What’s Happening in August
Activities of the Office of the Seniors AdvocateSeniors Advocate Urges Seniors and Caregivers to Prepare for Rising TemperaturesHeat wave warnings are in effect across the province and rising temperatures may put vulnerable seniors at risk. With higher temperatures expected, it is recommended that seniors take some additional precautions and family, friends and neighbours are encouraged to check in on older people to ensure they are keeping cool and well hydrated. Training Kicks Off for Volunteer SurveyorsCalling all volunteers! We’re surveying every long-term care resident in B.C., and we need your help. Our first volunteer surveyors are now receiving training to interview seniors about the quality of life in their care homes. The survey will be rolled out to nearly 300 B.C. care homes over the coming months and more volunteers are needed from across the province. Join us to help shape the future of seniors in long-term care. Office of the Seniors Advocate Annual Report 2021/22The Office of the Seniors Advocate has released its 2021/22 annual report highlighting the Office’s activities during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Connecting with Seniors in Northern Vancouver IslandIn July, the Seniors Advocate visited several Vancouver Island communities including Port Hardy, Port McNeill and Campbell River to meet with local seniors and stakeholders to learn more about the issues facing older adults in Northern Vancouver Island. COVID-19Rapid Antigen TestsFree COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are now available to people of all ages at B.C. pharmacies. No ID is required. If you are concerned about exposure to COVID-19, please consider asking those you will be in close contact with to take a rapid test before your visit. COVID-19 BoostersA second booster, or fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, is now being recommended to seniors 70+ and Indigenous people 55+ in B.C. through the Get Vaccinated System. The Province has also announced that they are planning for the roll-out of a new booster in the fall. People under 70 are currently advised to wait until the fall to receive their booster, however those who received their last shot six months ago or more can make an appointment. COVID-19 RestrictionsMost public health restrictions in B.C. have now been lifted, including wearing masks in public indoor settings, capacity restrictions on personal gatherings, events and more. Proof of vaccination is no longer required to access most businesses, events and services. Long-Term Care UpdateMost visiting restrictions have been lifted at long-term care facilities in B.C. and people who meet the visitation requirements are permitted. Visitors must provide proof of vaccination and a negative rapid antigen test, which may be taken at home up to 48 hours before the visit, or on arrival at the facility. Please review each facility’s restrictions before your visit. Provincial NewsStatements from the Provincial Health Officer and Minister of HealthThe Provincial Health Officer and the Minister of Health release regular statements that can be accessed on the BC Government News website. Recent Announcements from the B.C. Government Impacting Seniors
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