For Immediate Release
December 11, 2024
NL NDP Leader Jim Dinn (St. John’s Centre) is disheartened but not surprised by the recent Seniors’ Advocate report which highlights the realities seniors in this province are facing. Dinn says the results clearly show government is failing to address the social determinants of health.
“Unfortunately, this report shows us exactly what we know seniors are facing. Whether it be the inability to find primary healthcare or being faced with increasing cost of renting a home, seniors across this province are struggling,” said Dinn. “Government continues to talk about the social determinants of health, but this report clearly shows that these words are just a PR message for them. If they were addressing accessibility of healthcare, housing, and affordability, seniors would be faring much better.”
Also outlined in the report is the delay in addressing the long-term care system in this province, something that the NDP has been highlighting for years. It has been two years since the Seniors’ Advocate called for a review of the system, but the report still has not been released. Dinn says that this is just another example of government being retroactive, not proactive.
“It is troubling to know that the use of antipsychotic drugs without diagnosed need in long-term care as a form of restraint in this province is higher than the national average. Especially in Labrador-Grenfell, where 48% of seniors are given antipsychotics inappropriately,” said Dinn. “Is this how we treat people? Seniors deserve so much better. The review of long-term care in this province needs to be released and acted on immediately.
“New Democrats have been vocal about the need to meaningfully take action on the social determinants of health. That means more community, non-market housing. That means access to a primary healthcare provider and ensuring timely access to healthcare. It means access to public transportation, and spaces that allow accessible community and social supports. It means being able to afford medication, healthy food, and to heat your home. All of these things directly impact seniors.
“Government needs to stop using ‘social determinants of health’ as a buzzword and start taking concrete action to addressing it.”
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For further information, contact Stephanie Curran, Media and Communications Officer, NDP Caucus at 330-0328 (o), or stephaniecurran@gov.nl.ca
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