Let seniors thrive at home

Re: “Minister announces ‘new model of care’ for seniors’ housing in Alberta,” edmontonjournal.com, Jan. 26.

Alberta’s Health Minister Fred Horne rightly recognizes that the existing system of housing and care centres for seniors has left a great deal to be desired. The many different levels and descriptions of care have left many seniors befuddled as to their benefit.

I understand the concept of aging in place, and much of what Horne says is a real step forward. But I am distressed by his suggestion that aging in place is meant to support seniors “so people can die at home instead of in hospitals.”

I want to “age in place” so that I can live at home, not die at home. I want to live with the excitement of new ideas and opportunities which can help me through a few more years. Looking forward to dying at home is not my idea of excitement.

Don Mayne, Edmonton