Resources
Community Connector
Connecting seniors to community programs and activities that support their health, wellbeing, and sense of belonging.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social Prescribing is a program where healthcare professionals can refer patients in order to improve their health and wellbeing. The Social Prescribing program's aim is to increase the participants' quality of life, reduce social isolation, improve mental and physical wellness, and decrease the use of health care services. Once a referral is made, participants will meet with a Community Connector to explore what matters to them.
Why Social Prescribing?
The sense of belonging that comes from being part of a community group and having peer support can reduce loneliness and anxiety. It helps people to find a new sense of purpose, enjoying activities they might not otherwise have tried before such as arts, cultural activities, walking, running, gardening, singing, and making connections to the outdoors. Being connected to community groups through Social Prescribing enables people to be more physically active and improves mental well-being.
What does the Community Connector do?
Community Connectors help each individual participant put together a personalized combination of community-based activities that are specifically chosen to fit their lifestyle, interests and special needs in ways that complement any existing pharmaceutical prescriptions. Community Connectors work closely with participants, building a trusting relationship with them, developing and implementing wellness plans, referring the participant to culturally appropriate community resources, encouraging their participation by accompanying them to programs and activities, following up with them regarding their progress and providing other relevant support as needed.
Referral Criteria
Seniors 60+ living in the Fort St. John and surrounding areas who are or may be:
- Socially isolated or marginalized
- Experiencing mental health or emotional distress
- Living with a chronic disease
- Physically inactive
- Having poor nutrition and/or food security concerns
- Experiencing poor health outcomes associated with the Social Determinants of Health
- Frequently using primary health care
Examples of Social Prescribing Categories
Physical Activity Programs
Walking groups, yoga, swimming, games and sports activities
Nutrition & Food Programs
Grocery shopping, meal services, cooking classes, gardening activities
Social Programs & Services
Friendly visiting, book clubs, support groups, language support, health workshops
Access to Information & Support
Housing, housekeeping and laundry, transportation, income tax preparation, government programs and benefits, mental health services
Need Help Getting Started?
Our Community Connector is happy to answer your questions and help connect you with the right resources.