Several seniors who were part of a remote monitoring program to prevent falls have been unexpectedly removed from the service due to a decrease in provincial funding. One of these seniors, Marilyn, shared her experience after receiving a sudden call informing her that the program would be deactivated immediately, leaving her and others without a crucial lifeline.
Marilyn, who had previously benefited from the program after a hospital stay in 2024, described how the push button pendant alert provided her with vital assistance during emergencies. The program, operated by the Salvation Army’s Toronto Grace Health Centre and partially supported by the Province, aimed to support older and at-risk individuals to stay safely in their homes.
Following the abrupt termination of the service in mid-October, Zoë, Marilyn’s daughter, expressed frustration over the lack of warning and the rush to find an alternative solution. Despite their efforts to seek clarification, they received limited response from the authorities.
The remote monitoring program, established in 2022 to enhance home care for vulnerable patients and reduce strain on acute care facilities, relied on a combination of public and private funding. However, due to recent cuts in provincial support, the program is being phased out, affecting numerous individuals who depended on its lifesaving features.
While Lt.-Col. John Murray from the Salvation Army acknowledged the funding reduction and the subsequent service adjustments, details regarding the extent of the funding cut and the number of affected individuals were not disclosed. Calls for continued advocacy and support for vulnerable patients receiving care at home were emphasized.
Marilyn and Zoë are now navigating the challenge of finding an alternative device, which often comes with additional monthly fees that could strain fixed incomes. They highlighted the need for better communication and planning in handling such critical services to avoid leaving vulnerable individuals without essential support.
The Salvation Army assured that they would provide further information and follow-up with impacted clients to facilitate potential re-enrollment or alternative solutions.