Commentary
Canada is experiencing significant demographic changes, particularly with a growing population over 65 years old. The number of seniors has increased by 81 percent from 2001 to 2021, while the overall Canadian population has grown by 23 percent. Currently, nearly one in five Canadians are over 65 years old.
This demographic shift is putting pressure on the health-care system, which is already strained.
Another trend impacting the health-care system is the decreasing presence of younger relatives living close to older family members. This results in fewer caregivers available to attend to the needs of seniors.
My wife has been residing in Misericordia Place, a care home in Winnipeg, for almost three years. During my visits, I often engage with other residents and hear their perspectives.
Despite their challenging circumstances, residents often display a sense of humor, remarking with phrases like “I’m still alive” and “Not bad for being in jail,” showcasing their resilience.
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In care homes, residents are monitored and restricted for safety reasons, similar to the security measures in jails. However, there are key differences between the two settings.
One noticeable difference is the attire, as inmates wear prison uniforms while care home residents dress in their own clothes, often using mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs.
Another distinction is the demographic composition, with jails primarily housing young men and care homes predominantly accommodating elderly women.
Furthermore, the quality of food differs significantly, with inmates receiving free meals while care home residents pay for their care, often at a high cost.
Additionally, the interactions within care homes are often more compassionate and supportive compared to the dynamics in prisons. Residents may form positive relationships with staff, who play a crucial role in their daily lives.
Unlike prisoners who may be released based on good behavior, care home residents typically reside in these facilities until the end of their lives, presenting a unique challenge.
Efforts can be made to enhance the quality of life for care home residents by promoting social interactions, organizing recreational activities, improving food quality, and fostering community engagement.
As the population ages, addressing the needs of care home residents will become increasingly important, requiring a more inclusive and compassionate approach from society.
The final years of their lives should undoubtedly be characterized by dignity and comfort, ideally within a supportive community. Rodney A. Clifton, a professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba and a senior fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, emphasizes the importance of this in his work. His recent book with Mark DeWolf, “From Truth Comes Reconciliation: An Assessment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report,” delves into this topic further. It is crucial for individuals to have access to such conditions as they age. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily align with those of The Epoch Times.
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