Resources
There are many things you can do and learn to stay healthy as you age. Luckily, you don’t have to do it all alone! Below is a list of general resources on healthy aging followed by links to resources by topic.
The Power of Getting Help
Seventy-one-year-old Chilliwack resident Emilie has used a community resource to help improve her quality of life and her health. Five years ago, after her husband and mother died, she found herself increasingly isolated, with little interaction outside of her home.
A referral to her local seniors’ community connector linked Emilie to the Friendly Caller Program. Once a week, she gets a call from a team member of the program, who checks in to chat and see how she is doing.
She was also connected to local exercise and social programs, no-cost hearing and vision testing services, and free transportation services. When her computer broke, she was given a donated iPad.
Read Emilie’s full story and learn how community programs can change lives HERE.
Find resources for older adults in your location at Pathways Community Services Directory.
Community Resources
There are resources in your community to support healthy aging. Click on the button below to access a Community Program Library, where you can easily find community services near you.
Who made this map? Can I trust the information?
This Community Program Library is a collaborative effort between the Pacific Regional Centre for Healthy Aging, United Way British Columbia, BC211, and the Canadian Frailty Network. The information on the community resource is powered by BC211, a non-profit, free, and confidential service that connects people to helpful resources in their community. BC211 collaborates with local community programs and update resource information as needed.
If you notice any discrepancy, or have information on community programs that you hope to include into this Community Program Library, please email info@pacifichealthyaging.ca.
This map was designed to include resources specific for older adults. If you are looking for other specific community resources, please call BC211 or visit their BC211 online database.
General Resources
Frailty Assessment and the AVOID Frailty Program
Do the on-line healthy aging assessment offered by the AVOID Frailty program. You will get a personal report that will help you understand your health situation. You’ll get help to make a healthy aging plan, find people and programs in your community, and monitor your progress.
Self-Management BC
This provincial organization offers free health programs for adults of all ages with one or more ongoing health conditions. Programs are offered in person, virtually, online, by telephone, or by mail. Includes programs for Chinese, Indigenous, and Punjabi communities.
811 BC
This will connect you to HealthLinkBC’s health service navigators. They can
- Answer basic health care questions
- Help you find your way around the health care system
- Connect with a registered nurse, registered dietitian, qualified exercise professional, or pharmacist
Call 8-1-1 (7-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing)
Health advice and information
24 hours a day, seven days a week
Translation services are available in over 130 languages
For non-emergency situations only
HealthLinkBC Online Directory of Health Services
The HealthLinkBC Directory lets you search for health services provided by the B.C. health care system and non-profit groups. You can search for walk-in clinics, emergency departments, hospitals, mental health programs, home care programs, pharmacy services, lab services, and more.
If you need help using the directly, call 8-1-1 to speak with a health service navigator (7-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing).
Office of the B.C. Seniors Advocate
- lists resources, including how to sign up for the Medical Services Plan (health care insurance) and PharmaCare (which will help cover the cost of medications)
- answers questions such as “Can I get help paying for my dental care?” and “How can I find information about long-term care facilities in my community?”
Health Services Available to You
A helpful guide to health services in B.C., with a focus on the Fraser Health Authority Area.
BC 211
211 British Columbia is a free, confidential service that connects people to helpful resources in their community. It operates all day and night and provides advice in over 240 languages.
Call 2-1-1 anytime, or go to their website to search their on-line directory.
Pathways Community Services Directory
This website lets you search for health and community programs according to your location.
B.C. Elders Guide
The First Nations Health Authority created this downloadable booklet to make sure that Elders, their families, and caregivers have access to information about the programs, services, and resources they need. Includes planning worksheets and advice on healthy eating, being active, spiritual wellness, and respecting tobacco.
Canadian Frailty Network: Indigenous Health
Information and links to resources.
PridelineBC
604-684-6869 / 1-800-566-1170
Open seven day a week, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m
Can help you find appropriate and respectful doctors, specialists, and health-care programs.
A British Columbia organization dedicated to improving queer, trans, and Two-Spirit lives through services, connection, and leadership.
Vancouver Coastal Health’s education, information and referral service for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, Two-Spirit, and queer + (LGBT2Q+) communities.
Supports the delivery of equitable and accessible care, surgical planning, and peer and community support for trans people across the province.
A primary care provider is the person you see for your regular, everyday health care. Usually, it is a doctor or a nurse practitioner. This person can get to know you and help guide all parts of your health care.
Register to be linked to a primary care provider here. If you are having trouble registering, call 8-1-1 (7-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing) anytime to talk to someone who will guide you through the process.
Resources by Health Topic