Measuring Dignity in Canada's Long-Term Care System: A Call for Change
Why measuring dignity matters in Canada’s long-term care system
The Conversation
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Canada's long-term care system faces significant challenges in ensuring dignity for aging residents. With a projected increase in the elderly population, a shift towards measuring dignity alongside clinical indicators is essential. This change aims to improve the quality of life for older Canadians, allowing them to age with autonomy and respect.
- 01The number of Canadians aged 85 and older is expected to triple in the next two decades.
- 0281% of Canadians wish to age at home, but many face barriers.
- 03Aging with dignity encompasses autonomy, respect, and purpose.
- 04New indicators focusing on the experiential side of aging are being developed.
- 05The goal is to reduce inappropriate use of anti-psychotic medications in long-term care.
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Canada's long-term care (LTC) system is under scrutiny as it grapples with the realities of aging residents facing diminished dignity. Unpublished surveys reveal that many Canadians encounter distressing situations, such as being told there aren't enough staff or experiencing inadequate care. As the population aged 85 and older is expected to triple in the next two decades, there is an urgent need to rethink how dignity is measured within the health system. Currently, clinical indicators dominate quality assessments, but they often overlook the lived experiences of residents. Aging with dignity means ensuring autonomy, respect, and purpose for older adults, regardless of their living situation. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted systemic failures in LTC, prompting a reevaluation of care models. The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) is now developing new indicators that reflect the experiential aspects of aging, aiming to contextualize clinical data. For instance, while the inappropriate use of anti-psychotic medications has been a concern, a dignity lens can reveal deeper issues such as social engagement and the emotional well-being of residents. Ultimately, measuring dignity is crucial for improving care outcomes and ensuring that older Canadians can live and die with dignity.
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Improving dignity in long-term care could lead to better quality of life for older Canadians, reducing instances of social isolation and inappropriate medication use.
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