REGINA — Saskatchewan communities are making strides as they take action to support older adults.
The Facilitating Independence Grant Funding (FIG) from the Ministry of Health, which is co-ordinated and managed by the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM), empowers local organizations to expand services that help seniors stay safe, connected and independent in their own homes.
Many different projects are underway throughout the province. Some communities have hired co-ordinators, who are updating and promoting key resource guides, boosting awareness of age-friendly resource centres and collaborating with partners to improve transportation options for seniors.
Programs aimed at helping older adults thrive at home are growing. Some communities are delivering modern technology training, expanding home-support teams and bringing social programs directly into seniors’ residences and other places where seniors gather. These programs reduce isolation and strengthen community ties, according to a Sask. Health press release.
Many areas in the province are enhancing long-term sustainability by building programs that support wellness, food security, lifelong learning and volunteer engagement.
A Friendly Calls Plus program is a lifeline for seniors transitioning home after a hospital stay. The program offers a reassuring series of follow-up calls that support safety and recovery.
Other programs include expanding dementia-friendly supports, increasing home-repair and maintenance services with energy audits and safety workshops, and offering more tools and advocacy for caregivers balancing work and elder care responsibilities. Navigation Services are also reaching more communities, with new efforts to build accessible, French-language service databases.
For information contact programs@skseniorsmechanism.ca
