New West seniors have many of the phone numbers they need at their fingertips thanks to some local organizations.
Fraser Health Authority has teamed up with Better at Home, B.C. 211 and Health Link 811 to develop the Seven Numbers Every Senior Needs, a reference guide listing seven numbers seniors should keep handy to get help for health concerns they may have.
Shelly Schnee, a recreation programmer at Century House, said it’s a great list for seniors to keep on hand in case they need health information. Locally, the brochure is available at Century House (620 Eighth St.) and the Seniors Services Society (750 Carnarvon St.) - or you can click on the link below and print it yourself.
* 811 - HealthLink B.C., which offers health information 24 hours a day and helps you find health services in your community. You can get health advice from a nurse, nutrition information from a dietitian, advice about drugs and pills from a pharmacist.
* Personal health numbers. Be sure to have your doctor’s number and the number of your nearest walk-in clinic handy.
* Better at Home - 604-268-1312. Managed by the United Way, Better at Home aims to help seniors remain independent by offering a variety of services. In New Westminster, the Seniors Services Society offers Better at Home programs including light housekeeping, grocery shopping and friendly calls. Charges apply, based on income. You can call the society directly at 604-520-6621.
* Fraser Health Service Line at 1-855-412-2121. The service, which is available between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., seven days a week, is the place to call to find out if you qualify for in-home personal care, home care nursing or rehab, palliative care, day programs for adults or respite services for caregivers.
* Fraser Health Crisis Line - 604-951-8855. Mental health information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the crisis line. This is the place to call if you’re feeling worried, having suicidal thoughts, experiencing mental health problems, addiction, family violence, abuse, relationship conflicts, loss or loneliness.
* Community Services - 211. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 211 is the number to call if you’re in need of a services and aren’t sure what it’s called or where to find it. It’s staffed by folks who can connect you to community, social and government services.
* 911 - you know this is the place to call for any serious emergency and be connected to police, fire or ambulance.
