Guest Column: Seniors’ lodge system based on need
By Medicine Hat News Opinon on October 24, 2018.
I am proud of Alberta’s Lodge Program, which is unique in Canada. It was developed in partnership with municipalities in 1958 to support daily living activities for seniors such as meals, laundry, and cleaning services, while allowing seniors to stay active and engaged in their communities. People in lodges can receive home care, but lodges are intended to be independent living. Those requiring a higher level of care are directed to a health care facility where they can receive the level of support they need. Today, lodges are in high demand. I hear about this as I travel the province and speak to seniors and their caregivers. As the daughter of aging parents, I know personally some of the daily challenges seniors can face. That’s why I am proud to be part of a government that makes sure resources go to front line services, like seniors’ lodges. With space in seniors’ lodges in high demand, I’m often asked how the wait list system works. Lodge operators follow set criteria to ensure seniors with the most need are prioritized for a home in a lodge. For example, when an application is received, operators take into account the suitability of current accommodations, the applicant’s degree of independence and the applicant’s income. What is not included in this is assessing an applicant’s assets. The system is set up to be fair, transparent, and to ensure those who need the most help get it. We know access to a safe, affordable supportive home is essential for seniors to age in their communities, close to loved ones. That is why our government has committed $533 million to build and maintain lodges throughout Alberta. We have also allocated $80 million to install sprinklers in lodges, making sure seniors in existing lodges are safe. And support for seniors isn’t just about where they live. Our government is building age-friendly and dementia-friendly communities, raising awareness about elder abuse and investing in programs like the Seniors Home and Adaptation Repair Program (SHARP). SHARP covers a range of adaptations and renovations to help seniors stay in their own homes longer. Last month I announced the province is investing up to $1 million annually through the new Aging Well in Community grant program. This program helps organizations improve the lives of seniors by funding community-based initiatives that remove barriers and help seniors stay engaged in their communities. As I said when we proclaimed Oct.1 the Day of Older Persons, seniors built this province and we are dedicated to supporting them. Making sure our loved ones get the care they need is a priority for our government. This includes continuing to invest in safe, affordable homes for seniors. The Hon. Lori Sigurdson is Alberta Minister of Seniors and Housing. 12-11
