Province is Making Life Better for Seniors, Op-Ed

NOTE: The following is an op-ed piece from Denise Peterson-Rafuse, Minister of Seniors.

Nova Scotia seniors contribute greatly to their communities and to the economy of this province. That's why the province is doing everything it can to make life better for seniors, their families and their communities.

This government continues to introduce and improve a wide range of programs and services to help seniors live healthier lives. Through Age Friendly Communities we have consulted with more than 800 seniors, caregivers and service providers. We have also formed partnerships with 13 municipalities committed to building communities that help seniors age in their neighbourhoods.

We heard from seniors struggling to make ends meet because their spouses are in long-term care, and we're taking action. I am proud to say that, starting this month, this government is making changes to enable partners living at home to keep 60 per cent of their shared income. Up to 1,000 couples will benefit from this change.

More Nova Scotians will also have help to care for a loved one at home because we are increasing support for caregivers. This government is making the caregiver benefit available to about 100 more Nova Scotians, in more areas of the province. This helps family members, friends and neighbours care for their loved ones by providing personal care, help around the house and drives to health appointments or running errands.

Through Fair Drug Pricing, Nova Scotians are paying less for generic drugs than they did one year ago. The province is also helping seniors who suffer from vision loss by paying for Lucentis treatment, and ambulance fees are now lower or have been waived completely.

Ultimately, Nova Scotia seniors have told us they want more options to stay in their homes longer, and we agree. That's why we are reducing waiting lists and improving access to services. Our investments mean 7,000 more hours of home care support.

We also understand the unique housing issues that seniors face, and we want to come up with the best possible plan. Currently, Nova Scotia families, municipal governments, community groups and others are being asked to help craft the province's first long-term affordable housing strategy. Consultations are being held in communities across the province this month and seniors will play an important role.

This government has a strategic plan that's working. We are is improving access to home support services, reducing taxes, enhancing access to health care services and we have the right energy plan for seniors.

These are some of the many initiatives the province is pursuing, living up to our commitment to make life better and more affordable for seniors and their families.