The Office of the Seniors Advocate wants to hear from family caregivers about their experiences helping a loved one access publicly-funded long-term care in B.C. The Office of the Seniors Advocate is an independent office of the provincial government with a mandate of monitoring seniors’ services and reporting on systemic issues affecting seniors.

The press release states,” The Office of the Seniors Advocate wants to hear from family caregivers about their experiences helping a loved one access publicly-funded long-term care in B.C. The office is undertaking a systemic review to better understand long-term care supply and demand issues in the province. The BC Seniors Advocate is asking caregivers supporting a family member currently waitlisted for publicly-funded long-term care, or were previously waitlisted and accessed a long-term care bed within the last year, to complete a short survey.

“By 2036, one in four of British Columbians will be a senior, and the oldest baby boomer will be 90 years old. The clock is ticking for us to take action to ensure seniors, regardless of where they live in the province, have timely access to quality long-term care close to home.” The review of long-term care supply and demand will analyze data and system factors driving waitlists and wait times for long-term care; the current and projected supply of long-term care beds; government policies, legislation and regulations in long-term care; workforce and staffing challenges; and caregiver feedback. The final report will be available in Spring 2025. The online survey is available until March 18,2025.”

Caregiver Survey is available at https://feedback.engage.gov.bc.ca/479526?lang=en 

The survey deadline has been extended until March 18, 2025. Reponses are anonymous.

The office also provides information and referral to seniors and their caregivers by calling toll-free 1 877 952-3181, BC211, via email at info@seniorsadvocatebc.ca https://www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca/

By now you or your parents or older adult loved ones have received in the mail, their Notice of Declaration.

The Speculation and Vacancy Tax declaration is mandatory—so make sure you do it on time! The government says the fastest way is online, but I know for many of my clients, especially older adults, a good ol’ fashioned phone call is often the quickest and easiest option for them.

Call an agent for assistance:Toll-free in Canada: 1-833-554-2323

Outside North America (for you snowbirds!) 1-604-342-1015

TDD services for the hearing impaired (across B.C.): 711

Agents are available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM PST, with translation services available. TDD service hours are the same.

You have until March 31, yet don’t wait as you don’t want to get caught trying to sell your home but now have a lien on the property. Getting the lean off, adds more steps, stress and more legal fees!

If you have questions about the tax please call.

For some older adults who have lost a spouse this day can be a difficult one. Valentine's Day is about giving and receiving love to everyone. Family and friends can play a big role in making the day enjoyable for them. When someone you know is going through a difficult time, it's important to show them that they are not alone.
A simple gesture like sending a text, email or making a phone call, can make a huge impact. It’s a way to let them know you're thinking of them and remind them that they're supported.

Everyone grieves and processes emotions differently, especially on days like Valentine’s Day. Even the smallest gestures of kindness can help heal hearts and bring comfort. Wishing everyone a day filled with love, laughter and really good chocolate! XJ 

Join me, Janet Helm, Realtor® & Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), for expert insights on rightsizing and planning ahead. Learn how to navigate the market, maximize your home’s value, and avoid common pitfalls. Plus, get answers to your questions in an interactive Q&A.

Plan ahead—secure your future with confidence!

Next Free Downsizing Seminars:

PITT MEADOWS seniors activity centre: Sat. April 5 11:00am-12:30pm call  (604) 457-4771

MAPLE RIDGE seniors activity centre: Wed.April 16 from 10:30-11:30am call (604) 467-4993

Click here for the location of the Seniors Activity Centres

Apartment living can offer independence, flexibility,  shared amenities, lower maintenance costs and a built-in community of often like-minded neighbours. It’s safe, secure, and ideal for a “lock-and-go” lifestyle—ideal for travel or simply having peace of mind. However, there are also some potential downsides to strata living, such as the rules and bylaws. Even though the condominium owners may have done prudent budgeting, there is always a possibility that a large unforeseen expense can arise. Special levies are sometimes required and each of the owners has to pay their share. When working with our clients we thoroughly read the documents which includes minutes of the meetings, financials and the strata’s depreciation report, which can provide good insight into potential special levies. Before making the decision to live in a strata development, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Doing so will help to ensure that you make the best decision for your individual needs and preferences.

