Better At Home
Helping older adults age 65+ with rides, housekeeping, social activities and more so that they can continue to live independently in their own homes.
If there is one thing that all seniors have in common, it is a desire to live independently, in their own home, for as long as possible. The Better At Home Program is truly a lifeline for many seniors who would undoubtedly need to live in a long-term care facility if it were not for the help they receive through this program.
Tom, age 81, is a long-time resident of Vernon. He lives alone in the home that he and his wife raised their kids in. Tom’s wife passed away 5 years ago and all their kids live in Alberta. Tom worked hard all his life and is having a hard time accepting his declining mobility, and recent loss of his driver’s license. He is adamant he will not go into a nursing home and is very happy to be receiving services through the Better At Home Program so he can stay living in his own home. It was his kids that helped arrange this for Tom.
Services
Here is a list of all the services we provide to seniors age 65+ through the North Okanagan Better At Home Program:
- Rides to Appointments
Our transportation service is for appointments such as doctor visits, medical tests or other important matters such as banking.
- Grocery Shopping Service
A volunteer will provide you with transportation to and from your preferred local grocery store, assist you with grocery shopping in the store (if you need) and help bring the groceries into your home.
- Light Housekeeping
A professional housekeeper can help you maintain a clean and healthy home.
- Minor Home Repair
To help keep you safe at home, a handy person can provide minor home repairs. - Light Yard Work
We help you with light yard work including raking, lawn mowing and weeding.
- Friendly Visiting
A Volunteers will spend up to 2 hours a week with you, visiting and doing activities you both enjoy.
Fees
Friendly visiting and social activities are provided at no cost. All other services are provided on a sliding fee scale based on your annual income. Some seniors may qualify for a 100% subsidy. Others may receive a 70% subsidy, 50% subsidy, 30% subsidy, and no subsidy.
Register
In order to receive any of these services, you will need to register. You must be age 65+ and residing in Vernon, Armstrong, Lavington, Lumby or Cherryville to be eligible. Please note that services may be limited and are subject to availability and funding. Phone 250.545.0585 or email [email protected] for more information.
Elsie, age 85, lives alone and had just been diagnosed with cancer. Before she became connected with the Better At Home program, she was feeling lonely and scared. She has no family nearby and no one was able to visit because of the COVID-19 provincial restrictions. Elsie is now starting to open up and feel stronger and supported through new friendships and one to one phone support. We are also able to provide her with 100% subsidized transportation to medical appointments.
Volunteer With Us
Better at Home relies heavily on the participation of volunteers. Positions include driving seniors to appointments and for grocery shopping. Volunteers receive reimbursement for fuel. If you have a green thumb or have a knack for fixing things, volunteers are also needed to do yard work and minor home repair. We also have positions available for friendly visitors who would enjoy spending an hour or two per week with a senior. If you are interested in volunteering, please click here.
Pay an Invoice
If you are an existing Better At Home client and would like to pay your invoice by credit card, please visit www.nexusbc.ca/pay
The Government of BC, through the Ministry of Health, provides funding to the United Way of the Lower Mainland to manage all the Better at Home programs across BC. We also accept donations, raise funds, and encourage volunteer participation.
Programs
