If you would like to learn more about our workshops, this resource listing is a good place to start. Scroll through this alphabetical list of topics and browse through some of the most up-to-date resources for each topic. The resources may be all you need, but if you are interested in more information and conversation about any of these topics, you can book a workshop for a group using the How to Request a Workshop Form under the “WORKSHOPS” menu.
Did you find an error or something confusing on this page or a link/phone number that did not work or show you what you expected? Please click here to Contact Us. Thank you for helping us keep this information current and accurate for all.
| SESSION / TOPIC | RESOURCES |
| General | Council of Senior Citizens’ Organization (COSCO): An umbrella organization of many groups advocating for health, housing, transportation, and income security issues for seniors in BC
Helplines:
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Provides many resources (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
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| Advance Care Planning | Advance Care Planning Canada: initiative by the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association that focuses on an accessible Pan-Canadian Framework for Advance Care Planning. To explore the initiatives’ resources and information on advance care planning, click the link below:
BC Transplant: Organ Donation: Register your decision for organ donation in the BC Organ Donor Registry (phone: 604-877-2240, toll-free: 1-800-663-6189, email: info@bct.phsa.ca)
Caregiver Support:
End-of-Life Care:
Expected/Planned Home Deaths: In BC, individuals have the right to choose to die at home. Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): Orders that allow your doctor to communicate your treatment wishes and decisions with other doctors and healthcare providers who may be involved in your care. Through advance care planning discussions, you and your doctor can explore your values and the range of treatments available. For information and resources on MOST from your health authority, click on the links below:
My Voice: Expressing My Wishes for Future Health Care Treatment: The BC government’s advance care planning guide
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry: Provides detailed information about end-of-life planning (email: info@nidus.ca)
No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Form: Provides you and your physician or nurse practitioner with a legal option to order that no CPR be provided by health care providers and first responders
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on Advance Care Planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
The BC Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing: Provides additional legal information useful for your advance care planning. To learn more, click on the link below:
The BC Ministry of Health: Encourages all capable adults in to do advance care planning and document their wishes and instructions for future health care using the tools available in the advance care planning guide. For information on advance care planning and in BC, including videos (Punjabi and Simplified Chinese subtitles available), brochures, tips on completing your advance care plan, or answers to frequently asked questions, click on the links below:
University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Medicine Body Donation Program: If you would like to donate your body to Science/Medicine. The Program has been in service since 1950, with many individuals contributing their bodies to anatomical study and medical research (phone: 604-822-2578) Your Local Health Authority: For advance care planning information and resources from your local health authority, click on the links below: |
| Advance Directive | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Access Pro Bono: Service that helps British Columbians find a suitable lawyer to resolve their legal problem (for family, tenancy, employment, personal injury, wills, estate, or trust law issues). To be connected to an expert lawyer who will provide up to a half-hour of free legal consultation, use the online booking platform or call 604-687-3221 or 1-800-663-1919 (toll-free)
Alzheimer Society of BC: Provides information and support to alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742)
Doctors of BC: News on Advance Directives: Summary of 2011 changes to the Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act and other acts, as well as other resources (videos, booklets, FAQ)
Dying with Dignity Canada: Includes information about navigating a request for assisted dying as well as various other documents including an Advance Care Planning Kit (phone: 416-486-3998, toll-free: 1-800-495-6156)
Law Students’ Legal Advice Program Clinics: Law students from the University of British Columbia offer free legal help with some legal matters including wills (if the total value of an estate is under $25,000), powers of attorney, representation agreements and advanced directives (phone: 604-822-5791)
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on Advance Care Planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD): As of March 2021, the laws regarding MAiD in Canada have been updated
Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): Orders that allow your doctor to communicate your treatment wishes and decisions with other doctors and healthcare providers who may be involved in your care. Through advance care planning discussions, you and your doctor can explore your values and the range of treatments available. For information and resources on MOST from your health authority, click on the links below:
My Voice: Expressing My Wishes for Future Health Care Treatment: The BC government’s advance care planning guide
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry: Provides detailed information about end-of-life planning (email: info@nidus.ca)
No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Form: Provides you and your physician or nurse practitioner with a legal option to order that no CPR be provided by health care providers and first responders
The BC Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing: Provides additional legal information useful for your advance care planning. To learn more, click on the link below:
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| Advocacy for Caregivers | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
Assisted Living Registry: Protects health and safety for those in assisted living situations (phone: 1-866-714-3378, email: info@alregistrar.bc.ca)
BC Ombudsperson: Investigates unfair treatment by the provincial government (phone: 1-800-567-3247)
Office of the Seniors’ Advocate: Monitors and analyzes seniors’ services and issues in BC and makes recommendations to government and service providers to address systemic issues. The Office also provides information and referrals for individuals who are navigating seniors services and tracks their concerns, which helps inform future work (phone: 1-877-952-3181)
Patient Care Quality Offices: Contact your regional office with a complaint about the quality of care
Seniors First BC (formerly BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support): Provide information and education (phone: 604-688-1927 (Vancouver), email: info@seniorsfirstbc.ca)
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| Age-Friendly Communities | Age-Friendly BC: Resources and information on what one can do to make their community age-friendly (i.e., places where people of all ages and abilities feel included and valued in their communities)
BC Healthy Communities: a non-profit group that operates at the intersection of planning and public health by providing grants, working directly with communities, and providing resources/tools Becoming An Age-Friendly Community: Guide for local government |
| Age Well, Live Well with Safe Medication Use | It is important to keep a detailed record of medications for your prescription, over-the-counter, and natural/herbal medications, including vitamins. You should tell your healthcare provider about everything you are taking, and share any side-effects you are experiencing with them.
