A new report on seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador says many of them are happy, socially connected and active but it also concludes that too many are struggling financially, are socially isolated and face serious health concerns.
Dr. Suzanne Brake, the province’s first Seniors Advocate, released her report, “Long May Your Big Jib Draw: Setting Sail” today in St. John’s.
Seniors’ Advocate, Dr. Suzanne Brake explains the title and the connection to the sea.
She is the first Seniors’ Advocate in the province.
A link to the full report can be found here: https://t.co/NTtJQSJhds@VOCMNEWS #nlpoli pic.twitter.com/QjSXDCj7il
— Ben Murphy VOCM (@BenMurphyVOCM) September 25, 2019
The report highlights three areas of concern: Aging in place, health care, and labour force participation. Within those three areas, there are numerous subcategories of concern including homelessness, residential and health care, dental care and pension stability.
Brake says ageism is a big concern for her. The Human Rights Act identifies age as a prohibited ground for discrimination. However, the act exempts retirement or pension plans.
Brake says they can discriminate, as at age 65, if you have long-term disability, it’s discontinued. Some tell her their health benefits were terminated at age 65, or 70.
She says she understands there are reasons why some companies use age as an excuse due to costs of insurance benefits, but in terms of discrimination, it’s all the same.
Brake calls for 25 actions to improve the situation for seniors.
