The Better at Home program is a ground‐breaking initiative to provide seniors with support services that will allow them to remain in their own homes longer.
The program, delivered locally by NexusBC Community Resource Centre, offers simple, necessary services such as light housekeeping, grocery shopping, yard work, home repair, and transportation to appointments.
“It is designed for seniors who are independent overall, but require modest help with a few tasks,” said Lisa Roberts, a program coordinator with Better at Home.
The program helps prevent isolation and loneliness, especially among those who are most vulnerable.
“The goal of the program is to help seniors maintain their health and safety in their own homes,” said Roberts, adding it is 100 per cent dependent on funding from the B.C. government, the United Way of the Lower Mainland, and by private donations.
“The demand for the program far exceeds the funding available, which is why we gratefully accept donations and rely heavily on volunteers,” she said. “Volunteers are the heart and soul of the program. The more volunteers we are able to recruit, the more clients we’ll be able to help.”
Since the April 1 program launch , North Okanagan Better at Home has provided more than 130 services to seniors.
“The difference our volunteers are making in the lives of seniors is profound,” said Roberts. “We’ve had so many seniors tell us that they wouldn’t know what to do without this program. Our volunteers are making a huge impact, and we hope they know it. Without them, this wouldn’t be possible.”
The program is still looking for more people to volunteer.
“Whether you live in Vernon, Armstrong, Lumby or Cherryville, if you have even two hours per week, a senior in your community could use your help,” said Roberts.
Volunteers are needed to drive seniors to appointments or for grocery shopping.
“Not being able to go anywhere you want, whenever you want, feels like a prison sentence to many seniors. Driving a senior to the doctor, or for groceries helps restore their sense of independence and empowerment,” said Roberts.
Volunteers are also needed to help with doing light yard work and minor home repair.
“Assisting a senior with simple chores around the house is also greatly appreciated, from changing a light bulb to replacing a lock.”
Anyone wishing to donate or to volunteer is asked to contact Better at Home program coordinators Lisa Roberts or Patricia Niehaus at 250‐ 545‐0585.
A free criminal record check is conducted on all new volunteers.