2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7) 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian Deprescribing Network: Provides important deprescribing resources for the public Deprescribing for Older Adults: Practical guide to deprescription as a solution to polypharmacy (regular use of at least five medications) created by Alberta Health Services MedStopper (Beta): Web-based tool to help doctors and their patients look at a list of medications to decide if some should be stopped or changed Sleepwell: Resource that contains information to help people manage insomnia without relying on sleeping pills. Reducing Polypharmacy: A Logical Approach: Discusses issues around elders who are on a multitude of drugs and suggests that medication regimes should be challenged routinely RxISK: This drug safety website provides resources and access to data on prescription drugs you cannot get anywhere else. It includes questions to ask before you take a medication, a side effects checker, a drug interaction checker, and a self-quiz |
| Care for the Caregiver | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Alzheimer Society of BC: I’m Caring for a Person with Dementia: Resources and information for caregivers to support themselves, and seek support:
BC Cancer Agency: Caregivers: Information on educational materials and support programs for caregivers
Family Caregivers of BC: Not-for-profit that supports caregivers in BC by providing access to information, education and supports that enable caregivers to feel more confident and successful in their role(s)
Federal Employment Insurance Caregiving Benefits: Provide financial assistance while you are away from work to care for or support a critically ill or injured person or someone needing end-of-life care. You could receive 55% of your earnings, up to a maximum of $638 a week
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on Advance Care Planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867) |
| Chronic Diseases | Arthritis Society: National charity that supports and educates the public on arthritis
BC Lung Association: Provincial foundation that aims to prevent lung disease and promote lung health
Canadian Cancer Society: National organization that offers support for people with cancer and their family, friends, and caregivers, as well as access to free programs and services that can help manage life with cancer
Canadian Diabetes Association: National organization that delivers tools and resources for individuals living with diabetes
Heart and Stroke Foundation: National organization that researches and offers support and resources for individuals who have or have had heart disease and stroke
Hypertension Canada: National non-profit organization dedicated solely to the prevention and control of hypertension and its complications
Osteoporosis Canada: National organization serving people affected by osteoporosis that works to educate, empower, and support individuals and communities on bone health and in the risk reduction and treatment of osteoporosis
Parkinson Society BC: Provincial foundation that advocates for and supports those living with Parkinson’s disease |
| Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
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BC Lung Association: Foundation that offers education/self-care, exercise support, and peer support for individuals living with COPD (phone: 604-731-5864, toll-free: 1-800-665-5864, email: info@bclung.ca)
COPD Clinic at St. Paul’s Hospital: Speciality outpatient clinic that runs 2-3 times a month and includes a respirologist, a respiratory therapist, a dietitian, and a physiotherapist. Offers pulmonary rehabilitation, assessment, exercise, education, maintenance/follow-up, smoking cessation, and lung function tests (St. Paul’s Hospital – 8th Floor Providence Building Section 8B, phone: 604-806-8818)
Lung Health Information Line: Free helpline through which certified respiratory educators offer information/guidance on a variety of lung health concerns, smoking cessation counselling, and indoor and outdoor air quality issues (phone: 1-866-717-2673, available Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
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| Dealing with Conflict | Insight Approach: Method for conflict resolution, analysis and change that focuses on the interiority of decision-making. It uses targeted curiosity to elicit the data of consciousness that patterns what we do, opening transformative, context-relevant ways forward
Being Heard: 6 Strategies for Getting Your Point Across (Judy Ringer): Resource for assertive and effective communication when dealing with conflict |
| Dealing with Stress | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
BC Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions: Managing Stress: Resource hub for stress management
Anxiety BC: Non-profit organization that raises awareness about anxiety and supports access to proven resources and treatment
Here to Help: Resource that provides information, aids in the development of new skills, and connects individuals with key resources in BC (for individuals and those supporting them)
Canadian Mental Health Association: BC Division: A collective of organizations that identify and respond to pressing mental health priorities (BC Lower Mainland phone 604-688-3234, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-555-8222, for mental health information, referral or support, email: help@cmha.bc.ca)
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| Diabetes | BC Diabetes: BC’s largest diabetes clinicians, whose team of healthcare professionals and support staff are dedicated to optimizing care & improving outcomes for every British Columbian with diabetes
Diabetes Canada: Organization that aims to improve the quality of life of those living with diabetes by providing them with expert information that improves their care and self-management and advocating on their behalf (BC Office: phone: 604-732-1331, toll-free: 1-800-226-8464, email: info@diabetes.ca)
HealthLink BC: Diabetes: Information about Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, along with resources |
| Emergency Preparedness | 9-1-1: For Ambulance, Fire and Police (Emergency Services)
Reporting Emergencies:
BC Provincial Emergency Program: Resource center from the provincial government focused on mitigation, preparation, response, and recovery
Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health: Seniors, Emergencies and Disasters: Provides resources and tools that address older people as individuals/citizens, family members, community members, care or service recipients, members of an “at-risk” group and /or in some other capacity
Canadian Red Cross: Large humanitarian organization through which people voluntarily demonstrate their caring for others in need
Government of Canada: Get Prepared: Resources to help you understand the risks in your area, create a household emergency plan and build an emergency kit
In Case of Emergency: Contacts on iPhone or Apple Watch
In Case of Emergency: Contacts on Android phones
Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows Katzie, Seniors Network: Emergency Preparedness Guide: Helps one get started to being emergency-prepared to mitigate damage and discomfort from natural disasters
Staying Healthy in the Heat: Information on how to remain healthy during extreme heat
Sun and Heat Safety: Tips for how to stay safe in the heat |
| Falls Prevention | BC Balance and Dizziness Disorders Society: Organization that supports and educates those affected by balance and dizziness disorders and develops awareness of the issues surrounding these disorders (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-878-8383, Canada-wide toll-free: 1-866-780-2233)
BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit: Accurate and up-to-date information on falls and fall prevention
Finding Balance: Provincial effort to educate older adults and their caregivers with the latest fall prevention information
Fraser Health Falls Prevention Clinic: Free clinic targeted to seniors living in the community and involves a personalized assessment session. Preregistration is required. (phone: 604-587-7866, email: fallsprevention@fraserhealth.ca)
Vancouver Coastal Health: Fall Prevention:
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| Financial Literacy | See Money Smarts for Seniors |
| Frauds & Scams | To Report Fraud and Scams:
2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7) Access Pro Bono: Service that helps British Columbians find a suitable lawyer to resolve their legal problem (for family, tenancy, employment, personal injury, wills, estate, or trust law issues). To be connected to an expert lawyer who will provide up to a half-hour of free legal consultation, use the online booking platform or call 604-687-3221 or 1-800-663-1919 (toll-free) Better Business Bureau of BC: Non-profit that helps consumers find and recommend businesses they can trust (phone: 604-682-2711) Canadian Antifraud Centre: Collects information on fraud and identity theft and provides information on past and current frauds affecting Canadians
Canada Revenue Agency: How Can I Donate Wisely and Avoid Fraud?: Warning signs of charity-related fraud and tips about donating wisely Credit Counselling Society of BC: Non-profit charity that helps Canadians solve their money problems by providing free credit counselling, low-cost debt solutions, and education to help you manage your money better (toll-free: 1- 888-527-8999) Credit Report
Dial-A-Law: A resource hub for information on the law in BC (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-687-4680, Canada-wide toll-free: 1-800- 565-5297) Legal Services Society: Non-profit organization that provides legal information, advice, and representation services (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-408-2172, BC-wide toll-free: 1-866-577-2525) RCMP Victim Services: Call your local detachment or 1-800-563-0808 (toll-free) |
| Healthy Eating for Seniors | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Healthy Eating for Seniors Handbook: Provincial resource that includes recipes, menu plans, and information on good nutrition (phone for bulk copies: 1-800-465-4911) |
| Hearing Health in Older Adults | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
BC Public Health Hearing Clinics: Listing of publicly accessible hearing clinics across BC
Canadian Hard of Hearing Association: Organization that seeks to connect Canadians impacted by hearing loss through advocacy, education, and community engagement (phone: 613-526-1584, Canada-wide toll-free: 1-800-263-8068, TTY: 613-526-2692, email: info@chha.ca)
Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC): Organization that supports the needs of people with communication disorders
Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Network of hearing clinics that provide audiological tests, hearing aid fittings, sign language interpretation, employment services, and communication devices (email: info@widhh.com)
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| Heart Operations | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian Red Cross: Health Equipment Loan Program: Community-based service that is made possible through the support of health authorities, donations of used equipment, and the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and professional staff
Cardiac Services BC: plans, coordinates, monitors, funds and evaluates cardiac disease treatment and secondary prevention
Heart and Stroke Foundation: National organization that researches and offers support and resources for individuals who have or have had heart disease and stroke Pacific Open Heart Association: Organization that aims to assist in the encouragement and preparation of patients about to have open-heart surgery, and encourage and support patients and their families after surgery
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| Housing and the Care Continuum | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
Assisted Living: Organized by Health Authority:
Assisted Living Registry: Registers residences, monitors their operations, works with operators/registrants to ensure that they protect the health and safety of residents, and acts when registrants are not protecting health and safety (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-714-3378, Victoria phone: 250-952-1369, BC-wide toll-free: 1-866-714-3378, email: hlth.assistedlivingregistry@gov.bc.ca)
BC Housing: Aims to create safe, affordable, and quality housing for all British Columbians (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-433-2218, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-257-7756)
Better at Home: Program that helps seniors with simple non-medical, day-to-day tasks so that they can continue to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. Contact the community agency in your area to apply. A program coordinator will work with you to help determine which services will suit you best.
Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC): Aging in Place Safely and Independently: Information on housing options for Seniors, housing and finance tips, mortgage financing options, and preventing fraud and financial abuse
Comfort Keepers: Caring for Yourself While you Care for Others: Research and resources for family caregivers
Ministers Responsible for Seniors: Thinking about Aging in Place: Resource that helps one plan to age in their own home and community with the health and social supports and services needed to live safely and independently for as long as they wish and are able
Senior Services Society of BC: Organization that aims to connect adults 60+ with individual support and housing navigation services to enhance their lives (phone: 604-520-6621, email: info@seniorsservicessociety.ca)
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| Hypertension | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Hypertension Canada: Non-profit dedicated to the prevention and control of hypertension and its complications |
| Identifying Addiction | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
BC Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service: Provides free, confidential information (prevention resources, support groups, and addiction-related topics) and referral services to British Columbians in need of support with any kind of substance use issue (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-660-9382, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-1441)
BC Centre on Substance Abuse: Provides resources and information for individuals living with problematic substance use, their family, and caregivers
BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use: A coalition of mental health and substance use non-profit organizations that share knowledge and resources. Provides support or community referral. (phone: 310-6789 (no area code required), email: bcpartners@heretohel.bc.ca)
Gambling Support BC: Provides free prevention, treatment, support services, and information for anyone struggling with their own or a loved one’s gambling. Support is available via the Gambling Support Line (below) or the online intake form
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| Keeping Seniors Safe | Reporting Cases of Elder Abuse or Neglect: Please make reports to the Health Authority in which the senior in whose treatment you are reporting resides. If you know the program that is involved with the adult you may connect directly with a Designated Responder Coordinator. Keep a record of the date and who you called to report your concerns.
Reporting Cases of Financial Abuse:
Access Pro Bono: Service that helps British Columbians find a suitable lawyer to resolve their legal problem (for family, tenancy, employment, personal injury, wills, estate, or trust law issues). To be connected to an expert lawyer who will provide up to a half-hour of free legal consultation, use the online booking platform or call 604-687-3221 or 1-800-663-1919 (toll-free)
Assisted Living Registry: Protects health and safety for those in assisted living situations (phone: 1-866-714-3378, email: info@alregistrar.bc.ca)
BC Ombudsperson: Receives inquiries & complaints about public agencies (Victoria phone: 250-387-5855, toll-free: 1-800-567-3247)
Better Business Bureau of BC: Non-profit that helps consumers find and recommend businesses they can trust (phone: 604-682-2711)
Canadian Antifraud Centre: Collects information on fraud and identity theft and provides information on past and current frauds affecting Canadians
Canada Revenue Agency: How Can I Donate Wisely and Avoid Fraud?: Warning signs of charity-related fraud and tips about donating wisely Community Living BC: A designated agency responsible for responding to allegations of abuse and neglect involving adults living with developmental disabilities Nursing Homes Abuse: Service that informs families about the risks of nursing home abuse, and helps people take legal action if a loved one has been injured Office of the Seniors’ Advocate BC: Provides information and referrals for individuals who are navigating seniors services and tracks their concerns (Victoria phone: 250-952-3181, BC-wide toll-free: 1-877-952-3181, information available 24/7, referrals available from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) People’s Law School: Non-profit society that provides free education, information, and workshops to help people effectively deal with the legal problems of daily life (phone: 604-331-5400) Seniors Abuse & Information Line (SAIL): A helpline for seniors and loved ones to talk to a trained intake worker about abuse or mistreatment and receive information and support about issues that impact the health and well-being of an older adult. SAIL intake workers are trained to provide a listening, non-judgmental and supportive ear and provide resources, and referrals to free internal programs and support (phone: 604-437-1940, toll-free: 1-866-437-1940, available weekdays 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. & weekends 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., excluding statutory holidays. Language interpretation is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Seniors’ Distress Line: Free, confidential, multilingual phone service that offers immediate emotional support to seniors (toll-free: 1-800-784-2433, available 24/7) Society of Notaries Public of BC: Provides a directory of notaries public in BC (phone: 604-681-4516) VictimLink BC: Free, confidential, multilingual service that provides information and referral services to all victims of crime and immediate crisis support to victims of family and sexual violence (toll-free/text:1-800-563-0808, email: VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca, available 24/7) |
| Knowing your Bladder | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian Continence Foundation: Non-profit that helps people experiencing urinary and bowel incontinence and their caregivers seek and access cures, remedies, and treatment options by implementing and encouraging public and professional education, support, advocacy, and research to advance understanding of the causes of incontinence, treatment and/or management
Canadian Nurse Continence Advisors: Professional organization that provides resources |
| Life without Driving | 2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
Alternative Transportation for Seniors in BC
Better at Home: Program that helps seniors with simple non-medical, day-to-day tasks so that they can continue to live independently in their own homes and remain connected to their communities. Contact the community agency in your area to apply. A program coordinator will work with you to help determine which services will suit you best.
