Jocelyne Lahaye

Wildfires can affect communities across British Columbia with little warning. For older adults, wildfire smoke, extreme heat, power outages and disruptions to essential services can create additional health and safety risks. If you live in or are travelling through an affected area, stay informed by monitoring official sources for the latest wildfire conditions, evacuation information … Read More

As we move into the summer, I want to reflect on June and share a few updates from our office. The first week of June was BC Seniors’ Week and it was a privilege to visit communities across the province to celebrate and recognize the contributions of older adults. From Langley to Vernon, I met … Read More

Josie Osborne, Minister of Health; Niki Sharma, Attorney General; and Dan Levitt, B.C. seniors advocate, have released the following statements in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Monday, June 15, 2026: Levitt said: “Unfortunately, abuse and neglect can happen to anyone in B.C. However, older people can be more vulnerable due to frailty, … Read More

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and an opportunity to raise awareness of increasing reports of abuse and neglect of older adults in B.C. Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial, physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or other and can include mistreatment, neglect and self-neglect. It may be perpetrated by family members, friends, … Read More

Stay informed on the issues that matter most to seniors in B.C. with the latest edition of the OSA Update. Each month, our newsletter brings you timely updates, insights and resources to help you stay connected and informed. In this issue, you’ll find: Read the June newsletter to see what’s new and what’s ahead. Want it … Read More

BC Seniors’ Week 2026: Sharing the value of experience “June 1–7 is BC Seniors’ Week, a time to celebrate older adults and the important role they play in communities throughout British Columbia. “This year’s theme, ‘Experience Matters’, highlights the value of a lifetime of knowledge, perspective and resilience. Seniors continue to make meaningful contributions through … Read More

Celebrating BC Seniors’ Week 2026: Experience Matters June 1–7 is BC Seniors’ Week, a time to recognize and celebrate older adults and the many ways they contribute to families and communities across the province. This year’s theme, ‘Experience Matters’, highlights the value of a lifetime of knowledge and the importance of sharing perspectives, especially with … Read More

Stay informed on the issues that matter most to seniors in B.C. with the latest edition of the OSA Update. Each month, our newsletter brings you timely updates, insights and resources to help you stay connected and informed. In this issue, you’ll find: Read the May newsletter to see what’s new and what’s ahead. Want it … Read More

BC Seniors Advocate Dan Levitt encourages senior homeowners with affordability challenges to consider deferring their property taxes despite increases to the interest charges announced in Budget 2026. “The average deferred property tax amount in 2024/25 was $5,400 which is a lot of money for an older adult on a fixed income,” said Levitt. “Seniors who … Read More