Elderly Abuse

Elder Abuse refers to the violence, mistreatment or neglect that older adults living in either private residences or institutions may experience at the hands of their spouses, children, other family members, caregivers, service providers or other individuals in situations of power or trust. Elder Abuse also includes older adults abused by non-family members who are not in a position of power or trust and self-neglect. There are many different forms of elder abuse including neglect (self or by others), physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, economic / financial, and institutional abuse. The stress associated with abuse can lead to physical and mental health problems such as stroke, anxiety, depression, heart attack, etc. (“Elder Abuse - Royal Canadian Mounted Police,” n.d.).

Research by academics, Statistics Canada and seniors' advocates suggests that almost one of every 10 older Canadians experiences some form of abuse. However, much of it goes un-reported. Statistics Canada said in 2009 that about seven in ten crimes against older Canadians are not reported to police, mainly because the victims didn't think they needed help (“Elder Abuse: Canada's Federal Government To Introduce Stiffer Sentences,” n.d.).

The liberal ideology promotes equality and equal opportunities for all people living in society. Many older adults are being taking advantage of due to their assumed inability to defend themselves and the high level of dependency they have on others. Everyone in society is equal, and no one should feel controlled or threatened by another individual. The value of human life cannot be measured by age; we all are entitled to freedom from neglect and abuse. No individual holds the power to take away ones power to exercise their rights. Older adults are belittled into thinking that they are no longer of use to society, therefore their rights and equal opportunities are being robbed from them. The majority of older adults do not seek assistance from the law when necessary because they feel like their situations are not worthy of attention. The liberal ideology would promote older adults to stand up for their rights and get help when feeling neglected or abused.

It is very disturbing hearing about the amount of elders that are abused by not only strangers but by their own family members. My grandmother passed away the end of last summer after having extreme lungs problems, which affected her ability to breathe immensely. On my grandma‘s last months, she required assistance everyday from family, friends, service workers, and health care professionals in order for her to be constantly looked after and made comfortable. My grandma wouldn't have been able to live her life as long as she did without the help from so many people. It breaks my heart to think that many older adults are experiencing severe health problems as my grandma did, and  are not  receiving the care they need and also being taken advantage of due to the inabilities that come along with their health problems. I think elder abuse is not seen as a huge issue in society today because there so many other issues occurring amongst young adults. This is wrong; elders deserve the same support and attention concerning their social issues as the youth age group. Something must be done to reach out to the older adults and remind them that their lives are valued and important to everyone. No one should ever feel like being abused is not an issue no matter what the case may be. It is very hard to imagine that abuse is a reality to many older adults. Something must be done about this issue in the future to ensure that older adults feel safe and receive the proper care they need.

-Lindsay 

References:

Elder Abuse: Canada's Federal Government To Introduce Stiffer Sentences. (n.d.). Huffington    Post Canada - Canadian News Stories, Breaking News, Opinion. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/03/14/elder-abuse-canada-crime_n_1345596.html

Elder Abuse - Royal Canadian Mounted Police. (n.d.). Royal Canadian Mounted Police - Welcome | Gendarmerie royale du Canada - Bienvenue. Retrieved from http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ccaps-spcca/elder-aine-eng.htm

Straka, S. (2012). Liberal Ideology. SWRK1006 Slides Oct 12 Ideologies.

Older Adults--Euthanasia; Taking Life for Granted

Euthanasia can be defined as the act of a merciful, relatively painless killing of a terminally ill or severely injured individual. Euthanasia can be seen as one of the most controversial and complex issues in today's society. A constant debate exists to whether the matter should be legal or not, however there is an immense grey area. Should a patient who has lost complete functionality of their brain be taken off life support? Does a dying, suffering cancer patient have the right to be put to death to escape the pain? I find myself experiencing a battle of my morals when trying to understand such tragic scenarios. Having done research on euthanasia in the past, I always find it almost impossible to take a stand on an opinion. Nonetheless, I was determined to adequately analyze the matter of euthanasia in terms of older adults.

The social group most influenced by the act of euthanasia is the elderly. The NHS (National Health Service) euthanizes approximately 130 000 elderly patients every year. In attempts to free spaces in hospital beds, doctors are killing off older adults whom they perceive as terminally ill (Doughty, 2012). I see this statistic to be a sickening example of ageism. We do not have the right to place value on another individual's life in terms of their age. The lives of younger patients are saved at all costs, while the lives of elderly patients are being given up on. I feel that the act euthanasia is a complete disregard to the sanctity of human life. Although I do agree that in certain situations euthanasia is acceptable, I believe that the legalization of active euthanasia would be an mistake. The authorization of euthanasia would lead to its usage transforming from a last resort to a viable option for patients. The sense of hope for all elderly would be abolished. From the perspective of a terminally ill older adult, a recovery will begin to seem irrelevant and pointless when euthanasia is being offered, and in some cases pushed upon them. Every life deserves to be fought for, regardless of one's age. 

