B.C.’s Ministry of Health and Island Health are bringing thousands of new day spaces and programs for adults and seniors to Vancouver Island.
Seniors and adults who live with physical or cognitive challenges will have access to roughly 7,400 support program spaces to help live independently.
These day spaces offer care and service for individuals for one day. The care is provided in a variety of ways, like offering nursing and rehabilitation activities, preventing social isolation through social programs, and easing some of the pressure put on caregivers.
Caregivers will also have access to support groups, educational programs, and respite services to give caregivers a chance to relax.
“More adult day spaces on Vancouver Island is part of the work we are doing to support seniors and adults with disabilities to continue living at home, which is what most people want,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
“The creation of these spaces also supports family and friend caregivers to take time for themselves to support their own health and well-being.”
The added spaces are part of B.C.’s $75 million investment for respite care and adult day programs over the next three years. By 2019, an estimated 68,000 adult care spaces will be available on Vancouver Island.
Adult day spaces will be added throughout the Island, with priority being given to the communities of Greater Victoria (Southern Vancouver Island), Campbell River, Comox Valley, Saanich Peninsula, and Mt. Waddington.
“This increase in adult day program spaces on Vancouver Island will help many seniors and adults with cognitive and physical disabilities to delay or avoid a move into a residential care home, and it will allow family and friend caregivers some much-needed time to recharge,” said Anne Kang, MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake and parliamentary secretary for seniors.