Canadian Automobile Association (CAA): Provides information on how seniors can maintain and assess their driving skills
McMaster Optimal Aging Portal: Changing Gears – Planning for Retiring from Driving: Short, interactive lesson that teaches how to plan for retiring from driving
Senior Drivers BC: All drivers must have a Driver’s Medical Examination Report (includes cognition, eyesight, and physical health) completed by their doctor or nurse practitioner every two years beginning at age 80. Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not cover the cost of the report, so your doctor or nurse practitioner may charge you for it
Seniors On the Move: Arm of the Better Environmentally Sound Transportation (BEST) non-profit charitable organization that aims to activate better transportation options for seniors through initiatives, collaboration, and leadership
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| Medication Awareness | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian Institute of Health Information: Drug Use Among Seniors in Canada (2016): Provides an in-depth examination of the number and types of drugs prescribed to seniors (those 65+) in all Canadian provinces and Yukon
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): Medication Use in Older Adults: Provides necessary information for seniors, their families, and friends regarding medication safety
Government of BC: Medication Safety: Resource page with information on basic medication safety tips and drug interactions
Merck Manual for the Consumer: Aging and Drugs: Provides information on the benefits and risks of prescription drugs for consumers
The Safe Living Guide – A Guide to Home Safety for Seniors: Keeping track of your Medicine: Resource from the Public Health Agency of Canada that provides a medication safety checklist, tips, and an impactful vignette |
| Memory and Aging | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Alzheimer Society of BC: British Columbian branch of the Alzheimer Society of Canada (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742, email: info@alzheimerbc.org)
Alzheimer Society of Canada: National health charity supporting people living with all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their caregivers and their families (toll-free: 1-800-936-6033, email: info@alzheimer.ca)
American Psychological Association (APA): Memory and Aging: Provides information on normal versus abnormal memory loss related to aging, possible causes of memory issues, tips for maintaining/improving memory, memory aids, and when to seek professional help (please note this is an American resource)
Help Guide: Memory Loss and Aging: Provides information on normal versus abnormal memory loss related to aging, and how to recognize the signs of more serious problems
Home and Community Care in BC: Provides information on care options, who pays for care, eligibility requirements and how to manage care
Seniors First BC: Dementia: Provides accessible information on dementia prevalence, symptoms, and diagnosis, other memory-involved issues, and implications/developments
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| Mental Health | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Alzheimer Society of BC: British Columbian branch of the Alzheimer Society of Canada (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742, email: info@alzheimerbc.org)
Alzheimer Society of Canada: National health charity supporting people living with all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their caregivers and their families (toll-free: 1-800-936-6033, email: info@alzheimer.ca)
BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services: Provides specialized treatment, education, health promotion and more for British Columbians (phone: 604-829-8657, email: feedback@bcmhs.bc.ca)
BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use: A coalition of mental health and substance use non-profit organizations that share knowledge and resources. Provides support or community referral (phone: 310-6789 (no area code required), email: bcpartners@heretohel.bc.ca)
Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health: Organization that aims to promote the mental health of seniors by connecting people, ideas, and resources (phone: 289-846-5383 ext. 223, email: info@ccsmh.ca)
Canadian Mental Health Association: BC Division: A collective of organizations that identify and respond to pressing mental health priorities (BC Lower Mainland phone 604-688-3234, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-555-8222, for mental health information, referral or support, email: help@cmha.bc.ca)
Crisis Line Association of BC: Non-profit dedicated to ensuring that every person in BC has access to the needed emotional support and critical services that crisis lines provide
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| Money Smarts for Seniors (Financial Literacy) | Government of Canada – Money and Finances: Information hub for managing your money, debt, and investments, planning for retirement, and protecting yourself from consumer fraud
Government of BC: Financial and Legal Matters: Addresses financial and legal challenges of aging, to help one prepare and plan to assist family or caregivers Credit Counselling Society of BC: Non-profit charity that helps Canadians solve their money problems by providing free credit counselling, low-cost debt solutions, and education to help you manage your money better (toll-free: 1- 888-527-8999) Credit Report
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| Navigating the Emergency Department | Patients who require medical attention within 12 to 24 hours for something like a sprain, minor cut or burn can visit an Urgent and Primary Care Centre. For life-threatening illnesses or injuries, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room right away
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
9-1-1: For Ambulance, Fire and Police (Emergency Services) BC Emergency Health Services: Provides out-of-hospital and inter-hospital health services throughout BC Emergency Department Wait Times: For Vancouver, Victoria, and the North Shore/Sea-to-Sky
In Case of Emergency: Contacts on iPhone or Apple Watch
In Case of Emergency: Contacts on Android phones
Locate Health and Medical Services: Provides listings for health services provided by the provincial government, provincial health authorities, and non-profit agencies across the province. You can search for walk-in clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, mental health programs, home care programs, pharmacy services, laboratory services, and more
Patient Voices Network: A community of patients, families and caregivers working together with healthcare partners to improve BC’s health care system. Connects patient partners with health care partners who are seeking to engage the patient voice in their efforts to improve quality of care (phone: 604-668-8210, toll-free: 1-877-282-1919, email: info@bcpsqc.ca)
Urgent and Primary Care Centres: Listing of Urgent and Primary Care Centres (UPCCs) across BC, which provide access to same-day, urgent, non-emergency health care. These centres are often open on evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays (hours vary by clinic) and provide an alternative to visiting an emergency department for non-emergency issues |
| Navigating the Health Care System | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
BC Emergency Health Services: Provides out-of-hospital and inter-hospital health services throughout BC
BC Health Authorities: BC’s Ministry of Health works with two provincial and five regional health authorities to deliver healthcare to British Columbians
