Minister Tassi meets with seniors, Indigenous leaders in Northern communities

NORTH BAY, ON, Nov. 14, 2018 /CNW/ - Seniors play an important part in contributing to the diversity of Canada and are an important part of our social fabric. That is why the Government of Canada is working to support older adults across the country.

Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors met with seniors in North Bay and Sudbury to highlight the importance of healthy aging and wellness. Minister Tassi had discussions with Indigenous seniors and organizations representing diverse communities on the topic of active living and emphasized the importance of healthy aging and working together to address challenges older Canadians face in Northern communities.

The Minister also met with Indigenous leaders and participated in activities funded through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, a program that has funded over 21,600 community-based projects since 2004. The program encourages seniors to get active in their communities and promotes social inclusion.

The Government of Canada continues to take concrete action to improve the well-being of seniors, including restoring the age of eligibility for Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) from 67 to 65 and increasing the GIS amount by almost $1,000 per year for the most vulnerable single seniors. The Government has also worked with provinces to enhance the Canada Pension Plan to help ensure that today's workers can enjoy a safe, secured and dignified retirement.

Initiatives like these support the Government's overall commitment to improve the well-being of all Canadians and strengthen the middle class and those working hard to join it.

Quote

"I was pleased to travel to communities in Northern Ontario today to learn about the unique perspectives of Indigenous seniors. The exchanges were insightful and informative. We have to work together to ensure we respond to particular needs of all seniors, and make sure we develop policies that benefit them, so that seniors can lead healthy, active and independent lives."
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors

Quick Facts

• Seniors are the fastest-growing demographic group in Canada. By 2030, the number of seniors will reach 9.6 million people, representing close to one quarter of Canada's population.
• Canadians' life expectancy is expected to continue rising—Canadian men and women born in 2030 will live on average to age 84 and 87, respectively.

Associated Links

Healthy Living - Seniors 
Aging & Seniors 
Canadian Pension Plans
Old Age Security

SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

For further information: For media enquiries, please contact: Annabelle Archambault, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Seniors, 819-654-5353, [e-mail]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [e-mail]

Related Links

http://www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca