Strengthening long-term care is a struggle about demonstrating our enduring commitment to human dignity
Ottawa (11 Feb. 2008) - The National Union of Public and General Employees has written the Special Senate Committee on Aging asking them to expand their review to include issues of long-term care.
In his letter to the committee, national president James Clancy refers to the importance of "access to affordable and high-quality care for Canada’s elderly."
Accompanying the letter was a copy of the National Union publication Dignity Denied.
Referring to the report, Clancy explains that the union speaks "of the stress endured by families that have to make difficult choices regarding their parents and grandparents. We also consider the circumstances of the women and men who work in long-term care facilities."
The letter and material was sent in advance of a February 11th meeting of the committee.
"There is a real lack of timely and comprehensive information on the long-term sector in Canada," writes Clancy.
"That being said, we believe this report provides enough information and evidence to conclude that Canada’s long-term care system is failing to provide tens of thousands of older Canadians with the affordable, accessible, high-quality care they need and deserve."
Clancy does not necessarily see dire consequences for the future if Canadians act now on their values and visions for our society.
"Strengthening long-term care is a struggle about demonstrating our enduring commitment to human dignity. The good news is that the system can be strengthened, provided that our governments, at every level, act with courage and choose the right path. By working together, we can make that happen. It’s no more than the elderly deserve. And it’s no more than we should give." NUPGE
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