Seniors 60 and over who are at higher risk of frailty due to experiencing social isolation, have difficulty managing chronic disease, are inactive, are suffering from recent loss, or are experiencing caregiver burnout have a new resource.
Volunteer Cowichan’s Social Prescribing for Seniors program was established in 2020 by the Cowichan Senior’s Community Foundation and was handed over to Volunteer Cowichan this May.
“Volunteer Cowichan’s Social Prescribing for Seniors provides an innovative service for older adults who require support connecting to their community or learning to address their health and well-being needs,” said a release issued by Social Prescribing Coordinator Carol-Ann Rolls.
The free program “identifies and addresses barriers that prevent connection to the community and provides assistance applying to other programs. Ongoing support is provided until seniors are able to independently access programs.”
Self-referral and referral through health professionals are accepted.
The program’s participants have reported a feeling of social connectedness, increased confidence, health, well being and less reliance on the health care system.
Eligible seniors include those in the Cowichan region who are: at risk of frailty, experiencing decline in physical and/or emotional health, experiencing language and cultural barriers, feeling isolated, are not connected to local communities, are making frequent trips to the ER or primary care, are requiring support in order to remain independent, or are wanting to become more physically active and/or socially connected.
For more information and to register contact Carol-Ann Rolls at 250-748-2133 or email socialprescribingcowichan2133@gmail.com