Neglected No More

More about the book

The coronavirus pandemic exposed the dire conditions in many long-term care homes, highlighting issues such as inhumane living situations, overworked staff, and inadequate oversight. Esteemed health reporter André Picard reveals the extent of the eldercare crisis and offers solutions to address this broken system. The spread of COVID-19 in seniors' residences across Canada resulted in widespread illness and a tragic death toll, uncovering a long-standing neglect of our elders. Military reports from emergency care in Ontario and Quebec facilities documented alarming conditions, including poor meals, infrequent hygiene, overmedication, and physical abuse. These issues have persisted for years. Picard critically examines the embrace of mass institutionalization and outlines necessary reforms to improve care for vulnerable seniors. He argues for a fundamental rethinking of the eldercare system, which is currently fragmented, underfunded, and unsupported. The focus should shift towards enabling seniors to age gracefully in their communities with adequate home care and support for family caregivers, ensuring that long-term care homes provide dignity rather than isolation and neglect. Our elders deserve better care and respect.