Recently, I helped a client transition from her home to an apartment. She loved her home, yet was driving distance from all amenities and has three flights of stairs. She made the proactive move to a bright and accessible one-level apartment. Her thinking ahead decision allowed time for decluttering, updating and preparing her home to sell for top dollar! She moved before she had to. Now, she’s within walking distance of the library, shops, and the beach—where she’s enjoying sunsets and city views. Her apartment’s future equity will help finance retirement living when she’s ready. Her plan is working beautifully, and she couldn’t be happier.

If you're considering a move to strata living, let’s talk! 

Deciding when to move is a deeply personal decision, and it’s important to consider several factors before making that change. For many, one of the first signs is might be time is when health or mobility becomes more of a challenge. Tasks that were once routine, or enjoyable like cooking, cleaning, yard work, and even grocery shopping, may start to feel too much. These everyday responsibilities can add stress, making the idea of a retirement living an exciting option.

As we age, we often find ourselves with more space than we actually need. Extra rooms that were once full of activity may become unused, adding to the cost and effort of maintaining a larger home. If you’re finding that the upkeep of a big house, including property taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs, too many belongings is becoming more costly than it’s worth, making the idea of retirement living more appealing. 

Maintenance, both big and small expenses, is something that often becomes a constant concern for homeowners as they age. From needing regular repairs to keeping up with the lawn, home maintenance can start to feel like an ongoing burden and costly. Leaving maintenance issues can reduce home’s value when selling. If you’re in a home that’s not adaptable for aging in place, or if you simply know that making it work long term will be difficult, and you want to ensure you get top dollar for the sale of your home, not waiting to move may be an option. 

Have you been thinking about your long-term needs? You want to be proactive and make decisions on your terms.  If you’ve been curious about retirement communities, their amenities, and the services they offer, it is worth taking a tour to see what’s available in your area. There is no obligation and personal tours are welcomed!

Retirement Living has options-  from independent living to more supportive care, allowing you to choose a lifestyle that suits your needs now and into the future. A key consideration for many is wanting to avoid the hassle of multiple moves. For others, the idea of moving to strata living can be a deterrent. If you’re not interested in the responsibilities and potential challenges that come with living in a strata-managed building, this might be another reason to consider a retirement community. Keep in mind, strata living is a great option for some and one many prefer. Visit  our blog post for considerations to think about before moving to an apartment. 

On choosing a retirement residence, I’m reminded of a couple who, before we met to prepare their house for sale, let me know they were sure they’d love a particular retirement community as friends lived there. When I asked if they had taken a tour, they hadn’t. I suggested they visit it, then take a tour of another community the following week. A few weeks later, they reached out to tell me they had chosen a completely different community than they originally had in mind—one with a beautiful garden, engaging activities, and within walking distance to family. Their children later told me, they were happy their parents went on tours. If they hadn’t, and something had happened, they would have moved their parents to the first one, thinking from past conversations they loved it. Can you imagine living in a place you didn’t really like?  Their proactive move was made on their terms and timeline.

Making a move is never an easy decision, yet asking yourself some questions early on, you can ensure that when the time comes, the move will be a positive one. Planning and preparation now can go a long way in ensuring your comfort and peace of mind for the years ahead. For more questions to consider or to have a conversation, call me directly at 604 730 2600.

The Importance of Planning for a Safe and Happy Future

Many prefer the comfort and familiarity of their own home over the thought of moving. While aging in place may sound like the ideal solution, it requires careful planning and thoughtful consideration to ensure it is both a safe and fulfilling option. There’s a lot more to consider if you want to make this work in the long term. Aging successfully in place is more than just staying in the same house—it’s about continuing to live safely, and comfortably in an environment you know well and love.  It involves navigating health changes, making your home more accessible, and finding the right support system. 

