Mahsi. Mr. Chairman, this is what we recommend in areas related specifically to elders. The involvement of respected elders in community-based counselling programs should be encouraged and promoted. It is important that those who want to contribute in this way are able to remain in the community. The focus of health and social services for our elders should, therefore, change from institutions and towards community and home-based care.
As part of this process of assisting elders to remain in their communities, the provision of local palliative care should be encouraged wherever possible. Since palliative care may be provided in the home, steps should be taken to ensure that our elders enjoy decent housing.
Elders should also be assisted in maintaining their financial independence. The financial exploitation of elders is unacceptable. Ways must be found to help them retain greater control over the money they receive from income assistance programs. Specific measures could include a different payment schedule, the use of vouchers instead of cash, plus money management and budgeting programs.
The abuse of elders in our society is totally unacceptable. They have made an important contribution to the community during their lives. It is time for the community to give something back in return. What could be more meaningful than a greater sense of personal security? We understand the proposed Guardianship and Trusteeship Act includes an adult protection clause, which allows granting of temporary
guardianship for elders who are being abused. We recommend and support prompt passage of such legislation.
A more extensive and active support system is required to help abused elders find information and assistance. This support can be provided in two ways. The first is by supporting the development of local and regional self-help groups for seniors. The second way is for the government and such groups to make it easier for elders to find out about the services available to them. This could be done by designating someone within government as a contact person on elders' issues. At the same time, elders could be provided with a way in which they could obtain information, answers and assistance.