Our government is working hard to improve life for seniors by investing in health care, transforming long-term care, keeping seniors safer in a crisis, and improving home care for safe, independent living. Below are some links to information regarding programs for seniors, as well as some names of advocacy groups that help seniors and their families. And as always, our office is here to help navigate the system with you.

Government information

•  Go to SeniorsBC to explore resources and programs for seniors. The website, SeniorsBC, provides information about government programs and services for older adults. The goal is to provide the residents of BC with one place to go to find all the information they need to plan for and live a healthy, active aging lifestyle.

•  Pick up a copy of the BC Seniors Guide from Susie Chant, MLA’s Community Office.

The BC Seniors’ Guide is a book-style compilation of information and resources to help everyone plan for and live a healthy lifestyle as they age. It includes information on provincial and federal programs, with sections on benefits, health, lifestyle, housing, transportation, finances, safety and security, and other services.

The BC Seniors Guide is also available on-line, or you can order a free print copy of the BC Seniors’ Guide in English, French, Chinese or Punjabi, by contacting the Office of the Seniors Advocate, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m toll-free at  1-877-952-3181.

Other Local & Non-Profit Resources

411 Seniors Centre – The 411 Seniors Centre Society mission statement reads that they provide “senior-led programs and services that mobilizes seniors’ diverse strengths, talents, interests and expertise to the benefit of fellow seniors and the community at large, and in collaboration with like-minded organizations.” 411 Seniors Centre has trained volunteers that provide information and referral to seniors age 55 and over regarding seniors income and other benefits (OAP, GIS, bus passes, SAFER), as well as assistance filling out forms. They also offer an income tax clinic from beginning of March until the end of April for low-income seniors or people on disability whose income is less than $35,000 per individual or $40,000 per couple a year.

North Shore Community Resources  – North Shore Community Resources (NSCR) offers a variety of programs that provide seniors and caregivers opportunities to maintain and increase their social connections, participate in the community and empower them to maintain their well-being.

The Seniors’ One Stop Help Line – The Seniors’ One Stop Help Line (SOS) is part of NSCR, and can be reached by calling 604-983-3302. They provide information on how to access home support, meal and shopping programs, transportation options and where to attain supportive equipment. They can help seniors navigate information on subsidized housing, financial benefits, and referrals to legal services. SOS helps people stay connected and active with information about social, recreational, and volunteer activities. This is a free service.

Seniors First BC  – Seniors First BC works to prevent elder abuse, as well as provide information, assistance and support on issues that impact older adults. There is a lot of information and e-books to help assist people in an advocating for themselves or others on this site. 

Seniors Abuse & Information Line – Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL) is part of Seniors First BC and is a safe place for older adults (50 and above), and those who care about them, to talk to a trained intake worker about abuse or mistreatment. They also provide information and support about issues that impact the health and well being of an older adult. This program is province-wide and is funded by the BC Ministry of Health. They can be reached by calling 604-437-1940 or Toll Free: 1-866-437-1940, and they are open 7 days a week.