SEARCH RESULTS

STAFF EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES TRANSFORMING LOCAL CARE & SUPPORTS TO BUILD AND SUSTAIN WELLBEING Connecting People, Community Living Well & United Way BC “Webinar featuring…an initiative that enhances the ability of multi-sector community teams to support the wellbeing of those living in the community…model builds sustainable ways for communities to support wellbeing.” June 2023 recording here THE UNFORGOTTEN BUILD & Canadian Medical Association “A five-part film exploring the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples living in Canada…(life stages Birth through Elderhood )…Sharing the experiences of Inuit, Métis and First Nations peoples at various stages of life, this film was created to raise awareness, incite reflection and spark conversations about how to make meaningful change happen in health care." Click here PATHWAYS: BC COMMUNITY SERVICE DIRECTORY PathwaysBC “Publicly available services and programs, in participating communities.” The Directory is a joint initiative between Doctors of BC’s General Practitioner Services Committee and the BC government with a support team that provides the technical infrastructure. It is free, searchable by the public and has many filter options to narrow down keyword searches. Search here Organizations can apply to list their services in categories such as,.Navigation Support:Seniors Services ; Health & Fitness: Seniors ; Caregiver Support Groups; Seniors Centre:Seniors Activities; Loneliness/Social Isolation; Outings/Day Trips etc More information about access to Pathways here FROME'S COMPASSION PROJECT UK Men’s Shed & Health Connections Mendip-UK “Compassionate communities help to reduce isolation and loneliness and bring a sense of belonging. Social relationships are the most effective intervention for improving health and longevity. Frome’s care combines a compassionate programme of community development with routine medical care…three key elements : making the most of the supportive networks of family, friends and neighbours…building networks of support for the routine matters of life…linking to community activity , such as choir, walking groups, men’s sheds, talking cafes and other interest groups where people can make friendships and share life’s events.” This event has passed. Health Connections Mendip website here Frome Shed website here MOBILIZING TO PROMOTE HEALTH & WELL-BEING FOR OLDER ADULTS CORE Healthy Aging Canada “Launching a series of monthly 90-minute webinars… to mobilize action on various issues by focusing on effective models and the policies, practices, partnerships, and networks that support them. Through interviews and discussions with practitioners, researchers, and policy-makers, each session will explore a topic and the key issues and challenges.” Q&A + opportunity to join a discussion group . January 26, 2023: Housing and Living Arrangement Options for Older Adults: At Home. In Community Recording here September 29, 2022 : Re-orienting Health and Social Services for Older Adults: Provincial Strategies for Community-Based Seniors Services Webinar recording here October 27, 2022 : Age-friendly Communities: A Key Strategy in Promoting the Well-Being of Older Adults Webinar Video here SENIORS OUTDOOR ACTIVATION TOOLKIT 8-80 Cities and Woodgreen Community Services, Toronto “… tells the story of over 100 seniors who saw the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to flip the standard for seniors programming in parks and public spaces .” Benefits, making the case, evaluation, recommendations. Report here INTERGEN-NS North Shore Community Resources Intergenerational Program Directory and Resource Hub that “helps connect different generations on the North Shore while providing resources to help community partners establish intergenerational programming … These projects have been launched in order to actively facilitate a North Shore community that is connected, inclusive, and age-friendly.” Information here CANADIAN INSTITUTE FOR SOCIAL PRESCRIBING (CISP) Intersectoral collaboration project anchored by the Canadian Red Cross “CISP is a new national hub to link people and share practices that connect people to community-based supports and services that can help improve their health and well-being… part of a global movement of people bringing community capacity and healthcare services closer together by directly addressing the social determinants of health , from loneliness and social isolation to racism and ageism to income and housing and much more.” Newsletter, events, reports, resources, etc. Website here FLIPPING STIGMA ON ITS EAR TOOLKIT “The discrimination caused by stigma that accompanies a diagnosis of dementia needs to be ‘flipped on its ear’! The purpose of this toolkit is to recognize and respond to this stigma and discrimination . It has been designed by people with dementia to help others – including other people living with dementia, the people who support them, and those who do research – to address the challenges of stigma and discrimination.” Video clips demonstrate interactions and stimulate discussions. Explore the website and sign up for a newsletter here Aging Well Education - Ongoing Dementia Education & Opportunities CIRCLE OF CARE FOR CAREGIVERS TRAINING Family Caregivers of British Columbia For staff and volunteers , training aims to “strengthen and develop informal networks of support for family caregivers in B C..by increasing the community’s capacity to identify caregivers at risk of isolation and intervening effectively by mobilizing informal supports …After completing the three sessions, participants will receive a detailed digital training manual from FCBC. ” Dates: January 23, 24 and 25, 2023 10am-12pm PST Register by January 12, 2023 (20 spots available) . More information and registration here STORIES FOR CAREGIVERS A series of 2-minute