Although we are called to trust the medical expertise of our doctors, we must understand that no individual should be given the ongoing authority to take the lives of other human beings, especially without their consent. Non-voluntary euthanasia refers to the euthanization of a patient who is not able to make such a decision for themselves. The city of Holland, where "active euthanasia" is legal, provides a prime example to the corruption of euthanasia.  I chose to place quotations around "active euthanasia" because upon doing research into the medical systems of Holland, "active euthanasia" hardly defines what they are objecting patients to. Recent studies have uncovered that in 1990, 1030 Dutch patients were killed without their consent. Of 22 500 deaths due to withdrawal of life support, 14 175 patients were denied medical treatment without their consent (If Mercy Killing Becomes Legal, 2012). The legalization of active euthanasia leads to a direct abuse of power. We must not draw a blind eye to this issue. If euthanasia becomes morally accepted and legal in our society, the effects on the elderly population will be catastrophic. Our society already abuses, belittles and takes for granted these human beings for no reason other than old age. We do not need to add euthanasia into the list of great injustices that older adults face. 

The notion of euthanasia is in complete contradiction of the social democratic ideology. This ideology  exemplifies the values of social equality, justice and cooperation. It stands by the fact that everybody should have natural right to life. It also promotes freedom and ensuring equal chances for all. (Straka, 2012) There is no greater social inequality than the assumption that your life is of lesser value than another. This is exactly what euthanasia objects older adults to. Euthanizing an elderly ill patient gives off the horrid impression that an older life is not worth saving. Non-voluntary euthanasia is the ultimate thief of freedom. To take away one's life without their consent shows a complete lack of respect towards the life of that individual, especially an elder. The knowledge and wisdom that come with age can never be put into value. let alone deemed as not important. The aspect of "equal changes for all" is also being disclaimed by euthanasia. Doctors that are permitted to perform euthanasia are given the authority to decide whether a life is worth saving or not. It is likely that if euthanasia becomes widely legalized, patients of older age will not be given the same effort to be saved, which they deserve as human beings. 

As I said earlier, the grey areas that surround euthanasia make it almost impossible to reach a complete census to whether it is right or wrong. It is also difficult to grasp the matter without having to actually face it in reality. I sympathize deeply with any family who has to watch a loved one suffer, and for those suffering themselves. However I do feel that euthanasia being illegal for the most part is beneficial from a long-term perspective. It teaches us that life is sacred and that every life deserves fighting for. 

-Jenna

References 

Doughty, S. (2012, June 19). Top doctor's chilling claim: The NHS kills off 130,000 elderly patients every year | Mail Online. Home | Mail Online. Retrieved November 29, 2012, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2161869/Top-doctors-chilling-claim-The-NHS-kills-130-000-elderly-patients-year.html

IF MERCY KILLING BECOMES LEGAL. (2012). Euthanasia suicide mercy-killing right-to-die physician assisted suicide living wills research. Retrieved November 29, 2012, from http://www.euthanasia.com/mercy.html

Straka, S. (2012). Social Democratic Ideology. SWRK1006 Slides Oct 12 Ideologies.

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Symbiotic Relationship: Grandparents and Grandchil...

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Symbiotic Relationship: Grandparents and Grandchil...: I am awake and it is night time. I am not crying. I can hear talking in the kitchen. I try to listen, but I cannot hear what they are sa...

My grandmother was so instrumental in my child rearing...although she's in the spirit world there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about her and how she shaped who I am today.  I think of all the beautiful things she taught me and the various teachings with regard to our sacred medicines.  She taught me respect for our Mother Earth.  My fond memories include how her home was the most beautiful place to be.  The lilac trees at the entrance to the property.  I still can recall the the smell of foods cooking in her kitchen.  How happy I felt simply being there.  The huge garden full of every kind of vegetable, every type of  apple tree, the grape tree, and the cherry trees in abundance.  Flowers everywhere. I particularly enjoyed our walks together to church. How we had tea together and played card games and watched her favorite shows, Another World and the Price is Right. I went back to her home a number of years ago to recapture that feeling but it left long ago with her.  She was the reason that it was heaven on earth. Miigwetch for the post... Janet

Symbiotic Relationship: Grandparents and Grandchildren

I am awake and it is night time. I am not crying. I can hear talking in the kitchen. I try to listen, but I cannot hear what they are saying. I can hear my sister breathing, she is always with me. I roll to the edge and quietly get out of bed. Of course she hears me; she is rolling out right behind me. She is holding on to my pajamas as we crawl down the hall. We stop and listen as we get closer.  We know where we want to be and we are moving under the kitchen table. We make it. We are sitting between all the feet. They are playing cards and talking. I still cannot hear what they are talking about but I am happy to be under the table. I am picking at the rug. The rug my grandmother works on when she is holding me in her lap because I cannot stop crying. It is one of the many rugs that my grandmother made to bring money into the house.  I love all the colors in the rug; I try to figure out whose shirts are where. My sister is doing the same thing. I am happy she is with me. I have no idea why we believe that she does not know that we are here. She does not have mother’s eyes in the back of her head, she has bug eyes and snake ears. She can see everywhere, she can hear everything. I guess that would come from raising eight children alone.  It is not long before the sweet milk tea is passed down to us as we sit under the table. I touch her hands as she passes me the cup. We sit up, leaning against our grandmother’s legs. She passes us cookies. She lets us finish our tea and cookies and brings us back to bed. Love enveloped us when we were with grandma. She was a huge influence on my life. I thought everyone grew up with their grandparents. I never knew this was not the truth until I went to school. It was a very hard lesson to learn.

