The Nanaimo Division of Family Practice, in partnership with the City of Nanaimo, Island Health, Shared Care, Vancouver Island University and the Nanaimo Family Life Association, is excited to introduce a new Social Prescribing program.

This initiative aims to support isolated and lonely seniors by connecting them with a link worker who will help them develop a personalized social plan. Through this program, seniors can access a variety of non-clinical, community-based services such as social programs, community activities, physical activity classes, and caregiver support groups.

For more information on Social Prescribing, please contact Kirsten Schuld.

View a press release on Social Prescribing for their event held on March 2, 2025.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is this program for? 

A: Any older adult age 55+ who would benefit from an increase in their social support and connections. 

 

Q: What happens when I refer my patients? 

A: Your referral will go through Island Health Central Intake, your patient will be assessed and either referred to an Island Health Link Worker, or a Community Connector at Nanaimo Family Life Association. Your patient will be contacted and asked some questions about What Matters To Them. They will then be invited to meet in person for a visit and take some next steps. This provides them with the opportunity to get involved in community programs, outings, meals, socials, etc. 

 

Q: What is the referral criteria?

A: Patients do not need to meet any specific criteria, use your clinical judgement. If they are at risk of isolation, lonely, frail, depressed, and could benefit with support, please refer them! 

 

Q: How do I refer my patient? 

A: Use the Island Health Community Health Services Referral form. Simply put "Social Prescribing" in the reason for referral section. 

 

Q: How do I bring this up with my patient? 

A: Ask your patient about their social life. Are they active? Do they see other people on a daily basis? Do they like to go out? If you have concerns and think they would benefit from this program, let them know how important human interaction and meaningful connections are. Tell them that Social Prescribing is a way to help support them and get them involved in finding activities that can increase their overall health and wellbeing. 

 

Q: Does Social Prescribing actually work? Does it make a difference? 

A: Yes. Social Prescribing is growing all over the world, across Canada and British Columbia. A large Canadian report was published that demonstrated significant health care savings by improving the mental health and wellbeing or patients who received a social prescription, and decreasing the amount of visits to emergency and primary care (Social Prescribing Economic & Social Impact Report). The Nanaimo Social Prescribing program has seen hundreds of participants since it began. Individuals who had not left their house in a significant amount of time are participating in lunch programs, making friends, and socializing. 

 

Q: Are there resources for me as a health care provider? Are there resources for my patients? 

A: Yes there are! Every clinic should have printed and online copies of provider brochures. See below for more resources. 

 

Resources For Professionals

For more information and how to refer patients, click here.

Suggestions on how to begin the conversation

• “There are many things that affect our health – I can help you address your medical concerns, but there are other people and programs in our community who may also be able to help you with other aspects of your health.”  

• “In addition to treating the medical aspects of your health, I would like to connect you to services that can help you achieve better health.”  

Block time to have an open-ended discussion with patients about their social story

• “What would you like me to know about you?” 

• “What do you enjoy doing?”  

• “Have there been times when you’ve felt lonely or isolated? Can you tell me about it?”  

• “Can you tell me a little bit about your current living situation? Do you feel comfortable and safe?”  

• “Do you ever have trouble accessing health or social services?” 

For more information, or any questions on Social Prescribing, please contact Kirsten Schuld.

 

Resources For Patients

For information on social prescribing for patients, click here.