Seniors Advocate Statement on Health Care Assistant Day
BC Seniors Advocate statement on Health Care Assistant Day – October 18, 2023
VICTORIA – “Today is Health Care Assistant Day in B.C and an opportunity to acknowledge the increasingly important role of these professionals in the well-being of seniors not only in our province but across the country.
“Health care assistant is a broad term that captures the vital work done by many people to support seniors living at home, in assisted living and long-term care facilities, and in hospitals in our province. They are also known as resident care assistants, nurse assistants, community health workers, home support workers and personal support workers. Although the work has many different titles, what we must recognize is the incredible dedication, kindness and compassion health care assistants bring to helping older people in our communities age with dignity and enjoy a high quality of life.
“B.C.’s 44,000 health care assistants work diligently to support the vulnerable people in their care. With limited access to family, many long-term care residents and their loved ones relied on their caring and comfort during the pandemic more than ever before. A spotlight was placed on their critical role in the health care system over the past several years and our appreciation for their professionalism remains today.
“Please take the time to say a special thank you to the health care assistants in your life. Their commitment to our loved ones makes a difference in the lives of older British Columbians each and every day.”
Isobel Mackenzie
BC Seniors Advocate