When I was growing up, in my school, my family was the only family who grew up with their grandparents. Aboriginal children aged 14 and under are more likely to live with relatives or non-relatives than are non-Aboriginal children. In the winter 2003 Issue of Canadian Social Trends, Anne Milan and Brian Hamm who wrote “Across the Generations: Grandparents and Grandchildren”, report that in 2001, one in two hundred and fifty children live with their grandparents only.  Is this a trend that is growing?

In 2001, Canada had an estimated 5.7 million grandparents. Each grandparent had an average 4.7 grandchildren. Two percent of women and one percent of men under the age of forty five were grandparents. Two thirds of women and one half of men aged fifty five to sixty four were grandparents. Eighty percent of women and seventy four percent of men over sixty five were grandparents. Thousands of Canadian grandparents are finding there are some things they never retire from, including having to raise children again. According to Statistics Canada’s quarterly publication Canadian Social Trends, one percent of grandparents were raising grandchildren without parental involvement. These households are referred to as “skip generation households” and consist of grandparents and grandchildren without the middle generation. They also stated that the census data showed that two thirds of these grandparents were financially responsible for the household.

Grandparents may be able to provide a safe haven for vulnerable grandchildren whose own parents may be experiencing marital problems, separation, divorce, health or disability problems or other difficult situations. The reasons for this arrangement may be mixed and may change over time, with grandparents being caregivers or care recipients. Whatever shape the roles take on, it seems that the symbiotic relationship between grandparents and grandchildren is here to stay.

The close relationship between grandparent and grandchildren is very special. Children learn about the elderly, (though I never thought about my grandparents as old), gain a sense of history, and share the perspective of an older life experience. Older children can offer assistance to an elderly grandparent. The youthful enthusiasm of grandchildren can offer the grandparents renewed purpose. Grandparents offer an objectivity that might be difficult for parents to achieve. They can offer love, advice, a listening ear, emotional support, or financial help.

I cannot imagine my life without my grandmother. She was my rock. She is the one who told me: “when you set your foot out the door, always make sure you have clean shoes on, a woman in a dress or skirt very powerful, and make sure you have lipstick on your pumpkin” and “always, ALWAYS, stay classy”. These are words I will never forget. She gave us a stable life full of love and compassion. She taught me how to be a decent person. She showed me that respect for self brings about respect for others.  She was the one who I called first when I needed help. I think about her every day and wish that she was around to meet my children. I strive to be the person who she was: a woman, respectful, compassionate, and dedicated to her family, an example for everyone to follow.

Grandparents, as primary or occasional caregivers, reside in the same household or not, live nearby or on the other side of the country, have the potential to be very influential in the lives of their grandchildren. Sometimes, grandparents are also the financial head of the household. These grandparents may be able to provide a safe haven for vulnerable grandchildren whose own parents may be experiencing problems. In exchange, grandparents may enjoy a sense of purpose and may be in a position to both give support to, and receive it from, their grandchildren. The motives for living in a multi-generational or extended family may be mixed and may change over time, with changing roles as caregivers and care recipients. The symbiotic role between grandparents and grandchildren is here to stay.

Miigwetch,

Kimberly

Anne Milan and Brian Hamm 2003. “Across the Generations: Grandparents and Grandchildren.” Statistics Canada - Catalogue No. 11-008 Winter 2003 Canadian Social Trends

Kemp, C. 2003. “The Social and Demographic Contours of Contemporary Grandparenthood: Mapping patterns in Canada and the United States.” Journal of Comparative Family Studies 34, 2: 187-212.

Statistics Canada. 2003. “Aboriginal Peoples of Canada: A Demographic Profile.” Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 96F0030XIE2001007.

http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/11-002-x/2004/02/04804/4072394-eng.htm      

Diabetes in F.N. Communities

Diabetes has become a disabling and deadly disease within the First Nations suffering a rate three to five times more than that of the general Canadian population.  According to the Assembly of F.N. 2005 agenda for restoring and improving first nations health, the health of F.N. people is as important as the health of the individual promoting health, preventing disease and protecting the health of communities is pivotal in any collective action.

Community health planning and the understanding of the broader determinants of health must be led by the very communities who know intimately the problems of food, security, safe water, overcrowding and other issues facing their people.  Only then will chronic disease prevention, including injuries and substance abuse, do well as other urgent public health problems facing communities be successfully tackled.

Many First Nations over the age of 35 or older had or have become diagnosed with Diabetes and not have known the complications associated with this disease.  AFN did a report on Diabetes along with the Canadian Diabetes Association model.  It lays down the groundwork in six key areas; prevention, treatment, education, policy development, research and surveillance. 

It begins to discuss Diabetes health indicators in each of these areas with a focus on adult health from a national perspective.  These diabetes health indicators are the policy tools which will help to identify the gaps, priorities, opportunities and promising strategies that will help to inform decisions about how to best allocate resources in reducing the burden of diabetes among First Nations people.

Meegwetch,

Arlene

References:  http:www.nada.ca/wp-content/uploads/504pdf.