videos “‘Therapeutic Fibbing’ is a 4-part heart-opening dramatic comedy web series featuring an everyday Canadian family utilizing — with varying levels of success -- a form of compassionate lying to navigate communications with a loved one living with dementia.” YouTube here Facebook here UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER CANADIANS AND HOW TO ADDRESS IT National Institute on Ageing “Social isolation and loneliness are increasingly recognized as important public health concerns. Globally, as well as in Canada, these issues have significant implications for the health and well-being of older persons .” This is one of many reports and other resources (news, National Seniors Strategy) of concern to seniors, some offered in many languages . Explore here BUILDING DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES ONLINE COURSE Alzheimer Societies of Canada “The Building dementia-friendly communities course…a self-paced 75 minute online, interactive course in four modules …is currently available in English and French…designed for professionals working in the recreation, library, retail, restaurant and public transportation sectors…knowledge and skills needed to increase support, inclusion and accessibility (both in the social and physical environments) for people living with dementia.” Information here Register here PROGRAM PLANNING FOR GRANT WRITING United Way of British Columbia “Effective grant seeking…involves strategic prospect research, detailed project planning, and articulating a compelling case, all while employing efficient tools, processes, and systems.” This online interactive session includes: • creating compelling project rationales/needs descriptions; • exploring planning methodologies, including Theory of Change and Logic Models; • incorporating measurable outcomes. Recording here Slides here ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND RELATED DEMENTIAS IN INDIGENOUS POPULATIONS National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health “This report summarizes what is known about the knowledge, needs, and gaps of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples and healthcare practitioners working in Indigenous communities related to dementias…It provides a review of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis understandings of dementias, their perceptions of healthy aging, and their preferences for care …an overview of the barriers and facilitators of knowledge translation and exchange about dementia care and management…” Explore the report here PROMISING MODELS OF SENIORS' TRANSPORTATION United Way British Columbia & SFU Cities, Health, and Active Transportation Research Lab “This report provides the findings from case studies…to profile promising models of seniors’ transportation and to learn what facilitates or impedes the success of these services. We used extensive selection criteria to select six services that covered a diverse set of models and geographic contexts.” Read the report here LIVING MY CULTURE Canadian Virtual Hospice “Quality palliative care helps you honour your culture, spirituality and traditions…people from various cultures share their stories and wisdom about living with serious illness, end of life and grief to support others.” Indigenous cultural safety training : Advanced illness, palliative care and grief and “Coming full circle: Planning for your care a booklet to ensure Indigenous Peoples’ choices for their future healthcare are known and respected.” Also videos and insights from representatives of eight global cultures. Information here HEALTHY AGING CORE CANADA United Way BC & Employment & Social Development Canada “Healthy Aging CORE (Collaborative Online Resources and Education) is a platform to connect local, regional, provincial and national non-profit, government, and academic organizations and coalitions that focus on programs, services, policies, practices, and research aimed at supporting older Canadians to age in place in their homes and communities….All content on CORE is vetted …CORE is designed to connect and coordinate with other relevant networks, and not duplicate.” Features: Resources…Training & Events…Groups & Activity….Programs & Initiatives…Funding Opportunities Join email list here AGING AND THRIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY Institute for Community Prosperity, Mount Royal University, Calgary “…a scan of issues, trends, system dynamics and innovations…guided by the question: What factors are preventing older Canadians from flourishing, and how might we transform systems to maximize the choice, dignity, mobility, security, and trust accompanying an aging population transitioning into less autonomous living circumstances?" Report authored by James Stauch here FROME'S COMPASSION PROJECT UK Men’s Shed & Health Connections Mendip-UK “Compassionate communities help to reduce isolation and loneliness and bring a sense of belonging. Social relationships are the most effective intervention for improving health and longevity. Frome’s care combines a compassionate programme of community development with routine medical care…three key elements : making the most of the supportive networks of family, friends and neighbours…building networks of support for the routine matters of life…linking to community activity , such as choir, walking groups, men’s sheds, talking cafes and other interest groups where people can make friendships and share life’s events.” This event has passed. Health Connections Mendip website here Frome Shed website here Healthy Aging CORE Canada “CORE regularly hosts training events on relevant program and organizational development topics. These sessions are recorded and archived on CORE..and this compendium provides a listing of categories and links so that you can access them at your convenience.” Available here THE FUTURE OF AGING IN PLACE IN CANADA