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Canada signs Social Security Agreement with China
April 2, 2015– Ottawa, Ontario – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), signed an Agreement on Social Security between Canada and China. The Agreement was also signed by Mr. Hu Xiaoyi, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
This agreement on social security will provide for continuity of social security coverage for employees sent by their Canadian employers to work temporarily in China. The Agreement will eliminate situations in which such individuals and their Canadian employers will have to contribute to both the Canada Pension Plan and the comparable pension program of China for the same work. This will result in substantial savings and increase the economic competitiveness of Canadian companies operating in China. As well, Chinese companies and their employees sent to work in Canada will benefit from the same advantages.
The Agreement will enter into force once both Canada and China have completed the approval procedures specified in their respective legislation.
Quick Facts
- Canadian companies and their employees sent to work temporarily in China will continue to contribute to the Canada Pension Plan. Chinese companies operating in Canada and their posted employees will continue contributing to China’s pension program.
- Canada has signed 59 international social security agreements to date, of which 56 are in force.
- Canada continues to work with China, our second-largest trading partner, on developing mutually beneficial trade, economic and people-to-people ties in line with our prosperity agenda and our values as Canadians.
Quote
“ Our Government is committed to creating an environment that will help facilitate increased trade between Canada and China. This social security agreement represents yet another step forward in strengthening the relationship and cooperation between our two countries.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
Associated Links
Service Canada Social Security Agreements
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Canada
Backgrounder
The Agreement on Social Security between Canada and China will permit continuity of social security coverage when a person is sent to work temporarily in the other country, and will prevent situations in which employees and their employers would have to contribute to the social security programs of both countries for the same work.
This new agreement will benefit Canada and China by:
- permitting Canadian companies and their employees sent to work temporarily in China to continue to contribute to the Canada Pension Plan and to be exempt from contributing to the comparable pension programs in China for the same work; and
- permitting Chinese companies and their employees sent to work temporarily in Canada to benefit from the same advantages.
This will result in substantial savings and increase the economic competitiveness of Canadian and Chinese companies operating in each other’s territory.
Canada has signed 59 international social security agreements, of which 56 are in force, with the following countries:
|
Antigua and Barbuda Brazil Bulgaria |
Hungary |
Philippines Slovak Republic |
Agreements that have been signed with India, Peru and China are not yet in force. They will enter into force once Canada and each of these countries has completed its respective legal process.
Government of Canada to help alleviate social isolation through New Horizons for Seniors Program 2015-2016 Call for Proposals for Pan-Canadian Projects
March 27, 2015 – Gatineau, Quebec – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), announced today that a call for proposals for pan-Canadian projects funded through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) will be launched in mid-May 2015 and be open for six weeks. Successful projects will focus exclusively on addressing social isolation among seniors and will be funded between $150,000 and $750,000, over a period of up to three years.
Social isolation involves low quantity and quality of contact with others, the absence of social roles and the absence of mutually rewarding relationships. It can be triggered by certain events, such as the loss of a spouse, a change in income or an illness. Social isolation is associated with higher levels of depression and suicide in seniors. The risk of hospitalization is four to five times greater for socially isolated seniors. Social isolation can also leave seniors vulnerable to elder abuse, including financial abuse.
In their 2014 report, the National Seniors Council highlighted the importance of working with a wide array of organizations which deliver services and programs in an efficient and effective manner to alleviate isolation among older Canadians. Their report is available at Canada.ca/Seniors.
The J.W. McConnell Family Foundation is a national social innovation leader. For this call for proposals, the Government of Canada is partnering with the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation and its Innoweave initiative to support the development and implementation of innovative community-wide approaches to reduce social isolation among seniors.
In the upcoming call for proposals, priority will be given to innovative applications from communities that will use a coordinated approach to reducing the social isolation of seniors. This will likely result in successful applications being geographically grouped. These new partnerships will be multi-sectoral, involving the traditional and new players required to generate significant change.
For more information, please contact Employment and Social Development Canada at: pnha-nhsp@servicecanada.gc.ca.
Quick Facts
- The Government of Canada is committed to supporting and promoting seniors’ health, well-being and contributions by encouraging them to stay active, engaged and informed.
- Economic Action Plan 2014 increased funding for the NHSP by $5 million per year, for a total of $50 million provided to this program annually.
- Since 2006, $2.8 billion in annual tax relief has been provided to seniors and pensioners.
