Helping Seniors Stay Healthy, Active, Independent and Socially Connected
July 20, 2017 9:00 A.M.
Ontario is creating more spaces and programs to help seniors stay healthy and active by supporting 40 new seniors’ centres across the province.
Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, made the announcement at the Rockway Centre in Kitchener.
The 40 new centres will help the province better meet the needs of our growing seniors’ population, and will offer social and recreational programming such as exercise classes, transportation services, communal dining and health and wellness classes.
These new centres will add to the network of 263 Elderly Persons Centres across Ontario that serve more than 100,000 people. A call for proposals will be issued in early fall 2017 to move forward with the new centres.
Ontario recently passed legislation that, once proclaimed, will rename these centres as Senior Active Living Centres — rather than Elderly Persons Centres — to better reflect the vibrant, diverse and active seniors across the province. This legislation will also help the centres better respond to community needs, build strong partnerships, strengthen their services and act as community hubs.
Supporting healthy, active seniors across the province is part of our plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.
Quick Facts
Additional Resources
Quotes
“Creating 40 new seniors’ centres across Ontario will help to improve services for seniors who may be vulnerable, including those living in multicultural, Indigenous and rural communities.”
“Helping seniors stay connected, active and engaged has been shown to contribute to their overall health and well-being. This announcement addresses that need for a growing segment of our population.”
“We are big supporters of cultural diversity and inclusive participation at our Centre. This investment recognizes our unique focus on keeping vulnerable seniors active, healthy and socially-engaged.”
Media Contacts
Laura Sylvis
Communications Branch
416-314-7010
Noah Farber
Minister’s Office
416-325-3749
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