University Health Network Open Lab, Toronto " Through participatory design with seniors and inspiring demonstration projects, Vertical Aging pushes us to imagine and create possibilities beyond the current crop of institutional options . . these projects challenge conventional thinking about aging in contemporary urban society " Webinar recording here SOCIAL NEEDS OF OLDER ADULTS CAN'T BE MET BY TECHNOLOGY ALONE CTV article; research by Dr. Yue Qian, UBC Sociology “…virtual interaction, like phone calls, video calls and texting during pandemic lockdowns were not helpful on their own as an alternative to face-to-face time for people over 60. ‘Our findings demonstrate that face-to-face household contact is crucial to sustaining older adults’ mental wellbeing,” Qian said.’” CTV article here Frontiers in Sociology Article here METRO VANCOUVER HOMESHARE Canada HomeShare “The goal of HomeShare is to foster intergenerational relationships , support aging in place for older adults while simultaneously addressing the affordable rental crisis faced by students…a facilitated model of shared housing to Metro Vancouver… for older adults who would like to share their home with a student for the coming school year …up to seven hours per week of assistance around the home and/or companionship… Canada HomeShare Social Workers create matches that meet both the needs of the home provider and student using a framework designed and developed by the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly.” Paused in 2022, but restarting in 2023. Sign up here for notification ENABLING CONNECTIONS - A TABLET LENDING LIBRARY South Granville Seniors Centre & Partners “The four elements of the Enabling Connections program are: a tablet lending library , digital literacy mentoring , a virtual senior’s centre , and knowledge sharing with other organizations . The Enabling Connections project is focused on creating connections between individuals and creating a sense of community and mutual support, peer to peer.” Information here CLOSING THE GAPS: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE AND RECOVERY FOR OLDER ADULTS Canadian Red Cross; National Institute on Ageing “This is a recent report…that includes 29 Evidence-Informed Expert Recommendations to Improve Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery for Older Adults Across Canada…directed at Community-Based Services and Programs…Webinar features Dr. Samir Sinha, lead author of the report.” Report here FROME'S COMPASSION PROJECT UK Men’s Shed & Health Connections Mendip-UK “Compassionate communities help to reduce isolation and loneliness and bring a sense of belonging. Social relationships are the most effective intervention for improving health and longevity. Frome’s care combines a compassionate programme of community development with routine medical care…three key elements : making the most of the supportive networks of family, friends and neighbours…building networks of support for the routine matters of life…linking to community activity , such as choir, walking groups, men’s sheds, talking cafes and other interest groups where people can make friendships and share life’s events.” This event has passed. Health Connections Mendip website here Frome Shed website here Aging well education material Back to Top AGING WELL EDUCATION - ONGOING These are virtual educational resources for the seniors'-serving sector that can be joined or viewed on an ongoing basis. COVID-19 AND THE DIGITAL DIVIDE (Centre for Ageing Better, UK) Key findings from research involving i) > 250 seniors’-serving organizations about their service delivery efforts and ii) 50-70 year olds with incomes less than $42k about their use of the Internet and digital devices. Identifies and shares good practices for supporting digital inclusion and skill development during the pandemic and beyond. Describes how supports improved seniors’ knowledge and understanding of digital skills. July 2021 report here COMMUNITY DEMENTIA CARE AND SUPPORT (Healthcare Excellence Canada) Webinar series: "Innovations that are supporting people living with dementia and care partners, closer to home…what’s working and what isn’t…help innovators figure out how they can spread and scale their innovation so more people living with dementia, and care partners can benefit.” Past webinars and newsletter registration for upcoming related learning opportunities here AGING YOUR WAY: CREATING AN AGE-INCLUSIVE CANADA (CanAge; Toronto Public Library) A series of upcoming free webinars plus recordings & key learnings from other 2021 webinars. Information here GLUU TECHNOLOGY TUESDAYS (GLUU Society; Government of Canada) The Canadian nonprofit on a mission to help older adults use technology to stay happy, healthy & connected. We make digital skills stick…offer free digital skills training for all Canadian seniors about Apple and Android mobile devices. Information here Register for Technology Tuesdays here (Recordings available if registered) DIALOGUE ON AGING SERIES WEBINARS (Providence Health Care) Recordings of 2020-2021series of monthly presentations about self-care for positive mental health, mindfulness, brain health, sleep health, physical activity, technologies, socialization, creativity & living well with dementia, COVID-19 and dementia strategies and support, etc. Typically 2-hour presentation including discussion. Recordings here CAREGIVERS OUT LOUD: A PODCAST (Family Caregivers of BC) “A series of conversations with caregivers that highlight the joys, trials, and self-discoveries that come along with this rewarding and taxing position... have support and balance through the stories of inspiring caregivers.” Information here BRAIN WELLNESS PROGRAMS (UBC Brain Wellness Centre) Wide range of topics and their effects on brain health: music, nutrition, sleep, mood, improv theatre, practical tips, mindfulness, role as care