Quotes
“More Canadians are getting older and living longer. Our Government is committed to ensuring Canadians’ quality of life by taking action to eliminate the social isolation of seniors. This is an important issue that needs to be addressed now.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
“The J.W. McConnell Family Foundation is pleased that its Innoweave initiative will be working with the Government of Canada and community partners to reduce social isolation for seniors. This is a pressing challenge that calls out for collaborative approaches to social innovation.”
– Stephen Huddart, President and CEO, The J.W. McConnell Family Foundation
“The National Seniors Council was pleased to have reported on the issue of the social isolation of seniors in 2013–2014, and we are delighted to be continuing our study in that regard. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage Canadians to read our report, which is available at Canada.ca/Seniors. We welcome the response of the Government in announcing its intention to proceed with this initiative within the New Horizons for Seniors Program, in conjunction with the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation.”
– Dr. Andrew Wister, Chair, National Seniors Council
Associated Links
Harper Government invests in youth and Pathways to Education’s continued success
March 27, 2015– Vancouver, British Columbia – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), on behalf of the Honourable Pierre Poilievre, Minister of Employment and Social Development, today announced additional federal funding to Pathways to Education Canada. The announcement was made as part of the public launch of the new Pathways Vancouver program.
This funding of $24 million over four years will allow Pathways to expand its activities across the country and continue helping at-risk youth living in low-income communities stay in school and get the education they need to succeed both now and in the future.
Pathways is a community-based program that partners with governments, social welfare agencies, community organizations, the private sector, and volunteers to provide youth with tutoring, mentoring and financial assistance. Approximately 5,000 students currently receive support from Pathways, while more than 2,200 have graduated from the program to date.
Graduates of the program are giving back to their communities and are a testament to the program’s success.
Youth programs, such as Pathways, are part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to connect Canadians with available jobs, which includes a number of initiatives to help youth develop skills and gain the experience they need to get jobs.
Quick Facts
- Pathways to Education and its partners currently operate programs in 17 communities across Canada, including the new Vancouver program, and rely on over 1,350 volunteers to work with youth and to serve as mentors and role models.
- Since the introduction of the program, high-school graduation rates among program participants have more than doubled, and post-secondary education participation has increased by up to 300 percent.
- By 2016, Pathways will serve over 10,000 students and alumni each year.
- The Government of Canada is proposing new measures to help make life more affordable for families. These measures include enhancements to the Universal Child Care Benefit, the introduction of the Family Tax Cut and improvements to the Child Care Expenses Deduction and the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit.
Quotes
“Our Government commends Pathways to Education Canada for its outstanding work in helping at-risk youth stay in school and pursue post-secondary education. We are proud to highlight our continued investment in innovative programs like Pathways to Education so more youth can reach their full potential. We are committed to making post-secondary education accessible to all Canadians, recognizing that education and training are key factors in building a strong economy and workforce.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
“We are thrilled that the Government of Canada is demonstrating such a strong, continued commitment to Canadian youth. Their generous investment will be extremely valuable as Pathways continues to expand across Canada. Their support will make an important impact on the lives of thousands of youth across the country.”
– Samuel L. Duboc, Chair, Pathways to Education Canada
Associated Links
Backgrounder
Pathways to Education Canada
- Launched in 2001 by the Regent Park Community Health Centre in Toronto, Pathways to Education now operates in 17 communities across Canada with sites in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Manitoba and British Columbia.
- High-school completion rates and post-secondary education participation have dramatically increased since the introduction of the program. In certain communities, the high-school drop-out rate has decreased by as much as 70 percent, and the rate at which program participants go on to college or university is up by 300 percent.
- With support from both Economic Action Plan 2010 and 2013, Pathways has grown from serving approximately 2,500 students at eight sites in two provinces to approximately 5,000 students at 17 sites in five provinces.
Post-secondary education
The Government of Canada invests significantly in helping all Canadians to save for, finance and repay their post‑secondary education. These measures include the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), the Canada Learning Bond (CLB), the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG), Canada Student Loans and Grants and the Repayment Assistance Plan.
An RESP is a special savings plan, like a savings account that helps save money for a child’s education after high school. RESPs allow your savings to grow tax-free. RESPs also make it possible to receive extra money through the Government of Canada’s education savings incentives, specifically the CLB and the CESG.
For more information on federal education savings incentives, visit Canlearn.ca.
