This week is seniors' week, and in her COVID-19 update, Dr. Hinshaw reminded Albertans of the need to connect with our seniors, learn from them and recognize the valuable role they have played and continue to play in building our communities. 

She says we need to reach out while keeping them safe with physical distance. The aggressive public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the virus itself have been particularly hard on our elderly Albertans. They are more vulnerable to severe cases and 138 of our 143 of Alberta’s deaths have been those aged 60 and over. 

We have lost friends, neighbours, parents and grandparents. These losses have been felt deeply. Our public health measures at continuing care facilities to protect seniors have been necessary but also caused them to feel more lonely. 

Dr. Hinshaw thanks those how have made sure the seniors in their lives feel connected, staff who have cared for residents, seniors who have gone the extra mile and checked in on their friends who need support. 

She reminds Albertans that while some restrictions have been lifted, things are still different. Physical distancing is still required and may create additional hurdles to visits, like for those who are hard of hearing. There may also be seniors who are fearful about going out. Dr. Hinshaw urges Albertans to respect these concerns and continue to make sure our seniors are provided for. 

This could be reaching out, offer to run errands if needed, provide companionship however it is possible and safe, and provide in any way necessary. 

In addition, she asks that people share their senior’s week experiences on social media with the hashtag #Albertacares. 

Take the time to recognize the contributions seniors have and do make to our communities, our provinces, and the country.