Questions that have arisen since the recent news reports regarding services offered to linguistic minorities in Alberta have got me thinking. In my humble opinion as a blogger, language simply does not age. Let’s start from the beginning. According to the Radio-Canada report, Francophone seniors in Alberta are struggling to receive services in their language, especially in the health services sector.
When you take into consideration that anxiety related to health issues increases with age, it’s understandable that a senior would hope for a sympathetic ear from health care representatives that speak his or her language. Offering health services in both official languages is the least we can do, especially in regards to quality of life in a country where the health system must be a priority.
“(…) The various institutions that help older people are not organized in a way that allows an individual access to an establishment best equipped to meet his or her linguistic needs.”
There are an estimated 500 Francophones facing this situation in Alberta. Some of them even have to move to gain access to health services in their language. I am sure that you will agree with me that, at the end of our lives, moving is usually the last thing we want, especially when we are dealing with health issues.
The various organizations that represent Franco-Albertans are working together to develop an action plan. Is the situation the same in other provinces? Could Alberta not learn from success stories from elsewhere in Canada?
Seniors deserve the same quality of health services as youth, and that translates into services offered in the language of their choice. Health has no price; it should at least have two languages.
Philippe Daoust
The Eugene Trottier family struggle appears to be the source of this debate. The situation of this Franco-Albertan is unfortunate, but maybe it will serve as a starting point for the community. I agree with his daughter who hopes that it’s not already too late. To be continued …
