MLA Report: Celebrating our seniors and those who care for them

By Justin Wright on June 18, 2025.

As we recently celebrated Alberta Seniors Week, June 2-8, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the incredible seniors in our community and the dedicated professionals who support them every day.

Our riding is home to exceptional long-term care facilities and senior programs that truly embody the spirit of compassionate care. These local facilities and organizations don’t just provide services – they create communities where our seniors can thrive with dignity and purpose.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting a few of these facilities over my term so far, and I’m consistently impressed by the innovation and heart I witness. I have watched residents participate in intergenerational programs where local school children visit weekly to read stories and share laughs. The joy on both young and old faces reminds us that our seniors have so much wisdom and love to offer.

The staff at these facilities deserve special recognition. During the challenges of recent years, they’ve shown remarkable resilience and creativity. Whether it’s organizing virtual family visits, creating outdoor visiting spaces, or developing new recreation programs, they’ve consistently put residents’ wellbeing first. These aren’t just jobs for them – they’re callings.

Our government remains committed to supporting quality senior care. We’ve invested in improvements to long-term care facilities across Alberta, and locally, including enhanced staffing standards and infrastructure upgrades.

But the real heroes of Seniors Week are our seniors themselves. Many continue to volunteer countless hours at food banks, libraries, and community organizations. Others mentor young entrepreneurs or share their trades and crafts with the next generation. Their contributions make our community stronger and more connected.

To the families navigating care decisions for loved ones, please know that you’re not alone. Our local facilities welcome tours and conversations about care options. The transition to assisted living or long-term care can feel overwhelming, but the professionals in our community are here to support you every step of the way.

As we move forward, I encourage everyone to stay connected with the seniors in their lives. A phone call, a visit, or simply a wave to an elderly neighbor can brighten someone’s entire week. Our seniors built the communities we enjoy today – showing them respect and appreciation is both an honor and a responsibility.

If you’d like to learn more about senior programs in our area or have concerns about senior care, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. Together, we can ensure our community remains a place where seniors are valued, supported, and celebrated year-round.

Justin Wright is the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

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