partner etc. Information here Subscribe to newsletter here WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO AGE IN PLACE? (Hon. Joyce Murray, MP Quadra Brunch Connections) Guest speaker Ms. Isobel Mackenzie, BC’s Seniors’ Advocate, discusses “how to plan successfully to age in place, and how to help others – spouse, parent, family member, or friend – do the same… communities, business, the charitable sector, and various levels of government must collaborate to ensure today’s Canadians can age-in-place safely, as long as they wish...challenges and solutions. ” Recording here NO PLACE LIKE HOME(SHARE): INSIGHTS FROM AN INTERGENERATIONAL HOMESHARING PROGRAM IN TORONTO “Toronto HomeShare Pilot Project that matched 11 over-housed older adults 55+ (overhoused with respect to physical home space, social needs or supports with activities of daily living), with post-secondary student homeseekers who were experiencing difficulty securing safe and affordable housing… ‘facilitated’ by social workers and housing experts…now fully funded as a program by the City of Toronto…expanded to the City of Barrie.” Webinar recording here RAINBOW STEPS TO LGBT2SQ SENIORS “This webinar discusses aging in the LGBT2SQ communities and how service providers can deliver more inclusive and supportive programming…. practical ways to provide sensitive, competent and inclusive community programming and services for LGBT2SQ individuals.” Webinar recording here ADDRESSING STIGMA: AGING AND OLDER ADULTS (UWLM CORE Healthy Aging) 55min. An overview of stigma as outlined in the Public Health Agency of Canada's (2019 report) 'Stigma Action Framework for Building an Inclusive Health System' Recording here 2019 Summary video (Voices for Inclusion 4min) here HEALING IN PANDEMIC TIMES (Northern Health, Indigenous Health, NCCIH) An animated video reviews key terms such as stigmatization, stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination in an easily understandable way (4:32 min). Related publications include Thinking About Cultural Safety; Practical tips: Engaging People During COVID-19 ; Cultural Safety: Respect & Dignity in Relationships; Cultural Safety: Poster Series. Video and information available here PROMISING APPROACHES REVISITED: EFFECTIVE ACTION ON LONELINESS IN LATER LIFE In the United Kingdom,“the Campaign to End Loneliness believes that nobody who wants company should be without it…We do this by creating spaces for collaboration and support to the sector and by…building evidence, convening and supporting the loneliness community , making the case for action, public campaigning, campaigning locally.” Information here FUNDRAISING TRENDS OF 2021 THAT MAY INFLUENCE YOUR STRATEGY AND PREPARE YOUR ORGANIZATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR (Charity Village) Webinar (Feb 2, 2021) and information here SENIORS' TRANSPORTATION WEBINAR (UWLM CORE Healthy Aging) Learn more about the new Provincial Working Group on Seniors Transportation, the seniors-centred approach it will bring to its work, and its plans for improving seniors’ mobility in BC over the next two years. (January 27, 2021 presentation) Recording and slides available here ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCEJuly 2021 Features reports from Medscape Medical News about advances in understanding dementia: risk factors, tests, diagnosis, treatments, epidemiology, practice guidelines and more. Conference news here ENGAGING PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA IN DECISION-MAKING Canadian Centre for Elder Law “We are seeking participants for a series of virtual consultation events on strategies for including people living with dementia in decision making. The events will run from July 2021 to March 2022. We would like to hear from people living with dementia and other disabilities. We are also recruiting family members and friends for virtual consultation events on the perspectives of caregivers.” Project Status: Work in Progress Information here Poster - people living with dementia here Poster - caregivers here VIRTUAL SERVICES FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA Adult Cognitive Wellness Centre Langley, BC Virtual services for people living with dementia (Adult Cognitive Wellness Centre, Langley, BC) Regular midday and afternoon sessions offered monthly by qualified facilitators: Caregiver Support, Yoga, Easy Practice of Qigong Movement, Experience-Centered Care with H.E.A.R.T. Methodology™, Mindfulness Base Stress Reduction. Pre-registration & information here DEMENTIA EDUCATION & OPPORTUNITIES Dementia Education & Opportunities BEACON *SHINING LIGHT ON DEMENTIA Pacific Spirit United Church, Vancouver, BC In 2021, members of the congregation participated in a four-part series of online conversations “to further our sense of inclusion and love by opening meaningful conversations about what it means to be a dementia-friendly community…in our care for one another, in our building’s accessibility, and in our programming.” Information here Four-part video series here DEMENTIA & SPIRITUALITY: PODCAST SERIES Dementia Dialogue, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON "This new four-part series explores the many dimensions of spirituality along the dementia journey, as well as how our cultural background influences and nurtures spiritual perspectives.Our hosts have held interviews with a range of guests including people living with dementia, academics and researchers, spiritual care providers and care partners.” Listen here HEALTH CARE DECISION-MAKING LEGAL RIGHTS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA Canadian Centre for Elder Law, Alzheimer Society of BC “A set of resources on the decision-making rights of people living with dementia: three short animated videos, and a booklet. The booklet is available in English, French, Traditional Chinese and Punjabi.” Information here

