Burnaby, B.C. (December 11, 2020) – The feelings of loneliness and isolation are likely to be far more widespread in the coming weeks – with seniors in care being affected the most – thanks to the global pandemic coinciding with the annual winter holiday season. To alleviate the isolation, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) and EngAge BC have created a new online #SeniorsGreetings message portal where the public can submit handwritten notes, videos, drawings, and other expressions of love, hope and support to B.C. seniors who live in long-term care and assisted living.
The #SeniorsGreetings portal can be found at www.route65.ca/seniorsgreetings.
“We recognize how difficult that this holiday season will be for many British Columbians, especially with traditional gatherings not happening. But for seniors living in care, the impact of social isolation can be unbearable,” says Rebecca Frederick, Senior Manager, Strategic Engagement, EngAge BC. “We hope therefore all BC’ers will join us in sending a greeting to seniors in care over the holiday season.”
To make a #SeniorsGreetings submission, visit www.route65.ca. Messages and images will then be virtually shared with B.C. seniors who live in long-term care and assisted living settings. Visitors have the option to submit anonymously or with their name, and no personal information will be stored by the organization.
“We are all looking forward to safely celebrating with the seniors in our lives. Until that is possible, we hope that #SeniorsGreetings will bring some joy to seniors living in long-term care and assisted living,” says Frederick.
In addition to participating in #SeniorsGreetings, BCCPA is reminding British Columbians that the best thing any of us can do to support seniors living in long-term care and assisted living is to follow public health orders, wash your hands, wear a mask and stay home when you are sick.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Mike Klassen
VP, Public Affairs
mklassen@bccare.ca
604-377-5499
About BC Care Providers Association & EngAge BC
Established in 1977, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is the leading voice for B.C.’s continuing care sector. Our growing membership base includes over 400 long-term care, assisted living, home care, home support, and commercial members from across British Columbia. Through its operating arm EngAge BC, the organization represents independent living, as well as private pay assisted living, long-term care and home health services.
About Route 65
Route 65 is an online destination, operated by the BC Care Providers Association. The online tool helps connect B.C. seniors and the people who support them with the province’s leading operators of long-term care, assisted living, independent living and home health.
