Seniors have made invaluable contributions to our society, and on National Seniors Day, we celebrate their accomplishments and ongoing contributions to their families, communities and country.
Our older adult population is the fastest-growing demographic group in Canada. By 2040, the number of seniors will reach 10.8 million, almost one quarter of the population, so it is more important than ever to support their health and well-being.
This is why we have developed healthy aging initiatives and promote the Age-Friendly Communities model. Along with guides and tools, the model aims to help communities become more "age-friendly", allowing older adults to maintain independence, improve their quality of life, and stay healthy, active and involved in their communities.
Canadians want to age closer to home and family, but also expect long-term care (LTC) to be high-quality and safe. Collaborative efforts across all government levels and with partners are in progress to enhance quality and safety of care. Last year, new national LTC standards were launched by the Health Standards Organization and the CSA Group. The Government of Canada is also providing $3 billion over 5 years to provinces and territories to support safer, quality long term care and $2.4 billion for home and community care through the Working Together to Improve the Health of Canadians Plan and is engaged in discussions with Canadians on the development of a Safe LTC Act. Additionally, the Working Together plan committed $1.7 billion over 5 years to support wage increases for personal support workers and related professions.
The federal government will also continue to support the physical and mental wellbeing of Canadian seniors. We have taken action to prevent elder abuse, support survivors, and break the cycle of violence in families and communities across Canada..
We know that healthy living can help prevent, delay and minimize the severity of chronic diseases, conditions and frailty, as well as boost resistance to infections, and it can help improve quality of life despite chronic conditions.
I encourage you to celebrate National Seniors Day by connecting with older adults in your life, showing your appreciation for their contributions, and supporting them in staying healthy, active and engaged.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
