Office of the Seniors Advocate

06/23/2026

Is it hot where you are? ☀️

Here are some tips to help you stay cool and safe:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated ✔️

Limit strenuous activity. If possible, do errands early or late in the day when it’s cooler ✔️

NEVER leave children and pets in parked cars ❌

Use sunscreen and wear UV-protective eyewear and lightweight clothing ✔️

Seek cooler indoor and outdoor spaces ✔️

Check in on loved ones to make sure they have a cool space ✔️

Learn more: PreparedBC.ca/ExtremeHeat

Alt text: Park scene with a bench and trees, alongside a thermometer with hot weather temperatures.

06/18/2026

Did you know that low-income adults aged 65 or older may qualify for an affordable digital device or internet plan? 💻

✅ The Connecting Families Initiative helps low-income adults aged 65 or older and low-income families access low-cost home internet plans.

For more info: https://Canada.ca/connecting-families

06/18/2026

This Pride Month, we celebrate the contributions, resilience and diverse experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ older adults across B.C.

Their stories and advocacy have helped build stronger, more inclusive communities. We must continue improving services so all seniors can age with dignity, safety, respect and belonging.

06/18/2026

Vishing (voice phishing) is a phishing technique that tricks people into sharing sensitive information over the phone.
Older adults are often unjustly targeted by this scam. by learning more: https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/blogs/what-vishing

06/17/2026

Many seniors in B.C. delay getting help for hearing loss because hearing aids are simply too expensive. Today's announcement allowing over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss is a positive step toward improving access and affordability.

"As I hear from many seniors, hearing aids can cost up to $11,000 and are out of reach for many older people in B.C. More affordable, non-prescription options will help support dignity, independence and healthy ageing." – BC Seniors Advocate Dan Levitt

Read more:

New retail, online options provide support for adults with hearing loss

06/16/2026

Do you have questions about the Old Age Security pension? Find out if you are eligible and how it can help you.

Old Age Security (OAS) is an important income stream for millions o...

06/15/2026

Abuse and neglect can happen to anyone.

On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we join provincial leaders in encouraging British Columbians to learn the signs of elder abuse, check in on older adults in their lives, and help create communities where seniors can age with dignity, respect and safety.

Read the joint statement: https://ow.ly/5CzV50Zc0OV

06/15/2026

Reports of elder abuse in B.C. are increasing, but the numbers tell only part of the story.

Many older adults experience abuse and neglect in silence, making awareness and reporting critical. Financial abuse remains one of the most commonly reported forms of elder abuse, often involving increasingly sophisticated scams.

On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, learn more about the trends and the importance of protecting older adults in our communities.

Read more: https://ow.ly/H7tn50ZbWFF

BC Community Response Networks - Seniors First BC

06/14/2026

Today is National Long-Term Care Day, a time to recognize the importance of quality long-term care and the growing need for access to it.

The number of people waiting for a long-term care bed in B.C. has increased by 200% over the past decade, while the average wait time has nearly doubled to 290 days.

Behind every statistic is a senior and a family waiting for the care and support they need.

Read our report on the growing shortage of long-term care beds in B.C.: https://www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca/osa-reports/from-shortfall-to-crisis-growing-demand-for-long-term-care-beds-in-b-c/

06/12/2026

Hotter weather is on its way in many parts of B.C. and seniors can be at greater risk of heat-related illness.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and check in on family, friends and neighbours. If your home becomes too hot, make a plan to spend time in a cooler space such as a library or community centre.

Learn how to prepare for extreme heat and stay safe: https://ow.ly/FbGb50Zblwp