Just Ask: Where Can I Get Accurate Information About Aging in Place?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre
Surveys consistently show that over 90% of older adults in British Columbia, want to age in place (remain in their current homes) as long as possible. However, finding clear, accurate information about available supports can be surprisingly difficult. Seniors and caregivers often encounter conflicting advice, outdated resources, or well‑intentioned but inaccurate word‑of‑mouth guidance. This makes it harder to make informed decisions about housing, health care, transportation, and day‑to‑day supports — all of which are essential to staying safe and independent at home.
On the Sunshine Coast, these challenges are made more complicated by well‑known gaps in our local services. Limited transportation options, a shortage of affordable and accessible housing, waitlists for health services, and a growing senior population all contribute to the difficulty residents face when trying to understand what help is available and how to access it. Even when services do exist, they can be difficult to find, hard to navigate, or inconsistent across communities.
The BC Seniors Advocate, Dan Levitt, plays an important role in identifying and addressing these issues. While the Advocate does not provide direct services, the office listens to seniors, gathers data, and reports on the systemic barriers that affect their ability to age safely and independently. Their work helps highlight where services are falling short and where improvements are needed — many of which reflect the realities seniors experience here on the Coast. You can learn more about their work, including reports and resources, at seniorsadvocatebc.ca. The office also operates an information and referral line, available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1‑877‑952‑3181.
To help cut through confusion and provide clear, reliable information, a group of community organizations are hosting Aging in Place, a moderated panel discussion featuring Dan Levitt, BC Seniors Advocate, alongside local experts. Representatives from Vancouver Coastal Health, Pender Harbour Health Centre, the Sunshine Coast Resource Centre, and Cover the Coast will discuss what services exist locally, what gaps remain, and how seniors and caregivers can better navigate the system. When registering, residents can submit their questions in advance to ensure the discussion reflects real concerns from the community.
The panel will be held Tuesday, June 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Harmony Hall in Gibsons, and Wednesday, June 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre. Registration is required and can be completed by visiting eventbrite.com/cc/aging-in-place-4840566, calling 604‑885‑4088, or registering in person at local Seniors Centres. Both in‑person and online participation are available. This event is a collaborative effort of the Canadian Federation of University Women (Sunshine Coast Society), the Sunshine Coast Resource Centre (Seniors Planning Table), the Gibsons Seniors Society, and the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre.
Events like Aging in Place help residents get trustworthy information directly from the people who deliver local services. The Sunshine Coast Resource Centre remains a central hub for information, navigation, and community programs. Whether you are looking for help understanding health services, exploring housing options, or supporting an aging family member, the Resource Centre can guide you toward accurate information and the right local resources. If you are a senior or caregiver needing support, contact us at help@resourcecentre.ca or 604‑885‑4088, or visit us Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5674 Cowrie Street in Sechelt, right by the rainbow crosswalk.