                      Assembly of First Nations website

Neo-Conservative view on Old Age Security

The principles and ideologies of the neo-conservative government are clearly being demonstrated in the change of the old Age Security program by our federal Government of Canada. The aging population in Canada brought on the change as the number of Canadians over 65 will greatly increase in the next few decades (Service Canada, 2012). According to the government the Old Age security is unsustainable because it is projected to increase in a whopping 108 billion by 2030 and they want to maintain this program for future generations (Service Canada, 2012). This change can be seen in the roots of this ideologies view of the need for social welfare, the focus of its inefficiencies rather then the effect it has the people (Straka, 2012). This lack of focusing on the effect of people neglects those who are truly in need.


Through reading the articles I have found that an increasing number of older adults approaching retirement age” are unable to work due to disability, declining job skills or other reasons” (Milligan, 2012). This creates a bigger gap in the amount of years that would eligible to receive their pension and this greatly saddens me because of the fact they are one of the most vulnerable communities. I was always taught to respect the elderly and I can’t imagine making them work longer and for their hard earned pension, which in my opinion is pretty minimal to begin with.



Hoda



Kevin, Milligan. "Does Harper really need to raise the retirement age?." Globe and Mail [Toronto] 27 02 2012, n. pag. Print. <http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/economy-lab/the-economists/does-harper-really-need-to-raise-the-retirement-age/article2316982/>.




Federal Government of Canda. Service Canada. Old Age Security Program. 2012. Web. <http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/isp/oas/changes/faq.shtml>.

Discrimination in the Workplace-Canadian Liberal Perspective

One of the more prominent discriminations towards older adults is the association of ageism, which characterizes a set of abilities and qualities of an older person within a certain environment (Steinberg, Donald, Najman, Skerman, 1997). Within the workplace this has become more noticeable throughout the years and has affected the lives of many. Surveys were done and calculated, focusing on older adults in the workplace, and the negatives and positives. There showed to be more positives, however there was more focus towards the negatives, and frankly, that is all most people hear about.

There are five positive perceptions towards older adults within the workforce which were recorded within the analysis of the survey. They include: older adults making better decisions, can be reliable in crisis situations, they are more dependable, they produce better quality work, and they co-operate well on the job (Steinberg, et. al,. 1997). The negative perceptions of older adults within the workforce consist of: they are not as creative as the younger workers, they can be harder to train, and they may not adapt as easily to new and advancing technology (Steinberg, et. al,. 1997). As well within the survey the perceived age for older adults within the workforce consisted of the average age of 56-60 (Steinberg, et. al,. 1997).

They compared the stereotypes of both employee's and the employer's about older adults in the work place and both showed about the same results and beliefs. It showed that there were more positives than negatives however there was more of a focus on the negative perceptions. This could most likely be due to the fact that the advancement within society has been so great over the past decade that people find it difficult for particular age groups to be considered "able-bodied". However this is a stereotype because it is not true. There are many older adults who are quite capable to hold a steady position within the work force. Discrimination then takes place because employer's would much rather put more focus towards the younger adults because they find them easier to train, and will spend less time training, and more time making money for that employer (Stuart-Hamilton, Mahoney, 2011).

Looking at this issue in a liberal perspective, there is a focus on the individual and the worth of oneself (Pearson, 2012). There is a focus on the abilities of a person and the potential they can have as a being. They look at taking away the blocks in front of them, and to work past the struggles placed before them. They need to work through the problems and resolve them so they can continue to grow and gain experience as a better person. They have to respect the environment around them, and take the proper precautions to advance in the situation which would be benefit them in the greatest way possible, without causing harm to anyone or anything (Pearson, 2011).

Therefore, older adults in the workforce need to be able to work on their own, and be able to advance in their priorities, without being discriminated against. With the discrimination of ageism, it is difficult for them to be successful, and I believe everyone should have that right. People need to become more aware that there are still plenty of able-bodied older adults in the workforce, and we should not discriminate against them. Rather, we should be looking up to them, after all, they've been working hard longer than we have, and they deserve recognition.

-Amy

References:

On Liberalism. (n.d.). Canada History. Retrieved November 15, 2012, from    
              http://www.canadahistory.com/sections/documents/leaders/Pearson/On%20Liberalism.html

Steinberg, M., Donald, K., Najman, J., & Skerman, H. (n.d.). Older Workers Forum. Online Library. Retrieved November 15, 2012, from onlinelibrary.wiley.com/store

Stuart-Hamilton, I., & Mahoney, B. (n.d.). The Effect of Aging Awareness Training On Knowledge Of, And Attitude Towards, Older Adults. Educational Gerontology. Retrieved November 15, 2012, from http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/713844305

Social Determinants and the Impacts of Poverty

     The age demographic of an elder on our reserve is of 55 and older (Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation, 2009).   The Federal Government defines a senior at age 65 (Hick, S. 2007).  I believe this difference is based on the life expectancy rates of Aboriginal people.  The majority of our band members who are defined as an elder have a chronic disease. (Mnaamadzawin, 2011)

    Our detrimental living conditions based on our economic situation has had long lasting health impacts. [For Generations to Come, The Time is Now a strategy for Aboriginal Healing A Final Report, 1993]  Community members also experience high levels of chronic stress. (Mnaamadzawin Health Services Annual Report, 2011) Stressful experiences result from coping with conditions of low income, poor quality housing, food insecurity, disability and the lack of supportive relationships, and social isolation. (Mikkonen J. &Raphael D., 2010)

    Poverty in First Nation communities has reached epidemic proportions.  The disparity between Canadian society and Aboriginal people in Canada has been profiled numerous times by the media, specifically Canada A.M.  and the Globe and Mail.  They have also highlighted abject poverty (3^rd world conditions) in fly in northern communities. 

