Sherbrooke Village Long-term Care Home, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Below is the letter published in the The Ottawa Citizen in response to the article re “funding cuts jeopardize care homes”. Read the July 22/19 article here.
“Once again, the vulnerable older adults living in our long-term care homes will be penalized by funding cuts. Many residents continue to be frustrated and bored, which often results in aggressive incidents. Staff continue to be exhausted, frustrated and overworked. Funding cuts aren’t the answer. Transforming the way care is delivered and creating a new culture of care with innovative models that already exist is a solution. These innovative models are being used in several communities in the province.
Yes, there is upfront investment but there are projections that the result is cost-neutral. The result? Fewer aggressive incidents, decreased medication use, and a decrease in staff sick days.
These models create an atmosphere that is more homelike and provide a sense of community for residents, staff and families. Wouldn’t you want this kind of transformative care for your family member?
The new Minister of Long-term Care, Merrilee Fullerton, has said that ‘long-term care is a priority for this government.’ CARP Ottawa urges her to include a study of these innovative models of care before making any future decisions regarding cuts.
Rick Baker, President, CARP Ottawa”
If you belong to another branch of CARP or any other organization, please take some action and send letters to your local papers. We need your help!
I use to belong to a choir and we always went into senior care homes. We sang songs from their era . I never felt more appreciated. Care for our seniors should be automatic!
Naomi. Many thanks for your comment. We agree wholeheartedly.