The Canada Student Loans Program offers loans, grants and repayment assistance to students.
Canada Student Grants provide up-front, non-repayable financial assistance to low- and middle-income students, students with permanent disabilities and students with dependants.
For borrowers having difficulty making their payments, the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) helps them repay their loans. RAP makes it easier for borrowers to manage their student loans by paying back what they can reasonably afford, based on their family income and size. Borrowers also have an option to negotiate a revision of repayment terms to accommodate their financial situation, such as extending the amortization period to reduce the size of monthly payments.
Since January 2015, the Canada Apprentice Loan provides apprentices in Red Seal trades with access to interest-free loans of up to $4,000 per period of technical training. To help apprentices complete their apprenticeship, the loan remains interest-free until after they complete or leave their apprenticeship training program, for a maximum of six years.
The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant and the Apprenticeship Completion Grant encourage Canadians to pursue and complete their apprenticeship training in designated Red Seal trades. Eligible apprentices could receive up to $4,000, which can be used to pay for tuition, tools or other expenses.
For more information on the supports apprentices can benefit from, visit Canada.ca/apprentice.
Universal Child Care Benefit
The Government of Canada is introducing measures to help families prosper. These measures include enhancements to the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB), the introduction of the Family Tax Cut and improvements to the Child Care Expense Deduction and the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit.
- The UCCB would increase to up to $1,920 per year for children under the age of 6, and parents would receive a benefit of up to $720 per year for each child aged 6 through 17.
- The proposed enhancements to the UCCB would provide $160 per month for each child under the age of 6, and $60 per month for each child aged 6 through 17.
For more information on these new measures, visit Helping Families Prosper.
Harper Government boosts investment to help internationally educated health professionals work in their field
More access to healthcare services for Canadians including in remote communities
News Release
For Immediate Release
March 20, 2015 – Vancouver, BC – Health Canada
Today, the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors, on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Health, announced $1.8 million in federal funding to support bringing internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) into the health workforce of Canada’s western and northern regions. Today’s announcement follows an almost $8.4 million commitment announced by Minister Ambrose in Toronto last week to help IEHPs across Canada work in their field.
Across Canada access to health professionals continues to be a challenge, especially in some northern, more remote communities where over half of the population is without a regular family doctor. At the same time, there are around 10,000 newcomers to Canada each year that are health related professionals. Many of these individuals face obstacles in finding jobs that best match their skills and experience.
The investment announced today will help internationally educated health professionals to integrate into the health workforce across western and northern Canada. The funding will help improve how internationally educated nurses’ qualifications and skills are assessed, and support their orientation to the Canadian healthcare system. This initiative will also develop methods to assess soft skills and ensure that internationally educated health professionals’ skills are matched to the right training or job.
Federal funding for internationally educated health professionals compliments the Government of Canada’s wider support for improving foreign credential recognition. This reaffirms a commitment to strengthening the healthcare system by working with provinces, territories and healthcare professionals to improve access to quality care for Canadians and their families.
Quick Facts
- International medical graduates make up about 53% of new physicians in rural or remote areas. About 25% of Canada’s physicians received their medical degree outside of Canada.
- The Government of Canada is providing $1.8 million under Health Canada’s Internationally Educated Health Professionals Initiative to the Government of British Columbia for a project to help internationally educated health professionals work in the health sectors of Canada’s western and northern regions. The project will be implemented by the Western and Northern Health Human Resources Planning Forum (WNF) – a collaboration of the four western provinces and the three northern territories.
- Since 2005/06, the Government of Canada has invested approximately $18 million a year in the Internationally Educated Health Professionals Initiative (IEHPI) to assist the integration of international health professionals into the Canadian workforce.
Quotes
“Our Government recognizes the importance of having internationally educated health professionals in the health workforce. With thousands of new Canadians arriving to Canada every year, we want to ensure that we effectively integrate doctors and nurses into the Canadian health workforce. Today’s investment makes better use of the talent that is already in Canada and showcases the steps we’re taking to provide Canadians with increased access to health professionals and quality health care services wherever they live.”
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
“Our Government has been actively working with the provinces and territories to develop approaches to integrate internationally educated health professionals into the health workforce. The Western and Northern Forum project supports the region’s health human resources strategy and is in response to the need for increased integration of internationally educated health professionals.”
