News Release

CAMPBELLTON (GNB) – Seniors living in the Restigouche and Chaleur regions are signing up for a program that is designed to help them remain independent longer.

The Seniors Health, Well-Being and Home Safety Review connects seniors with programs and services in their communities.

“We are excited about the response we have seen so far with this program,” said Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Lisa Harris. “We know how important it is to our seniors that they are able to remain independent, healthy and involved in their communities, and we are thrilled to have a great program like this that helps make that a reality.”

More than 1,300 seniors have signed up for the review.

During a 90-minute home visit with a trained individual, seniors learn about programs in their community that can help them in their daily lives. The program is voluntary. Interested seniors, who are 65 and over, may decide to have a relative or friend present during the review.

All information gathered during the review is confidential and will be used to create a personalized action plan for the senior that will provide suggestions for maintaining a healthy, active and independent lifestyle. As well, eligible seniors may apply for $1,500 in assistance to do minor in-home repairs that will improve their mobility or independence.

To date, the program has been launched in the Saint John, Fredericton, Miramichi, Restigouche and Chaleur regions. It will be expanded to the Moncton region in February and to the Edmundston and Acadian Peninsula regions in March.

Fostering healthy aging and support for seniors is one of the seven priority areas outlined in the New Brunswick Family Plan framework, which also focuses government action on: improving access to primary and acute care; promoting wellness; supporting people with addictions and mental health challenges; advancing women’s equality; reducing poverty and providing support for persons living with a disability.

People can learn more about programs for seniors by visiting the provincial government website or calling 1-855-550-0552 to arrange for a review.