Introduction

What is the GAC?

The Gerontological Advisory Council was formed by Veterans Affairs Canada in October, 1997 to advise the Department on policies, programs, services and trends impacting Canada's aging veteran population.

Members of the Council also participate in Departmental educational symposiums that provide staff, other health care professionals and the general public with a forum to share information about the opportunities and challenges associated with caring for veterans, their families and other Canadian seniors.

The Council, which meets semi-annually, is chaired by Dr. Victor Marshall, Ph.D, one of North America's leading social gerontologists. He is joined by 14 members-at-large representing many of Canada's most distinguished experts on aging, seniors' and Veterans' issues.

The Council has several Working Committees which report to it including the Research Committee, chaired by Dr. Norah Keating, Ph.D, the Continuing Care Committee, chaired by Mr. Douglas Rapelje and the Family Care Committee, chaired by Professor Evelyn Shapiro.

Funding for the Council is provided from within the Department's existing fiscal framework.

What does the GAC do?

Since its inception, the Council has provided the Department with guidance on a number of pressing concerns, including:

• Caregiver Initiatives
• Alternative housing trends for Veterans
• Long-term and continuing care
• Health promotion and rehabilitation
• Departmental research
• Dementia research

Many of the Council's recommendations have been implemented. The Council has also played a major role in educating departmental staff and the public on a range of issues affecting veterans and seniors including care giving and health promotion.