In BC, 36% of senior women and 17% of senior men live alone. The lack of social connections can negatively affect a senior's overall health. Bereavement or loss of a spouse is a key risk factor for isolation. The best way to reduce isolation is to help seniors get out of their homes and into the community. Providing opportunities to build trusting relationships can help address age-related challenges. Here's Betty's story.

The Isolated Seniors Program, facilitated by the Saanich Volunteers Services Society for the Silver Threads, is a United Way-funded program to address the needs of an aging population. Betty now has a social network she can count on for friendship and assistance.

Video by Jessica Clark http://jessclark.weebly.com and voice over by Bruce Williams.