Editor:
In a March 4 column, “Threats to finances increase with age,” financial advisor Mike Grenby paints a picture of dangers lurking at every turn to help part seniors from their money. Perhaps this was a ploy to grab attention, but I don’t think it was a very balanced approach to helping seniors and those seeking to help them find the most compatible solutions to managing finances.
I know, I’m doing this right now on behalf of, and with, my aging father who is needing assistance managing his personal affairs, including his finances.
It’s a time in his life where he is experiencing changes and there is a new normal in how he copes and how those around him respond to his new challenges.
To my perception, scaring him about the pitfalls of co-managing his affairs would be the least helpful thing I could think of. Rather, he needs reassurance and support in recognizing where and how he can be productive, as do those of us seeking to help him. But finding the help all of us need is where the real guessing game begins.
The issue of seniors’ care and advocacy extends far beyond the issue of financial management, and is poised to become one of the defining issues of our times.
More help for our seniors as well as those seeking to help them is well warranted. And to my perception it is a regrettable omission that Justin Trudeau failed to address this ever-increasing need through the creation of a Ministry for Seniors Affairs, though he did see fit to appoint himself Minister for Youth.
Michael Maser, Gibsons