BC HealthGateway: Provides secure and convenient virtual access to your health records (medications, proof of vaccination, COVID-19 tests, health visits, immunization history, and the status of special authority requests) in BC. Can be accessed on a computer or mobile device using your BC Services Card App (above)
BC Hospice and Palliative Care: Provides vital information on end-of-life care services in BC, including eligibility, ways to access care, dying at home, Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), care costs, and care services in long-term care, BC Palliative Care Benefits, and advance care planning
BC Pharmacare: Helps eligible BC residents with the cost of some prescription drugs and medical supplies
BC Services Card: Provides access to government services in BC, including health and medical care covered under MSP (more information)
Chronic Disease Management:
College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC: Serve the public by regulating physicians and surgeons practicing in BC COVID-19 Care: Non-medical information about COVID-19 can be accessed by calling 1-888-268-4319 (toll-free) from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 7 days a week
Locate Health and Medical Services: Provides listings for health services provided by the provincial government, provincial health authorities, and non-profit agencies across the province. You can search for walk-in clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, mental health programs, home care programs, pharmacy services, laboratory services, and more
Medical Services Plan (MSP): Public, provincial health insurance that covers eligible health and medical care in BC, for all BC residents
Virtual Health: Vancouver Coastal Health: Virtual health support: 1-844-442-4433 (toll-free), available Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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| Osteoarthritis | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Arthritis Line: Free telephone and email support service in English and French for people affected by arthritis. Trained volunteers can answer your questions about arthritis, how to manage the disease and where to access arthritis-related resources. They can also offer support when needed (toll-free: 1-800-321-1433, press “ 2”, email: info@arthritis.ca, or fill out the contact form, available Monday to Friday and responses are expected within 24 hours)
Arthritis Society: National health charity fueled by donors and volunteers, with a mission to fight the fire of arthritis with research, advocacy, innovation, information, and support
McMaster Optimal Aging Portal: Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Short, interactive lesson that teaches how to best manage osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, reduce symptoms, and improve mobility with exercise |
| Osteoporosis | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian Menopause Society: Multidisciplinary group of family physicians, specialists and healthcare professionals who aim to advance the health of women at and beyond the menopause transition through education initiatives and knowledge transfer. Due to rapid bone loss that occurs at menopause, women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis
Health and Bone: Osteoporosis Treatment and Prevention: Educational resource for those affected by osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Canada: National organization serving people affected by osteoporosis through the education, empowerment and support of individuals and communities on bone health and in the risk-reduction and treatment of osteoporosis |
| Palliative Care | BC Hospice Palliative Care Association: Non-profit organization that represents individuals and organizations committed to promoting and delivering hospice/palliative care to British Columbians. Hosts educational events which focus on topics of interest to healthcare professionals, hospice society staff, volunteers, and members of allied organizations who are committed to ensuring quality end-of-life care (phone: 604-267-7024, toll-free: 1-877-410-6297, email: office@bchpca.org)
BC Palliative Care Benefits Program: Coverage of medication and medical supplies for patients with a life expectancy of 6 months or less
Canadian Virtual Hospice: Provides support and personalized information about advanced illness, palliative care, loss, and grief to people living with illness and their family members (email: info@virtualhospice.ca)
Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association: Organization that advances and advocates for access to quality end-of-life/hospice palliative care in Canada (phone: 613-241-3663, toll-free: 1-800-668-2785, email: info@chpca.ca)
Canadian Institute of Health Information: Access to Palliative Care in Canada (2018): Report on access to Palliative Care in Canada
Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS): A questionnaire used to rate the intensity of nine common symptoms experienced by cancer patients, including pain, tiredness, nausea, depression, anxiety, drowsiness, appetite, well-being, and shortness of breath.
Federal Employment Insurance Compassionate Care Benefits: Provide financial assistance for up to 26 weeks while you are away from work to care for or support someone of any age who needs end-of-life care.
Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): Orders that allow your doctor to communicate your treatment wishes and decisions with other doctors and healthcare providers who may be involved in your care. Through advance care planning discussions, you and your doctor can explore your values and the range of treatments available. For information and resources on MOST from your health authority, click on the links below:
No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Form: Provides you and your physician or nurse practitioner with a legal option to order that no CPR be provided by health care providers and first responders
Notification of Expected Death in the Home Form: Completed by the patient’s physician and sent to the funeral home before the death. This form allows a Funeral Director to remove a body from the home without pronouncement of death. Pronouncement of death is not required by BC Law, although it is widely recognized that pronouncement is a sound clinical and ethical practice for nurses and physicians. There may be circumstances when pronouncement is difficult, or families choose to waive pronouncement.
Questions and Answers for the Public About Expected/Planned Home Deaths: Frequently asked questions and answers for those wishing to plan an expected natural home death
The Joint Protocol for Expected/Planned Home Deaths in BC: Guides individuals at the end of their lives, families, and health care providers on how to have an expected/planned natural home death. This document provides clarity on roles, responsibilities, and activities involved in a home death. |
| Parkinson’s Disease | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. You can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health symptom checks and make connections with other resources or connect you directly with a registered health professional. Any one of these professionals can help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Disability Alliance BC: Provides resources to support independent living (contact information for individual programs & services)
HandyDART: TransLink’s door-to-door, shared-ride service for people who are unable to navigate conventional public transit without assistance
Healthy Eating for Seniors Handbook: Provincial resource that includes recipes, menu plans, and information on good nutrition – includes a section on Parkinson’s Disease (phone for bulk copies: 1-800-465-4911)
