Editor:
Thanks for highlighting the ombudsperson's report on seniors' care, both in your front page story and your editorial (Coast Reporter, Feb. 24).
Is there a crisis? Probably not, but there is definitely a build-up of neglect and false economy by the provincial ministry of health.
Kim Carter's report comments comprehensively and intelligently on all aspects of seniors' home and community care. The provincial government's response, its self-proclaimed Action Plan, is less impressive.
One noteworthy commitment by the health minister is to extend a current pilot project on non-medical home supports - services like housekeeping and yard maintenance that used to be a regular part of seniors' home support. The program, developed through the United Way of the Lower Mainland, is called Community Action for Seniors Independence (CASI ). A total of $15 million has been allocated to expand CASI from five to 65 B.C. communities.
A small ad hoc committee has formed to analyze the pros and cons of the CASI program, on the assumption it will shortly be available for communities to apply. As soon as practicable, there will be a series of open meetings to gather the views of Coast residents on their needs for expanded home support services.
If you're interested in the whole topic of seniors' care, go to the ombudsperson's website, www.bcombudsperson.ca, and check out the report. The government's Action Plan is at www.seniorsbc.ca. Information on the CASI program is at www.seniorsbc.ca/news/casi.html.
Sue Jackel
Sechelt
