Across the province, Community Response Networks (CRNs) have been actively engaging older and vulnerable adults through a wide range of events designed to promote safety, connection, and well-being. From educational forums and health information sessions to mental wellness workshops and seniors resource fairs, these initiatives are creating spaces for learning, dialogue, and support. Each activity helps raise awareness about the risks of adult abuse, neglect, and self-neglect, while fostering stronger connections between individuals and the services that support them. These collective efforts reflect a shared commitment to empowering adults with the knowledge, tools, and community ties they need to age safely and with dignity.
Empowering Seniors to Outsmart Scams
The Invermere Community Response Network recently hosted an engaging presentation aimed at tackling one of the fastest-growing forms of adult abuse – frauds and scams. With 28 community members in attendance, the session offered practical strategies to recognize, avoid, and report common scams that target older Canadians. Seniors learned how fraudsters operate, what red flags to watch for, and where to turn for help if they or someone they know becomes a victim. The goal was clear: give older adults the tools and confidence they need to protect themselves and others. Attendees shared positive feedback, highlighting how informative and thorough the session was in addressing their concerns.
Boosting Mental Health as a Form of Abuse Prevention
The Saanich Peninsula Community Response Network hosted a packed Lunch and Learn event at the SHOAL Centre focused on mental wellness – an essential factor in preventing abuse, neglect, and self-neglect among seniors. Over 60 participants attended a presentation by the Canadian Mental Health Association’s BounceBack team, who introduced free resources to help older adults manage anxiety and depression. The session included valuable insights from CRN Coordinator, Anna Hudson, on the connection between poor mental health and increased vulnerability to abuse. Attendees had opportunities to ask questions, explore information tables, and take home educational resources. The CRN now plans to share BounceBack with other local CRN coordinators.
As We Age Forum Fosters Engagement and Awareness
The Port Moody, Coquitlam North, and Port Coquitlam Community Response Networks partnered with the Tri-Cities Seniors’ Action Society and local sponsors to host the well-attended As We Age Forum at St. Clare of Assisi Parish Hall. With 175 attendees and 24 exhibitors, the full-day event featured six engaging presentations focused on aging, health, and seniors’ safety. The forum also included numerous exhibitor booths offering resources to support aging with dignity. Positive feedback poured in about the venue’s accessibility and the variety of information available. Video welcomes from local MLAs added a personal touch to an event that successfully combined education, community-building, and prevention messaging.
Building Connections at Community Information Fair
The Victoria Community Response Network and Westshore Community Response Network teamed up to participate in a successful outreach event that drew over 180 attendees. As people browsed the information booths, many stopped by the CRN table to pick up brochures, educational materials, and engage in thoughtful conversation about aging and community safety. The event also provided a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow service providers, strengthening partnerships and enhancing collective efforts to support older and vulnerable adults. A generous donation of 50 BC CRN tote bags helped support event organizers and kept CRN visibility high throughout the venue. The event helped raise awareness about abuse prevention and opened the door to ongoing community relationships.
Seniors Gather to Identify Needs and Share Solutions
The Terrace Community Response Network joined local partners to co-host a bustling Seniors’ Wellness information fair at the Arena Banquet Room, drawing more than 100 participants. Twelve community organizations shared resources and programming, from housing and transportation to health and volunteer opportunities. A lively discussion followed, with seniors identifying top priorities for improved support: access to printed information, diverse housing options, and a dedicated seniors’ center. Participants voted on which need mattered most, with a regular printed newsletter emerging as the top request. This event showcased community-driven solutions to reduce isolation and support healthy aging.
Collaborative Health Planning Sparks Community Dialogue
The Golden Community Response Network played a key role in a well-attended informational meeting that introduced plans for a new Community Care Centre – one that will operate outside the traditional clinic and hospital settings. Alongside local medical staff and the Golden Fire Department, the CRN delivered concise, engaging presentations that addressed seniors’ questions and concerns. The initiative aims to bring health care closer to the community, with a strong focus on prevention and access. Attendees responded enthusiastically, expressing interest in learning more about the CRN’s role in promoting wellness and preventing adult neglect.
