Update from Minister Schulte
Seniors across the country agree that they want to keep living in their own homes for as long as possible—safely and injury free.
The Government of Canada recently announced the new Aging in Place Challenge Program led by the National Research Council. It will partner with like-minded private, public, academic and other research organizations in Canada and abroad to develop breakthroughs to help older adults and their caregivers to live safe, healthy and socially connected lives while remaining in their homes and communities of choice.
The aim is to reduce by 20% the number of older adults requiring nursing home care across Canada by 2031.
The program will support safe and healthy aging in four areas:
- Safety: Innovative living environments and injury prevention at home
- Health: Cognitive monitoring and enablement, chronic health management and daily living support
- Connection: Mobility, transportation and social engagement
- Standards: Smart home standards that support safety, and enhance technical interoperability
The program is currently seeking researchers from the academic community, the not-for-profit and private sectors, and Indigenous governments to express their interest in collaborating. A panel of experts with lived experience will also be created. Seniors, caregivers and advocates who wish to share their real-world insights and experience are invited to submit their interest.
New Horizons for Seniors Program – Regional Committees Recruitment
The New Horizons for Seniors Program is seeking candidates to serve on Regional Committees, which help ensure that funding decisions take regional needs into account. Members are volunteers who are active in seniors-related issues as well as broader community issues. To help make a difference in the lives of seniors, submit your application by November 30, 2020.
Reminder to Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) recipients who have not filed their 2019 income tax
GIS recipients who have not already filed their 2019 income tax information should contact Service Canada by calling 1-800-277-9914 and provide their income information over the phone. Service Canada will need to have received and processed seniors’ income information by November 29, 2020, to prevent an interruption in benefits in January 2021.
Sincerely,
Minister Deb Schulte
