A locally-based non-profit agency would like to hear about the social needs of the region's seniors.
Community Connection/211 has launched a survey available online and by phone, to gather ideas and information on what local seniors need to support their social lives and what opportunities they'd like to have for community activities.
“According to Stats Canada (2010), in Simcoe County there are an estimated 25,000 seniors at risk of social isolation,” said Pamela Hillier Community Connection’s executive director, in a news release. "This survey is the first step in allowing us to understand how isolated seniors feel about the kinds of supports they would like to know more about and access.”
The survey is part of a five-year project "aimed at connecting isolated seniors with social activities and/or volunteer opportunities in their communities," according to the news release from Community Connection.
"Life's circumstances can sometimes lead a person to be less involved in the community than they want, and we are working towards building our community to help those older adults be more connected," states the survey website.
The project is guided by a cross-sector leadership table of community members and service providers, including the South Georgian Bay Ontario Health Team.
Seniors (55+) or their caregivers can access the survey by going to www.simcoesurvey.ca or by calling 705-444-0040, ext. 246 to complete over the phone. The survey will also be distributed through community organizations.
The survey is anonymous and confidential and has an option to provide contact information to be entered into a prize draw for $50 gift cards. The survey should take approximately 10 minutes to complete and will close on Sept. 30.
If you need assistance to complete this survey or if you have any questions, contact Debbe at 705-444-0040, ext. 246 or email [email protected].
