Supporting seniors during the pandemic

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/04/2020 (1969 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

As we are beginning to see fewer cases of COVID-19 in Manitoba, I want to remind everyone that we must remain diligent in our social-distancing efforts in order to avoid a potential second wave. Please continue to stay at home.

We know that across Canada and in most countries around the world, seniors, especially those in long-term care facilities, are at greatest risk of being harmed by this virus. Long-term care facilities are in a very difficult position, as well as are the seniors who reside there, and their families.

We have had many families reach out to us with their concerns for their loved ones that are in care homes that often have employees moving between more than one facility. Unfortunately, these circumstances have lead to a surge in confirmed COVID-19 cases in personal care homes in Ontario and BC.

In response, governments have placed restriction to stop people from working in more than one care home. My NDP team and I will continue to push the government to make sure the right thing is done to ensure the well being of our parents, grandparents, and other elderly members of our community.

It is my hope, by the time this article is published, that restrictions have been put in place to limit care workers to one facility to reduce the risk of transmission to our vulnerable elders.

Although this is a very uncertain and nerve-wracking time for seniors in our community, we are happy to hear about local businesses stepping-up to make things a little easier. Many local grocers have allotted early morning hours exclusively for seniors and other high-risk folks. To all grocers who have taken these measures, thank you very much.

If you have any questions about accessing government supports or services, our office is here to help. Feel free to contact my office at (204) 421-4241 or mark.wasyliw@yourmanitoba.ca