Local seniors packed the Golden Age Centre Tuesday to hear from their new provincial campaigner. Sheree Kwong See took on the position of Alberta’s Seniors Advocate in September, and has trips planned to 10 communities to share what she does and how she can help.
See says of the 400 plus calls she’s gotten since she started, some of the biggest concerns she hears are about financial supports and continuing care. Here in the Swan City, seniors were also worried about the medical system.
“Issues around doctors, access to various health care programs, access to doctors and medication,” See explains. “Some of the seniors talked about dental costs for seniors; that’s not regulated. Again, I heard that finances for those who rely on those government supports that they’re not enough.”
Transitioning off of AISH can also be difficult, and the cost of utilities also came up at the meeting. Another issue See says the Alberta’s Seniors Advocate office can deal with is reports of problems at care facilities.
“We’re hearing in communal settings that seniors are feeling some bullying and intimidation and it’s not just resident to resident, but in some cases seniors are telling us they have trouble with their management as well.”
She often hears the process of filing complaints can also be confusing. People with questions or concerns about health and home care services, housing, continuing care, and income can contact the office online, by email ([email protected]) or through a toll free number (1-844-644-0682).
While the office is based out of Edmonton, it covers the entire province, and staff can reach out to other local government-funded agencies to help people face-to-face. Once See has finished her provincial tour, a report will be filed and published online.