We provide selected resources here for Dementia Ventures, since that is the Hub's focus in 2020-2023. Enter site for more information. RESOURCES We also provide selected resources here for Dementia Ventures , since that was the Hub's principal focus in 2019-2023. An extension of Building Capacity project funding enables some Hub Partners to deepen their projects 2023-2025. Understanding & living with dementia Guides for inclusive Programming Tools for Engagement Research Reports & Data

Collective action by and for seniors to build a more responsive and resilient community for seniors on the Westside of Vancouver, BC. COLLECTIVE ACTION BY AND FOR SENIORS Building a more responsive and resilient community for seniors on Vancouver’s Westside through the power of collective action. OUR KEY GOALS To identify and promote awareness of Westside seniors’ issues and priorities. To improve programs and services for seniors on the Westside through collective action by Hub Council, Hub Partner Organizations, and community organizations. To encourage seniors to become more engaged in their community. Read Our Help Brochure WHAT IS THE HUB STRUCTURE? The Hub is comprised of Partner Organizations and a Hub Council. Hub Partner Organizations serve seniors on the Westside and have an interest in collaborating with others to support seniors in their community. They meet quarterly to share information about resources and assets, identify emerging issues, and collaborate on building a range of integrated services for seniors. They work with the Hub Council and serve on working groups to act on identified issues and represent the Hub to the public and various constituencies. Partners include public entities, non-profits, and faith-based organizations that provide services for seniors. Hub Council is composed of several Westside volunteer seniors who have knowledge of seniors’ issues, experience working on action-oriented teams, and skills to work collaboratively with Partner Organizations, each other, and community members. They meet monthly to identify priorities and direct movement towards collective action. WHAT CONSTITUTES THE WESTSIDE? We define the catchment area of the Westside Seniors Hub as: West of Ontario Street, all the way to include UBC and the Endowment Lands South of Cornwall Street and False Creek North of Marine Drive Please note: the catchment area does not include the downtown peninsula or Granville Island. Partners whose office is outside our catchment area are welcome to join us if they are actively serving Westside seniors. WHAT CONSTITUTES THE WESTSIDE? The concept of a seniors hub first emerged through a 2009 research report entitled Sustaining Seniors Programs through the Neighbourhood House Model , which focused on opportunities for seniors at Kitsilano, Kiwassa & South Vancouver Neighbourhood Houses. In 2010, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House received pilot funding from Vancouver Coastal Health's SmartFund, City of Vancouver, United Way, and Vancouver Foundation to develop the South Vancouver Seniors Hub and produce an Implementation Plan and Seniors Hub Toolkit. This led to Kitsilano Neighbourhood House receiving a 2013-2014 Vancouver Foundation grant for a Seniors for Seniors Project: Building a One-Stop Place for Westside Seniors . One of the aspects of this project was to develop a Westside Seniors Hub. A number of community members and seventeen senior-serving Westside organizations met at a visioning roundtable in January 2014 to explore the potential benefits and nature of a Westside Hub. Several subsequent planning roundtables developed the structure of the Hub as well as Partner Collaborative Agreements, wrote a Hub Council Member job description, recruited and interviewed Hub Council applicants. By February 2015, appointments to the Hub Council had been made and the first joint meeting of Partner Organizations and Hub Council members took place. SPONSORS Since its first inception, the Hub has received financial support from several sponsors. WE ARE GRATEFUL for their trust and recognition of the Hub's mission and goals on behalf of seniors.

