Aboriginal Seniors

The hardships experienced by Aboriginal people in Canada are well documented. In the case of Aboriginal seniors, inadequate income, substandard housing conditions, and an elevated rate of disabilities are just some of the common factors that threaten health and well-being.

Canada continues to work towards improving the socio-economic and health status of Aboriginal people. In 1998, Canada unveiled Gathering Strength – Canada's Aboriginal Action Plan, a fully integrated, long-term, governmentwide strategy designed to improve the quality of life for Aboriginal people and promote self-sufficiency. The federal government has also expressed its commitment to working to ensure that basic needs are met for jobs, health, education, housing and infrastructure in Aboriginal communities.

The federal government has also made significant investments to improve the health of First Nations and Inuit. Recent programs likely to benefit First Nations and Inuit seniors include the First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care Program. The Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative will address some of the prevention and treatment needs of First Nations, Inuit and Metis seniors. In addition, the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program provides access, with some restrictions, to vision care, dental care, prescription drugs and medical supplies and equipment to First Nations and Inuit people regardless of where they live in Canada.

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