The Haliburton Highlands Long-Term Care Coalition says it isn’t time to fix Ontario’s long-term care system. It is time to completely change it.
Bonnie Roe is the group’s chair, and she says the pandemic has shed a spotlight on a broken long-term care structure which has been a long-standing issue for more than thirty years. “Trying to fix it is not the answer. We need a huge transformation. Recent polls done by The National Institute on Aging found more than 95% of persons want to avoid long-term institutional care.”
Roe believes a vibrant homecare system is crucial for seniors to age at home, but she is concerned about the Ford government’s plans. “Homecare has to be improved. It is in a horrific state right now and it is going to be privatized even more with the current government.”
The Coalition is hosting three community discussions called ‘Aging Together as a Community.’
Participants will view the inspirational Danish documentary, ‘It is Not Over Yet’ featuring an innovative Danish, community-based model of elder care. Based on a compassionate care approach it enables individuals with dementia to live in small home-like settings, with dignity, grace and joy.
“We will break into small groups to share how as a community we value aging and brainstorm what that vision could truly look and feel like. Together we will explore the possibility of ‘home based alternatives’ to institutional care that takes profits out of care, promotes assisted living and we will begin to create a plan to move forward in Haliburton County,” she adds.
There are three events planned across the region:
- Wednesday, June 22 at 6 p.m. at the Lloyd Watson Community Centre
- Thursday, June 23 at 6 p.m. at the Minden Lions Club
- Friday, June 24 at 6 p.m. at Haliburton United Church
Masks are encouraged and appreciated, and refreshments will be provided. Donations are also gratefully accepted. To register visit the group’s Facebook page or website at ltcneedsyou.ca and click on the QR code or call 705-457-2247.