NB
Media Co-op
Letter
to the Editor
March
15, 2013
We
are Social Work students who are gravely concerned about New Brunswick’s
long-term care system. We want our work with seniors to reflect our values of
respect and dignity.
In
his 2010 campaign platform, Premier Alward acknowledged seniors’ right to live
with respect and dignity. Alward promised that he would help seniors to live in
their homes longer, protect pensions, and improve access to wellness services,
among other promises.
As
yet, Premier Alward has not followed through on his 2010 campaign promises to:
-expand
the mandate of the provincial Ombudsman to include nursing homes, special care
homes and home care services
-establish
a 1-800-SENIORS, toll-free hotline for people over the age of 65 looking for
government information and services
-establish
a special wellness clinics for seniors
-include
a review of the value of work performed by home care workers (mostly women)
which sometimes amounts to less than minimum wage
According
to the 2006 Census, by the year 2026, approximately 25.7 % of New Brunswick
residents will be over 65. We need to make changes to our long-term care system
now.
Premier
Alward must collaborate meaningfully with advocacy groups, like the Coalition
for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents’ Rights, who put the needs of seniors
first. If Premier Alward’s word is his contract, then it’s time to keep his
word.
Premier
Alward needs to be held accountable. He must work with New Brunswick residents
to create a long-term care system that offers seniors dignity and respect.
Karolyn
Martin, Beth Anne Dolan, Julia Breneol & Robyn Lippett
