The “Gift of Time” Awareness initiative is being promoted by the Catholic Health Association of Manitoba (CHAM) in Canada as a way to raise awareness of the loneliness and social isolation many seniors face during a time when many families and friends are celebrating.
The Awareness Campaign reminds members of the public to reach out to seniors living in a care residence or living alone at home. The best gift you can give during the festive season is the "gift of time."
“There is no easy solution when it comes to the challenge of social isolation among seniors, but raising awareness is a vital first step,” says CHAM’s ED Julie Turenne-Maynard. “This is an important conversation. When people are celebrating the festive season with loved ones, this is the best time to remind the public to reach out to a senior.”
Social isolation among seniors has been the subject of prominent public inquiries such as by Canada’s National Seniors Council, and the U.S. Senate Aging Committee. A widely-cited study determined that the negative health impact of social isolation is equivalent to smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day. Both urban and rural communities across the continent have struggled on what to do about social isolation among seniors.
“There is indeed a growing awareness among our political leaders of the cost of social isolation on our public healthcare system,” says Turenne-Maynard. “However, we have to convince governments of the benefit of investing in initiatives that enhance quality of life among frail and elderly seniors.”
CHAM’s "Gift of Time" campaign will be promoted online and through social media during the holidays.
Additional information and resources on the subject of social isolation among seniors can be accessed at https://www.ltcam.mb.ca/options_socialization.htm
About CHAM: Incorporated in 1943, CHAM is a voluntary, provincial association dedicated to the healing ministry of the church. Affiliated with the Bishops of Manitoba and the Diocese of Churchill-Hudson Bay, Northwest Territories, CHAM serves as a link between Catholic Health care facilities, agencies, parishes and individuals. CHAM serves as a provincial resource for its members and all those interested in its mission.
