But I’m not online!
In the new COVID world, everything seems to be virtual or online. The answer to everything seems to be on the computer. The majority of older adults are computer savvy and able to negotiate Zoom meetings and virtual social visits. But what about those who are not online or who don’t have a computer?
In Saanich, we realize that although most older adults are embracing the virtual world, not everyone has this ability. Whether it is a lack of funds to purchase the technology, living alone and having no one to show you how to use it, or just a dread of having to learn a whole new way of living at an age when you are happy as you are, not everyone is able to be online.
The Municipality of Saanich is lucky to have a division of their Parks and Rec Department called Community Services. The focus of Community Services is to connect people and create inspiring community spaces and places for the public to benefit, learn and belong. Community Services programmers work with recreation centres, non-profit groups, government agencies and the public to ensure marginalized or at risk groups including older adults, youth, low income, diverse and multicultural groups are connected to their community and feel they belong. As such, we want to make sure all older adults can be connected to their community, even those not on a computer.
With centres reopening, many older adults are wondering if their activities will be starting soon. We know many are feeling isolated and miss their in-person social visits. The reopening of recreation centres will be a slow process as many new protocols and safety measures need to be in place before they can open their doors to the general public.
In the meantime, we can keep in touch! Saanich Community Services continues to use this Times Colonist monthly 55+ pullout and Saanich News to keep older adults who are not online aware of what is happening in Saanich. We have the Cedar Hill Social Club 55+ members on regular mail, email and phone lists so we can contact them when new developments arise.
Regular newsletters with fun brain buster sheets, recipes and fit tips are shared by regular mail and email, as well as upcoming program info and club updates. Cedar Hill Social Club programs, when running, are offered to members at reduced rates. As more restrictions lift, we will find ways for older adults to reconnect and get them back with their social connections.
If you would like to be included on one of the contact lists, we invite any older adult to call or email. Cedar Hill Social Club memberships are not required at this unique time. Julie Wallace is the Older Adult programmer with Community Services and is happy to chat on the phone; she will give you whatever information she has and add your name to a phone or email list.
Contact Julie at: 250-475-5408 or Julie.wallace@saanich.ca