Planning for Aging Population a Priority for Government

As our seniors� population continues to grow, government must take a co-ordinated and planned approach to its services and supports for seniors, says Elizabeth Marshall, Minister of Health and Community Services. Budget 2004 today announced three key initiatives to foster a more comprehensive approach to planning for seniors.

"Newfoundland and Labrador�s aging population is expected to double within the next two decades. We want to strive to make our province one of the best places for seniors to live with choice, dignity and the respect they deserve," said Minister Marshall. "Our programs and services for seniors must reflect a respect and recognition for our aging population. This is best achieved through co-ordinated planning across government."

Division of Aging and Seniors
The Department of Health and Community Services will establish a new Division of Aging and Seniors to facilitate co-ordination of seniors programs and services across government. The division will be a centre of expertise and focal point for information on an aging population.

As outlined in the government�s Throne Speech, one of the division�s initial priorities will include the development of a comprehensive long-term care and supportive services strategy to address the whole continuum of service, including home support, supportive living, personal care homes and nursing homes.

Ministerial Advisory Council for Aging and Seniors
Government will give seniors a strong voice through a new Ministerial Advisory Council for Aging and Seniors to guide comprehensive programming that supports the independence and well-being of seniors. The composition of the council will include Cabinet ministers and several professionals with expertise on aging to offer government advice on issues related to the quality of life for seniors.

Working with the new Division of Aging and Seniors, the ministerial council will lead the development of a healthy aging strategy for seniors.

Seniors� benefits
Finance Minister Loyola Sullivan today introduced measures to put more money in seniors� pockets, announcing that the provincial Seniors� Benefit will be indexed in 2004 to the Consumer Price Index for the province in 2003. The indexation announced today increases the benefit levels and net income thresholds 2.9 per cent for 2004.

The maximum tax credit will become $360 per senior, or $720 per senior couple, while the income phase-out range will remain at $14,406 to $20,580. Without indexation, the real value of these benefits would decline over time.

"We are indebted to our seniors for the contributions they have made in building this province and who continue to participate and contribute to the quality of life we all enjoy," said Minister Marshall. "This new approach to seniors issues will ensure our decisions adhere to the principles of dignity, independence, participation and fairness."

Media contact: Carolyn Chaplin, Communications (709) 729-1377

2004 03 30                                    2:15 p.m.