    The international community is also well aware of Canada’s treatment of Aboriginal people as our First Nation leaders have been proactive of taking our issues and presenting them to the United Nations based on articles read with the editorial section of the Anishnawbek News ("n.d.").

    The Liberal Party leader, Bob Rae delivered a speech to the Canadian Club of Toronto recently and advised the following: “we need the federal government to act as a catalyst to bring provincial, territorial, municipal and Aboriginal governments to the table, and lead essential discussions on clean technology, foreign ownership, carbon-pricing and sustainable development of the oil sands. In addition, we need to engage in a full partnership with Aboriginal peoples if we are to break down the marginalization and poverty that has unfortunately become a persistent problem” (htpp:/www.liberal.ca/newsroom/bobrae/canadianclubspeech).

    The above statement reflects a social democratic ideology but how far can the Liberal Party actually impact our present government in recognizing our social conditions?  Harpers plans to implement changes to the Indian Act with Bill 45 may well be another attempt to hinder our communities.

Miigwetch,

Janet

REFERENCES

Aboriginal Healing Foundation Steering Committee - For Generations to Come - 1993
York University (Tornot, Ont.) Scholl of Health Policy and Management, Gibson Library Connections Inc.

Anishnawbek News

Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation - Band Policy, Band Council Resolution - January 2009

Canada A.M.

"Liberal Party Leader, Bob Rae delivers speech Retrieved from:
htpp://www.liberal.ca/newsroom/bobrae/canadianclubspeech

Hick S. (2007). Social Welfare in Canada: Understanding Income Security (2nd ed.) Thompson Educational Publishing, INC.: Toronto Canada

Mikkonen J., Raphael D. (2010) The Canadian Facts: Social Determinants of Health York University (Toronto, Ont.) School of Health Policy and Management, Gibson Library Connections INC.                                                              

Mental Health Services for Older Adults

If I was to describe the mental health of an individual, I must be familiar with their overall well-being. Both mental health and well-being are associated with each other. If an individual is suffering from many health problems, the well-being of the person is also suffering and professional health attention is needed. Mental health issues are present in many young adults’ lives as well as the lives of the elderly/older adults. Today, there seems to be much more attention on creating mental health services for teens and younger adults than there is for the older adult’s population. Since society sees teens and younger adults as having very complex and stressful lives, more money and attention is being put on helping that specific age group with mental health concerns. What society doesn't recognize are the hardships that older adults face in their everyday lives. These hardships include physical ailments, mobility issues, chronic pain, cognitive and sensory impairments can affect one's functional ability. Other challenges such as retirement, changes in income, widowhood, the loss of friendships through death, and new care giving responsibilities can lead to social and emotional isolation (“Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario,” n.d.).

With an aging population, there is a high demand for mental health services for Canada’s older adults inside and outside the home. Many older adults living in long-term care institutions have mental health problems yet in Ontario, 88 percent of these institutions receive only five hours or less of psychiatric services per month for the entire resident population (Conn, 2002).  The majority of older adults would prefer to receive care at home; however a large amount must be placed in long-term care institutions. Providing long-term care institutions is one of the fastest growing sectors in health care and the services they provide are becoming more and more expensive (MacAdam, 2000). The statistics provided in this paragraph are not current; however the issues they outline  continue to be issues today. 

 I think the most appropriate ideological lens to use to analysis this issue would the Social Democracy ideology. Since this ideology focuses largely on the well-being of an individual and society, it fits well with my choice of mental health issues amongst older adults. Looking at this issue from a Social Democracy lens, it is clear that action must be taken to promote mental health care services for older adults. Many older adults experience mental health problems but don’t recognize the symptoms or are embarrassed to admit they are experiencing this type of problem. By promoting more mental health services for older adults, the population can become more aware of how common mental health problems are amongst the age group. More services will inform more people where they can seek help and testing for mental health problems. We are all seen as equal social actors in society in a social democracy perceptive therefore; more mental health services are necessary promotes equal mental health care for all ages. 

Action also must be taken to lower the cost of services associated with providing long-term care institutions for older adults. Many of the older adults in the long-term care institutions have mental health problems and seek the necessary medical help. However, many of the older adults with mental health problems can’t afford to pay for the services provided in institutions. It is not fair that a large percent of older adults must suffer with mental health problems because they are not able to afford the proper long-term care. The Social Democracy ideology would see creating equal opportunities for all older adults seeking medical attention necessary to maintain the overall structure in society. If more and more old adults don’t receive the care they need, it will affect the population, which in turn will affect how society operates.

-Lindsay 

References: 

Conn, David. (2002). An Overview of Common Mental Disorders among Seniors. Writings in Gerontology. National Advisory Council on Aging.

MacAdam, M. (2000). Home Care: It's Time for a Canadian Model.HealthcarePapers (1[4]: 9-36). Retrieved from www.longwoods.com.

