Representatives of the G20 announce “Leader’s Declaration” to promote healthy aging
On June 28-29, G20 leaders met in Osaka, Japan to address major global economic challenges. BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is elated by the Leader’s Declaration which followed the meeting has put focus on issues of health and aging:
“We will promote healthy and active ageing through policy measures to address health promotion, prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, and through people-centered, multi-sectoral, community-based integrated health and long-term care over the life course in accordance with national context including demographic trends. We will implement comprehensive set of policies to address dementia, including promoting risk reduction and sustainable provision of long-term care as well as inclusive societies aiming to improve quality of lives of people with dementia and caregivers.”
“It is very positive that the leaders of the G20 have recognized the importance of policy measures that position our countries to respond to the demographic trends we are noticing both in Canada and across the world,” says Daniel Fontaine, BCCPA CEO and Chair of the Canadian Association of Long Term Care (CALTC).
“Putting measures in place to help address the challenges faced by people living with dementia and their caregivers, and ensuring that there is a sustainable and accessible long-term care system available to the people who need it, are issues which BCCPA has advocated tirelessly on,” he continues.
BCCPA, in partnership with CALTC, will continue to track this commitment, and its effects at a national level.
“While the 2019 Federal Budget did provide several supports for seniors, it did not include investments in long-term care. We are asking all federal parties to make seniors a priority in their 2019 election platforms. The time for study and analysis is over, we must focus on ensuring that the workforce and infrastructure is in pace to care for an aging population,” adds Fontaine.
“I am hopeful that the declaration made in Osaka will encourage Canada to continue to move in the right direction.”
