News Release

MONCTON (GNB) – The federal and provincial governments launched the $75-million Healthy Seniors Pilot Project today in Moncton.

The pilot will focus on applied research initiatives, to be carried out over the next three years, to help better understand the effects of aging and improve the aging experience for seniors and their loved ones.

“Your government’s aging strategy focuses on keeping seniors as healthy as possible and supporting our seniors to remain independent longer while offering them nursing home care if they need it,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “This investment will spur many important research projects that will foster healthy aging and innovative support for New Brunswick seniors.”

The federal government announced in its 2018 budget that $75 million over three years would be directed toward a wide range of applied research initiatives to encourage healthy aging and improve the quality of life for seniors.

“We are pleased to be working with the Province of New Brunswick on this pilot project, which will provide valuable information on how best to help Canadians live well as they age,’’ said federal Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor. “This project will also lay the groundwork for informing national solutions that can improve the quality of life for Canada’s older population.”

Initiatives within the pilot project will help to improve understanding of the effects of aging on the New Brunswick population, including the different challenges that women and men face.

Funding for projects under the pilot project will be available for government and non-governmental groups to initiate projects that will align with, support and further the government’s efforts in the implementation of the New Brunswick Aging Strategy.

Further details on the parameters of the project and on how non-governmental groups will be able to submit projects through a call for proposals will be made available in July by the Aging Secretariat.

Fostering healthy aging and support for seniors is one of seven pillars of the New Brunswick Family Plan framework, which also focuses on improving access to primary and acute care; promoting wellness; supporting people with addictions and mental health challenges; reducing poverty; supporting people with disabilities; and advancing women’s equality.