OMA EXPORT

Will Premier Dunderdale’s hypocritical last minute conversion to fiscal conservatism mean tougher times for seniors in this province? 

In the 2011 Provincial election, the Progressive Conservative Leader promised $100 million in new money for a seniors' strategy. The promise came with a caveat - proper fiscal management always must be kept in play.

Newfoundland and Labrador has the fastest aging population in Canada. The government has said it is committed to changing public policy to ensure that home care recipients receive the same amount of money whether they were being cared for by a family member or a home care agency. 

Hospitals and long term care homes are considered to be more expensive options. The goal of government is to provide the financial supports to allow seniors to remain in a supportive family environment for as long as possible. 

In June of this year, the government released a 10-year strategy for long-term care in the province.

NDP MHA, Gerry Rogers has been a vocal critic of the government’s inaction on this particular promise. Rogers says a publicly-funded home care system is needed. A cap on subsidized home care hours is forcing seniors to leave their homes.

With restraint in the air, what will come of commitments to seniors in this province? Will austerity measures and rising care costs undermine standards of care?

Germany, home to Europe’s strongest economy has been wrestling with the same issue. Germany has one of the fastest-aging populations in the world – a lack of workers and soaring costs has led to a chronic care crisis

The German answer may shock you. A growing number of Germans are saving money by shipping their elderly relatives to foreign homes where care costs as little as one-third what it does in Germany.

Thousands of retired Germans have been re-located to Eastern Europe and Asia. 

Can we really separate efficiency and need?