Last week, May 4-8, celebrated Mental Health Awareness
Week. Older adults have a higher rate of
isolation and can be at risk for mental health issues and illness. There are many factors that contribute to
older adult isolation such as mobility, loss, grief, access to transportation
and overall deterioration of physical health. According to the National Seniors
Council Report on the Social Isolation of Seniors Oct 2014, “Social isolation also
affects the psychological and cognitive health of seniors. It is associated
with higher levels of depression and suicide. According to research, 1 in 4
seniors lives with a mental health problem (e.g. depression, anxiety or
dementia) or illness, and 10 to 15% of adults 65 years or older and living in
the community suffer from depression.”
Connecting with the Seniors Outreach worker could be a first step to
reducing ones isolation. Becoming
informed and aware of what services, program and events are happening in our
community can offer opportunities to become engaged and reduce isolation. Being
connected to those around can enhance your overall wellbeing. A friendly wave
to the neighbour, a conversation with an acquaintance at the grocery store, or
a cup of coffee with a good friend provide opportunities for connection.
Whistler Community Services
Society (WCSS) offers free, confidential, outreach support for older adults.
Seniors Outreach offers a confidential listening ear to older adults, who would
benefit from talking to someone and learning about services and program
available. Have you recently lost someone close to you and need some
grief/bereavement support? Do you act as
a long distance caregiver for a family/friend in a different community? Are you
overwhelmed with the forms that are required for some government benefits or
unaware of what you need to do to ensure that you are eligible for government
support? Making a move to a smaller
residence and would like some practical tips on how to manage such a big
transition? Are you newly retired and
after rest and relaxation you’re now missing the 9-5 office? These are some
examples of topics and conversations that might come up during a chat with a
Seniors Outreach Worker. Each stage of life offers its own challenges,
difficulties, and successes, aging is no
different. My goal as the Seniors
Outreach worker is to ensure that the aging in place population in our
community are supported, connected, engaged and are aware of services. If you
or someone you know could benefit from support then visit the Seniors Outreach
Worker on Tuesday & Wednesday 9am-5pm in the WCSS office at 1519 Spring
Creek drive. If you would like to make
an appointment at the office or in the village contact Melissa Deller: Melissa@mywcss.org
or call the office 604-932-0113
