A complex network of seniors care options has left the vulnerable elderly and their families fending for themselves, according to a seniors care expert.
B.C. Ombudsperson Kim Carter noted in her recent 448-page report on seniors care that the elderly and their families lack an adequate support system to help them navigate the complex maze of seniors health care.
And now some advocates are encouraging the elderly and their families to take matters into their own hands.
Roy Cammack, a notary public and certified professional consultant on aging (pictured), said it's essential for seniors to have their power of attorney and representation agreement prepared well in advance of any health-care problem.
Too often, he finds many still leave it until it's almost too late. On a weekly basis, Cammack sees clients in their 70s and 80s who are in hospital, often after an accident or a stroke, and who urgently need to have their documents prepared.
This leaves patients trying to prepare documents outlining their wishes after they have become incapable of making decisions on their own.
"It can be a workout for them to just sign their name, because they're so debilitated or because of the medication or disease they have," said Cammack. "There are times when I have to turn around and say I can't do it."
Without the necessary documentation, relatives can find themselves caught in the quagmire of privacy laws and the courts to deal with financial and health problems of a family member in long-term care. "The process can take months and can costs thousands of dollars," said Cammack.
In part 2 of Business in Vancouver's multi-platform investigative series with CBC on the dire state of seniors care in B.C., we examine the possible solutions – in print and online at biv.com tomorrow.