Alice Wong
Minister of State for Seniors
Associated Links
- Health Canada – Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHP)
- British Columbia Ministry of Health
- Western and Northern Health Human Resources Planning Forum (WNF)
- University of British Columbia
Contacts
Michael Bolkenius
Office of the Honourable Rona Ambrose
Federal Minister of Health
613-957-0200
Health Canada
Media Relations
613-957-2983
Public Inquiries
613-957-2991
1-866 225-0709
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors announces $1.8 million in federal funding to support bringing internationally educated health professionals into the health workforce of Canada’s western and northern regions.
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors with Tru Freeman, Dean of the Faculty of Health, Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Kofi Bonnie, Registered Psychiatric Nurse and member of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Douglas College.
National Seniors Council to further examine social isolation of seniors
March 12, 2015 – Gatineau, Quebec – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), today announced the new priority for the National Seniors Council (NSC). The NSC will build on its work from 2013/14 and further examine barriers that prevent communities and seniors from reaching out to each other. It will also consider ways to encourage and facilitate communities to establish meaningful contact with socially isolated seniors in their neighborhoods.
Over the past year, the NSC met with seniors and key players from the non-profit, public and private sectors across Canada to assess how social isolation affects seniors. In October 2014, the NSC released the report “Social Isolation of Seniors.” The report provides a summary of the consultation findings as well as measures to help address this social issue.
Minister Wong reiterated to the members of the NSC the importance of continuing their work with local communities and stakeholders to reduce social isolation, a complex and pervasive, but preventable issue.
The Government of Canada is committed to supporting and promoting seniors’ ongoing health, well-being and contributions by encouraging seniors to stay active, engaged and informed, but social isolation can leave seniors vulnerable.
Quick Facts
- In 2008, 19 percent of Canadians aged 65 or over felt a lack of companionship, left out or isolated from others.
- Approximately 50 percent of people over the age of 80 report feeling lonely.
- Since 2007, the NSC released six reports on issues related to seniors. They are available online at http://www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca/eng/research_publications/index.shtml.
- The Government of Canada has provided more than $1.7 million in New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) funding support for 24 NHSP pilot projects across Canada that will lead to new initiatives and activities that help reduce the social isolation of seniors.
- The NSC was established in 2007 by the Government of Canada to provide advice on the overall well-being of seniors, both now and in the future.
- The NSC advises on matters related to the well-being and quality of life of seniors, including the opportunities and challenges arising from a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse population of seniors.
Quote
“The social isolation of seniors can leave seniors vulnerable. It’s for that reason the Government of Canada is committed to supporting and promoting seniors’ ongoing health, well-being and contributions by encouraging seniors to stay active, engaged and informed.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
Related Products
- Report on the Social Isolation of Seniors
- Minister Wong meets with National Seniors Council and holds roundtable on social isolation of seniors
- Recent Appointments to the National Seniors Council [March 3, 2015]
Associated Link
Minister of State for Seniors participates in seniors roundtable in Abbotsford
Minister highlights Government support for seniors including income splitting
March 6, 2015 – Abbotsford, British Columbia – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) met today in Abbotsford with seniors’ organizations as well as service and health providers to highlight the Harper Government’s family tax cuts and benefits and to discuss issues facing seniors in Canada. The roundtable was hosted by the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade.
In her remarks, Minister Wong highlighted programs and activities designed to raise awareness and address the social isolation of seniors. She also outlined supports and initiatives to help caregivers.
She also underscored the over $2.8 billion in annual tax relief to seniors and pensioners, through implementing pension income splitting and introducing the largest top-up to the Guaranteed Income Supplement in several years. These changes to income security programs have given older Canadians more choice and flexibility in regards to life, work and retirement.
Quick Facts
- The Government is committed to supporting and promoting seniors’ health, well-being and contributions by encouraging them to stay active, engaged and informed.
- In September, the Government of Canada released the Government of Canada Action for Seniors report, a comprehensive information resource highlighting federal programs and services, which can be accessed by seniors, their families and caregivers at Canada.ca/Seniors.
- Today, 1 in 7 Canadians is aged 65 or over. By 2036, nearly 1 in 4 Canadians will be a senior.
- Over the last decade in Canada, life expectancy at age 65 increased by 2 years, approximately twice the rate of growth observed over each of the previous decades since 1929.
