November 12, 2018 Winnipeg, Manitoba Employment and Social Development Canada

Seniors have greatly contributed to our communities, work places and families, and we want to ensure they are able to continue making these important contributions. That is why the Government of Canada is working to support older adults throughout the country, including support for Healthy Aging in Northern and rural communities.

Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors met with seniors in Winnipeg to highlight the importance of healthy aging and wellness. Minister Tassi had discussions with seniors 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.

The Minister also participated in activities funded through the New Horizons for Seniors Program. These activities encourage seniors to remain active as they age, and to take care of both their mental and physical wellbeing.

The New Horizons for Seniors program has funded over 21,600 community-based projects since 2004, for a total of $452 million. The program encourages seniors to play an active role in their communities and promotes social inclusion.

The Government of Canada continues to take concrete action to improve the well-being for 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 confirm the Government's overall commitment to improve the quality of life of all Canadians and strengthen the middle class and those working hard to join it.