Invisible Stories: Aging in Place on Mayne Island
As we go about our daily lives on Mayne Island—grocery shopping, walking our dogs, or enjoying a coffee at our favorite spots—it’s easy to forget that some of our neighbours are navigating challenges we can’t see. These are the invisible stories of people aging in place, facing needs that aren’t apparent to most of us but are very real in their day-to-day existence. While these challenges may not be obvious, they are quietly addressed by the work of the Mayne Island Assisted Living Society (MIALS) and their many volunteers and community partners.
Aging in place is a concept many people cherish—the idea of growing older in the comfort of one’s own home, surrounded by familiar sights and the community culture they’ve known for years. But for some, this also means living with increased isolation, mobility issues, or health concerns that complicate their independence. The obstacles they face—struggling with transportation, or simply feeling disconnected—are often hidden behind closed doors. These are not the problems we readily see, but they are very much present.
The sense of isolation many face as they age is often intensified by what we refer to as the “islander mentality.” Here on the island, people tend to stay tucked away in their homes, valuing privacy, independence, and self-sufficiency. While this mentality fosters resilience, it can also lead to increased loneliness, especially for seniors who may already be struggling with health issues or mobility challenges. Stoicism is admired and respected, but it can prevent individuals from reaching out for help, making it harder for others to recognize when support is needed. This quiet self-reliance often means that many of our neighbours’ struggles go unnoticed.
MIALS exists to serve these individuals, offering crucial support that allows them to maintain their independence and dignity as they age. One such person might be a senior who lives alone, physically capable of getting around the house but no longer able to drive safely. Without transportation, even simple tasks like attending a medical appointment or getting groceries become insurmountable hurdles. It’s easy for those of us who can hop into a car to overlook how isolating this loss of mobility can be. Yet, through the Meals on Wheels program, volunteer drivers, and the Day Tripper Bus Program, MIALS steps in to bridge the gap, ensuring that our aging neighbors have access to necessities.
These invisible stories of aging in place remind us of the hidden needs within our community. In recognizing these stories, we not only become more aware of the needs around us, but we also become more mindful of the quiet, yet vital, impact MIALS has on the lives of our aging community members. It is through this awareness that we can continue to support and uplift one another as we age together, here in the heart of Mayne Island.
Visit your neighbor. Invite them to Lunch Bunch. Remind them that they are a cherished member of our community.
–Robin Poncia