Residents and family members at an independent seniors’ complex in Halifax are expressing concerns about safety issues and are urging the provincial housing authority to take action. They allege that individuals who do not live in the building are gaining access and harassing residents. Complaints include non-residents roaming the halls late at night, unhoused individuals sleeping in common areas, and confrontations between tenants. The situation has caused alarm among residents, with some feeling unsafe in their own homes.
Ninety-five-year-old Winnifred Bowden, who has lived in the building for almost four decades, is among those who feel unsafe. Her son, Joe Bowden, reports instances of people knocking on doors late at night, early in the morning, and even individuals with dementia causing disturbances. The feeling of fear has escalated to the point where residents are afraid to walk the halls, fearing potential confrontations or harm. Instead of providing a sense of refuge, residents are dreading being in their own homes, with Winnifred expressing her fear and reluctance to return to the building after spending time away.
In response to the complaints, the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency (NSPHA) acknowledges that they have received reports from tenants in the building. The executive director of client services at NSPHA, Pamela Menchenton, emphasizes that security and safety are top priorities for the agency. They have a commitment to ensuring that all tenants feel safe in their homes and take steps to address any concerns raised by residents. The agency utilizes tools such as exterior security cameras, security personnel, and collaboration with law enforcement to enhance safety measures.
Despite the assurances from NSPHA, the Bowden family feels that their complaints are not being taken seriously, as there have been minimal improvements in the situation. While the agency has offered to relocate Winnifred to a different building, she has declined, as she simply wants her safety to be guaranteed in her current home. Joe Bowden raises concerns about the need for a more proactive response from the NSPHA, suggesting that it should not require serious incidents such as assaults or abuse for action to be taken. Winnifred expresses disappointment in the lack of attention and care shown towards seniors in the community.
The ongoing safety issues at the seniors’ complex have left residents feeling vulnerable and afraid in their own homes. The lack of effective action by the NSPHA to address the concerns raised by residents has fueled frustration and disappointment among the affected individuals and their families. There is a call for more proactive measures to be taken to enhance security and create a safe living environment for seniors in the building. The urgency of the situation and the impact on the well-being of residents highlight the importance of prioritizing safety in housing facilities for vulnerable populations like seniors.