Quotes
“Canadian seniors have played a central part in building this country. They have earned our respect and admiration, and they deserve our support to help them enjoy the best quality of life possible. That’s why our Government provides more than $2.8 billion in annual tax relief to seniors and pensioners across Canada, which has led to one of the lowest rates of poverty among seniors in the world.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
“I’m proud of our Government’s accomplishments in supporting Canadian seniors in their communities. We will continue to work with organizations across Canada to improve the lives of seniors and make independence a reality for them. Together, we can promote seniors’ health and well-being by encouraging them to stay active, engaged and informed.”
– The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade
Associated Links
Seniors in Canada (Facebook)
Harper Government invests in projects helping to keep Canadian seniors active, engaged and informed
New Horizons for Seniors Program helps seniors across Canada lead more productive and rewarding lives
February 27, 2015– Toronto, Ontario – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), announced today that seniors across Canada will soon have new opportunities to put their energy, experience and leadership skills into action and make a difference in their communities. The Government of Canada has approved over 1,850 New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) community-based projects across Canada. These projects, selected from the NHSP’s 2014–2015 call for proposals, will help seniors to participate in a wide range of local programs and activities.
Joined by John Carmichael, Member of Parliament for Don Valley West, Minister Wong made the announcement at the Toronto-based For You Telecare Family Service (FUTFS) organization to highlight the NHSP and its ongoing support of seniors programs in hundreds of communities from coast to coast to coast.
The FUTFS is receiving $20,000 in NHSP funding for its project, Empowering Members by Reconnecting Accessible Community Engagement (EMBRACE). Seniors will help plan and deliver this project, which aims to strengthen connections among seniors volunteer groups active in the Korean community. The project will sponsor a mentorship workshop and generate new senior ambassadors to promote the EMBRACE project. An estimated 200 seniors will participate in the project. The FUTFS conducts counselling, training, workshop and outreach activities to help provide guidance and support to immigrant community members.
Quick Facts
- Under the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), up to $25,000 in grant funding can be provided to eligible organizations for community-based projects that are led or inspired by seniors.
- Since 2006, the NHSP has funded more than 13,000 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada.
- Economic Action Plan 2014 increased funding for the NHSP by $5 million per year, for a total of $50 million provided to this program annually.
- Since 2006, $2.8 billion in annual tax relief has been provided to seniors and pensioners.
- The Government of Canada launched the Government of Canada Action for Seniors report in September 2014. The report is a new information resource highlighting federal programs and services that can be accessed by seniors, their families and caregivers. It was created in collaboration with more than 22 federal departments and agencies. The report can be found on Canada.ca/Seniors.
Quotes
“Our Government is proud to work with organizations across Canada that promote seniors’ participation in meaningful community projects and help keep seniors active, engaged and informed. For You Telecare Family Service’s project exemplifies how we can continue to support the social inclusion of seniors. Through initiatives like the NHSP and the collective efforts of organizations dedicated to building resilient communities, we are working together to ensure seniors lead more productive and rewarding lives.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
“As the Member of Parliament for Don Valley West, I have made it a point to ensure that seniors issues are at the top of my agenda. Seniors in my constituency know well that I am committed to serving them.”
– John Carmichael, Member of Parliament for Don Valley West
“We are pleased to receive Government of Canada support through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, which will help with our Empowering Members by Reconnecting Accessible Community Engagement (EMBRACE) project. Through EMBRACE, existing senior volunteer groups and leaders from the Korean community will be educated in how to use leadership and managerial strategies effectively. They will be able to apply acquired knowledge and skills through connecting with their groups and peers, strengthening the functionality and operations of their groups.”
– Suyeon Jin, Executive Director, For You Telecare Family Service (FUTFS)
Associated Links
Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015 Receives Hosting Support
Canadian Fencing Federation receives funding from the Government of Canada to host the Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015
February 13, 2015 – Richmond, British Columbia – Department of Canadian Heritage
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament (Richmond), on behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Canadian Fencing Federation is receiving funding of $40,000 through Sport Canada’s Hosting Program for the Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015, which is taking place from February 13 to 15.
Quick Facts
- In 2014–2015, Sport Canada is contributing up to $90,000 through its Hosting Program to the Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015 ($40,000) and the Pan American Junior Championships ($50,000).
- The Government of Canada contributed $429,000 to the Canadian Fencing Federation in 2014–2015 through Sport Canada’s Sport Support Program.