Take, for example, my dad. He is aging successfully in place, with the support of live-in help and community healthcare resources. It’s not always easy, and it requires monitoring, adjustments, and a solid plan in place. He’s fortunate to still be in great physical and mental health—he goes to the gym daily and plays golf when the weather permits.

What Does It Take to Age in Place? Aging in place isn’t something you can simply set up and forget. It requires careful planning and flexibility in several areas, all of which need to be addressed to make aging in place work. Can the home be modified? The home may require modifications, in-home healthcare services, or even hiring extra help for daily chores, meals, bathing, dressing, medicine management and home maintenance.

Can your or your parents’ home be adapted to meet the changing needs as time goes on? The good news is that many homes can be modified with a bit of creativity. I helped a couple who initially thought they would have to move out of their family home due to mobility issues. After meeting with them and learning about their family support system nearby, we came up with a plan to make it work. Working with a professional contractor, they transformed a large den into a primary suite on the main floor, moved the washer and dryer upstairs for easier access, and replaced the bathtub with a walk-in shower to prevent falls. They also had grab bars installed throughout the home to help with mobility and reduce fall risks. They can now live on one level, live in the home they love and enjoy their greenbelt private view. With family living just across the street, they had excellent support for trips to the grocery store, doctor’s appointments, and other errands.  While they knew they would need to hire professionals, like gardeners or handy people for odd jobs in the future, these modifications allowed them to extend their plan to stay in their home for several more years. Their story is a good example of how aging in place can work if you have the right support system, modifications, and plan in place. If your home can be adapted to meet your needs, aging in place may be entirely possible. It’s also a good example of being proactive and asking for help before the help is needed. Proactive decisions are always better than reactive decisions. 

It’s also worth considering whether your home is within walking distance of amenities like grocery stores, doctors’ offices, or libraries. Will stores deliver to your area? How far is a hospital or doctor? Many of my clients move to be closer to such conveniences. This can be a significant factor when deciding if aging in place is practical.

One of the most important aspects of aging in place is having a strong support system. Whether it’s help with transportation, household tasks, medication management, or simply emotional support, having people you can rely on is essential. Knowing that family members live nearby or are willing to help makes a world of difference in managing the challenges of aging in place. When family can’t help or live far away,  professional support can be a game-changer. In-home care companies will make personalized care plans to fit your or your loved ones’ specific needs. These care services might include help with daily activities like meal preparation, cleaning, companionship or personal care. The cost will depend on the level of care. Every individual’s situation is different. Some also offer respite care to family caretakers as well!

I’m happy to introduce you directly to like minded in home care professionals.  Call me at 604 730 2600

The Canada Government Age in Place Check List and Guide is a good place to start to ensure you are ageing well in place and decide if it is right for you, your love ones, now and in the long term. 

A common misconception is that retirement communities are only for people who are too frail to care for themselves. Many people hesitate to make a move because of worries about the process, perceived cost or because of outdated misconceptions about retirement communities and downsizing in general. Many have bad memories of visiting their parents or grandparents in “old folks homes.” The truth is, you probably have more options than you realize, and having the right guidance can help you navigate the next chapter. There are a variety of retirement residence options to choose from.

Moving to a new home when we’re younger often feels exciting. Yet when it comes to moving when older emotions can be more complicated. Leaving behind a home you’ve known for years, along with cherished belongings, can create a sense of loss. On top of that, the idea of perhaps needing help in the future and adjusting to a new environment can feel overwhelming. These feelings are natural, and part of the process. However, by focusing on the benefits of the move, gathering the right information, and finding support, you can approach this move with greater confidence. 

If retirement living is a consideration it doesn’t mean giving up your independence—it can be the opposite! Many people find that moving into a retirement community actually frees them from the burdens of home maintenance, leaving more time for relaxation and enjoyment and peace of mind.  With less space to keep tidy, no yard work to worry about, with everything taken care of,  one can enjoy your home without the daily upkeep and worry.

