Active Aging BC and United Way of the Lower Mainland have partnered to keep older adults active as they age by funding 30 ‘Seniors Active Aging’ grants across 27 communities in B.C., including one in the East Kootenay.

Family Dynamix Association’s
’Active Aging’ program, providing a walking club, gardening club, dances and socials at five locations in the Columbia Valley, is receiving funding support.

“The overall goal of these grants is to increase seniors’ level of physical activity in order to improve social connections, increase level of independence, and improve seniors’ well-being and quality of life,” said Michael McKnight, President & CEO, United Way of the Lower Mainland. “In order for a community to be great, it has to be great for everyone, no matter the person’s age.”

“As we age, physical activity to enhance mobility is key to maintaining independence and quality of life,” said Joanie Sims-Gould, Executive Director, Active Aging BC, Centre for Hip Health and Mobility. “A large percentage of older adults’ social connectedness is based on leisure activities. We know that for people over age 60, social isolation and feelings of loneliness are related to physical inactivity.”

All 30 one-year grants are up and running.

Active Aging BC, a program of the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility, contributed $270,000 to the initiative and United Way of the Lower Mainland contributed $240,000.

Creston’s Valley Community Services Society’s ‘Living Well’ – offering adult day program for seniors with memory changes and caregivers also received funding.

e-KNOW

Article Share