The Seniors’ Advocate has joined with her counterparts in British Columbia, Manitoba and New Brunswick in urging for action on barriers to healthy aging in Canada.

Pamela Dawe says the Canada Health Act does not cover necessities like medication, glasses, hearing aids, physio, mobility equipment, ambulance services and home care.

That, according to the seniors advocates, means that many seniors are unable to have their basic needs met as the cost of living soars.

In a joint release, the advocates say while federal income benefits are intended to keep pace with inflation, seniors often spend a greater portion of their income on essentials like rent, food and health-related expenses – categories that have all seen high rates of inflation.

They conclude that Canada must do better to ensure all seniors have the supports they need to live long, healthy lives with dignity and independence.