If you require little or no assistance with daily activities, an independent living community might be the right fit for you. You get to choose how you spend your time. You can stay as busy as you like, making new friends and participating in activities, or you can enjoy your private lifestyle, it’s your choice. And your friends and family are always welcome to visit, most communities have spacious dining areas where you can host gatherings without worrying about cooking or cleaning up afterward! These communities offer a safe, secure environment with ample amenities and social activities. Many independent living communities are located walking distance to shops and services, and your own secured parking spot. You have the freedom to live your life as you choose, with the added peace of mind that support is there when your needs change over time.

For those who need occasional assistance, independent supportive living or assisted living may be more appropriate. These communities provide extra help with daily activities like meals, medication, and personal care. There is also long-term care and memory care communities designed for individuals who require very specific care.

Is it ridiculous to start planning now?  No! Planning ahead isn’t about losing independence. It’s about reducing stress, maintaining control, and ensuring that when the time comes, your wishes are honoured.  No one wants to make these decisions reactively. I call this move a crisis move. I’ve seen it too often. Rushed decisions are made, homes are rushed to market and even the best of families often are left scrambling or arguing and or making decisions they think are best for everyone involved, but don’t know for sure. 

So let’s not wait for a fall, a health scare, or an emergency to start the conversation. Start now. Because having a plan is about taking charge of your future.  I’m here to help. I am here to be your guide, trusted advisor through every step of the process. if you, a spouse or your parents are wondering if retirement living is for them, let’s talk! 

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, my move management system 55 AND BETTER is designed to guide you through every step of this transition. I provide a clear breakdown of the costs involved in selling your current home, moving, and your ongoing monthly expenses. This helps you choose a retirement community that fits your budget. I’m happy to share like minded professionals including estate planners, real estate lawyers who are accustomed to working with older adults and their families. With a personalized plan, I promise I’ll be with you every step of the way to make the move easier and more manageable.

Whether for your parent, spouse or yourself, you may wonder what kind of retirement living will be best? Not sure what type of care is needed? Looking for a specific community or type of care in Greater Vancouver?  Not sure where to start?  Call me! I will share the types of care and how to choose the right one for you and connecting you directly with key contacts when you arrange your tour and even accompanying you or loved ones on tours. Ask for HELM’s GUIDE TO RETIREMENT LIVING CHECKLIST, questions to ask during the tour and questions to consider after the tour.   

Ready to get started? Let’s work together to create a customized plan that fits your needs so you can embrace this next chapter with confidence and peace of mind. Call 604 730 2600 

Fraud is now the leading crime committed against seniors in Canada.
Think fraud won’t happen to you or your parents or older adults in your life? It may have already happened and they didn’t say anything because they are embarrassed or don’t want you to think they are not capable. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre estimates that only 5 to 10% of people report fraud. Remember anyone at any age can fall victim to a scam, they are so professional. Fraud targeting older adults is on the rise. And that’s a concern. Seniors are increasingly targeted by fraudsters because they often have substantial savings, are perceived as more trusting, answer the phone and door and may be less tech-savvy, making them vulnerable to scams like phishing emails, phone calls, and fake investment schemes, and or door to door canvassing, pretending to be service companies. The impact on victims, particularly older adults can be devastating emotionally and financially, wiping out savings in a blink of an eye! Even when Canadians realize they’ve been a victim of fraud, the scam may not be over. Fraudsters are now contacting their victims days after being confronted. They impersonate law enforcement, a lawyer or a government agency and offer to help get their money back for a fee. Fortunately, there are many simple steps you can take to help you and the older adults in your life safe. 

1. Be aware that fraudsters may pose as government or bank staff, family members, law enforcement or other trusted people. The phone number on the call display may even say the bank’s name!  Never give out money or sensitive information to a caller, by text or by email. If you’re not sure about something, call a family member, your financial advisor or your bank. Don’t panic. Simply hang up. Consider having call control added to your line. Let your phone go to voice mail. You can always call your friends and family back.

2. Never click on a link or download an attachment from an unknown source. Even if it looks to be legitimate, verify the sender before taking any action.

3. Never give personal information over the phone or at the door. 

4. Keep your information secure by using strong, unique passwords. 

5. When online, don’t enter login information or credit card details unless you are sure the site is legitimate. Red flags include poor grammar or spelling errors, a URL that doesn’t match the company’s main site or a lack of a security lock symbol in the address bar.