- For the period of October 1, 2014, to September 30, 2015, Sport Canada will provide up to $233,000 through the Athlete Assistance Program to support 20 fencing athletes and para-athletes with living and training expenses and special needs.
- The Canadian Fencing Federation is a non-profit, amateur sport association and the national governing body of fencing. It includes 10 provincial fencing associations, which in turn represent over 200 local clubs from coast to coast. Its mandate is to establish, develop and support fencing in Canada and to represent Canada on the international scene.
Quotes
“The Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015 is a unique international sporting event that Canada is proud to host during the Year of Sport. It is an amazing opportunity for our epee athletes, coaches and officials to show their talent on home soil as they prepare for the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games and the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games. We are pleased to help make this event possible.”
—The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport)
“National sport organizations are essential to Canada’s success as a leading sport nation, and the Canadian Fencing Federation plays a crucial role in developing high-performance athletes to represent us on the international scene. We invite Canadians from the area to come and witness the exploits of some of our best fencing talent.”
—The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament (Richmond)
“The Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015 will be a highlight of international fencing in North America this year. Thanks to the funding and support of the Government of Canada and the excellent partnership between the British Columbia Fencing Federation, Canadian Fencing Federation, City of Richmond, Richmond Olympic Oval, Hosting BC and the host Dynamo Fencing Club, the best fencers on the planet will compete in front of Canadian fans for glory and world ranking points.”
—Igor Gantsevich, Co-Chair, Peter Bakonyi World Cup 2015
Associated Links
Minister of State (Seniors) highlights new approach to address the social isolation of seniors in Canada
February 11, 2015– Vancouver, British Columbia – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), highlighted the Government of Canada’s work to tackle the social isolation of seniors in Canada during remarks delivered today at the University of British Columbia.
Social isolation is commonly defined as a low quantity and quality of contact with others. A situation of social isolation involves few social contacts and few social roles, as well as the absence of mutually rewarding relationships.
Social isolation touches many aspects of seniors’ lives, including access to information and services, active participation in the community, healthy aging, income security and caregiving. Social isolation can lead to depression and increased vulnerability to elder abuse, among other concerns.
In her remarks, Minister Wong encouraged communities to take a coordinated approach to address the social isolation of seniors. The Government of Canada has a number of programs and activities aimed at creating awareness and addressing the impact of this growing issue.
These programs and activities include initiatives like the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) pilot projects on social isolation, the recent report of the National Seniors Council, and their ongoing work which will include a focus on examining ways to encourage local communities to reach out to socially isolated seniors. The social isolation of seniors is also one of the priorities to be examined this year by the Forum of Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors.
Quick Facts
- The Government of Canada is committed to supporting and promoting seniors’ health, well-being and contributions by encouraging them to stay active, engaged and informed.
- Today, 1 in 7 Canadians is aged 65 or over. By 2036, nearly 1 in 4 Canadians will be a senior.
- Over the last decade in Canada, life expectancy at age 65 increased by 2 years, approximately twice the rate of growth observed over each of the previous decades since 1929.
- In 2014, the National Seniors Council was asked to assess the impact of social isolation on seniors in Canada and explore ways to prevent, or reduce it. The Council presented a report that highlighted the importance of working with those who deliver services and programs directly to seniors.
Quote
“Social isolation affects seniors’ economic, social, physical and mental well-being. It’s an issue that is both pervasive and difficult to resolve. But it is also preventable. I am confident we can address the isolation of seniors through social innovation. Social innovation succeeds by combining resources from governments, businesses, community organizations and academics to generate new ideas and tools that address social problems in new ways.”
– The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)
Associated Links
New Horizons for Seniors Program
Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum
Speech by the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) on the Approach to Social Isolation
Vancouver, British Columbia, February 11, 2015
Check against delivery
Hello, everyone.
It’s my pleasure to be here today.
I am always impressed when I see a group like this together in one room.
It’s a visual reminder of our shared purpose and passion—helping others to live well.
To feel healthy, happy and safe.
To contribute to those around us.
And in turn, to feel the sense of belonging and security that a supportive community brings.
Unfortunately, life can put obstacles in our way.
Especially as we get older.
Social isolation is one of them.
It’s an issue that is both pervasive and difficult to resolve.
But the answer is both simple and yet complex. It comes down to a fundamental truth in life—people need people.
Over the past three years, I’ve been speaking with seniors, seniors’ organizations and other stakeholders across the country.
