At 80 years old, Lorraine rediscovered confidence, connection and strength through Fraser Health’s NetCARE Connect at Home program.
(Photo right to left): Lorraine and her daughter, Tania.
Before March 2020, Lorraine spent her days at luncheons with friends and helping her grandsons get to school and their activities — a perfect routine in retirement.
Everything changed with the COVID 19 pandemic, and her regular visits and outings with friends came to a sudden stop. “Even once we were able to socialize again, I lost confidence in meeting people. I used to work in retail and talk to people all the time, but the pandemic took me down a depression,” says Lorraine.
When her family doctor connected her with a local mental health team, a social worker introduced Lorraine to Fraser Health’s NetCARE Connect at Home — an online program that offers gentle exercise, bingo and other activities to help people 65 and older stay engaged from the comfort of their home.
“Her mental health improved so much,” says Lorraine’s daughter, Tania. “She’s happier and her spirit is better. She used to be exhausted by afternoon. Now she has energy until 7 or 8 p.m.” Tania says her mom loves the program so much that they now plan appointments around it. “I’ve never seen my mom play bingo in my life. Now she’s lined up with her card and stamp, ready to go.”
Lorraine agrees she won’t miss a class. “Nobody should phone me between 11 a.m. and noon, Monday to Friday — I don’t answer!” she laughs. “The instructors are upbeat. We laugh, joke and the group feels like friends.”
Lorraine says that when her computer broke down a while back, she was devastated that she couldn't participate.
“We researched three different computers, and the deciding factor was which one could be shipped fastest — that’s the one we bought. She needed it immediately to attend her class,” chuckles Tania.
“My mom had trouble with balance, her legs and arms were weaker, and she was losing mobility. She used to use a walker and a cane. Now she barely does — she’s steadier and stronger. She even goes for walks in the neighbourhood.”
“As people age, their risk of frailty increases. NetCare Connect at Home helps older adults reduce that risk by supporting social connection, increasing physical activity and improving mood—all of which help keep the mind sharp,” says Carolyn Bulawka, regional team leader, Day Programs for Older Adults and Overnight Respite. “It’s been wonderful to hear from participants that the program is meeting these goals, and as an added bonus, they’re gaining confidence using technology.”
Tania says the program has been a tremendous relief. “I don’t worry as much about depression, anxiety or her falling. She’s excited to get up, get dressed and join the class.”
NetCARE Connect at Home is a free program for anyone aged 65 and older living in the Fraser Health region. To learn more, visit NetCARE Connect at Home.
