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Keep your social circles from getting smaller as you face life’s ups and downs. Give back and get involved to keep your spirits up and stay well.

As you age you may face change and loss affecting your mental and physical health. Be mindful of how transition can affect your outlook. Combat social isolation and loneliness by focusing on:

• • Regular contact with family and friends
    Stay in touch with loved ones and people who make you feel needed and valued.
  • Learning how to bounce back and cope
    Take some time to read about mindfulness, coping with stress and change, and seek the advice of a health professional to help you build your ability to spring back and recover.
  • Joining a club or activity
    Call your local seniors’, community or recreation centre and ask about social clubs, activities, or programs for older adults.
  • Giving back
    Volunteering is a great way to make a difference, interact with others, and stay connected. Seniors are valued volunteers and there are many opportunities available province wide.
  • Exploring transportation alternatives
    If you don’t drive, try using public transit to get out and about. The Community Travel Training program is currently available in Victoria, Kelowna, Prince George, and Vernon, and will show you how to use public transit. If you have a disability you may be able to access HandyDART. TransLink is responsible for HandyDART in Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland while BC Transit operates handyDART in other communities across the province.

Did You Know?
Older women are more likely to experience loneliness than older men. However, men usually have greater difficulty dealing with the loss of a spouse.