HOUSING FOR SENIORS Top of Housing for Seniors Affordable rentals are currently difficult to find in Vancouver. When their tenancy is threatened or ended, many elderly tenants on fixed incomes are unable to relocate anywhere near their former homes, even temporarily. New buildings, even those with a percentage of below-market rental units, are not yet ready for tenants. What are Westside Seniors Hub members doing about housing for seniors? Recent updates listed first . December 2024 WSH Partner representatives and Council members followed up on our August meeting with Vancouver–South Granville MLA Brenda Bailey to develop a Letter of Support for expansion of the Seniors Services Society of BC’s Seniors Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The Letter to Minister Bailey recommends 2025 and ongoing funding by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to ensure more British Columbian seniors experiencing precarious housing get navigation support, so their health and wellbeing do not deteriorate while suitable affordable housing is being developed. November 2024 Two WSH Council members participating in the City’s Older Persons and Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) Housing Subcommittee were privileged to attend the BC Non-profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) Housing Central conference, thanks to arrangements made by SPARC BC CEO and BCNPHA staff. The annual conference features success stories of how non-profit housing providers, municipalities and businesses have overcome challenges and developed diverse solutions to affordable housing dilemmas. The free BCNPHA e- newsletter and website provide case studies and insights for continuing WSH housing activities. October 2024 Council invited WSH Partners to participate in feedback on the City’s Social Housing Initiative and representatives attended SHI Open House consultations to speak with Planners September 2024 VCH Population Health facilitated contacting the City of Vancouver’s Assistant Director Housing Policy and Regulation | Planning, Urban Design & Sustainability to discuss implementation of the City’s Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy developed in conjunction with its Broadway Plan and Housing Vancouver 10 Year Housing Targets . Meeting time pending. Council representatives attended United Way BC webinar Making Rental Housing Affordable for Seniors and People with Low-Incomes and benefit from summaries of data and research in its two Fact Sheets – Key Messages and Defining the Problem and Finding Solutions . August 2024 Council representatives met with Brenda Bailey, MLA and candidate for a new Vancouver-South Granville riding to discuss issues in the WSH Briefing Note on Seniors Housing and potential actions. Council representatives met with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) Medical Health Officer (Housing), ED Population Health, and the Lead for Seniors’ Healthy Public Policy to discuss their roles and current involvement in seniors’ housing issues relevant to WSH Briefing Note on Seniors Housing . Council prepared a Briefing Note on Seniors Housing summarizing concerns about senior tenants being negatively impacted by developments in the Vancouver housing market and the actions and support needed for this vulnerable population. Council representatives met the BC Housing’s Assoc. VP Supportive Housing & Homelessness, Operations Division to discuss potential short-term shelter spaces in Chalmers Lodge and other supportive housing operated by BCH. Advocated for westside seniors experiencing housing precarity to remain in their neighbourhoods while seeking more stable housing. July 2024 Council representatives contributed to City's Older Persons and Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) Housing Subcommittee drafts of Motions to City Council regarding the need for senior-specific shelters and transparency regarding implementation of the Broadway Plan's Enhanced Tenant Relocation & Protection Policy . Encouraged WSH Partners to advocate with City of Vancouver Councillors for adoption of the Seniors Housing Strategy . June 2024 Council members began attending monthly OPEAC Housing Subcommittee meetings as guests to become familiar with their community partners and contribute to their action plans. Representatives from a dozen WSH Partner organizations met at a quarterly Partners’ meeting to discuss five Seniors’ Housing Issues for Action: Follow-up to 2024 Q1 Partners’ Meeting . Council member attended 411 Housing Forum to liaise with other local housing advocates. May 2024 Council members explored Seniors Services Society of BC’s (SSSBC’s) Seniors Housing Information & Navigation Ease (SHINE) program with WESN’s Housing Navigator. Recruited a volunteer to participate in SHINE’s four online training sessions. April 2024 The City of Vancouver’s D raft Seniors’ Housing Strategy was released for public feedback. P ublic and WSH Partners invited to participate in submitting comments by May 16th. March 2024 Council prepared a resource list: Housing Resources Referenced at Quarterly Housing meeting Brief summary: Seniors Housing Issues for Action: Follow-up to 2024 Q1 Partners’ Meeting February 21, 2024 Representatives from a dozen WSH Partner organizations met at a Quarterly Partners’ meeting to discuss seniors’ housing affordability . They were joined by guests from the City of Vancouver, City’s Older Persons & Elders Advisory Committee, Healthy Aging United Way BC, Hey Neighbour Collective & SFU Housing Solutions Lab, Premier’s Legislative Office, Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House, and South Vancouver Seniors Network. Presentations at Quarterly meeting: Healthy Aging UWBC presentation by Dr. Laura Kadowaki and Dr. Beverley Pitman City of Vancouver Older Persons & Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) by Dr. Marc White SFU Housing Solutions Lab Exploring Housing Options for Older Adults Design concepts by Michelle Hoar February 2024 Council prepared some briefing materials to inform WSH Partners: Selected Housing Navigation Supports & Trainings and Selected Recommendations from UWBC’s Aging in Uncertainty: The Growing Housing Crisis for BC Seniors report (Nov 2023) & IRPP’s Affordability Action Council report (Feb 2024) Entire UWBC Healthy Aging report Aging in Uncertainty and City of Vancouver Seniors’ Housing Strategy: What We Heard report (July 2023) January 2024 A questionnaire circulated by WSH Council to its Partner Organizations produced: A Snapshot: What Partner Organizations are Seeing, Hearing and Doing. Fall 2023 Survey of Hub Partner Organizations identified top priority issues of concern: Housing, Food Security, Phase 2 Dementia Ventures, Caregiver Support, Emergency Preparedness. Return to Top of Housing for Seniors

