The following submission was made by me to the FSNA   (Federal Retirees Association) headoffice   during April 2019.   A   copy was   also sent to the Chair &   the Secretary of the local   FSNA Algonquin Valley Chapter .

Title:     Suggested Database Spreadsheet listing local Service Providers   for Senior Assistance /Support         – DRAFT

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22 April 2019

Hi   Jessica,

Suggested Database Spreadsheet listing local Service Providers   for Senior Assistance /Support         – DRAFT

Further to my e-mail of   16 April 2019 ,   please find below my ” outline ” thinking for    ” a Database for local service providers   ” for the use by the  prospective seniors 75 years or over —   living independently (single or couple) .   This would be more in line with provision of personal assistance/support .

The said Database can also be available for use by independently living   handicap individuals (or couples) of any age.

I am hoping that when using this Database for finding & using listed service providers,   the seniors will be financially supported by the Government (Federal or Provincial) either by tax rebate or direct reimbursement .

I am hoping that Federal Retirees Association (FSNA)   will support the suggested   concept – the details & format of which can be improved or modified . This sort of Database  provides dignity to Seniors   when they need assistance   and obtaining that without chasing help from neighbors or others.

Yes, we are Federal Retirees but   the concept would help all other retirees who sometimes are more financially challenged.

If FSNA support the concept —   I believe there is need for the following initiatives (which do encompass advocacy)   by (FSNA) .    

These are:

1)  Concept   Coordinator

There is need for a coordinator for such a task.  I  request that FSNA establish a central coordinator for helping to generate/develop such a Database and then once finalized – the coordinator can oversee launch and   monitor proper use of such a Database.

2)   Develop a format for the Database.

Note:   I am enclosing (with this e-mail) my DRAFT version of such a format for your perusal.   You may note I have identified and included in my DRAFT format few common items of needs for consideration. I I believe that these ” items of needs” are essential for daily living by independent seniors   or handicap individuals.       I think   keeping the database simple and readily useable is essential.

Note:   I have reviewed   your   suggested databases  in your e-mail of     16 April 2019   –     ” 211 Ontario is another database of community and health-based services https://211ontario.ca/ ”  and also   the Champlain Health Line online directory that lists local health and social support services that fall within the eastern Ontario region, including Pembroke https://www.champlainhealthline.ca/listServices.aspx?id=10883

I   find that these are more like   ” Telephone Directory ” for some specific Health related   areas – useful for   certain search needs but not useful at all for daily living needs.

3)   Field Coordinator.

Need for identifying and appointing a Field Coordinator for each   area in a Canadian  province   – for canvassing and surveying from the seniors their needs and then to identify service providers and the details pertaining to their operation.     Brainstorming and interfacing with Seniors would help   to identify “Items of needs ” and also some good Service Providers that some Seniors may have already have used

Note: A Field Coordinator   may be appointed by a   Government body   – if FSNA advocacy is successful in promoting the said Database concept to a Government body   (say Ministry of Seniors) .

Note:     I take liberty to state that the Field Coordinator may not need to canvass and survey the seniors’ needs as the list generated and provided by me , I believe , is quite comprehensive   and for a start is adequate.   A sample survey in any one or couple of localities would confirm   the ” items of needs” list.       And furthermore , the list can always be upgraded as and when new needs come forth and are identified.

The primary responsibility of   the Field Coordinator would be to identify as many as feasible prospective service   providers ( including contact & other relevant details ) for each of the listed needs. This may require advertising in the local newspapers or on – line social media for seeking out such help for the seniors.

The content of an advertisement will require a professional look see and wording for mobilizing                                         ” community   minded ”     service providers.

4)   Advocacy

There is definitely a need   for Advocacy initiative by FSNA   for promoting the concept  to the Government (Federal and/or Provincial)  for   the Government to take over the project and/or   providing some financial support.  I understand that the Canadians now have a Ministry of Seniors.

Note   FYI :   Please note I am not forwarding this memo to the Ministry of Seniors   or any other Government   or political   officials.

5) An app

To investigate and promote a development of an app   ( for use on a computer/tablet ) or easy access/use by the relevant seniors or   handicap persons.

I hope the above is useful .

My apologies for a bit long-winded memo.

regards