VIHA provides care options to help you as your health needs change.

• Maintain your health. These Resources for Healthy Aging may help you stay active, involved and safe.
  
  
• Your family physician or health clinic should be your first contact for health issues that arise. Being well prepared for appointments will ensure you get the information you need. Use this resource to Make the Most of your Doctor's Visit.
  
  
• If it's becoming difficult to do things like grocery shop, prepare meals or do your housekeeping, you may to consider private in-home supports. VIHA does not provide these services since our focus is direct health care. You can find services in your community by searching sites like: HealthLinkBC or Seniors Serving Seniors.
  
  
• If you need help to remember your medications, bathe and dress, you may be eligible for Home Support Services. A Case Manager will come to your home to assess your needs and arrange appropriate services.
  
  
• As your health needs become more complex, you may require Home and Community Care Services. The General Enquiries Line staff in your area will help determine if you are eligible and may arrange for help from professionals like nurses, physiotherapists or occuational therapists, nutritionists or social workers. They will also let you know if there will be a cost for services.
  
  
• If you would like to get help with mental health or addiction issues, VIHA provides a range of hospital or community based Older Adult Mental Health and Addiction services.
  
  
• If you go into hospital for illness or injury, services that may help with your transition home and recovery include Social Workers, Transitional Care Services, Convalescent Care and Rehabilitation Programs such as Seniors Outreach Teams. You may also need to find out how to get Medical Equipment and Supplies at home.
  
  
• If you are ready to explore living options you will first need to speak to a Home and Community Care Case Manager who will determine if you are eligible for Assisted Living, Dementia Housing or Residential Care,
  
  
• It is important to plan your medical care in advance. If you become ill or injured and are unable to express your health care wishes directly, your loved ones will need to express your wishes for you. Find resources for Advance Health Care Planning.
  
  
• If you are caring for someone with a life limiting illness, Hospice and End-of-Life Care will offer support for your loved one, yourself and caregivers before, during and after death.