If you are a professional involved in administering programs or providing direct personal care for people experiencing cognitive decline, your role is critical in fostering their inclusion in activities. You facilitate providing diverse opportunities so everyone can remain meaningfully engaged in community life and no one gets excluded. PROFESSIONALS WORKING WITH SENIORS YOU can help offer diverse & inclusive activities foster action to combat stigma adapt programs to be inclusive & supportive align policies & technologies for more opportunities increase transportation access If you are a professional involved in administering programs or providing direct personal care for people experiencing cognitive decline, your role is critical in fostering their inclusion in activities. You facilitate providing diverse opportunities so everyone can remain meaningfully engaged in community life and no one gets excluded. Hub Partners would like to hear from you! Visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it.

You are invited to help. Visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it, and consult the Opportunities page where Hub Partner Organizations advertise their most immediate needs. PERSON LIVING WITH DEMENTIA You are invited to help: suggest & plan appealing activity options shape what ongoing social citizenship looks like build new attitudes within your community sustain your quality of life Hub Partners need to hear from you! Please: visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it.

HUB COMMITTEES Hub Projects are taken on by Hub Committees, issue-based, action-oriented groups made up of representatives from the Council, Partner Organizations, and the community. They meet as needed to focus attention on particular issues or activities by sharing information, suggesting to the Council what approaches might work, and planning events. They act on behalf of seniors to bring attention to issues and gaps in services. Their work engages businesses, government agencies, non-profit agencies, and the public in moving towards a community where seniors can have their needs met and age well. At this time, Hub Committee members are all collaborating as a Working Group on the multifaceted Building Capacity Dementia Ventures p roject so for action consider Getting Involved! ACCESS & MOBILITY COMMITTEE Identifies seniors’ concerns and needs regarding access and mobility Develops strategies to address those concerns Engages Partner Organizations in coordinated action to keep seniors active and safe within their neighbourhoods WHAT HAVE WE DONE? We recently completed Walk and Be Seen – Neighbourhood Projects 2017 – 2018. This was a pedestrian visibility project that encourages seniors to walk and be more visible during low-light hours. It reached >600 participants with education and visibility gear wiith funding from the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program. The final report is here . To stay informed about current issues, we send a representative to connect with the City of Vancouver Seniors Advisory Committee and to Seniors' Transportation is a Right meetings. HEALTH & WELLNESS COMMITTEE Identifies key physical, social, and mental health issues of Westside Seniors Prioritizes needs and find ways to address them through collaboration with Westside Seniors Hub Council, Hub Partners, other seniors serving organizations, and the community Promotes awareness of seniors’ needs and advocate for change WHAT HAVE WE DONE? Through a partnership with the Alzheimer Society of BC, the Committee has offered two series of workshops to train more than 100 participants in how to create a more dementia-friendly community. Community members, volunteers & staff of the Hub's Westside Partners participated in the workshops. In 2019, we initiated a collaboration with UBC and Lakehead University for active grassroots participation in the 4-year federally PHAC-funded umbrella project for Dementia Ventures . COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE Provides resources for people who want to learn more about seniors’ serving organizations and their services on Vancouver’s Westside. Creates online and print materials that are accessible to seniors, care partners, and the general public Recruits volunteers withskills in website development & maintenance, photography, messaging, and publishing. WHAT HAVE WE DONE? With a New Horizons for Seniors Program grant, we consulted with seniors for input on the Hub design of a logo, website, and print materials and conducted quality testing. We developed a Communications Plan for rolling out and maintaining the website. The website is now being updated to showcase Dementia Ventures and the projects that Partners are initiating. Our communications invite more Partners, Council members and volunteers to join the Hub for collective action on issues affecting seniors!

The Hub is building a more responsive and resilient community for seniors living on the Westside of Vancouver, BC Canada through the power of collective action. CARE PARTNERS YOU can help reveal challenges that need to be addressed create activities that fit with your needs as well as those you care for offer ideas for innovative initiatives participate in community conversations To partners, relatives, friends or professionals regularly involved in providing care for a person living with dementia: Your voice is needed in planning and implementing activities that are feasible and engaging. Hub Partners would like to hear from you! Visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it

We provide selected resources here for Dementia Ventures, since that is the Hub's focus in 2020-2023. Enter site for more information. We'd love to know what you think! Name Your email address What two or three words come to mind when viewing this image? How does this image impact the way you think about Dementia? Would you like to know more about Dementia? Yes No Not sure SUBMIT

Check out the reports and Data. Enter site. Top of Reports & Data DEMENTIA VENTURES REPORTS AND DATA ALZHEIMER ASSOCIATION USA AA provides progress in promising research and treatments for all types of dementia. There are links to clinical studies underway and recruiting participants whether experiencing memory loss or supporting those who are. Research progress here BUILDING CAPACITY FOR MEANINGFUL PARTICIPATION BY PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA (UBC-Lakehead Universities, WSH, NWDWG 2020) “Project aims to enhance and promote opportunities for people living with dementia, including dedicated and inclusive physical and social activities that account for the interests and needs of people living with dementia…fosters connections in community and the growth of initiatives based on community capacity and interest.” Information here CANADIAN CHARTER OF RIGHTS FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA (Alzheimer Society of Canada 2019) “The Charter defines seven explicit rights to empower you to self-advocate as a person living with dementia in Canada…ensures that the people and organizations that support you will know and protect your rights.” Right #4: “To access support so that I can live as independently as possible and be as engaged as possible in my community.”
 Information here THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: FROM RHETORIC TO REALTY (Dementia Alliance International 2016) “A basic introduction to Human-Rights Based Approaches (HBRAs) – a UN approved system, which has been applied across all sectors… focuses on ways in which the Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) can be used to promote the well-being and quality of life of people living with dementia.” Information here A DEMENTIA STRATEGY FOR CANADA: TOGETHER WE ASPIRE (Public Health Agency of Canada 2019) “It is possible to live well and achieve quality of life at all stages of dementia through compassionate diagnosis, connection to support systems, increased awareness of dementia among all Canadians and reduced financial hardship for those living with dementia and their caregivers.” Information here Return to top DEVELOPING CULTURALLY GROUNDED DEMENTIA EDUCATION MATERIALS FOR INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY-BASED CARE (Jacklin & Blind 2018) "ICARE investigators and research staff worked closely with our community advisory members and Tribal Leadership to develop" a suite of tools: Dementia in Indigenous Populations ; 
Underlying Frameworks: Cultural Safety & Two-Eyed Seeing ; 
Indigenous Understandings of Memory Loss & Aging ; 
Fact Sheets ; Dementia Care for Indigenous People and their Families. Information here ADDRESSING STIGMA: TOWARDS A MORE INCLUSIVE HEALTH SYSTEM 
(Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, 2019) “Stigma is associated with poorer physical and mental health outcomes …and cannot be understood or treated separately from stigma related to other characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, age, and income…We can stop using dehumanizing language, examine our own assumptions, and implement policies and education programs, while also measuring our progress towards stigma elimination.” Information here RISK REDUCTION OF COGNITIVE DECLINE AND DEMENTIA (WHO 2021) “Guidelines for risk reduction…provide evidence-based recommendations on lifestyle behaviours and interventions to delay or prevent cognitive decline and dementia.” Information here WORLD ALZHEIMER REPORT 2019: ATTITUDES TO DEMENTIA (Alzheimer’s Disease International, ADI) ADI’s 2019 global survey of attitudes to dementia and recommendations “to take action, to improve awareness, to help dispel lingering myths around dementia and ultimately aim to reduce or even eradicate stigma.” Information here VIRTUAL CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH ALZHEIMER DISEASE AND RELATED DEMENTIAS DURING THE COVID-19 ERA AND BEYOND (Canadian Medical Association Journal, March 15, 2021) Virtual visits have unique challenges but can potentially improve access to health care for those experiencing dementia. Evidence demonstrates that videoteleconferencing can be useful in assessment, planning, and management of a diagnosis. There is much research underway to overcome barriers and adapt modalities for direct-to-home care. Information here Back to Resources - Dementia Ventures

