The Nanaimo Lifeline Check-In service provides an important link for seniors in the Nanaimo-Oceanside region experiencing social isolation (Pixabay)

By Ian Holmes

friendly call

Mid island Check-In phone service helps tackle social isolation for seniors

May 18, 2020 | 6:51 AM

NANAIMO — Easing social isolation for a group of mid island seniors has taken on a whole new meaning of importance during COVID-19.

Nanaimo Lifeline’s Check-In service involves volunteers making regular phone calls to seniors between Cedar and Bowser.

Nanaimo Lifeline’s Marry Anne Malcan said currently around 15 seniors take advantage of the service involving pre-arranged calls from one of several volunteers.

“They’ve given me positive feedback of how lovely it is to receive a call from a different person every day, so that kind of widens their social circle a little bit.”

Malcan hears concerns from their clients about the COVID-19 pandemic, but adds her clients also put this challenging time into perspective.

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Malcon said a woman she speaks to recounts growing up in London, England during the Second World War.

“She shares stories of blackout curtains and bombs dropping,” Malcan said. “When she references COVID-19 it’s not as big as a stress ordeal as it was when she was a child with the world war.”

Nanaimo Lifeline executive director Tammy Patton described social isolation as a lack of social quality and quantity

She said Check-In gives peace of mind to their clients somebody will see how they’re doing.

“To see that you’re okay for the day, to break the silence,” Patton said.

Many seniors deal with escalating social isolation challenges the older they get. Patton said spouses and friends passing away, a lost driver’s license and decreased physical mobility are a few of the common challenges.

“We know that social isolation can affect our mental health, physical health and cognitive health. It’s important that we address these issues and do what we can,” Patton said.

She added technology like video calls over phone or computers is out of reach for many seniors, which is why their Check-In service is integral.

More information about Nanaimo Lifeline’s Check-In service can be found here.

Nanaimo Lifeline is a non-profit organization operated by the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation.

ian@nanaimonewsnow.com
On Twitter: @reporterholmes