Parkinson Canada: Organization that provides education and services to support individuals affected by Parkinson’s, their family, and their health team, online, by telephone and in-person
Parkinson Society BC: Organization that aims to empower individuals affected by Parkinson’s in BC by providing resources and services to enable self-management, self-reliance, and self-advocacy
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| Pedestrian Safety | 9-1-1: For Ambulance, Fire and Police (Emergency Services)
2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
Ottawa Safety Council: 5 Simple Safety Tips for Senior Pedestrians: Practical tips regarding pedestrian safety for older adults |
| Pensions and Tax Options | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): Collects taxes, administers tax law and policy, and delivers benefit programs for the Government of Canada and most provinces and territories
Employment and Social Development Canada: Federal department responsible for social programs and the labour market at the federal level
Revenue Services of BC: Works on behalf of the Ministry of Finance to collect money owed to the government
Service Canada: Provides Canadians with a single point of access to a wide range of government services and benefits
Tax Information Phone Service (TIPS): Automated line that can provide a personalized remittance voucher, proof of income statement for 2021, 2020, and 2019, check the status of your 2021 tax return (via Telerefund), check your tax account balance, get personalized and general information on benefits, find out the amount RRSP contributions you can deduct and your TFSA room, and more (toll-free: 1-800-267-6999. Before you call, go to Authentication to know what information you should have on hand) |
| Personal Planning Overview | Alzheimer Society of BC: Provides a wide selection of information on personal planning (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742)
BC Centre for Palliative Care: Provides information and resources for Advance Care Planning (phone: 604-553-4866, email: office@bc-cpc.ca)
BC Transplant: Organ Donation: Register your decision for organ donation in the BC Organ Donor Registry (phone: 604-877-2240, toll-free: 1-800-663-6189, email: info@bct.phsa.ca)
Clicklaw: Resource hub for legal information, education, and support related to personal planning for British Columbians
My Voice: Expressing My Wishes for Future Health Care Treatment: The BC government’s advance care planning guide
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry: Provides detailed information about end-of-life planning and an opportunity to register Representation Agreements (email: info@nidus.ca)
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on personal planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Medicine Body Donation Program: If you would like to donate your body to Science/Medicine. The Program has been in service since 1950, with many individuals contributing their bodies to anatomical study and medical research (phone: 604-822-2578) |
| Power of Attorney | Alzheimer Society of BC: Provides a wide selection of information on personal planning (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742)
BC Centre for Palliative Care: Provides information and resources for Advance Care Planning (phone: 604-553-4866, email: office@bc-cpc.ca)
BC Transplant: Organ Donation: Register your decision for organ donation in the BC Organ Donor Registry (phone: 604-877-2240, toll-free: 1-800-663-6189, email: info@bct.phsa.ca)
Clicklaw: Resource hub for legal information, education, and support related to personal planning for British Columbians
My Voice: Expressing My Wishes for Future Health Care Treatment: The BC government’s advance care planning guide
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry: Provides detailed information about end-of-life planning and an opportunity to register Representation Agreements (email: info@nidus.ca)
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on personal planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Medicine Body Donation Program: If you would like to donate your body to Science/Medicine. The Program has been in service since 1950, with many individuals contributing their bodies to anatomical study and medical research (phone: 604-822-2578) |
| Representation Agreement | Access Pro Bono: Service that helps British Columbians find a suitable lawyer to resolve their legal problem (for family, tenancy, employment, personal injury, wills, estate, or trust law issues). To be connected to an expert lawyer who will provide up to a half-hour of free legal consultation, use the online booking platform or call 604-687-3221 or 1-800-663-1919 (toll-free)
Alzheimer Society of BC: Provides information and support to alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias (phone: 604-681-6530, toll-free: 1-800-667-3742)
BC Transplant: Organ Donation: Register your decision for organ donation in the BC Organ Donor Registry (phone: 604-877-2240, toll-free: 1-800-663-6189, email: info@bct.phsa.ca)
Clicklaw: Resource hub for legal information, education, and support related to personal planning for British Columbians
Law Students’ Legal Advice Program Clinics: Law students from the University of British Columbia offer free legal help with representation agreements (phone: 604-822-5791)
Legal Aid BC: Non-profit organization that provides legal information, advice, and representation services by serving all British Columbians and particularly those with low incomes
My Voice: Expressing My Wishes for Future Health Care Treatment: The BC government’s advance care planning guide
Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry: Provides detailed information about representation agreements (email: info@nidus.ca)
No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Form: Provides you and your physician or nurse practitioner with a legal option to order that no CPR be provided by health care providers and first responders
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on personal planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
Seniors First BC: Representative Agreement: Comprehensive guide to representation agreements by the legal staff of the Elder Law Clinic
Society of Notaries Public of BC: Provides a directory of notaries public in BC (phone: 604-681-4516)
The BC Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing: Provides additional legal information useful for your advance care planning. To learn more, click on the link below: |
| Safety in the Home | BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit: Falls in Older Adults: Accurate and up-to-date information on falls and fall prevention
Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB): Non-profit that delivers programs and advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness (toll-free: 1-800-563-2642)
Government of Canada: Home Safety Tips: Safety for household chemicals, window covering cords, hot water, lead-based paints and during the holidays
The Safe Living Guide: A Guide to Home Safety for Seniors: Provides checklists for future safety in and around the home (includes: Keeping Your Home Safe, Keeping Yourself Healthy and Active, Keeping Track of Your Medicine, Keeping Safe with Safety Aids, Keeping Safe Through Adapting Your Home, and You CAN prevent falls!) |
| Skin Conditions | Bayshore Health: How Your Skin Changes with Age: What you need to know about common skin conditions affecting seniors
BC Cancer Agency: Skin Cancer: Provides information on the different types of skin cancer
Pressure Injuries/Bedsores: Information on causes, risks factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
Shingles: Information on this painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster (chickenpox) virus. One’s risk of developing shingles is increased if they are over 50 years old or have a weakened immune system
