The Council provides advice on issues related to older persons and the aging process to the Minister Responsible for Aging and Seniors; since 2016 this has been the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development (CSSD). The Seniors and Aging Division of CSSD serves as a Secretariat to the Council and supports its meetings and activities.
The Council ensures that the perspective of older adults is reflected in government policy development and in planning for future service delivery. Council’s mandate is to advise and inform government on issues, concerns and needs of older adults. The Council provides a mechanism for older adults to be heard as a strong, collective voice in the development of comprehensive programming to support the independence and well-being of an aging population.
The Council aims to:
The Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors is comprised of a diverse cross-section of older adults and other stakeholders familiar with older adults’ issues. Council consists of 12 members plus a Chairperson.
When selecting potential candidates for appointment to the Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors, careful consideration is given to geography, cultural diversity, gender, background, experience and skills. Those who make up this Council have an understanding of issues related to seniors and aging and have typically shown leadership when it comes to seniors and aging issues.
The Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors recognizes the following values to which members should aspire in carrying out their respective roles:
Members of the Council meet the following qualifications:
Members of the Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors are expected to be available to meet three times per year (virtually or in-person) and participate in teleconferences and/or subcommittee meetings as needed. Members are expected to spend additional time to review materials and prepare for Council and Committee meetings. On occasion, members may be required/asked to attend meetings where seniors and aging issues are a focus. Offering a presentation may be a component of their attendance at these external meetings.
Members, and the Chairperson, are appointed for terms of up to three years. Members may serve a maximum of two terms on council. Subsection 175(6) of the Corporations Act allows directors to continue to serve until reappointed or replaced.