A walk down memory lane, with a purpose 2

 We need to speak out about the treatment of seniors, and there are many ways to do this without marching and picket lines.

As we reflect on the challenges faced by seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, it is crucial that we recognize the importance of addressing ageism and advocating for improved treatment and support from our politicians. Seniors have endured significant hardships and have often been overlooked or marginalized in discussions and decision-making processes.

Therefore, it is imperative that seniors themselves, along with their allies, take a stand and raise their voices against ageism. By speaking up about their experiences, concerns, and needs, seniors can demand the attention and action they deserve from our political leaders.

Here are some suggested actions for seniors to make their voices heard:

Personal experiences can be powerful tools for raising awareness and fostering empathy. Share your firsthand accounts of how ageism has affected you during the pandemic and beyond. Use social media platforms, local community forums, and other channels to amplify your voice and encourage others to do the same.

Reach out to your local, provincial state, and national representatives to express your concerns about ageism and the treatment of seniors. Write letters, make phone calls, or request meetings to discuss the issues that matter to you. Encourage them to prioritize the needs of seniors in policymaking and advocate for changes that will positively impact your community. We witnessed institutional ageism with the terrible treatment seniors endured during the COVID crisis in long-term care and assisted living homes, resulting in numerous deaths. Our health authorities, government officials, and agencies seemed to overlook our needs, neglecting tasks like obtaining groceries, prescriptions, transportation to medical appointments, and securing home care support. Seniors were left isolated and vulnerable.

After COVID showed the lack of support for seniors we were subject to  the Heat Dome, which exposed us to extreme risks. The BC Coroners Service confirmed 619 heat-related deaths during that period, with 98% occurring indoors. Shockingly, 67% of the deceased were 70 years or older, and 56% lived alone.

Most of these tragedies could have been prevented with adequate cooling systems, but who is leading the charge for a risk mitigation strategic plan? Health authorities want to shift the responsibility to municipalities, but many are yet to implement proactive measures to protect the most vulnerable among us.

Our communities lack age-friendly amenities, with a scarcity of public washrooms, benches, and appropriate signage for vulnerable individuals. Additionally, many trails are inaccessible for those with limited mobility. Services aimed at engaging seniors are sorely lacking. It's worth noting that there are 135,000 community members in the Tri-Cities over 50 years old, and they are being overlooked and excluded.

Seek out organizations and advocacy groups focused on fighting ageism and supporting senior rights. By joining forces with like-minded individuals, you can amplify your collective voice and work towards effecting meaningful change. These groups often provide resources, guidance, and opportunities to participate in campaigns and initiatives.