Canada's Minister of Seniors, Deb Schulte, held a virtual round-table with groups in Calgary and Edmonton to talk about the impact the pandemic is having on seniors — and what has to change going forward.

"They had similar issues, many concerns about seniors isolation, elder abuse, access to services" these groups represent thousands of seniors.

We recognize how profound isolation is in terms of mental health and wellness and how fast people deteriorate if they don't have those family connections. We heard seniors not knowing what time of the day it is and changing into nightsuits in the afternoon.

We are aware that seniors are using tablets/IPad to connect with their loved ones but more requires to be done to address isolation, short health care staff, mental health, and overall well-being of the seniors.

We want to experiment with the device "Alexa" how it can help in isolation with options to sharing news, weather, day and date, reminders for grocery, various options, and the family and friends can drop in to check on. "Alexa" is more assistance for seniors with mobility challenges, where the place can be automated. During this pandemic, with less home care staff, it can help the remote staff drop in and check on seniors. The device requires not to be carried around and has sharp long-distance speakers and mic.

HAPPY ALEXA!