Financial Planning for Seniors

The federal government recently issued a series of brochures about financial planning for seniors. Using simple terms, they make what can be an intimidating topic easily understandable. They cover several key areas:

What every older Canadian should know about:

• financial planning
• income and benefits from government programs
• managing and protecting their assets
• planning for possible loss of independence
• planning for their future housing needs
• having a will and making funeral plans
• financial abuse
• frauds and scams

The Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum published the brochures. More helpful information for seniors is available on the the federal government's website, http://www.seniors.gc.ca/.

Caregivers in Canada from GovInfo

A new group is emerging in Canadian society - known as the Sandwich Generation These are individuals caught between the often conflicting demands of caring for children and caring for seniors.
VON Canada (Victorian Order of Nurses) has launched a groundbreaking new tool for Canada’s nearly three million caregivers: “Caregiver Connect…from Caring to Sharing". It provides access to information and resources that caregivers need to care for themselves, to provide better quality care to their family members and/or friends, and to connect and share with other caregivers through a virtual discussion forum. From the website there are many links to government programs and information.

The Quality of Life for Seniors in Halton

A new 2007 report entitled "The Quality of Life for Seniors in Halton" has been released by the Halton Region. It addresses such things as income, housing, personal safety and access to information and services. It includes statistics on: projected growth for this demographic up to the year 2015, numbers anticipated to use social housing, leisure activities, transportation issues, internet use etc. Conclusions are drawn for future planning. Of note for library service is that "opportunities for cognitive, physical and social leisure activities are important to the quality of life of seniors"... and more than 59. 2 % of those aged 55- 64 have internet access. This document is worth perusing.