On National Seniors Day, we come together to honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions that seniors make to Canadian society. From building the foundation of our country through decades of hard work, to continuing to contribute meaningfully today in the workforce, as volunteers, and as supporters of their families, Canada’s seniors have shaped the world we live in.

Our seniors have built the homes we live in, the businesses we rely on, and the communities we cherish. They have raised generations, passed down traditions, and instilled values that continue to guide us. Many seniors remain active in the workforce, sharing their vast experience, wisdom, and skills. Whether as entrepreneurs, mentors, or part-time employees, seniors contribute to Canada’s economic strength. But their impact goes far beyond economics. As volunteers, they are the backbone of countless charities, community organizations, and social services, giving their time to make life better for all Canadians. And as parents and grandparents, seniors play an irreplaceable role in supporting their families—offering care, wisdom, and love to those around them.

Despite these immense contributions, Canadian seniors face significant challenges. As our population ages, with a demographic bubble of baby boomers entering their senior years, it is more important than ever to ensure that they can live with dignity, free from age discrimination, with access to quality healthcare and a sense of financial security. This National Seniors Day is not just a moment of reflection but also a call to action. We must acknowledge the challenges that seniors face and take concrete steps to address them.

The Challenges Facing Seniors Today

While Canadian seniors continue to contribute so much to our society, they also face increasing challenges that must be addressed. Age discrimination in the workplace and in everyday life remains a pervasive issue. Too often, seniors are forced out of jobs or passed over for opportunities due to outdated attitudes about aging. This not only deprives seniors of financial stability but also robs society of their valuable knowledge and skills. As our population continues to age, it is essential to challenge ageist assumptions and create a culture that values seniors for the contributions they make at every stage of life.

Healthcare is another critical issue for Canadian seniors. As people age, their healthcare needs often become more complex, requiring access to specialized services and long-term care. Yet, too many seniors are struggling to get the care they need. Wait times for long-term care can be dangerously long, and access to necessary medications and treatments is uneven across provinces. CARP has long advocated for better healthcare services, more affordable prescription drugs, and improvements to long-term care facilities to ensure that every senior can access the high-quality healthcare they deserve.

Financial security is another pressing concern. Rising costs of living, insufficient pension income, and the increased need for healthcare services can leave seniors vulnerable. While Canada has made progress in reducing seniors’ poverty rates, too many older adults are still struggling to make ends meet. CARP continues to push for policies that ensure financial stability for all seniors, including pension reforms and affordable housing solutions.

A Call to Action

This National Seniors Day, let’s recognize the incredible contributions of Canada’s seniors, but let’s also take action to address the challenges they face. As a society, we have a responsibility to ensure that our seniors can live their later years with dignity, free from discrimination, with access to top-notch healthcare and a secure financial future.

Now more than ever, we need to engage in education and advocacy to support seniors. CARP is leading the charge in advocating for better healthcare, fighting ageism, and pushing for financial security for all seniors, but we can’t do it alone. We need your help. By supporting CARP, you are joining a movement to create a better, fairer future for Canada’s seniors.

How You Can Help

Here’s how you can make a difference this National Seniors Day:

Join CARP: If you’re not already a member, consider joining CARP today. Together, we can amplify our voices and push for the changes that seniors need and deserve.

Engage in Our Campaigns: CARP is currently advocating for improvements in long-term care, better access to healthcare services, and the reduction of age discrimination in the workforce. Join our campaigns, share your stories, and help raise awareness of these critical issues.

Reach Out to Elected Officials: With elections currently taking place in British Columbia and Saskatchewan, now is the time to make your voice heard. Contact your local representatives and candidates and tell them about the issues facing seniors. Encourage them to support policies that will improve the lives of older Canadians. Your voice can make a difference.

Spread the Word: Share information about CARP’s work and the challenges facing seniors with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who understand these issues, the stronger our movement becomes.

Canada’s seniors have given so much to this country. They have built the society we enjoy today, and they continue to contribute in countless ways. Now it’s time for us to ensure that they can live their later years with the dignity and support they deserve. This National Seniors Day, let’s honor their contributions not just with words, but with action.

Thank you for standing with CARP and for standing up for Canadian seniors. Together, we can make a difference.