They have made it clear that social isolation is an issue that demands our attention. This is especially true in the context of our aging population.
Canada is facing a major demographic shift.
Right now, more people are over 60 years of age than there are children under 5. By 2050, seniors will outnumber children under 15.
Just the other day, I read a rather startling prediction. The Office of the Chief Actuary said that 5 of every 10 Canadians who are now aged 20 can expect to live until the age of 90.
Of course, this is good news. But the fact is, we’re going to have more and more seniors in Canada. And unless we take action now, the issue of social isolation will become more prevalent.
What do I mean by the social isolation of seniors?
Social isolation is commonly defined as low quantity and quality of contact with others.
Being socially isolated involves few social contacts and few social roles, as well as the absence of mutually rewarding relationships.
It can cause communities to suffer a lack of social cohesion, and suffer the loss of experience that older adults bring to our families, neighbourhoods and communities.
On an individual level, social isolation affects seniors’ economic, social, physical and mental well-being.
As everyone in this room knows, over time, older people can lose meaningful contact with their friends, family and community for a range of reasons.
For all seniors, aging is a series of transitions. Some transitions are planned, while others are not.
For anyone, senior or not, losing a spouse, a change in income, or an illness can be a major, life-changing event.
Most of us would have our hands full simply keeping up a daily routine after something like this.
It’s a somber irony that going through events like this can damage the social networks we have, even when we are most in need of their support.
Even something like losing the ability to drive can drastically change someone’s life.
If you can’t drive, walk or take a bus to go to an appointment or meet some friends, it’s easy to lose touch with your community.
Dealing with illness, or any sort of loss of independence, can cause a social disconnect.
There are clear links between health and social isolation. For seniors, being part of a social network has a positive influence.
For example, it can encourage seniors to stay physically and mentally active.
Without a social network, seniors run a higher risk of having health issues.
They’re more likely to drink and smoke, remain sedentary and eat poorly.
To add to that, the risk of hospitalization of isolated seniors is four to five times greater.
These are serious consequences. Unfortunately, it does not end there.
Apart from the physical health risks, social isolation also threatens mental wellness.
It is associated with higher levels of depression and suicide.
In fact, one in four seniors lives with a mental health problem such as depression, anxiety or dementia.[1]
Approximately half of Canadians over the age of 80 report feeling lonely. And sadly, men over 80 have one of the highest suicide rates of all age groups.[2]
Social isolation can also leave seniors vulnerable to elder abuse, including financial abuse.
As you can see, social isolation is a common denominator among a whole range of issues that affect the well-being of seniors.
It is a problem we can’t ignore.
While difficult to pinpoint, we do know that back in 2006 over 30 percent of Canada’s seniors were at risk of social isolation.
In 2008, 19 percent of Canadians aged 65 or over said they felt a lack of companionship, left out or isolated from others.
As I said before, social isolation is complex and pervasive. But it is also preventable.
That’s why we are taking coordinated action to tackle this issue head on.
We are collaborating to align the priorities of the National Seniors Council and the New Horizons for Seniors Program to work together to address the social isolation of seniors.
I am also pleased to say that the Forum of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors has chosen to explore the issue of social isolation as a priority for this upcoming year.
Last year, the National Seniors Council was asked to assess the impact of social isolation on seniors in Canada and explore ways to prevent or reduce it.
The Council consulted over 300 stakeholders, including seniors, community organizations and academics,[3] and presented a report on their key findings. If you have not yet had an opportunity to review this excellent report, together with a companion review of relevant literature on this issue, I would encourage you to do so.
The report highlighted the importance of working with those who deliver services and programs directly to seniors.
This year, I have asked the Council to continue their work on this issue and further examine barriers that prevent communities and seniors from reaching out to each other.
And I have asked them to examine ways to encourage communities to reach out to socially isolated seniors in their neighborhoods.
Friends, we want to help communities to build stronger relationships with socially isolated seniors in their midst.
And by bringing Canadian citizens, volunteers, organizations and seniors together, we will reduce the social isolation of seniors in their communities.
Along with the National Seniors Council, and the New Horizons for Seniors Program, the Forum of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors has also made social isolation one of its main priorities for this upcoming year.
This Forum brings together Ministers, Deputy Ministers and senior officials from the federal, provincial and territorial governments who are collaborating to promote the interests of Canadian seniors.
