A meeting to discuss Cochrane's need for end of life care will continue Monday, May 1.

Della Robertson, Chair of the Cochrane Seniors Advisory Committee, says the first community engagement was extremely successful with over 40 people in attendance.

"We don't have the report yet but it should be shortly forthcoming and we heard a lot of interesting things from people. Some of them required more funding, some of the clients were happy to keep their loved ones at home even through the dying process, other people were interested in hospice in the community." 

With the overwhelming success of the first meeting, Robertson and presenters wanted to give those that work during the day an opportunity to also voice their opinions.

Robertson adds many of the comments they heard were similar to a large needs assessment study that occurred in Strathmore. One of the growing challenges is the need for more respite care, shares Robertson, "the family members or loved ones that were often doing the caregiving were often getting burnt out by the needs. They felt they could do better if they had respite, a place where either their loved one could go for a few days or someone who could come in for 24 hours and help them out. Those were key issues."

Another surprise for Robertson was from community members in need of support themselves. "Some of the clients themselves were reluctant to go to hospice, because they understood they would be a burden in terms of driving on their family or loved ones, and they didn't want to put that burden around them."

Moving people through the system may have challenges, but Robertson was encouraged to learn that if a hospice receives the stamp of approval from AHS, beds not being utilized for hospice care could possibly offer respite for families in need.

No matter what, this is the time for Cochrane to come up solutions to a problem that is only going to grow.

"Especially now that we have all the growth going in in the community and the building going on in the community it is really crucial for people to start thinking about long term. If you plan to stay in Cochrane until your final days then this is something that is going to affect you over time. Plus, if you really  think in the bigger picture; what creates a whole community is a community where people can be born, live their lives, and die in the presence of their family and friends."

The second engagement meeting will be held in the evening in the Stable Room at the Homestead Building (FCSS) from 7-9 pm. If you can partake in the discussion you are asked to register at 403-851-2978.

READ MORE:

Is it Time for Cochrane to Offer Hospice Care?