To the editor:
I have heard of a quotation which states that the measure of a civilization is determined by the way it treats its aged and infirm.
It would seem that ours is showing signs of failure.
One aspect is the new tendency of some seniors care centres to rid themselves of experienced care givers in order to pay less to new hires.
Is this another example of corporate greed? I have heard a few horror stories regarding the treatment of seniors in some facilities in our nation and below the border. As a senior, I am beginning to have second thoughts about putting myself in such a situation.
However, my present bone of contention concerns Interior Health’s meal program for seniors which has been operating five days per week for approximately 10 years at the former May Bennett home in Rutland as well as at two churches in the city on certain days. This has been wonderful for seniors to get excellent meals and to socialize at the same time. Weekly menus have been printed for pickup or posted on the Internet so that choices may be made.
Unfortunately, it was announced that it will no longer be possible for people to be served hot meals on site. Instead there will be noon time meals for pick up or delivery.
Gone will be the opportunity for conversations with old or new friends, which means so much to those who cannot get out very often.
Of course there could be a cost consideration for the chef who provides the meals. Many people have indicated a willingness to pay more if this is the case as the price has been raised in the past with no objections. This time no such opportunity was offered.
There may be a bleak future ahead for a lot of seniors if this bureaucratic mind set continues.
Oh well, it was wonderful while it lasted.
G. Bauer,
Kelowna
