It’s something few like to talk about, but planning for the last days of our lives is important. Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has raised this issue to a new level of urgency, especially concerning our senior population.
April 16 is National Advance Care Planning Day. We all want to know that we – and the people we care for – will be able to live with dignity during our twilight years, or at times of crisis such as COVID-19.
This is a day for Canadians to speak with family members and friends about their wishes for end-of-life care. What must also be brought to this conversation are demands that our long-term care facilities be given the proper attention by government and private providers alike. COVID-19 has shed new light on what we do well, but it has also put a spotlight on what must be improved.
Our province is equipped with the best medical professionals and caregivers in the world. OPSEU is proud to represent thousands of these essential workers who are providing the best care possible.
Today, during this unprecedented time, OPSEU encourages everyone to join the campaign: Speak Up: Start the Conversation about End of Life Awareness. It has several valuable resources to help Canadians communicate their wishes, including a website (www.advancecareplanning.ca) with workbooks, wallet cards, and links to provincial/territorial legislation and planning information. There are also tips and videos to help people begin these often difficult conversations.
Don’t’ be afraid to talk about your future. How we plan and improve things today will make sure we live our best lives tomorrow.
OPSEU President, Warren (Smokey) Thomas
OPSEU First Vice-President/Treasurer, Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida