“Social isolation affects the health and well-being of seniors,” said Minister of State Wong. “That’s why it’s so important to address this issue by listening to seniors and consulting with key players from the non-profit, public and private sectors.”
Social isolation can lead to depression and increased vulnerability to elder abuse, among other concerns. As a complex and multifaceted issue, social isolation touches many policy areas affecting seniors, including active participation, healthy ageing, income security, caregiving, elder abuse and transportation.
In keeping with the Minister of State’s commitment to ensuring that seniors stay active, engaged and informed, the National Seniors Council (NSC) will consider the Government of Canada’s role in preventing and reducing the social isolation of seniors.
Last year, the NSC explored approaches to retaining and attracting older workers in the labour force. The final report, Older Workers at Risk of Withdrawing from the Labour Force or Becoming Unemployed: Employers’ views on how to retain and attract older workers, is now available online.
In 2012, the NSC conducted cross-country consultations with stakeholders and employers representing a variety of sectors. During the consultations, employers recognized the experience, knowledge, skills and passion that older workers bring to the workplace.
The Government of Canada established the NSC in 2007 to provide advice on the overall well-being of seniors, both now and in the future.
For more information on the NSC, visit www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca
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