Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to talk about seniors, and more specifically, to those seniors residing in the care facilities operated by this government.
Madam Speaker, prior to her passing, my mother lived in one of those facilities for a number of years. She was somewhat reluctant to move in at first, but once she was settled and realized that some of her friends were there, it became easier to adjust. While living in the facility, she was always visited and surrounded by family and friends. This was very important to her.
However, Madam Speaker, not all seniors have family and/or friends, and thereby find themselves alone. Although my mother is no longer in the facility in Hay River, I still try and visit the people there and take some of the foods that they probably shouldn't have, because it is about respect for our seniors, their quality of life, and it is the right thing to do.
Madam Speaker, when I visit these seniors, some may or may not remember me, but one thing they all have in common is that they are pleased to be able to have a conversation with someone. They all have stories to tell. They all have family members somewhere, and they will let you know how much they miss those members, and how proud they are of them.
We expect our staff to interact with the residents. They are busy as well, however, the staff have tasks they have to accomplish throughout their shift during the day. There are activity coordinators on site who also interact and provide the residents of its facility with recreational opportunities. The number of staff is not sufficient to provide the personal interaction time the residents need.
I'm not asking for more staff as it is important that in addition to families, we should look at engaging the community. It may be as simple as encouraging the local seniors' society, students, or businesses that would be willing to offer a few hours of their time to visit, which I know the seniors would find rewarding.
Madam Speaker, the seniors in these facilities or who may be at home alone need that social interaction. They need to be physically active. They need to feel like they can still contribute. They need to be shown they matter, and most important, they need to know they are loved. Madam Speaker, we have to slow down and reflect on what is important to us, and remember exactly why we are here. Thank you, Madam Speaker.