When Bev first heard about the Social Prescribing Program at Archway, she had no idea how profoundly it would change her life.
After spending 22 years in the United States, Bev returned to Canada following the death of her husband. What should have been a straightforward homecoming turned into an arduous journey, fraught with bureaucratic obstacles and personal challenges.
“Trying to get re-rooted was the most impossible task of my life. It took two years to prove I was a Canadian,” said Bev.
Without necessary documentation to prove she was a Canadian citizen, Bev wasn’t able to access Canadian Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement, or secure housing when she first arrived in Canada.
It was during this turbulent time that Bev experienced a fall. She was then referred to Archway’s Social Prescribing Program by the hospital social worker, and she met Trina, the community connector at Archway.
“Trina got it figured out and got me all the things I needed. She sat on the phone with government offices, helped with my paperwork, and provided emotional support when I was really down. When Trina met me, I was really ready to give up, but with her help, I’m pretty good now.”
“Trina got it figured out and got me all the things I needed. She sat on the phone with government offices, helped with my paperwork, and provided emotional support when I was really down.”
Trina spent countless hours on hold with service providers and government agencies, ensuring Bev received the help she needed.
The Social Prescribing Program is a unique initiative designed to connect older adults in the Abbotsford area with non-clinical, community-based holistic care. Identified by community connectors and healthcare professionals, participants in the program receive personalized support to delay frailty and maintain their independence.
At Archway, social prescriptions can include various activities that range from social and community connections to more practical things like securing housing and accessing food supports.
“Through a combination of practical assistance and referrals to social activities, the program enhances the quality of life for seniors, making it a vital component of community-centered healthcare practice,” said Trina Enns, Archway’s Community Connector.
Bev’s struggles included finding accessible housing, a significant challenge due to her mobility issues. After a fall that led to a broken hip and shattered thigh, Bev began using a wheelchair full-time. The apartment she initially moved into after her fall was not wheelchair accessible, which made it difficult to cook, use the washroom and move around. Trina assisted with applications to BC Housing and helped Bev find a more suitable living space.
“Trina helped me get back to the person I was —happy and helping other people,” Bev shared. “She came in at a very critical point in my life.”
“Through a combination of practical assistance and referrals to social activities, the program enhances the quality of life for seniors, making it a vital component of community-centered healthcare practice.”
Despite her challenges, Bev remains optimistic and determined. She is actively involved in her community by attending Lunch With The Bunch, a weekly social gathering for seniors, and looks forward to continuing her journey towards greater independence.
“I’m still learning how to budget and manage, but I’m more independent than I was,” Bev said.
Trina also connected her with community resources like HandyDART, Compass Card, and other Archway programs like Better At Home and home delivery through the Archway Food Bank.
Looking to the future, Bev is filled with excitement to achieve a new goal of learning bookkeeping. She learned basic bookkeeping when she was younger and is eager to expand her skills to open new doors.
“I’m probably the youngest 73-year-old person you’ll ever meet,” Bev laughed. “I think young and want to stay active.”
Bev’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Archway’s Social Prescribing Program. Through personalized, holistic care Bev has regained her sense of self and continues to thrive.
“Trina helped me get back to the person I was —happy and helping other people. She came in at a very critical point in my life.”