In answer to the rising numbers of Canadian seniors reported by Statistics Canada, this Letter to the Editor begged to be written ...

Many shades of grey

 

 

By Rick Lauber, June 3, 2012

 

 

Can you sweep over five million seniors under the carpet and forget about them? Let's hope not.
The recent report from Statistics Canada proves we are an aging country. The official count shows that of our 33.5 million residents, just over five million are 65 years or older ... that's a lot of grey hair.
This ever-rising statistic not only affects seniors but their caregivers - either adult children, friends or a spouse. Caregivers can be called upon to honour final requests, provide transportation, manage finances, give medication, serve as an advocate, help feed a senior and so on.
As a former co-caregiver for both of my parents, I did all of these jobs and more.
Furthermore, a family caregiver may have little to no related experience in health care, banking, law or social work to draw from.
A caregiver's life can easily be turned upside down, affecting him or her personally and professionally.
Seniors and their caregivers demand the utmost respect and the best quality of life available. Let's put away the broom and start listening.
Rick Lauber