Our Upcoming Federal Election and Important Issues for Seniors

by Susan Fisher

As Canada gets ready for the federal election, on April 28th, 2025, we, as healthcare advocates and workers, encourage voters to focus on issues related to senior care. With our population getting older, it’s important for Canadians to think about how political candidates plan to help seniors. Seniors face a lot of challenges, from healthcare and financial security to housing and social isolation. By looking at what candidates have to say about supporting seniors, voters can make an informed decision which helps improve the lives of older Canadians.

One major issue for seniors is healthcare. As we age, we need more medical care, which can be taxing on patients, their families, and our healthcare system. Seniors, especially those on fixed incomes, rely heavily on our healthcare system and prescription drugs. It’s important to pay attention to where each candidate stands on healthcare issues, like: accessibility, long-term care, community services, prescription costs, and the overall sustainability and the future of our healthcare system.

Financial security is another big concern. For many seniors, pensions, like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) are their main sources of income. Yet with the rising cost of living, some seniors are struggling to make ends meet. It’s worth looking into where each candidate stands on pension programs - whether they support boosting CPP, improving OAS benefits, or offering extra financial help or better funded services to seniors.

Housing is also a pressing issue. Many seniors have trouble finding affordable, accessible housing fitting their needs as they age. They may need special housing which allows them to live safely and comfortably as they age. In addition, some may need alternatives like retirement homes, assisted living facilities, Memory Care, or long-term care options. Finding a candidate who makes senior-friendly housing and affordable alternative options a priority is key. Look for candidates who support initiatives, providing subsidies for seniors, to access age-friendly housing.

On top of these practical concerns, it’s important to choose a candidate who also cares about the emotional and social well-being of seniors. Too often, seniors slip through the cracks, leading to gaps in services and support. Many older adults are isolated and lonely, especially those living with dementia or with physical limitations. Make sure you’re backing a candidate who will push for programs to fight social isolation, improve mental health support, and make these services more affordable and accessible with seniors in the consideration.

My last tip for you is to do your research. Get to know your local candidates and the main Prime Ministerial candidates and what they stand for. It’s more important than ever, to see what each candidate has done in the past to support seniors. Have they backed policies which improve seniors’ lives? Do they have a track record of advocating for changes positively affecting older Canadians? A candidate’s past actions can tell you a lot about how committed they are to the issues which matter most to seniors.

Susan works for Silver Lights Senior Services, a family-owned and operated seniors’ homecare company, serving the City of Kawartha Lakes. Their services currently include community PSW and companion support and a short-stay seniors’ retreat on a beautiful 3-acre property, in Lindsay. Their Adult Day Program for Dementia has been temporarily closed, due to financial strain and lack of funding. Find them on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website, at www.silverlightsseniorservices.com. To book services, call Tammy, at 705 308 1940.