By collaborating together, we are working to find innovative solutions to address social isolation among seniors, including those living in rural and remote communities.
I look forward to sharing our progress on the Forum’s activities with you.
Next, I would like to talk about the New Horizons for Seniors Program.
The vast majority of the New Horizons for Seniors Program is devoted to community‑based grants of up to $25,000. This year we will fund more than 1,800 of these grants in communities from coast to coast to coast.
However, a much smaller portion of the New Horizons for Seniors Program is devoted to larger projects with a longer duration. These are sometimes called “pan‑Canadian” grants, and they are typically connected by a broad theme, such as elder abuse.
Last year, we did a call for proposals for pilot projects on the issue of social isolation, and we learned a great deal. We increased the upper limit of the contribution agreements, and in appropriate circumstances we allowed them to be funded into a second or third year. We also began to incorporate some of the elements of what is sometimes called “social innovation” into the process—such as fund leveraging and sustainability planning.
The results have been very good, but disconnected. What I mean by that is that each of these good projects has proceeded independently of each other. They have not had the benefit of sharing what they have learned, nor have their efforts been in any way coordinated. The result is that, while again I must stress that the pilot projects have been very good individually, their collective social impact is modest.
But that is why we run pilot projects—to learn how to improve.
And today I am pleased to announce that for the next five years, at least, the broad theme of the pan-Canadian stream of the New Horizons for Seniors Program will be focused upon reducing the social isolation of seniors in their immediate communities.
I am also pleased to announce that we will be working with the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation. The McConnell Foundation, and their Innoweave initiative, will work with the Government to bring together successful applicants in a sharing network, to measure progress against established metrics, to gather what we learn and to suggest adjustments along the way.
The McConnell Foundation and its Social Innovation Generation partners will also provide advice to the Government in the context of the selection process, with a view to curating the projects to maximize social impact.
We are very excited about this new partnership. I am hoping to see more applications for projects that show the creativity and flexibility I have mentioned.
We are hoping to see projects that take new approaches—or that take old ones and use them in new ways.
We are hoping to see projects that are challenging us to use the considerable wealth of knowledge, tools and compassion we have at our disposal so that we can do something great. And to do it in a way we haven’t tried before.
It is time to shake up our existing ideas and approaches and let some new ones in.
It is time to allow ourselves to approach issues in different ways.
And it might mean flipping some ideas on their heads to be able to see them differently.
And it absolutely means opening ourselves up to creativity, flexibility and the willingness to look for inspiration everywhere—even if it’s outside our discipline.
Steve Jobs said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
Therefore, as leaders, innovation is more than an asset quality—it’s a requirement.
I expect many of you may be thinking that this isn’t an area where big bureaucracies excel.
And, in some ways, you’d be right.
Which is why I’m excited that our Government is playing a leading role in bringing together partners from various sectors.
Social innovation succeeds by combining resources from governments, businesses, community organizations and academics to generate new ideas and tools that address social problems in new ways.
What we are trying to do is bring together the various citizens, volunteers, organizations and governments—that are separately seeking to address this issue—and try to facilitate a more coordinated approach, with a view to increasing our collective effectiveness in tackling this complex social problem.
As Minister of State responsible for Seniors, I want to see all Canadian seniors enjoy a high quality of life. And richness of life cannot occur in solitude and isolation from one’s community. We are inherently relational. We are born into communities and we cannot live without them.
Whereas in generations past, the elderly would live together with their adult children, and enjoy their fellowship each day—this is no longer our culture. Tragically, a growing number of seniors live alone, cut off from their neighbors—despite their geographical proximity.
The fact is that the social isolation of Canada’s seniors is nothing less than a tragedy, with real consequences for our society, young and old alike.
But friends, this is a problem that can be solved. The medicine is community. The medicine is fellowship. Cups of tea, visits, walks, conversations.
On a grassroots level, in our communities, it is really a question of knowing who our neighbours are, and acting like Canadians—by taking a little time to check in on seniors living alone in our immediate communities. How to affect that outcome is our present task.
Working together, with all of the creativity and innovation that we collectively possess, I am confident that we can make progress in addressing this complex problem, and bring light and life into the lives of socially isolated seniors.
Thank you.
[1] http://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/English/issues/seniors
[2] http://www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca/eng/research_publications/social_isolation/page05.shtml#h2.1-3.1
[3] http://www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca/eng/research_publications/social_isolation/page04.shtml