Thoughts on BC Politics and More

The Conservatives are decrying a push by the federal Liberals to retroactively amend a law which some lawyers believe is a way to avoid paying out veterans over a federal error that may be responsible for overcharging them thousands of dollars. The Carney government’s budget implementation act contains an amendment that it says “clarifies” the formula used to calculate long-term care costs for veterans. Lawyers in a proposed class action contend the federal government has been overcharging veterans for long-term care due to a decades-long miscalculation ... CLICK HERE for the full story 

Many seniors living in long-term care facilities feel safe but continue to experience loneliness and a lack of autonomy and purpose, according to new report from B.C.’s seniors watchdog. Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie says her recent survey of about 11,000 long-term-care residents and 8,000 visitors — which follows a similar survey six years ago — found there continues to be insufficient staff to help residents with bathing and eating. It also showed a 12 per cent increase in residents taking anti-psychotics without a diagnosis ... CLICK HERE for the full story

After an independent report highlighting failures by the NDP in combating the crisis in long-term care (LTC) the BC Liberals are calling on John Horgan and the NDP government to implement standardized visitation policies for all long-term care and assisted living facilities in B.C. “This government’s policy discrepancies have resulted in a situation where some seniors were allowed visitors while others had no contact with their families. Whether your loved ones are in a care home in Terrace or the Tri-Cities, the rules should be the same,” said Shirley Bond, Leader of the Official Opposition and BC Liberal Critic for Seniors Services and Long-Term Care.  “It’s vital that this government set clear guidelines for health authorities and care homes so that there is a standard of practice that ensures whenever possible, long-term care residents can spend time with essential visitors.” The Official Opposition sent a letter to Health Minister Adrian Dix today asking him to a...