SENIORS MONTH

t By Todd McCarthy MPP Durham This year, our government themed Seniors Month, ‘Working for Seniors’ which emphasized the continued importance of supporting older adults through vital programs and initiatives that provide wellness, social engagement and education in communities across the province. Seniors Month in Ontario has been celebrated since 1984, making this year the 40th anniversary of recognizing Ontario’s outstanding seniors and recognizing the positive impact they have made on the lives of Ontario’s current residents. In 2021, the number of adults aged 65 and over was approximately 2.6 million and this figure is expected to grow exponentially as Ontario is projected to house 4.4 million seniors by 2046. It is paramount that we provide these seniors with the services they need as these individuals have made enormous contributions in building the Ontario we all enjoy today. I am exceptionally proud of the work that the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility has done - and continues to do - to address the needs of Ontario’s seniors while also helping these individuals contribute to all aspects of our community life. n Of significance, the Seniors Active Living Centre (SALC) Program promotes wellness, social interaction, education and support services with the goal of keeping seniors healthy and independent through approximately 316 programs across the province. This program was especially important to Durham as we had 6 different organizations receive grants from the SALC Program. The Bowmanville Older Adult Association, and five of Oshawa’s Senior Citizens Centres all received annualized funding of $51,137. This sum of annualized funding will be used at these organizations to bolster the services they provide and will allow seniors to continue to thrive in our community. In addition to the SALC Program, our government also provided grants through the Seniors Community Grant Program which funds local not-for-profit community groups and organizations to deliver projects supports and resources that help older adults by offering a wide variety of activities to promote engagement, reduce isolation and promote healthy living. In Durham, these grants were awarded to Clarington Public Library ($17,740), the Municipality of Clarington ($18,630), Theatre 3x60 ($24,950) and New Life Global Church ($25,000). This funding is crucial for these organizations to continue to be able to provide seniors with support that they would not otherwise receive. If more information regarding these programs is required, visit our new website ontario.ca/seniors and our Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors as there is a wealth of information for seniors and caregivers concerning health, finances, housing, security and more. Providing seniors with these programs is extremely important. As Minister Cho, the Minister of Seniors and Accessibility has stated, “Our government knows that Ontario’s communities are strengthened, and everyone benefits when our aging population can stay active and connected with local supports”. As Seniors Month in Ontario comes to a close, our government has worked with many municipalities and community partners to provide necessary resources that promote the health and well-being of Ontario’s seniors. In providing this support, we have reduced social isolation in numerous communities, Durham included, to ensure seniors have the opportunity to thrive in their later life. In the months following Ontario’s Seniors Month, it is important to continue to encourage everyone to reach out to a senior in their life and acknowledge the achievements they garnered for Ontario. Let’s recognize Ontario’s seniors and help them to stay active, fit and socially connected to their community.