Approaching the holidays, I’m reminded of the National Seniors Council report on social isolation. It talks about how ageism, poverty, illness, loss of spouse, friends or a driver’s licence, lack of access to community supports, transportation and housing can lead to social isolation. Let’s ensure everyone of all ages is included this season and work toward this year round!
The Sunshine Coast Seniors Planning Table (SPT) is more than halfway through a first year of funding. Here’s where we’ve been and where we’re going.
In 2015, the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation awarded $143,000 to local programs. “Seniors’ issues are a key feature of the Foundation’s 2014 Vital Signs Report, which drove the decision to select the Seniors Planning Table as one of the initiatives to fund,” noted Foundation chair Cam Reid.
Systems are being put in place to support the Seniors Planning Table over the long term. This includes the involvement of more than 50 individuals and 20 organizations on the planning table, steering committee and seven action groups.
The Planning Table hosted Isobel Mackenzie, B.C.’s seniors advocate, and contributed questions on seniors’ issues to a recent federal all candidates meeting. A mapping of senior’s services event was held to support service delivery, and a list of community-based education/information events related to the priorities of the Planning Table was compiled and publicized.
Upcoming action group activities include implementing a dementia friendly communities action plan, educating about substandard housing based on a new locally adapted seniors-specific definition, and presenting a public education campaign called It’s Not Right, to help neighbours, friends and families know how to be supportive if an older adult is experiencing abuse.
The Seniors Planning Table operates under the leadership of the Community Resource Centre, with the financial support of the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation and the Sunshine Coast Credit Union. For more information contact: seniors
[email protected]