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| Sleep | Canadian Sleep Society: Provides Canadians with evidence-based tools and information to enable healthy sleep (email: info@css-scs.ca)
Centre de recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal: How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep without Medication: Guide that outlines realistic sleep goals, and how one can get the best night’s sleep Sleep Foundation: Why Do We Need Sleep?: Provides information on the science behind sleep, how much sleep humans, and the importance of getting enough sleep Sleepwell: Aims to help people with insomnia get their sleep back without medications and help people stop taking sleeping pills safely and effectively
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| Social Connectedness | Search for your local community centre online to explore recreational and social programs offered in your area
2-1-1: A non-profit organization that specializes in providing free information and referral regarding community, government, and social services in BC (phone/text, available 24/7)
8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
BC Healthy Aging Core: Social Connectedness: Listing of groups, community programs, and resources related to social connectedness in old age
BC Transit: The province’s transportation network (outside Metro Vancouver)
Choose to Move Program: Free and flexible program that provides those 65 and older with motivation and support to become more active, helping you to integrate activity into your daily routine, meet new friends, and make a positive change regardless of ability (phone: 604-875-4111 ext. 21787, email: contact@choosetomove.info)
Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House: Seniors Programs and Services: A variety of special events and ongoing programs for seniors
Government of BC: Seniors and Social Connections: Information on how to stay socially connected, and provides a listing of Seniors’ organizations, activities, and events
HandyDART: TransLink’s door-to-door, shared-ride service for people who are unable to navigate conventional public transit without assistance
TransLink: Metro Vancouver’s transportation network, providing public transit, major roads, and bridges
Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors:
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| Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
9-1-1: For Ambulance, Fire and Police (Emergency Services) Heart and Stroke Foundation: National organization that researches and offers support and resources for individuals who have or have had heart disease and stroke After Stroke (https://www.afterstroke.ca/) Stroke: Information on symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of stroke, as well as prevention of stroke recurrence Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Information on symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of TIA, as well as prevention of TIA recurrence |
| Technology and Aging | Centre for Technology Adoption for Aging in the North (CTAAN): Research centre that breaks the barriers to the adoption of technologies that can help older residents of northern and rural communities to age happily and healthily in place (phone: 250-960-5154, email: info@ctaan.ca)
Connected Canadians: Organization that helps older adults in their network develop digital literacy skills via a customized, hands-on learning centred approach
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| Vision Health | 8-1-1: Free provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC, which is part of the Ministry of Health. By calling, you can speak to a health service navigator who can help you find health information and services or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Any one of these healthcare professionals will help you get the information you need to manage your health concerns, or those of your family (available 24/7)
Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB): Non-profit that delivers programs and advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness (toll-free: 1-800-563-2642)
Canadian Ophthalmological Society: National authority on eye and vision care in Canada
Health Canada Seniors and Aging: Vision Care: Provides information on symptoms of age-related vision loss, health effects, minimizing risk, and more First Nations Health Authority: Vision Care Benefit: Provides information on the comprehensive vision care plan offered to First Nation individuals in BC Fraser Health: Eye Care for Seniors: Provides information on common vision problems among seniors, how to get one’s eyes checked, and vision loss prevention Public Health Agency of Canada: Info-sheet for Seniors: Provides information on how to prevent vision loss and types of vision changes/loss related to aging |
| Wills and Estate Planning | Access Pro Bono: Service that helps British Columbians find a suitable lawyer to resolve their legal problem (for family, tenancy, employment, personal injury, wills, estate, or trust law issues). To be connected to an expert lawyer who will provide up to a half-hour of free legal consultation, use the online booking platform or call 604-687-3221 or 1-800-663-1919 (toll-free)
After a Death: First Steps When Someone Dies: Comprehensive guide to navigating death and bereavement BC Bereavement Helpline: A free helpline for grief. This non-profit confidential service connects you to a caring volunteer who can listen. They are familiar with support groups, organizations, and resources across the province (toll-free: 1-877-779-2223, available Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm) BC Transplant: Organ Donation: Register your decision for organ donation in the BC Organ Donor Registry (phone: 604-877-2240, toll-free: 1-800-663-6189, email: info@bct.phsa.ca)
BC Vital Statistics Agency: Wills Registry: Applicants can use the wills registry to register the location of a will by filing a wills notice or search for a wills notice as part of estate probate. The page provides information on how to file a wills notice, change your will or its location, search for a wills notice, request a search for a wills notice, and apply for a search for a wills notice
Clicklaw: Resource hub for legal information, education, and support related to personal planning for British Columbians
Dial-A-Law: A resource hub for information on the law in BC (BC Lower Mainland phone: 604-687-4680, Canada-wide toll-free: 1-800- 565-5297)
Executors & Probate Court: Do-it-yourself guides published by Self Counsel Press. Available at many public libraries, bookstores, and legal stationery stores
Law Students’ Legal Advice Program Clinics: Law students from the University of British Columbia offer free legal help with some legal matters including wills (if the total value of an estate is under $25,000), powers of attorney, representation agreements and advanced directives (phone: 604-822-5791)
Legal Aid BC: Non-profit organization that provides legal information, advice, and representation services by serving all British Columbians and particularly those with low incomes
Make A Will: Do-it-yourself guides published by Self Counsel Press. Available at many public libraries, bookstores, and legal stationery stores
People’s Law School: Non-profit society that provides free education, information, and workshops to help people effectively deal with the legal problems of daily life (phone: 604-331-5400)
Public Guardian and Trustee of BC: Offers advice on Advance Care Planning (Vancouver phone: 604-660-2421, Victoria phone: 250-387-6121, BC-wide toll-free: 1-800-663-7867)
Society of Notaries Public of BC: Provides a directory of notaries public in BC (phone: 604-681-4516) |
