By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

This year’s National Day for the Elderly, observed on Oct. 1, coincided with the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons. It is a day to raise awareness about the contributions of the elderly to society and the challenges they face. Provincially, organizations such as Intergénérations Québec and the Association québécoise de défense des droits des personnes retraitées et préretraitées (AQDR) used the day to call for action and policy changes. Locally, Lennoxville and District Community Aid (LDCA) plays a pivotal role in supporting seniors, offering a range of services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents.

A snapshot of local elderly needs

Leigh Hortop, a representative from LDCA, spoke candidly about the many challenges and opportunities that seniors in the region face. “It’s a very big topic,” she said when asked about the well-being of seniors in Lennoxville. “You could think about the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.” Hortop’s insights into these categories reflect the comprehensive approach taken by LDCA in addressing the well-being of seniors in the community.

One of the most pressing issues for elderly residents, according to Hortop, is the need to meet basic physical needs, such as food security. Many seniors in the area struggle with mobility and a loss of autonomy, making it difficult to manage daily tasks like grocery shopping or attending medical appointments. “Access to food is a big one,” Hortop noted, explaining that LDCA offers services like Meals on Wheels and rides to the grocery store to ensure that seniors are able to access essential items.

Medical needs also present a significant challenge for seniors. As individuals age, they often encounter more frequent and complex health issues. LDCA offers transport services to medical appointments and even provides volunteers to accompany seniors, helping them navigate hospital environments. “We accompany them, wait with them, and help navigate the hospital,” Hortop explained, emphasizing the importance of ensuring medical needs are addressed.

Social isolation and cognitive health

Beyond physical needs, social isolation remains a major concern. Many seniors face loneliness, which can lead to a faster decline in health, including conditions like dementia. Hortop pointed to the importance of social interaction and cognitive stimulation in maintaining mental well-being. “There’s a need for emotional stimulation,” she said. LDCA organizes activities like card games and memory exercises, which help keep seniors’ minds engaged and active.

Hortop highlighted the importance of balance exercises, such as those offered by LDCA and other organizations, which can help prevent falls that can lead to a loss of independence. “Maintaining balance is key to keeping seniors’ autonomy as long as possible,” she said.

A broader provincial context

On a broader scale, organizations across Quebec used National Day for the Elderly to advocate for changes in policies affecting seniors. Intergénérations Québec emphasized the importance of intergenerational relationships as a way to combat isolation and ageism. In a recent statement, they noted that fostering interactions between different generations can help break down stereotypes, promote inclusion, and create meaningful social experiences. “Intergenerational approaches are a powerful social lever,” said the organization, adding that these interactions provide tangible benefits such as improved mental health, social inclusion, and even physical well-being.

In addition, the AQDR held a press conference on Oct. 1, calling for the creation of a Ministry for Seniors. The AQDR’s president, Pierre Lynch, highlighted in a release the need for new approaches to senior care, particularly in areas like affordable housing and access to healthcare. “It is time to change our methods and think differently,” Lynch said, calling for a more coordinated approach to improving the quality of life for the elderly.

Aging positively: A shift in perception

While many challenges remain, Hortop and her colleagues at LDCA are keen to emphasize the positive aspects of aging. “Our society tends to focus on loss of autonomy and medical issues,” she acknowledged. However, she added that many seniors in Lennoxville view aging with optimism. “They see age as just a number,” she said, explaining that her clients talk about the importance of staying active, learning new things, and remaining socially connected. “There’s a lot to look forward to and a lot to be thankful for,” Hortop added, reflecting the positive mindset of many local seniors.

LDCA plays a crucial role in helping seniors maintain their independence and continue living at home for as long as possible. With support from local CLSCs and various senior organizations across the Eastern Townships, many seniors can remain in their homes with dignity and autonomy. This echoes the broader push from national organizations like AQDR, which advocate for more support systems that allow seniors to age in place.

Looking forward

As the senior population continues to grow, the challenges highlighted by both Hortop and larger organizations like AQDR and Intergénérations Québec will only become more pressing. By 2030, seniors will make up 25 per cent of Quebec’s population. This demographic shift makes it crucial for local communities like Lennoxville to continue supporting their elderly residents with a comprehensive range of services.

National Day for the Elderly serves as a reminder of the value that seniors bring to our communities and the ongoing efforts needed to support them. With organizations like Lennoxville & District Community Aid at the forefront, the local community is making strides in ensuring that seniors can live fulfilling, independent lives.