BC Community Response Networks

09/02/2026

Evacuating during a wildfire can create challenges for older adults that go far beyond getting to safety.

Our latest article looks at the risks that can emerge during an emergency, including increased vulnerability to abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, and what communities can do to better protect older adults throughout evacuation and recovery.

Visit the link in the comments to read more.

08/31/2026

A recent B.C. Supreme Court ruling is raising important questions about consent and how the rights of adults are protected when decisions about psychiatric treatment are made.

The decision has particular relevance for older adults and people living with dementia, as well as families and those entrusted to help make decisions about their care.

Disability advocates and organizations like Dementia Justice Canada hope the forthcoming legal changes will better protect personal choice, dignity, and adult rights.

Visit the link in the comments to learn more.

08/28/2026

💡Stay connected to prevention efforts happening across British Columbia.

When you sign up for our monthly newsletter, you'll receive updates on BC CRN programs and province-wide initiatives, information about upcoming training and events, and stories highlighting the work of local CRNs, partners, and community leaders.

Our newsletter shares trusted information, and supports communities to act early and collaboratively.

👉Subscribe today at the link in the comments and stay informed.

08/27/2026

BC CRN at the 50th Annual BC Elders Gathering

We were honoured to attend the 50th Annual BC Elders Gathering this week at the Vancouver Convention Centre. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with Elders from across British Columbia, listen to their stories, learn from their experiences, and share information about the resources available through BC CRN.

We are grateful for the meaningful conversations, the knowledge shared, and the new and renewed relationships built throughout the gathering.

A heartfelt thank you to the organizers, Elders, and participants who made this milestone event so special. We would also like to thank our friends from COSCO Council of Senior Citizens' Organizations of B.C. and the Council to Reduce Elder Abuse BC for sharing a booth with us and helping make the event such a success.

08/26/2026

The Prince George CRN joined the Seniors Day celebrations at the British Columbia Northern Exhibition on August 13!

This year’s BCNE brought a little Halloween fun to summer with its “BCNE Spooktacular: A Four Day Halloween Party in August”.

It was a wonderful opportunity for the Prince George CRN to connect with older adults and be part of a day dedicated to celebrating seniors in the community.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by!

08/24/2026

The Smithers Seniors Association recently hosted a Buddy Up event filled with learning, connection, and plenty of fun!

Participants explored how scent can support memory and cognition through Ayurveda, heard the latest updates from Service Canada, and learned more about mobility supports available for seniors.

The day also included live music, a nutritious lunch, and even Bingo Yoga!

There’s nothing quite like the power of bringing community together! 💙

08/21/2026

Our colleagues at the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council are offering this interesting webinar in September. See the details below!

AEAAC is pleased to present Virtual Lunch & Learn: Elder Abuse Through a Colonial Lens in the spirit of Truth & Reconciliation Month 🟠🪶

🗓️ Thursday, September 10, 2026
🕛 12:00-1:00 pm
💻 Virtual, open to the public

Elder abuse cannot be understood without acknowledging the lasting impacts of colonization on Indigenous families and communities. Join us as we explore how residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, systemic racism, and the disruption of traditional family and community structures have contributed to the conditions that place many Elders at risk today.

We'll cover
☑️The historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism on Indigenous Elders
☑️ Different forms of elder abuse, including financial, emotional, physical, neglect, and systemic abuse
☑️ Protective factors rooted in Indigenous culture, community, and kinship
☑️ Practical strategies for individuals, families, organizations, and communities to support, protect, and honour Elders
☑️ Moving from awareness to action by strengthening intergenerational relationships and restoring respect for Elders

Leave with a deeper understanding of elder abuse in its historical context, and practical ways to build safer, more culturally responsive communities.

Facilitated by Shauna Livesey, MSW, RSW, a Cree and Beaver (nehiyaw/tsááʔne) social worker, educator, therapist, and PhD student at Wilfrid Laurier University. Her work focuses on Indigenous health and wellness, trauma, relational healing, and decolonizing social work practice.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/5aT-hRxeSS6rDM474tcLRA #/registration

08/21/2026

Caring for an older adult means listening to what matters to them and making sure they continue to feel valued and included.

The care and respect we show older adults today help create communities where dignity remains important at every age.

08/19/2026

The Grandview-Woodland Community Policing Centre, the host agency of the Grandview-Woodland CRN, recently brought together older adults and community partners for a Beat the Heat workshop focused on staying safe during extreme heat.

Participants shared their own tips, learned practical ways to stay cool and hydrated, and received personal cooling kits filled with useful supplies.

The workshop combined prevention, education, and community connection while helping older adults feel more prepared for hot weather.

08/17/2026

How do the messages we hear about aging influence the way we see ourselves and others?

Join us in September for our next Provincial Learning Event, featuring Margaret MacPherson from the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University.

The session will look at how these beliefs can affect older adults and influence the way people respond when someone may be experiencing abuse or neglect.

Visit the link in the comments to learn more and register.