New guide supports the health of Aboriginal and First Nations Elders
Syilx Nation Territory (Penticton)
– The First Nations Health Authority and the Ministry of Health today
released the first edition of the BC Elders’ Guide. This unique health
and lifestyle resource is based on the BC Seniors’ Guide and is
specifically designed for First Nations and Aboriginal Elders.
“We
are proud to support this resource, which will provide valuable
information to Elders from throughout the province,” said Health
Minister Terry Lake. “Today’s launch is an excellent example of the
strong work of the First Nations Health Authority, and the partnerships
we have built together to improve the health and lives of British
Columbia Elders and seniors.”
The BC Elders’
Guide provides information on provincial and federal programs and
community and local resources, with sections on health, lifestyle,
housing, transportation, finances, benefits, safety and security, and
other services.
“The BC Elders’ Guide
acknowledges and respects the traditional ways of Elders, and the
immense cultural value they provide to British Columbia,” said
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad. “It is
great news for Elders that this guide not only provides a wealth of
useful information, but also emphasizes and incorporates the richness of
the cultural history of B.C. First Nations and Aboriginal Elders.”
In
the guide, Elders share their secrets to aging well, including eating
traditional foods and staying active through hunting and fishing. The
guide also addresses the importance of nurturing spirit through being
engaged in community life and a reminder to keep tobacco use ceremonial.
“Elders
play a pivotal role in the health and wellness of our communities and
today it is more important than ever they are supported to live long and
healthy lives, to provide their guidance, wisdom and support for the
next generation,” said First Nations Health Authority Board of Directors
Chair Lydia Hwitsum. “We are pleased to have been involved in the
production and release of this publication and to ensure its relevance
for B.C. First Nations and Aboriginal Elders. This is another great
example of the B.C. Ministry of Health and First Nations Health
Authority working in a positive partnership on projects of shared
interest that will make a difference in the lives of B.C. First Nations
and Aboriginal individuals and communities in B.C.”
The
publication was launched today by Wickaninnish Clifford Atleo Sr. at
the 38th Annual BC Elders Gathering in Penticton to an audience of over
3,500 B.C. First Nations and Aboriginal Elders.
The guide was
developed to ensure that Elders, their families and caregivers have
access to information about the programs, services and resources that
are essential to their health and wellness.
Learn more:
For more information on seniors’ services in B.C., please visit:
www.seniorsbc.ca
Download a copy of the BC Elders' Guide
here. (PDF 1.4 MB)
Download a copy of this news release
here. (PDF 88KB)
Read the Elders' Guide online here via ISSUU
here.