A meeting held in Moncton, N.B., this week to discuss ways to improve the lives of seniors across Canada wrapped up Wednesday morning.
Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for seniors met to talk about ongoing priorities, including affordability and financial security, aging in place and improving access to information and support services.
Although American tariffs placed on Canadian goods wasn’t on the agenda, Federal Seniors Minister Joanne Thompson said it was discussed.
“We did pause yesterday to listen to the prime minister’s response and collectively within this meeting there was a stance of we stand together. All Canadians are concerned,” said Thompson.
Thompson said it’s important for seniors to know that they will listen to their concerns over tariffs and what they might mean to them.
“It’s incredibly challenging, but we will address the needs of individuals as we go forward. It’s early days, but I think the most important thing is that we understand that we’re strongest together,” said Thompson.
Lyne Chantal Boudreau, New Brunswick’s minister responsible for women’s equality and seniors, said it’s important to communicate to seniors what’s going on with the tariffs and how it may impact them.
“It’s very anxious for many seniors in our province and we have to make sure that they understand the real message at the moment. Our premier, Susan Holt, is working so hard just to make sure that all of the population knows what is going on and how we can collaborate to make sure that all citizens have security,” said Boudreau.
As far as concerns that were discussed during the meetings, Thompson said quality of life while living at home was probably the top for seniors.
Thompson said long-term care is an eventual step in a person’s life cycle, but it shouldn’t occur before it’s necessary.
“Seniors want to be well at home and they want to stay in their communities, their home, for as long as possible,” said Thompson.
The two-day forum aimed to strengthen the co-operation between governments and to support current and future generations of older people, with the hope of improving their lives within their communities.
For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
