Supporting Seniors

This week, June 1st-8th marks British Columbia Seniors Week! We should all take a moment to show the seniors in our lives that we appreciate them, especially during this time when seniors may be feeling isolated. Many seniors are especially vulnerable during this time, but there are ways to help keep seniors safe and healthy by volunteering to help. We've compiled a list of ways to support seniors in your community.

Senior Services Society

Seniors Services Society is a non-profit agency located in New Westminster. Their aim is to provide local and provincial programs and services to support vulnerable older adults to live as independently as possible. Volunteer opportunities at Senior Services Society include Meals on Wheels Drivers/Runners, Social Outings Hosts and Grocery Order Takers.

Care BC

The Health and Home Care Society of BC (Care BC) is an independent and BC-based not-for-profit organization. Care BC offers innovative programs to support seniors. They also offer programs for people living with disabilities or recovering from injuries and other housebound individuals at risk of isolation. Care BC is looking for volunteers for their following programs:

• Meals on Wheels: Providing nutritious meals and friendly visits throughout Vancouver and Richmond.
• Family Respite Centre: An adult day program for people with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and other mental and physical frailties to provide a much needed rest for caregivers.

Vancouver Coastal Health

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is a regional health authority that provides health services in part of Greater Vancouver and the Coast Garibaldi area. VCH is looking for volunteers in community and public health positions, hospital positions and residential care positions. Volunteers will be helping their patients, clients or residents with things like hospital wayfinding, medical appointment companionship and even visiting residents with your trained pets. Find a volunteer position fit for you!

BC211

BC211 is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people in need of all different services, from help lines to seniors programs. A program that is particularly proactive and in high demand right now is the “Safe Seniors, Stronger Communities” program that matches volunteers with seniors who need support. If you have the ability to grocery shop, deliver prescriptions or even talk on the phone, consider signing up as a volunteer. Click here to check out our blog about helping for more information.