Not only is Richmond's population aging, but an increased percentage of that elderly population is battling substance abuse, grief, mental health issues and loss of mobility.
Add to that a culturally isolated immigrant population, and action needs to be taken, said Rick Dubras, executive director of Richmond Addiction Services.
Starting this month, Dubras - working with Volunteer Richmond and other local organizations - is recruiting individuals over the age of 55 to be part of a program called the Community Action Ambassadors, funded by the province-supported Community Action Initiative.
"The program is geared to train 40 ambassadors of various ethnic and language backgrounds," said Dubras.
"They will then be asked to go out into the communities of Richmond, Surrey and Vancouver to train others in the community."
After the 40 hours of training spanning over 11 weeks, the ambassadors will be able to offer peer counselling support, and hold informal public education forums and workshops in various areas to talk about the issues impacting seniors today. The goal is to help seniors become more connected with facilities such as senior's and recreation centres and other support groups. The program also aims to help affected friends and family members to be part of the process.
"What we're finding is more and more seniors are having complicated issues such as their bodies not tolerating drugs or alcohol as well, and conflicts in medication. Some of their medications are increasing the impact alcohol or drugs can have on their systems," said Dubras.
With Richmond and other parts of the Lower Mainland having residents with such diverse backgrounds, those affected often don't know where to turn for help - and that's where the new ambassadors come in.
Dubras said he hopes to recruit a wide representation of volunteers to reach out to as many groups as possible.
"Chinese, Punjabi, Russian, Tagalog, English speaking. We need folks to represent a cross-section of Richmond. Language and transportation are main barriers, so reaching out to those with the language capability is essential."
To volunteer as a Community Action Ambassador or for more information, call Volunteer Richmond at 604-279-7020 or email [email protected].
