Residents and family members at an independent seniors’ complex in Halifax are raising concerns over safety issues and are calling on the provincial housing authority to take action. Allegations have been made that non-residents are gaining access to the building and harassing residents, causing a sense of fear and insecurity among the elderly inhabitants. Winnifred Bowden, a 95-year-old resident who has lived in the building for nearly four decades, has noticed a deterioration in the overall safety and security of the premises. Complaints range from non-residents roaming the halls late at night to confrontations between tenants, leaving residents feeling vulnerable and anxious.
Winnifred and her son, Joe Bowden, have expressed their frustration with the lack of response from the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency (NSPHA) regarding their safety concerns. Despite complaints, little has been done to address the issues, causing residents to feel like their well-being is not being taken seriously. The NSPHA claims to prioritize security and safety for all tenants, but residents feel that their complaints are falling on deaf ears. In response to the complaints, the agency has mentioned the use of exterior security cameras, security personnel, and the possibility of installing interior cameras pending a privacy impact assessment. However, residents like Winnifred still feel unsafe in their own homes and are disappointed with the lack of action taken by the authorities.
Winnifred describes feeling scared and anxious when entering her own home, highlighting the extent of the fear that residents in the building are experiencing. Not only does she fear for her own safety, but she is also concerned for the well-being of other vulnerable residents who may be more at risk. Despite the offer to relocate to another building, Winnifred declined as she simply wants to feel secure in her own home. She questions why it would take a serious incident, such as a murder or abuse, for the authorities to take decisive action. Winnifred’s disappointment with the NSPHA is evident, as she feels that their concerns are being neglected, leaving them vulnerable and afraid in their own living space.
Pamela Menchenton, executive director of client services at the NSPHA, acknowledges the complaints from tenants at the Halifax building and emphasizes the agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. She mentions the various tools and measures in place, such as security cameras and liaising with law enforcement, to address safety concerns. Despite these assurances, residents like Winnifred and Joe feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed, as there has been little improvement in the overall security situation. The reluctance of residents to leave their homes highlights the emotional attachment and sense of familiarity they have developed over the years, wanting to feel safe in the place they call home.
The frustration and fear experienced by residents of the independent seniors’ complex in Halifax highlight the importance of prioritizing safety and security for vulnerable populations. The lack of action and response from the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency has left residents feeling unheard and neglected, further exacerbating their feelings of fear and uncertainty. As aging individuals, seniors like Winnifred deserve to live out their retirement years in comfort and peace, without the constant threat of harassment or violence. It is imperative for authorities to take proactive measures to address safety concerns and ensure that all residents feel safe and protected in their own homes.Residents and family members at an independent seniors’ complex in Halifax are raising concerns over safety issues and are calling on the provincial housing authority to take action. Allegations have been made that non-residents are gaining access to the building and harassing residents, causing a sense of fear and insecurity among the elderly inhabitants. Winnifred Bowden, a 95-year-old resident who has lived in the building for nearly four decades, has noticed a deterioration in the overall safety and security of the premises. Complaints range from non-residents roaming the halls late at night to confrontations between tenants, leaving residents feeling vulnerable and anxious.
