Image Credit: BC Government

By Ashley Legassic

COVID-19

B.C. announces new supports for seniors living at home during COVID-19 pandemic

Mar 26, 2020 | 1:34 PM

VICTORIA — The provincial government and B.C.’s Seniors Advocate say help is on the way for seniors living at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie said during a news conference Thursday (March 26), that capacity will be added to the BC 2-1-1 service which helps residents navigate different services in their community.

Extra resources will be going toward helping seniors living at home by themselves.

“Seniors are especially worried about COVID-19,” Mackenzie said. “It is particularly serious for the elderly people and those with underlying health conditions… As Dr. (Bonnie) Henry reminds us, it’s not just about you getting sick, its about bringing infection home to your family. This could include your mum, your dad, your grandma, your grandpa.”

Mackenzie said seniors want to do the right thing by staying home, but they need the community’s help to do so.

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“We have also seen an amazing outpouring of community support as it becomes clear we’re all concerned about the elderly in our communities,” Mackenzie said. “People are stepping up and reaching out to the seniors they know.”

With the added services to 2-1-1, Mackenzie said it’s reachable online, by phone or by text message across B.C.

If volunteers want to help seniors with picking up supplies, groceries, or medications, dropping off a meal, or paying virtual visits, they can call 2-1-1 or visit the website to be matched up with a senior in their community.

If you’re a senior or a family member of a senior who needs a helping hand, contacting 2-1-1 will allow the senior to put their name in to be matched with a volunteer in the community.

“Please do not be afraid but please stay home and let us help. We want to help,” Mackenzie said in her message to B.C. seniors. “Now is not the time to be out and about in your community. You can help us all by letting us help you. It’s not forever — it’s for now.”