National #BecauseYouCare Campaign Planned for 2019 Aims to Raise Awareness of Social Isolation in Seniors Population
Unique Campaign Encourages Parliamentarians to Visit a Local Care Home
OTTAWA, Dec. 21, 2018 /CNW/ - On behalf of its members, the Canadian Association for Long-Term Care (CALTC) is urging all Members of Parliament across the country to help tackle social isolation among seniors. This first-of-a-kind initiative for CALTC aims to raise awareness about the negative impacts social isolation can have on the health of Canadian seniors.
CALTC will be calling upon on all Members of Parliament to visit at least one care home in their riding during the week of February 10 to 16th2019 which happens to coincide Valentine's Day. CALTC plans to post on its website a full listing of MPs who have advised us they plan to support the #BecauseYouCare campaign and have scheduled a visit to a local care home.
"As the holidays approach and we gather with close friends and family, we are reminded of the fact that many seniors live in isolation" says Daniel Fontaine, Chair of CALTC. "By reaching out to elderly family members or friends we can all make a huge difference in someone's quality of life. We certainly hope that next Valentine's Day a great number of MPs will take the time to visit a local care home and participate in this unique campaign."
Studies have shown that social isolation has a negative impact on health, especially among seniors, which increases the burden on the health care system. Social isolation among seniors can even occur in care homes where there are an abundance of residents and staff. We know that those who are more connected with their family and friends lead longer, happier and healthier lives. Over the holidays, Members of Parliament can help by booking time to visit a local care home.
Help spread the word over social media #BecauseYouCare
About the Canadian Association for Long Term Care
The Canadian Association for Long Term Care (CALTC) is a national organization comprised of provincial associations and long-term care providers that deliver publicly-funded health care services for seniors across Canada.
SOURCE Canadian Association for Long-Term Care
