The Province has provided $100,000 in funding to the Centre for Seniors Information BC Interior Society.

This funding is specifically to further improve access to community-based seniors’ services in Kamloops and to help seniors stay engaged, remain independent and age in place.

“Seniors are the hearts of our communities, and it is crucial that they remain independent and socially engaged for as long as possible to help prevent social isolation, which can affect their physical and mental well-being,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “That’s why we are supporting community organizations, including the Centre for Seniors Information BC Interior Society, that are helping to improve the social, physical and nutritional needs of seniors in B.C. This is another step that we are taking to help seniors live more independent and full lives.”  

The funding will give the Centre for Seniors Information BC Interior Society in Kamloops the resources it needs to continue providing programs and services such as advocacy, education, support, socialization and outreach services to around 13,000 senior residents in Kamloops and the surrounding area. These programs and services are aimed at ensuring that seniors keep their independence for as long as possible.

“Lack of social connectedness can affect the overall well-being of seniors. That’s why I am proud of our government’s support to the organizations that are contributing to improving the lives of seniors in their communities,” said Anne Kang, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors and Multiculturalism. “By increasing access to the community-based seniors’ services and programs they need, we can support seniors to live independent lives and stay physically and socially active.”

This follows the ministry’s recent announcement about improving access to transportation services for seniors in the province, which also helps to address social isolation. In Interior Health, six community organizations received approximately $500,000 to further their transportation services in the community. This includes the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society that received $2,000 to purchase heavy duty aluminium steps to assist seniors with van access. Together, these supports illustrate the Province’s commitment to seniors living in every corner of B.C.

“We thank the B.C. government for its commitment to support community organizations that are working hard to help seniors be more socially engaged,” said Brenda Prevost, operations manager, Centre for Seniors Information BC Interior Society. “With this funding, we will be able to continue providing the quality programs and services that senior residents in Kamloops rely on.”

The Centre for Seniors Information BC Interior Society has been supporting seniors in Kamloops since 1997. The society is working to ensure seniors remain active and connected to the community through services that ensure quality of life, dignity and choice.

Supporting community-based seniors’ services is part of government’s commitment to strengthen the supports available to seniors. Government is investing $1.018 billion over three years to improve care for seniors, including investments in primary care, home health, long-term care and assisted living.

This includes $75 million over three years to expand respite and adult day services, and $240 million over three years to increase staffing levels in long-term care homes, with the goal of achieving 3.36 direct care hours per resident day – on average – across all health authorities by the end of 2020-21.

Quick Facts:

• In 2019, 19% of B.C.’s population is over 65 years of age, and in 15 years, this percentage is expected to rise to 25%.
• Community-based seniors’ services play an important role in supporting seniors to age in their own homes by improving access to physical and social activities and healthy food, helping them live healthier lives.