Seniors’ health is focus of new position

Government is creating a new position solely focused on the health of Island seniors.
 
Reporting to the deputy minister of Health and Wellness, the Principal Advisor for Seniors Health will develop, coordinate, and evaluate strategies that support seniors’ health and wellness. Seniors are Prince Edward Island’s fastest-growing population.
 
“We need to look for innovative solutions that are more responsive to the needs of seniors, allowing them to continue to live in comfort and with the respect they deserve,” Health and Wellness Minister Robert Henderson said. “This new position will focus on seniors’ health and wellness, ensuring that the decisions we make are in line with the wellbeing of Island seniors.”
 
“We want to promote healthy, active aging and this position will support that goal so that all Islanders will benefit,” Family and Human Services and Minister responsible for Seniors Tina Mundy said. “It’s important to evaluate programs and services for seniors from a health care perspective and to ensure we’re meeting their current and changing needs.”   
 
Statistics show that Island seniors are living longer and are more active and healthier than ever before. The challenge is how best to plan for -- and respond to – the needs and opportunities that will arise because of the aging population.
 
“We are very pleased to see this position being created,” PEI Senior Citizens’ Federation President Don Sanderson said. “The primary concerns of Island seniors are access to healthcare and the ability to stay in their own home and community, so we look forward to working with the individual in this new position on these and other areas for the betterment of all Island seniors.”
 
This new position will augment the programs and policies Prince Edward Island has already enacted to help seniors maintain active lifestyles, remain engaged in their communities and to stay informed about the services available to them. The position will work closely with the established Senior's Secretariat.
 
The job advertisement for the Principal Advisor for Seniors' Health is posted through the Prince Edward Island Public Service Commission and interested applicants are encouraged to apply.
 
Media contact:
Autumn Tremere
Department of Health and Wellness
902-368-5610
agtermere@gov.pe.ca