Collective action by and for seniors to build a more responsive and resilient community for seniors on the Westside of Vancouver, BC. LATEST NEWS DUNBAR SENIORS' CAFE St. Philip's Anglican Church Join us at the Dunbar Seniors' Cafe for lively conversations and friendship. Hostesses Janet Brown, Sheryl Mackay, and Judy Poliquin provide. October 15th from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Read More GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR TENANT COMPLAINS IN BC HOUSING BC Housing BC Housing has introduced new guiding principles to improve tenant experiences and complaint resolution among non-profit housing providers. These principles provide insights into tenant feedback and highlight areas for service enhancement. Read More VANCOUVER'S SENIORS HOUSING INITIATIVE City of Vancouver - Shape your City The City of Vancouver is launching the Social Housing Initiative to address affordable housing needs by modifying zoning regulations for mixed-income social, supportive, and cooperative housing without requiring rezoning. Read More FORGOTTEN RIGHTS - SENIORS NOT AFFORDED EQUAL RENT PROTECTION Office of the Seniors Advocate British Columbia “Approximately 30,000 seniors live in independent living units throughout B.C., and they should be afforded the same protections as other renters …". Read More GRANT OPPORTUNITIES Welcome to our Grant Opportunities section for senior organizations! Here, you'll find essential information about grants to support programs and services for seniors. Explore these opportunities to empower organization and make a positive impact in the community! VCH’s One-Time-Only Health Promotion and Capacity Building Project Grants (OTO) are for projects that are one-time-only in nature and intent, and that lead to greater equity in wellness by building on a community’s social, environmental, cultural, and economic foundations. Read more Funding for not-for-profit organizations, registered charities, and Indigenous partners. Funds help to plan, undertake and share research related to affordable housing in Canada. tage 1 applications must be submitted by September 27, 2024, at 2 p.m. Read more The goal of the PlanH Program is to support Indigenous and local governments, including health authorities, to advance policies, and strategies aimed at improving health equity, and well-being. Read more

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Westside Seniors Hub Coordinator Join us to assist WSH leadership in the coordination and outreach to Westside stakeholders on seniors’ issues. Council is seeking a The Council Coordinator for a new 14 hours per week position to assist WSH leadership in coordination and outreach to Westside stakeholders on seniors’ issues. We are looking for a self-motivated individual with an interest in seniors’ issues. Details in the job description here . Please apply by May 13, 2024. Westside Seniors Hub Council Join the Council's Volunteer Team Council members: We are recruiting volunteers to join us and ensure that Westside neighbourhoods are places where seniors can thrive. To find out more about the role of Council in Hub affairs, click he re . For more details about a Council member's role, please click here Digital Communications Assistant: One or two people to assist with publishing the Hub's quarterly newsletter, Hub Bytes, and/or with maintaining the Hub's website up to date. More details here Family Caregivers of BC Join FCBC's Volunteer Team Support Group Facilitators: Seeking volunteers to create a safe and open space for caregivers to share their concerns and challenges. Facilitators are people with strong listening skills, discretion, empathy and ability to empower individuals to be involved in making decisions about their own care. Host and Virtual Assistant: For our Virtual Journal Workshop for Caregivers...an ongoing program offered to to caregivers who are interested in engaging in structured writing that is private and self-reflective...You would provide technical online support to the facilitator and participants . Caregiver Support Assistant: L ooking for two Caregiver Support Assistants to provide administration support to our caregiver support team at FCBC...use your technical skills to assist with general office duties, filing, emails, help with communication and outreach. More details and application forms here ASK Friendship Society CALLS for VOLUNTEERS Board Members: ASK is growing! Help lead and manage that process, we are looking to fill 2-4 Board positions with committed individuals who have experience in human resources, administration, fundraising, etc. Youth & student opportunities too, More details and application forms here

There’s Nothing Here... We can’t find the page you’re looking for. Check the URL, or head back home. Go Home

There’s Nothing Here... We can’t find the page you’re looking for. Check the URL, or head back home. Go Home

There’s Nothing Here... We can’t find the page you’re looking for. Check the URL, or head back home. Go Home