At 81 and 83 years old, Squamish residents Sylvie and Doug take great pride in their home and appreciate the ability to live independently. They love their home and value their ability to live on their own terms, a goal shared by many seniors across the Sea to Sky region.
They are also two of more than 170 seniors who participate in the Sea to Sky Community Services’ Better at Home, a program designed to help seniors age in place with dignity and remain socially connected. Through practical supports, like transportation, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and friendly visits, the program helps reduce isolation and improve quality of life. Services are delivered by a dedicated team of trained volunteers and contractors who bring care and kindness to every interaction.
From Hesitation to Connection
At first, Sylvie and Doug were hesitant to reach out for help. Despite limited mobility and shared vision impairments, they felt they could manage on their own. But after learning more about the program during the intake process, they decided to give it a try – and haven’t looked back since.
Today, the couple primarily uses friendly visiting services and help with grocery shopping, support that has become not just helpful, but meaningful.
More than a Volunteer
Enter Rebecca, one of Better at Home’s newest volunteers, and the couple’s regular visitor. Each week, Rebecca stops by to help Sylvie and Doug with their online grocery shopping and later returns with their items. But her visits are more than just task-oriented. They’re a chance for connection, companionship, and shared laughter.
“We usually start with a little visit and some laughs while we order groceries online,” Rebecca shares. “Then I pick them up and deliver them to a couple of days later. It’s become a really fun ritual, and we’ve become fast friends. A perk I didn’t expect!”
Rebecca was inspired to volunteer after seeing the difference that small acts of support made in her own grandparents’ lives. Living in a less transit-accessible area of the Sea to Sky, she quickly realized how valuable basic help can be and she decided to step up.
“Volunteering helped me shift from feeling anxious about the world to feeling hopeful. I realized I could make a small different right here in my community.”
And the impact goes both ways.
“I feel happier and more grateful. The people I meet genuinely brighten my day”
A Circle of Gratitude
Sylvie and Doug deeply appreciate the care and connection they now receive through the program, and echo the gratitude that Rebecca feels.
“Words cannot say just how helpful it is and how much stress it removes. Thank you!”
Their story is a beautiful reminder that aging in place is not just about staying at home. It’s about staying connected, supported, and seen.
Thank you, Rebecca!
To Rebecca, and to all our Better at Home volunteers, thank you for showing up with kindness and compassion. You remind us that community care is powerful, and that simple acts – like a grocery run and a good laugh – can make a world of difference.
Please click HERE if you would like to learn more about volunteering with Better at Home or to learn more about our services.