Our environment is very inclusive, but it is still difficult for certain individuals who are in a minority. It is difficult for seniors who are in a minority. A senior who has a good support network, a family, can find the services they need.
We work a lot with vulnerable people, those with low income who have trouble reading and writing and who, in many cases, have unfortunately been on social assistance all their lives. At 65, they did not apply for the Quebec pension plan so we help them fill out those forms. This is a very disadvantaged client group.
As part of one of our initiatives, local social workers travel around and reach out to the informal network of seniors in order to find these individuals. They contact the mechanic, the parish priest, their hairdresser, and the grocer. As soon we are aware of a vulnerable and isolated person, we try to establish trust with that person to identify their needs and direct them to the appropriate resources. It is an incredible service. Our organization has two local social workers. Every year, they locate between 100 and 150 seniors who are not familiar with the network.
It is easier for a person who has support, especially from their family. It is much more difficult for those who are isolated, alone, and especially for members of a minority. Being part of a minority is very difficult.