6. Social media provides fraudsters with a large pool of potential victims. Be mindful of the personal information you post online and take advantage of privacy settings.

7. Monitor financial activity: A financial institution will never send a courier to your door to collect an alleged fraudulent card. If you get a phone call like this, hang up, and follow up with your bank if you are still feeling unsure. Keep track of bank statements and credit reports for suspicious activity. 
   Stay connected to your finances and set up alerts for suspicious activity on your bank account and credit cards.

8. If you will be selling your property, soon, now’s a good time to get ready, and to make a plan for what to do with the money. Don’t leave large amount of money easily accessible. 

9. Never give a deposit for work that hasn’t started yet- unless you are absolutely sure they are a legitimate company. 

10. Don’t buy into anyone’s sense of urgency, “limited time offer” “in your neighbourhood only this week” are common trick sayings. 

11. If it sounds too good to be true (online deals including sporting event tickets, handy person jobs around the house, items for sale) it probably is! Trust your instincts, ask questions, do your research and be extra cautious.

12. Fraudsters are now contacting their victims days after being confronted. They impersonate law enforcement, a lawyer or a government agency and offer to help get their money back for a fee.

    All fraud and scams should be reported, even if you are embarrassed or feel the amount of money is too small to worry about. While you might not be able to get your money back, you can help stop the con artist from scamming other people. Regularly discuss potential scams and how to identify them with older family members. Adult children of parents, if your parents share they’ve been scammed, keep in mind, everyone makes mistakes. The scams are so professional these days. Stay calm and focus on fixing the damage.  Report all fraud and scams to your local police.  Share the fraud scams you hear about with friends when out in social gatherings. Talking about it will help bring awareness to the growing concern.

Common scams targeting seniors:

• Fraudsters have been calling victims from a phone number that appears to be a legitimate financial institution and claiming there has been irregular activity on their bank accounts. 

• Grandparent scams: Scammers posing as a grandchild in distress, requesting money urgently. 

• Medical fraud: Fake calls or letters claiming to be from medical companies, requesting personal information or payments. 

• Investment scams: High-pressure sales tactics promising large returns on dubious investments. 

• Romance scams: Online profiles used to build relationships with seniors, then asking for money. 

• Tech support scams: Scammers posing as tech support, offering to fix computer issues for a fee.

• Door to door canvasing or handy fix it companies. 

• Services offering senior discounts 

A list of scams can be found on the Canada government’s anti fraud web page  https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm The RCMP website shares new scams to be aware of. 

Please note, if you or your parents or older adults in your family need resources, reliable people including estate planners, lawyers, to roofers, furnace, appliance, to electrical and gardeners fence fixes, please ask me- I’m happy to share my likeminded professional resources. 

Taking a moment to thank you, my clients and your families for placing your trust in me. It’s an honour to be recognized with the MLS Medallion Club award, and it’s a wonderful reminder of how much I truly love what I do. This recognition, from the Medallion Club report, highlights the Top 10 and Top 1% out of nearly 15,000 Realtors® in the Greater Vancouver area. Thank you to you my clients and your families. While the recognition is based on the number of transactions, I believe it’s not about how much business I do, yet how I do it. It is a huge responsibility to be your trusted advisor and guide and I'm grateful for your trust.

Thank you again for allowing me to be part of your real estate and rightsizing  journey.

February is Heart Month! The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada states that prevention starts with knowing your risks. Nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for stroke or heart disease. Eating healthy, being active and living smoke free can have a big impact on your health a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health, and it’s the ideal opportunity to reflect on how we can take better care of our hearts. The heart is at the core of everything we do—it impacts both our physical and mental well-being. Alongside eating a balanced diet and making healthy lifestyle choices, staying active is one of the most important ways to keep your heart strong. Regular physical activity not only reduces stress but also helps fight depression, manage high blood pressure, and combat obesity—all of which benefit your heart in the long run.

