Hats off

Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (S.A.L.T.) held its inaugural “Hats Off to Seniors” gala Nov. 16 as a way to thank local individuals, businesses, and organizations that have supported the group since its inception in August, 2010.
But it is the S.A.L.T. members themselves, as well as those who sit on its Assisted Living Action Group (A.L.A.G.) subcommittee, who are equally deserving of hearty applause.
These groups aren’t content to sit on the sidelines and let others deal with the myriad of issues facing seniors. Rather, they’re stepping to the plate to tackle such things as elder abuse, scams targeting seniors, accessibility concerns, and the urgent need for assisted living facilities here in Rainy River District.
That proactive approach definitely is required. The district’s population greys ever more with each census—a trend that’s been ongoing for quite some time and certainly one that communities right across the country are facing. What is new—and troubling—is the growing number of seniors who are choosing to leave the area, whether to be closer to their children or to access an assisted living facility not currently available here.
So not only must we still contend with youth out-migration but now the reality of a seniors’ exodus—people who were taxpayers and consumers, but also volunteers with service clubs, theatre-goers, participants in curling and bowling leagues, and members of church congregations.
In short, people we need to continue contributing to the fabric and vibrancy of our communities.
Efforts to keep our seniors here, and encourage those who had moved away to pursue post-secondary education and work to return “home” to live out their retirement years, cannot be understated.
Fortunately, thanks to the good work of groups like S.A.L.T. and A.L.A.G., that challenge is being met head-on.
Hats off, indeed.