New chair appointed to the National Seniors Council

GATINEAU, QC, July 16, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), today announced the appointment of Dr. Andrew Wister as the new Chair of the National Seniors Council (NSC).

Dr. Wister is currently Chair of the Department of Gerontology at Simon Fraser University (SFU), where he spearheaded the development of the Masters in Gerontology and PhD in Gerontology programs. Dr. Wister has taught over 100 courses in aging-related topics throughout his career and has published dozens of books and articles based on his research. He has also been active in the Canadian Association on Gerontology. His work in areas including health promotion, chronic illness and aging have earned him numerous awards and distinctions.

Dr. Wister was first appointed to the National Seniors Council in May 2012.

Quick facts

• The NSC advises on matters related to the well-being and quality of life of seniors, including the opportunities and challenges arising from a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse population of seniors.
• Since 2007, the NSC has undertaken work on elder abuse, the effects of low income among seniors, volunteerism, positive and active aging, as well as approaches to attracting older workers to the labour force and retaining them. Currently the Council is looking at how social isolation affects seniors and exploring ways to prevent and reduce the social isolation of seniors in Canada.
• On October 1, 2013, National Seniors Day, the Government of Canada announced a call for proposals to fund approximately 20 pilot projects—an investment of $2 million—aimed at addressing seniors' social isolation.

Quotes

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Andrew Wister as the new chair of the National Seniors Council. Dr. Wister continues to bring a wealth of expertise and leadership to the Council on issues of importance to older Canadians."
- The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), who oversees the work of the NSC.

Related products

• Appointment to the National Seniors Council : Dr. Andrew Victor Wister

Associated links

• National Seniors Council

SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada

For further information:

Earl Maynard
Office of the Minister of State (Seniors)
819-953-1144

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
[e-mail]
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