtenay to increase the understanding of seniors’ social isolation and ways it can be addressed. This ideas exchange was very informative, as those in attendance examined approaches to address the matter, including means of transportation to support seniors’ social inclusion. Community members commented on how the event strengthened their network of contacts.

“Building on this work, in September 2016, Health Minister Terry Lake and his federal, provincial and territorial counterparts met in Vancouver to discuss a wide range of issues, including social isolation of older people. The ministers agreed to circulate an innovative toolkit that provides hands-on resources for groups or individuals such as seniors, community organizations, governments and businesses. The toolkit will be available online in the coming months.

“Seniors are our next-door neighbours, our co-workers, our aunts and uncles, parents and grandparents. I can think of nothing better than reaching out to spread some holiday magic and putting a smile on someone’s face.”

Learn More:

SeniorsBC provides a place for all older adults in the province to find resources for planning and living a healthy and active life as they age. To access the resources, please visit: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/seniors

The Better at Home program helps B.C. seniors with simple day-to-day tasks so that they can continue to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. Seniors who feel isolated may be able to arrange for services such as friendly visits through the Better at Home program. To find more about the program, visit: www.betterathome.ca/