All Jamati Libraries now have an Elders’ Resource Corner. This Corner contains several brochures and pamphlets relating to various types of Government resources available in your local community, including accessing affordable housing and Government grants for house renovations. There are also several brochures available on various health related issues as well as BC Seniors’ Guide which has a wealth of information. Resource Members:
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It’s Never Too Late to Quit Smoking
Did you know that long-term smokers get more short-term health gains from quitting smoking than younger smokers? Within days of quitting smoking, it becomes easier to breathe and their sense of smell and taste improve. Often, older smokers express that they have smoked for so long, and that quitting now is “pointless”. This is a big misconception. No matter what age, quitting smoking will always lead to better health outcomes and the body will benefit.
Here are a few tips from The Lung Association of British Columbia for quitting smoking later in life:
- Set a quit date.
- Seek support (quitline, online, doctor, pharmacist).
- Avoid places where people smoke
- Drink lots of water, eat fresh fruit and vegetables, and incorporate physical activities into your daily schedule to help keep your body healthy while adjusting to a new smoke-free routine.
- Believe in yourself! Quitting is possible, no matter what age.
If you use tobacco and want to quit, there are several supports (many of which are free) available to help you such as your doctor, a counsellor, or pharmacist. As well, the following two programs provide support to people who are trying to quit smoking or tobacco use:
QuitNow
Free support for quitting smoking is available online at www.quitnow.ca. Do you have questions or concerns? Do you need a quit coach to help you quit smoking? Call or email the BC Lung Association: Phone (toll-free): 1-877-455-2233 Phone (Metro Vancouver): 604-731-5864 Email: quitnow@bc.lung.ca.
BC Smoking Cessation Program
Information on access to prescription drugs and nicotine replacement therapies is available online. Visit www.health.gov.bc.ca and search for “pharmacare cessation”. For key resources and information for health care professionals, injury prevention experts and the public, please visit www.health.gov.bc.ca and enter “smoking and tobacco use” in the Search field.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS & WEB LINKS
- Visitation Line: 604-438-4010 ext. 830
- Canada Pension Plan
- Retirement Pension, Disability Benefits, Death Benefit, Children's Benefits, Survivor's Pension: 1-800-277-9914
- HandyDart (everyday): 604-575-6600
- HealthLink BC (24/7): 811 or www.healthlinkbc.ca
- Seniors Health Care Support: 1-877-952-3181
- Seniors Distress Line (24/7): 604-872-1234 or www.crisiscentre.bc.ca
- Community and Govt. Services (24/7): 211 or www.bc211.ca