Letter to the Editor:
Congratulations Saskatchewan! Through our collective effort we have flattened the curve by honouring the guidelines to keep ourselves safe during the pandemic.
However, COVID-19 has also shown the cracks in our provincial and federal support systems for Canadians. These deficiencies have never been more apparent than how older adults have been treated and cared for. While Saskatchewan has done a better job, the problems with staffing, adequate training and support, caregiving burnout and financial challenges have contributed to the current turmoil in the care home industry.
Let’s include a comprehensive plan that responds to the needs and interests of older adults as part of the “new normal”. Good programming, without a guiding directional plan has led to gaps and cracks in the system.
With the support of community-based leaders, the government needs to build capacity and provide leadership to ensure that the “Saskatchewan advantage” includes the growing population of older adults. Let’s see some leadership to honour older adults who continue to work, volunteer, care and contribute to the lifestyle and success of Saskatchewan.
Randy Dove, President
Sask Seniors Mechanism