Seniors : Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario. (n.d.). Home : Canadian Mental Health 

Association, Ontario (CMHA Ontario). Retrieved from http://www.ontario.cmha.ca/seniors.asp

Changes in Old Age Security- A Social Democratic Perspective

There are two objectives outlined by Canada’s retirement income system: (1) to ensure that no senior in Canada has to live in poverty, and (2) to ensure that the standard of living of the retiree is maintained following their retirement (Battle, Torjman, & Mendelson, 2012). Canada’s pension system is divided into three levels that are intended to fill these objectives. The first level is comprised of old age security (OAS), the guaranteed income supplement (GIS), and an allowance. OAS is contributed to most individuals over the age of 65; GIS is an income-tested supplement targeted at seniors living in poverty; and the allowances are intended for older adults age 60-64 whose spouses are currently receiving OAS and GIS as well as those who are widowed (Battle et al., 2012).  The second level of the system is Canada’s pension plan (CPP), and in Quebec, the QPP. Finally the third level in the pension system is comprised of registered pension plans whose medium is registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs). The first tier of the system, OAS in particular, is the largest aspect of the system distributing over 31 billion dollars this year alone (Battle et al., 2012).

Under the Conservative party in Canada, we have seen several changes to the intent of distribution. The objectives outlined above remain intact; however, I would argue that the actions and intent of the conservative government speak against these goals. From a social democratic perspective these goals should be adhered to, as they are essential in maintaining income equality and protection. The budget released earlier this year does not uphold these objectives.  

Finance minister Jim Flaherty announced changes to OAS and GIS in this year’s budget. The major change under scrutiny is the increase in the age of eligibility from 65 to 67 to begin in 2023 (Payton, 2012). This serves to hammer those living in poverty who may not be able to afford the extra two years. From a social democratic perspective, the changes outlined in the budget are counter to the goals of equality that we set in Canada. It works for those who can afford it. Those in secure positions, who can remain in the labour market also have the opportunity to defer their benefits; thus increasing their benefits come retirement (Payton, 2012).

Personally, when I think of this through a social democratic lens, I think of the people who aren’t employed and those struggling with the increase of precarious employment. Nearly all marginalized populations would fall under these categories; women, people with disabilities, immigrants, trade workers, welfare recipients, and so on. People in these categories will be hit hardest as they will be forced to count an extra 730 days. This feels like an eternity when you are just scrapping by. According to Tom Mulcair, the NDP leader as of May of last year, “…in a country as wealthy as Canada it is absolutely inexcusable to have hundreds of thousands of seniors living below the poverty line…..we’re one of the only countries that doesn’t protect pensions in the case of bankruptcy or insolvency…that’s entirely unacceptable.” (“NDP would restore OAS to 65, says Mulcair”, 2012). The NDP (who, of the parties in Canada, align most closely with social democratic ideals) would like to see these changes revoked. They would also like to see more protection of the individuals working precarious jobs.

I believe these changes are regressive. I think of Feudal Europe, when older adults were expected to work well into old age, despite declining health and well-being. Today, these changes may be okay for those who can afford to spend a few extra years in their penthouse offices. For those who are working the front lines, working physical labour, fearing the permanency of their jobs, or who are unable to maintain employment, these changes only lead to perpetuate the concerns around their protection and security.    

Thank you,

Kayla T.

References

Battle, K., Torjman, S., & Mendelson, M. (2012). Old age insecurity? Caledon Institute of Social Policy. Ottawa, Ontario. Retrieved from: http://www.caledoninst.org/Publications/PDF/983ENG.pdf

Payton, L. (2012 Mar.). Old age security changes confirmed in budget. CBC News. Retrieved from: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/03/29/federalbudget-main.html

The Canadian Press, (2012 Oct.). NDP would restore OAS to 65, says Mulcair. Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition October 27, 2012 A23. Retrieved from: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/ndp-would--restore-oas-to-65-says-mulcair-176076051.html

Corrupted Pension Plans: Older Adults

A pension refers to a regular payment made during an individual's retirement from an investment fund to which that person or their employer has contributed. (n.d., Collins English Dictionary) These payment programs exist to ensure the financial well-being of an individual upon their retirement. However, with the price of living constantly increasing alongside the average Canadian lifespan, more and more seniors find themselves retiring into poverty. The Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) is offered to any working Canadian citizen over the age of eighteen. The program puts aside a set amount of the employment profit of an individual each year combined with interest rates to guarantee their financial stability throughout their retirement. This system has been commended in the past, however the reality stands that senior citizens still face poor financial circumstances following their retirement.

In the world we live in today, the economy is the foundation of everything. Money seems to be the obvious prime aspect of our society, with everything revolving around it. With this being said, it is inevitable that the cost of living will rise, as it has and will continue to do. During the time that senior citizens were working and accumulating their pensions, the amount of money they were bringing in was most likely adequate according to the currently economical situations; meaning that they could afford the current price of living. Unfortunately, the price of everyday life will never reach a stand-still. This leaves senior citizens to be financially overwhelmed during their retirement. 

Ken Georgetti, the president of The Canadian Labour Congress feels strongly that seniors have earned the right to have their retirement savings protected and their pensions in which they rely on improved. (Georgetti, 2012) "The best way to show seniors the respect they deserve would be to ensure that not one of them is faced with having to work until the day they die or living their final years in poverty. It's only fair that after a lifetime of work and giving to their communities, seniors know they will have enough to live the rest of their lives with dignity." (Georgetti, 2012) Seniors are also living significantly longer than they did in the past. Therefore, the CPP must be altered to accommodate the extra 10-15 years that the majority of older adults are living. The Canadian Labour Congress believes that the only way to solve this ongoing issue is to expand the Canadian Pension Plan in accordance to today's living costs. 

