Caring for Seniors

As someone you care about gets older, you may notice changes that make everyday life more difficult. You may be worried about their health, safety, mobility, personal care, or how they can manage safely at home. You may also need information or support for yourself as a caregiver. 

Island Health offers care and support for older adults and the people who care for them. 

Find the help you need

My parent or loved one needs help at home

Depending on the person's needs, Community Health Services may be able to connect your loved one with care at home or in their community.  

Call The Community Access Line to get started: 

Centre Island: 1-877-734-4101
North Island: 1-866-928-4988 
South Island: 1-888-533-2273 

Support can include: 

• Community Virtual Care: managing health by phone or video 

• End-of-life, palliative care, and hospice care 

• Home care and home support 

• Nursing care 

• Physical rehabilitation 

• Social work, nutrition, and respiratory support 

Please note that Community Health Services cannot assist with groceries, banking or financial tasks, travel to appointments, care for pets, or house cleaning and laundry.

I need support as a caregiver

Caring for someone can be challenging. Caregivers can feel physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. You may sometimes need help with care for your loved one, or support for your own well-being. 

Island Health caregiver supports include overnight respite, Adult Day Programs, counselling, and a Caregiver Support Program.  

You can learn more here: Caregiver Support and Respite or call the Community Access Line to register for programs:  

Centre Island: 1-877-734-4101
North Island: 1-866-928-4988 
South Island: 1-888-533-2273 

More resources:

• Family Caregivers of BC offers free support for family and friend caregivers including: 
  • BC Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-520-3267 for one-to-one emotional support, health system navigation, information and referrals 
  • Online caregiver resources, webinars, podcasts and workshops 
  • Virtual and in-person caregiver support groups 
  • Resources for young caregivers 

• Government of British Columbia  

• CaregiversCAN: support for caregivers 

• Dementia Education Program

• Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence

• First Link Dementia Helpline

My loved one has dementia

If you're caring for someone living with dementia, you can find information about dementia, care, and available resources on the Island Health dementia webpage: Learn about dementia. 

Sharing The Journey is a video series that gives family caregivers practical advice for navigating new challenges while maintaining a healthy, meaningful relationship with a loved one living with dementia. Videos are available on islandhealth.ca and the Island Health YouTube channel. 

I think my loved one may need long-term care or assisted living

If an older adult's care needs can no longer be safely supported at home, Community Health Services can assess their needs and help determine appropriate care options. 

Talk to your Case Manager, visit our Long-Term Care and Assisted Living webpages, or call the Community Access Line:  

Centre Island: 1-877-734-4101
North Island: 1-866-928-4988 
South Island: 1-888-533-2273