February 23, 2026
All Manitoba Health Regions Now Connecting Seniors and Other Manitobans to Community Supports That Reduce Isolation and Strengthen Well-Being
– – –Community-Based Referrals Expanding Provincewide Through Social Prescribing: Asagwara
Social prescribing, a model that connects people to community‑based supports such as social programs, peer groups and practical services, is now available in all five regional health authorities as referrals continue to increase across the province, Health, Seniors and Long‑Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.
“When someone is experiencing isolation or has limited access to supports, those realities affect their health just as much as medical needs,” said Asagwara. “Connecting people to community programs helps address those challenges earlier, supporting well-being and helping people stay healthier where they live.”
The Manitoba government is collaborating with regional health authorities and community partners to help more patients learn about social prescribing and access community-based supports. Across Canada and internationally, health systems are increasingly recognizing the impact of loneliness and social isolation on health and well-being, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, the minister noted.
Clinicians across Manitoba can refer seniors, individuals managing chronic conditions and those experiencing social isolation or mental health challenges to more than 120 resource co-ordinators working across the province. These co-ordinators maintain local information hubs that track programs and services available in their communities. Once referred, co-ordinators work directly with clients to understand their interests, needs and goals, helping them access non-medical supports that strengthen overall health and well-being.
Supports may include weekly or monthly community lunch programs; social activities such as board game groups or bowling leagues; creative opportunities like knitting or painting classes; and physical activity programs such as walking groups or pickleball. Supports may also include assistance with food access, transportation or other practical services. Depending on the program, supports may be free, fee-for-service or offered on a cost-recovery basis.
Statistics Canada data shows more than one in 10 Canadians report feeling lonely often or always, and nearly one in five older adults experience loneliness. These realities highlight the need to connect people with community supports in addition to traditional medical care, the minister noted.
“Loneliness is a major health concern for older Manitobans, with researching showing it can increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, depression and dementia,” said Dr. Nichelle Desilets, president, Doctors Manitoba. “Social prescribing allows doctors to help patients at risk of social isolation by referring them to personalized supports and resources. We deeply appreciate the expanded provincial resources to support social prescribing, and we encourage patients to connect with their local senior centre or talk to their doctor about loneliness and isolation as part of their routine check-up.”
Referrals have grown significantly, increasing by approximately 44 per cent over the past year as awareness expands among health-care providers and community connections become more integrated into care, the minister said.
Social prescribing initiatives in Manitoba are delivered through collaboration between regional health authorities, community agencies, senior-serving organizations and partners including the Manitoba Association of Senior Communities (MASC), ensuring individuals receive support that reflects both their medical and social needs.
“Social prescribing is about helping older adults stay connected, supported and engaged in their communities,” said Connie Newman, executive director, MASC. “When health-care providers and community organizations work together, people can access the right supports at the right time in ways that reflect their individual needs and experiences. It’s exciting to see health and community wellness systems collaborating to address the social factors that influence health. MASC is grateful for the Manitoba government’s commitment to supporting the well-being and quality of life of older adults.”
The Manitoba government will continue working with partners to expand access to community-based supports that help Manitobans stay connected, supported and healthy.
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