The liberal ideology embodies government involvement. It states that the government should intervene in order to ensure a stable economy and society. (Straka, 2012) In referral to the Canadian Pension Program, the government should make further efforts to ensure the financial stability of a large portion of the Canadian population, senior citizens. Another standpoint of this ideology is that investment funding by the government encourages growth and employment. (Straka, 2012) If it becomes known that by being employed throughout your life will indefinitely ensure your financial survival upon reaching elderly years, it is likely that employment statistics will increase. 

I believe that the improvement of the Canadian Pension Plan is vital to our society. I think of my own parents; they have done so much to support me so far in life and will continue to support me financially. They have provided me with so much and invested so much of their earnings into making certain that I have a good life. This also applies to other parents across Canada. Their contributions are endless. It is time we recognize this and make a change to help them for once. This issue also called me to reflect on myself, as should others who are involved in the regulations of the Canadian Pension Plan. We too will be elderly someday and face retirement. Improvements to this system should be made as soon as possible to avoid vast poverty among the elderly society. 

-Jenna

References

Just the Facts - Pensions, Benefits and Seniors. (2012, September 28). Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Retrieved from http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/corporate/facts/seniors.shtml

Let’s show real respect for our seniors: Georgetti says we must ensure that no senior is faced with retiring into poverty | Canadian Labour Congress. (2012, October 1). Home | Canadian Labour Congress. Retrieved from http://www.canadianlabour.ca/national/news/let-s-show-real-respect-our-seniors-georgetti-says-we-must-ensure-no-senior-faced-reti

Straka, S. (2012). Liberal Ideology (institutional). Chapter 3: Social Welfare Theory.

The Condition of Women Living in Canada: Child Abuse in Pre-Contact Anishnaabek Times

The Condition of Women Living in Canada: Child Abuse in Pre-Contact Anishnaabek Times:                                                    In pre-contact Anishnaabek times, child abuse was not a social problem. Children were t...

My father speat 14 years of his life in a Residential school and thus I grew up without a father.  That was pretty tough.  He came out of that school "institutionalized and unable to love".  He was physically abused and was physically abusive himself.  My mother opted to be a single parent and left my father.  It wasn't til i was in my late teens that I would actually realize this was the best thing she could of ever done for my brother, sister and myself. She gave us a good life. The generational impacts have had lasting affects on families.  All the turmoil you see today our communities with all the abuse.

Miigwetch
Janet

The Condition of Women Living in Canada: Child Abuse in Pre-Contact Anishnaabek Times

The Condition of Women Living in Canada: Child Abuse in Pre-Contact Anishnaabek Times:                                                    In pre-contact Anishnaabek times, child abuse was not a social problem. Children were t...

My father speat 14 years of his life in a Residential school and thus I grew up without a father.  That was pretty tough.  He came out of that school "institutionalized and unable to love".  He was physically abused and was physically abusive himself.  My mother opted to be a single parent and left my father.  It wasn't til i was in my late teens that I would actually realize this was the best thing she could of ever done for my brother, sister and myself. She gave us a good life. The generational impacts have had lasting affects on families.  All the turmoil you see today our communities with all the abuse.

Miigwetch
Janet

Alzheimer's Disease with the Elderly

Alzheimer's Disease is the most form of dementia which is affecting our elders on First Nations now more than ever within the past decade.  It is most heartbreaking and saddened to have to see a loved one go through this.  The best possible care are given to the elders on reserves, but eventually they do have to be put in an old age home because of 24 hour care.

This disease includes confusion, disturbances in short-term memory, problems with attention and spatial orientation, changes in personality, language difficulties and unexplained mood swings.  Normally these symptoms are very mild and presence of the disease may not be apparent to the person experiencing the symptoms, loved ones or even health professionals.

Alzheimer's Disease doesn't affect every person the same way, but symptoms normally progress in these stages.  If a person is employed, memory loss may begin to affect job performance.  They become angry and frustrated.  The disease progresses in stages.  Stage 1 (mild) which I mentioned earlier.  Stage 2 (moderate) the person is clearly becoming disabled, may need assistance, forget their personal history, become more disoriented and disconnected with reality.  Have trouble recognizing familiar people. Stage 3 (severe) people lose ability to feed themselves, speak, can not control bodily functions, such as swallowing or bowel and bladder control.  In a weakened physical state, patients may become vulnerable to other illnesses, such as skin infection and respiratory problems, particularly when they are unable to move around.

A physician with extensive knowledge and experience in Dementia and memory problems can perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether someone has dementia, and if so, its causes.  Other specialists may be called upon for a better diagnosis.  Proper medication may be able to slow the progression of the disease and delay cognitive decline.  These drugs are generally more effective the earlier they are administered.

Meegwetch,  Arlene 

References:  www.alzheimersdiseaseresearch

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Suicide and Older Adults: a growing concern

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Suicide and Older Adults: a growing concern: When we think of suicide, there is a tendency to focus on youth as those are the cases that appear to be mentioned most frequently in the ...

