At Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network, we understand the importance of intentional planning for families with loved ones who have disabilities. That’s why we are so encouraged to share that the PLAN Team recently visited beautiful Salt Spring Island to meet with families and discuss how they can move from being unprepared to achieving peace of mind. This conversation is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every family feels supported and confident in their plans for the future.
Why Planning Matters More Than Ever
For the first time in Canadian history, there are more seniors than young people. According to Statistics Canada, 16.9% of the population is now aged 65 or older, compared to 16.6% under the age of 15. This demographic shift is also reflected in PLAN families, where the median age of Lifetime Members is 57, and some parents, as old as 90, continue to act as primary caregivers.
People with disabilities are also living longer, thanks to advances in medical care and inclusive community living. While this is a cause for celebration, it also presents unique challenges. Many parents worry about what will happen when they are no longer able to provide the support their loved ones need. For families, this raises pressing questions about succession planning, the continuation of personal support networks, and the tools needed to ensure their loved ones continue to live good lives.
PLAN’s Approach to Future Planning
Since 1989, PLAN families have been working to ensure that people with disabilities can live meaningful lives surrounded by caring and inclusive communities. Through the development of personal support networks and intentional planning, PLAN provides families with the tools to address these challenges.
Our Unprepared to Peace of Mind planning tool is one of the ways we help families navigate this journey. This resource guides families through the various elements of future planning, helping them stay organized and on track as they make decisions that impact their loved ones’ futures. From identifying members of personal support networks who can take on critical roles to documenting essential information for smooth transitions, this tool ensures peace of mind for families.
An Invitation to Connect
This visit to Salt Spring Island provided an opportunity to connect with families and share practical strategies for future planning. It’s a chance to explore how intentional planning can ease the transition of caregiving roles and ensure the ongoing quality of life for loved ones with disabilities.
We also want to extend an invitation to Family Networks and support organizations across British Columbia to connect with us. The PLAN Team is excited to collaborate and share resources to support families and their loved ones with disabilities in communities throughout the province.
Looking Ahead
The PLAN Team is committed to supporting families across British Columbia on their journey toward peace of mind. We believe in the power of collaboration and community to create a future where every individual can thrive in a caring, inclusive environment.
Stay tuned for updates on our work in communities like Salt Spring Island, and if you’re part of a Family Network or support organization, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can support families in building strong, resilient futures for their loved ones.