As our aging population continues to grow, an increasing number of seniors are in need of simple aid and domestic assistancein order to be able to live comfortably, independently and safely within their own homes for as long as is possible.

Looking ahead, the proportion of seniors who live in Nakusp, is projected to increase sharply over the next few decades. Issuesof concern to older citizens will no doubt evolve as a result, and will require serious consideration including policy actionwhether on the part of the various levels of government, or members of our community in general.

Working together in meeting one’s various needs, we can ensure that seniors may continue to play a strong, productive rolewithin all aspects of society.

Within the past few months, a new program designed to help seniors achieve these goals, has come into being not only withinour own region, but also throughout more than sixty individual communities stretching right across our province.

Entitled Better at Home, this valuable helping resource is now available to those of us who have reached the age of 65 years. It isa program which values the principles of healthy living and helping to maintain the delicate balance of aiming towardindependence while also accepting a helping hand.

Better at Home offers non-medical helping services subsidized on a sliding scale determined by annual income. It also aims tocoordinate community volunteers in cooperation with paid contractors who are available to assist seniors with services rangingfrom providing transportation to appointments, light housekeeping, as well as companionship which is extended to those whoseek ways and means of remaining in touch with our community and access to minor home repair services, which are carried outby a professional contractor registered with Better at Home.

Rosalyn Lindgren has been appointed as the Better at Home program coordinator operating locally under the auspices of ArrowLakes Community Services and she invites all interested persons (seniors, friends, neighbours and members of one’s family) todrop in to Nakusp Public Library on Monday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m.

The various services will be delivered to older adults who reside within the village of Nakusp and area, and to those who live inBurton, Fauquier and Edgewood areas. Details of how to register as a volunteer meant to assist a senior, will also be available.

For more information, call Rosalyn at 250-265-8747.