The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
October has been designated as Seniors' and Elders' Month as the province salutes the accomplishments and contributions of older Manitoba citizens, Health Minister Tim Sale, acting minister responsible for seniors, announced. "The life experiences of seniors and elders are a heritage treasure they share willingly with younger generations on a daily basis," said Sale. "By recognizing the ability of older Manitobans to remain active and productive members of the community, we honour them and enrich our own lives." The theme this year, Creating Connections, reflects the active and vital participation of seniors in society. Their actions create positive role models for healthy lifestyles and are a strong factor in bringing the generations, various cultural groups and all parts of the community together, said Sale. Oct. 1 was designated by the United Nations in 1991 as the International Day of Older Persons to encourage countries to recognize the role and achievements of seniors. "Older Manitobans are being honoured for their valuable role in building the communities and the province we all enjoy today," said Sale. "October is a time to reflect on the challenges they overcame in raising their families, strengthening our economy, developing our multicultural mosaic and expending their energies to enrich Manitoba in countless ways." Seniors are one of the fastest growing age groups in Canada with approximately 13 per cent of the population over 65. Manitoba has one of the highest per capita populations of seniors in the country. More than 157,000 Manitobans are 65 or older (14 per cent). In 2001, 22 per cent of Manitobans were aged 55 and older and this is expected to increase to 33 per cent by 2021. For more information on government programs, services and publications for seniors visit the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat at www.gov.mb.ca/shas or call toll-free 1-800-665-6565.
