Naseem – a second home
What is community?
For many seniors in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, it is the United Way funded L.E.A.P. Program that is run out of their local neighbourhood house. Made up of weekly walking groups and senior to senior advocacy work, this group champions leadership, education, activity and participation – “L.E.A.P” – amongst its participants.
Naseem, 68, has been a member of the group for a little over six months. The group has been integral to keeping her active after the loss of her husband. He passed away two years ago on the eve of their retirement.
“It was very hard,” she says. “It took me nine months to go head. I said to myself, ‘I have to meet people. [At L.E.A.P.] they walk with me. They talk to me. It’s like a big connection, a big community for me. It’s like my second home.”
There are over 400,000 seniors currently living in the Lower Mainland. As baby boomers continue to age, this number will more than double, resulting in a likely increase in the number of seniors who struggle with living alone.
Naseem talks about the numerous benefits of the program: it helps her get out of her home, keep active, and stay involved in her community.
“I need this place,” she says.
Darlina, 70, is another program participant. She walks every week with the group, and is also a senior’s advocate, reaching out to isolated neighbours who need help.
“We either talk on the phone or meet them. I try to find what they like so they feel comfortable. Then I try and bring them to the program.”
She knows firsthand how helpful it can be.
“This program helped me forget whatever problem I have. When I was depressed after my daughter passed on, I had so many supports.
Thank you to United Way for supporting our program. That’s why I am here. I really thank you.”
Since 2015, the Active Aging Research Team (AART) and the United Way British Columbia (UWLM) have been working in partnership to provide community grants that reach diverse communities and that build capacity to promote older adult physical activity, social connectedness, independence – and health.
“[At L.E.A.P.] they walk with me. They talk to me. It’s like a big connection, a big community for me. It’s like my second home.”
Today at-risk seniors are left behind from in-demand social programs.
The right connection could save their lives. Could it be you?
Send a note of encouragement to Naseem
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