OTTAWA — The government of Ontario is collecting feedback from Ontario’s senior community in order to produce an official Seniors Strategy.

“Seniors want to remain active in age-friendly communities that are open to their full participation,” government staff released in a statement. “Most want to live independently, at home for as long as they can, working, volunteering, learning, shopping or travelling. Yet many seniors face challenges accessing programs and services that support their safety, mental and physical health, and overall well-being. Ontario’s government is working for the people by holding consultations to hear from seniors, caregivers and organizations on how the province can best support its aging population.”

Seniors are the fastest growing demographic in the province. Current estimates predict the seniors’ population will grow to more than three million by 2023 – that is about 400,000 more seniors than today. This fundamental change in Ontario’s demographics means new challenges and new opportunities for the province.

“Supporting our seniors is about investing in our own futures – everyone should be able to age strong, in an Ontario that is open to all,” Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho said. “We are moving forward with our commitment to develop a cross-government strategy to do what’s right for Ontario’s aging population, while growing jobs and the economy. We want to hear from seniors, the people who care for them, and the organizations who support them.”

Starting today (June 7), during Seniors Month, the government will be holding targeted consultation sessions at Seniors Active Living Centres across Ontario. The consultations will run for six weeks. To ensure that Ontarians across the province have an opportunity to participate, an online survey has also been launched. Feedback from the consultations and online survey will help form a strategy to help seniors:

• Age at home and in communities;
• Remain healthy, active and socially engaged;
• Stay safe and secure, and
• Participate in the labour market and economy.

The government expects to announce the government-wide seniors’ strategy in the fall.

Have your say and take part in the online survey: Ontario.ca/SeniorsStrategy