At the Unison Veiner Centre, families often tell us, “My mom has been so lonely since dad passed away,” or “My dad isn’t getting out much anymore since he stopped driving.” Working with isolated seniors is important, and a main objective of our Unison Connect social prescribing program. Seniors access this program through doctor and social worker referrals, especially for older adults who have no family or friends to help them take that first step toward connection.
Social isolation is a common challenge for many older adults. It can develop gradually or follow a major life change such as the loss of a spouse, declining health, or the inability to drive. Financial strain, mobility limitations, or even a lack of confidence to go out in the winter can all make it harder to stay socially connected.
To help illustrate how isolation can happen and how it can be overcome, here’s a scenario based on the many real experiences we see at the Veiner Centre every day.
Margaret Doyle (a fictional example) is a 79-year-old retired teacher who has lived in the same bungalow for over forty years. She used to volunteer at the library, sing in the choir, and organize neighbourhood events. Margaret found herself increasingly alone after her husband passed away seven years ago.
As her arthritis worsened, walking became painful. After slipping on an icy sidewalk one winter, she lost confidence in going out alone. Her driver’s license expired, and she decided not to renew it. On a fixed income, she couldn’t afford taxis and didn’t want to burden friends for rides.
Over time, her closest friends moved away or into assisted living. Her only son lives several hours away, and though he visits when he can, most days Margaret’s only company is her television or a brief phone call with a neighbour. She often goes days without meaningful conversation and doesn’t know where to begin reconnecting.
Reconnecting Margaret: Community Supports in Action
Fortunately, in Medicine Hat, there are many programs that can help older adults like Margaret stay independent and connected.
Through Unison Connect, Margaret was matched with a staff member who helped her navigate local resources and even attend programs with her until she felt comfortable going on her own.
Her first connection was with the Veiner Vintage Transport program, which offers affordable rides for seniors to appointments and social activities. With reliable transportation, Margaret began attending the Veiner Centre’s choir group, something she dearly missed.
Next, she was connected to Meals on Wheels, which provided nutritious meals and a friendly check-in. Small moments of connection with Unison’s volunteers brightened her days and helped her feel cared for.
The Unison Veiner Centre’s Senior Supports team also helped Margaret apply for Alberta’s Special Needs Assistance for Seniors program. This provided funding for snow shoveling and light yard work, tasks that had become difficult due to her arthritis.
Recognizing that loneliness and grief were still affecting her, she was referred to free local counselling through Recovery Alberta Addiction and Mental Health Services for grief support.
Next, Unison Connects arranged for home care to help with light housekeeping and medication reminders. With these small supports, Margaret was able to remain in her home comfortably and confidently.
Soon, Margaret’s life opened up. She started attending weekly choir practice, enjoying lunches at the Veiner Bistro, and using transportation services to get to appointments.
We believe it takes a community to address social isolation. Through programs like Unison Connect, Veiner Vintage Transport, Meals on Wheels, Active Aging, and Senior Supports, along with many local partnerships, older adults can stay active, engaged, and connected and continue to thrive in their own homes for as long as possible.
When in doubt about how to access community support, or if you don’t have a computer or know where to start, you can simply call 211. This is a helpline and online database of Alberta’s community and social services. They can connect you with up-to-date information on programs and resources in our community.
