An overwhelming 99% of respondents to a poll by CARP and AdvantAge Ontario finds long-term care’s important in this provincial election.

The survey also found 92% of members believe there’s not enough staff to care for residents and that just over half (55%) believe a higher staff to resident ratio at all times would most improve care and safety.

”CARP is calling for an increase in funding for staffing and specialized training in long-term care facilities to reflect the changing composition of residents, and better protect our frailest population,” said Laura Tamblyn Watts, National Director of Policy, Research & Law of Canada’s leading advocacy group for older Canadians.

”We know that with our aging population and the growing complexity of seniors coming into long-term care that staffing must be a priority.  Greater provincial funding to increase staffing, hours of care per resident and ongoing staff training is critical for quality resident care and safety,” said Lisa Levin, CEO of AdvantAge Ontario.