Resolution - 86.01
Needs of the Elderly in Our Parishes

Whereas, There are about 2.5 million Canadians over 65 today and this number will double by the year 2015; nine percent live in institutions (almost double the rate of Great Britain, USA, Scandinavia and The Netherlands); and

Whereas, Governments across the country are beginning to recognize the need for social and economic policies for the elderly; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the national council of The Catholic Women's League of Canada, in 66th annual national convention assembled, recommends that

  1. each Catholic Women's League parish council, with the approval of the pastor, establish an advocacy committee made up of the conveners of spiritual development and community life and members of the parish-at-large
  2. the advocacy committee investigate the number of elderly within their own parish boundary whether at home or in institutions
  3. the advocacy committee investigate and take action with regard to the spiritual, social and personal needs of the elderly
  4. in parishes where programs for the elderly are already in place, Catholic Women's League parish councils should provide fullest possible support, urging all members to participate in this worthy endeavour.