It’s a chance to brighten up a seniors’ day.
Thanks to Mike Larson of Mike’s Critters, a community pen pal project has started with community members stepping up on-line to pen a letter to senior residents at The Wexford and Waterford in Tsawwassen.
“Mike comes in and does shows all the time – he is very popular with the residents,” said Janice Miller from Bria Communities. “When he approached us with this idea, we just loved it. At the Wexford, Diane James, the recreation manager, has already received six emails from families who want to communicate with a senior. They are living there in congregate living, but it still has the potential to feel isolating and real lonely for seniors, so ideas like this really helps bring brightness to the day.”
Miller said just this past week, Bria moved to a room service model for all their meals, but their staff is working hard on other ways to connect and interact with residents in a safe manner.
“Our rec staff is doing ice cream deliveries door-to-door. The Wexford celebrated its anniversary with a champagne toast and even our neighbours at the Northgate across from us have posted supportive messages to our residents,” said Miller. “Lots of love from the community is so helpful at this time.”
James offered a few tips to those who want to write letters, but are not sure of what they want to say.
“First of all, thank you for reaching out to us. If you are not sure what to say, you could simply write a letter of how you are getting through this difficult time, what you look forward to,” said James. “Talk about who you are and what you do. How COVID-19 has had an impact on you. Words of inspiration. Funny jokes. Games that you enjoy etc. Simply just writing to them will make them feel good.”
Email your letters to: [email protected] with the subject line ‘Pen Pals for seniors.’
