A program run by Silver Threads is providing a much-needed service for seniors all over Greater Victoria, including the Saanich Peninsula.
The Reassurance for Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a no charge community service that provides daily contact to seniors that live alone.
Trained volunteers offer a daily (five days a week) check-in phone call to ensure that the senior is safe and well.
“What we’re trying to do is offer another resource for seniors who live independently. By offering the check-in service it not only gives the senior a sense of security but also their families who may not always be near,” said Tracy Ryan, the director of community relations for Silver Threads.
Ryan went on to explain that the program is being re-jigged after a bit of a hiatus.
“We have run this program in the past and it’s just taking off again,” Ryan said, adding that the volunteers collect essential information on the senior during the intake process so volunteers have all the information they need should a situation arise.
“We’re also now working with the Community Care Occupational Therapists from Island Health to see that they have intake forms for our check-in program with them when they do their visits.
“That way they can fill them out with the seniors and make sure all the information is complete,” Ryan said.
The program, she continued, is already seeing success and seems to be used by a growing number of seniors.
“Many elderly seniors want to live independently and having that daily check-in and hearing a friendly voice on the end of the phone puts them at ease,” she said.
Silver Threads Service is a charitable, not-for-profit society that provides programs and services that enhance social connections and well-being for seniors, including those at risk.
Those interested in being a part of Silver Threads’ reassurance program can call the Silver Threads Saanich Centre at 250-382-3151 and have a staff member complete the intake process over the phone.
For more information on Silver Threads programming or membership or the RSVP program, visit www.silverthreads.ca.