Luckily, there are plenty of enjoyable and safe activities that can get your blood pumping, and many of them are social, too! A great way to start is by joining a walking or exercise group. Many communities offer accessible parks, gardens, and walking trails that are wheelchair-friendly, providing a chance to enjoy some fresh air while staying active. If you're looking for extra motivation, joining a group can be an excellent way to stay committed. Additionally, there are seated exercise programs designed for people of all abilities, so you don’t have to worry about whether you can keep up with a more intense routine.

If you're an animal lover, getting a pet can also be a great way to stay mobile. For instance, adopting a dog will naturally get you moving as you take it on walks, while playing with a cat or taking care of its needs like cleaning the litter box can help keep you active, moving and bending too. Beyond the physical benefits, pets offer a special kind of companionship, providing both emotional support and a reason to move throughout the day.

Incorporating playful activities into your routine can also make staying active more fun. Games like billiards or dancing, curling, golfing can help you get moving while socializing with others. Many senior centres offer these kinds of recreational programs, so check out local listings or your community directory to see what’s available. Ask me for a specific group or activity and I’m happy to connect you and or find the information for you.Staying engaged in social activities is key to both mental and physical health.

Getting fresh air, strolls on the seawall, park trails or around your block is easy, and free! Gardening is another natural and enjoyable way to get some exercise outside. It engages muscles and promotes strength while reducing stress and letting you connect with nature. Plus, there’s something very rewarding about watching the fruits of your labour grow, whether it’s flowers, vegetables, or herbs.

Remember, it’s the small steps that add up when it comes to heart health. Making movement (nicer word than exercise) a part of your daily life doesn’t have to mean intense workouts; it can simply be about finding ways to stay active in ways that feel good and fit your lifestyle. And, of course, regular visits to your doctor are important for keeping an eye on your heart health as you go.

The benefits of moving are easier than you might think—and February is a great time to start building those habits for a healthier heart!

Make sure to ask your doctor before starting any new program! 

First off, I’m not a lawyer, so this information is simply a guide and not intended to be used as legal advice. 

I understand that many people delay setting up a power of attorney due to worries about potential misuse or simply thinking they'll handle it later, but having one in place is a powerful way to protect your wishes and give you peace of mind.

A POA is a legal document that lets you give authority to another person to make financial and legal decisions for you. Your POA can be:

1. General: your POA is able to make financial and legal decisions for you.

2. Specific or Limited: your POA can only make the financial and legal decisions you set out in the POA, such as taking money out of your chequing account to pay your bills. You can also limit the length of time the POA is valid. Note: A General, Specific or Limited POA ends when you become mentally incapable unless the POA contains an enduring clause.

3. Enduring: is a POA that specifically permits the attorney to continue to act for you if you later become incapable of managing your own affairs.

If your POA covers real estate it must be prepared according to the rules outlined in the Land Title Act of British Columbia. Given the complexity of real estate transactions and the legal implications of selling property under POA, it is highly recommended to consult with a lawyer experienced in British Columbia real estate law. Legal counsel will guide you through the process, help draft any necessary documents, and ensure that all legal requirements are met.  Realtors must be aware of the challenges that exist when representing someone who claims to have the legal right to act on behalf of a property owner on the basis of a POA. Is the POA valid? Was it properly executed? Does it empower the attorney to deal with real estate property? Has it expired? Has it been revoked? Has it been terminated through the death of the grantor? These are all questions that need to be answered before listing a home for sale! 

How to choose a POA? Most people select their spouse, a relative, or a close friend.
Select someone you trust to represent your best interests, not just the closest person to you. Your POA should be nearby for emergencies, calm under pressure, and ideally have some understanding of medical processes. Ensure they agree to take on this responsibility willingly.

Below are two links you may find of value and provide some peace of mind. National Initiative for Care of the Elderly information on Power of Attorney and the  Government of Canada site, what every older adult should know about Power of Attorneys.

Having a POA is part of your long term planning, “having your ducks in a row” as my mom used to say!  If you have any questions regarding this topic or getting your ducks in a row to provide peace of mind, just ask! I’m always just a phone call away. Janet