The lack of awareness of the issue seems to be key, as it's hard to imagine an elderly person taking their own life. Partly, because we have tremendous respect and gratitude for our elders.  They always come first in all that we do in community life.  I have only heard of one case in a local nearby community and that was shocking enough.  I assumed it was just an isolated case. I often hear elders say when a young person commits suicide that "they have lost their spirit".  I think this is the case when it happens to an older adult as well.  Miigwetch for shedding some light on the issue Kayla!

Janet

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Suicide and Older Adults: a growing concern

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Suicide and Older Adults: a growing concern: When we think of suicide, there is a tendency to focus on youth as those are the cases that appear to be mentioned most frequently in the ...


I can't even imagine what the children experience when their parent commits suicide.  I have very little exposure to this issue.  I once heard of an elder from a neighbouring first nation community who committed suicide. I was in total shock as the person had hung themselves in a closet. This issue is not openly discussed.  I believe because of our world view of protecting the rights of the living, deceased and the unborn. Aboriginal youth suicide it seems is more prevalent. I always listen to our elders when someone does take their own life and they say they "loose their spirit"  Miigwetch Kayla for this heart wrenching social issue.
- Janet

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Affordable and Adequate Housing for the Ederly

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Affordable and Adequate Housing for the Ederly: It only makes sense that housing is sparse for the elderly. They are the baby boomer generation and we have already seen its affects on soci...

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Affordable and Adequate Housing for the Ederly

Older Adults -- Aging in Canada: Affordable and Adequate Housing for the Ederly: It only makes sense that housing is sparse for the elderly. They are the baby boomer generation and we have already seen its affects on soci...

I have an extensive social housing background and I know that the conditions are worsening with issues such as, high cost of market housing, overcrowding, homelessness and sick home syndrome. Toronto recently announced on November 2, 2012, the official opening of 237 new affordable rental housing units fo seniors living on low income and person's with disabilities, however, that doesn't even touch the surface as to what's needed especially for Senior citizens who reside in  rural communities or first nation communities. 

Miigwetch,
Janet

Reference: http://newsontario.ca/mah/en/2012

Caring for our First Nations Elder’s, where’s the support?

     My personal struggle caring for my aging parents has been on my mind due to the lack of support systems in place especially within First Nation communities. Everyone is so busy with their own personal lives that they really don’t have the time or energy to support you.  When you come from a small family and your siblings are not close by to assist you it makes things a lot tougher. 

     Our local seniors program basically addresses the social needs of elders living in the community by providing  a daily luncheon and once a month outings such as bowling, shopping and dinners for special occasions.  The Ontario Works office provides a home care worker; however, the list is long as to what services they don’t provide.  This individual is a qualified Personal support worker; however, I am still not entirely sure as to what specific services they provide.  The constant message from administration is annoying as they continually advise they have no funding.  An individual is only allowed a few hours per week of service.  

     When elderly people get sick in the community it’s totally up to the family to provide all the necessary care. What if you are limited in your resources such as family, financial, transportation, community support or if you work full-time?

      A friend of mine was visiting a terminally ill community member, she entered the house, and the odour was pungent.  She evaluated the situation and determined that the senior was lying within her own feces.   She immediately called the local health centre and they sent over a registered nurse to provide personal support care.  The Health Centre’s recommendation’s was to train the adult children to care for their mother.  I was thinking to myself that they can barely cope with the prospect of their mother dying and and can barely take care of themselves due to their addictions.

     Who is responsible for dying in dignity? What is the support system if the family is dysfunctional in this scenario?

     I was listening to a news broadcast recently and they were interviewing a woman who was taking care of her aging parents and her story was so familiar.  The issue is universal. Community organizations are setting up support groups in the cities for the caregiver to have access to a self-help group.  Facebook was also offered as a solution for care givers to stay connected with people. 

      Upon researching the issue further in terms of our government role in providing solutions I was able to find an article posted online which offered the following neo conservative perspective:

“The Liberal Women’s caucus today said that the Harper government’s callous and badly misinformed response to the Liberal Family Care Plan further illustrates just how out of touch the Conservatives are from the everyday realities of Canadian families struggling with the costs of caring for sick or aging loved ones.  Minister Finley insults caregivers by telling them to use their vacation time to look after dying family members,” said Liberal MP Marlene Jennings, who is a former family caregiver herself". (Liberal Family Care Plan, 2011)

     Well if this is the position from the current Federal Government and I think the struggle will only get worse and not better.

     The recent cuts to the Ontario Works program will definitely impact the home care position as the wages are covered under the discretionary fund.  This line item has been eliminated by the Ontario budget cuts(CBC News, 2012). (National Post, 2012).

     Citizens affected by aging parents are taking charge and initiating community based support programs. I am not sure a support group in a small community of four hundred people will work on the reserve but it’s worth considering.

Miigwetch

Janet

REFERENCES

Liberal Family Care Plan 2011  
  Retrieved from http://liberal.ca/newsroom/liberalfamilycareplan

Ontario 2012 Budget
  Retrieved from http://nationalpost.com/ontario2012budget 

Social Assistance cuts worry First Nation resident

  Retrieved from http://cbcnews.ca/socialassistancecutsworryfirstnationresident