As the valley's population ages, friends, neighbors and families will be asked to play a greater role in community health care, from mowing a sick neighbor's lawn to taking an elderly relative out for lunch.
"It's impossible for government to provide the required level of support for all people in need, particularly seniors at home." says Ranjana Basu, coordinator of caregiver support for the Cowichan Valley.
"But together, we can fill in some of the gaps, and create a caring community where people know and look after each other."
While her plans are still in the proposal stage, Basu is hoping to create a network of volunteers, who can assist other caregivers in their role.
For example, an 80 year old woman returns home from surgery, where her 75 year old husband is the only caregiver available. Or, an elderly man is in need of help around the house, but his family lives out of town and can only visit during weekends.
With a volunteer network, says Basu, friends, family and residents would be teamed up with someone in need, and then coached on providing support, from housecleaning and running errands, to simply taking someone for a walk.
The network would he run by a paid facilitator to ensure continuity, and that people are getting the assistance they need.
"It would he like a support circle or a circle of friends." added Basu. "In the end these people would be more than volunteers."
But to make the network a reality, $60,000 is needed to run
the pilot project for two years.
The Vancouver Foundation has expressed interest in the
idea, but before it will commit funds, directors want to see if there's community support.
Basu is now seeking donations from local service groups, as well as the Central Vancouver Island Health Region.
The Seniors Advisory Society has already committed $1,000 to the cause.
"We need to know the community is behind us before we can move ahead," said Basu.
Since the project is under the auspices of the SAS, tax deductible receipts are available for each donation.
For more information on how to help, contact Basu at 743-7621.