Every day I continue to be honoured and grateful to serve in the position of Minister for Health, Seniors, and Long-Term Care. In both my role as Minister and Deputy Premier, I have had the opportunity to meet with a wide range of Manitobans, who live in every corner of our province. And during every visit I make, whether to a health care facility, a community hall, a festival, or a public event, I am always humbled to be in the company of so many hardworking, caring, and active Manitoba seniors.
Manitoba’s seniors are the backbone of our communities. They are healthcare workers, volunteers, community leaders, organizers, and so much more. It’s been a priority for our government, since being elected ten months ago, to ensure our province becomes more accessible and supportive to our seniors. We have announced a new personal care home in Lac du Bonnet, the establishment of a Seniors’ Advocate Office, and are reopening services of the previously shuttered Mature Women’s Clinic.
In April, our government partnered with March of Dimes Canada to launch the Safe and Healthy Home for Seniors program. We know many seniors want to stay in their homes – and aging in place successfully requires a person to have a safe and accessible home that meets their needs. And cost should not limit a person’s ability to complete the basic activities of daily living.
This $22-million investment will allow eligible seniors (those with a combined household income of $60,000 or less) to apply for funding of up to $6,500 to help with home adaptations. This program will help Manitoba seniors make their homes safer by offering financial support to install grab bars and safety rails, widen doorways, or install modular ramps. We know that Manitoba seniors want to stay, not just in their homes, but in their communities, where they make a difference daily. They deserve a home that they can live in safely and with dignity.
Further information can be found online at: Manitoba Safe and Healthy Home for Seniors | March of Dimes Canada. The information is also available by emailing the program at [email protected] or by calling 1-866-906-6006.
The transition from summer to fall brings with it many things. On one hand, communities come together again after summer vacations have wrapped – and we begin a season of fundraisers and community events. And on the other it can be a time of stress and worry for many Manitobans –as we know we’re on the brink of flu season.
When I took on the role of Health Minister last year, I was shocked at how little preparation had been made for the most predictable health issue our province faces every year, and immediately began preparing for the 24/25 flu season. We know that seniors are at higher risk of complications from influenza. That’s why I’m reminding all Manitobans over 65 that they are eligible for the high-dose influenza vaccine. This vaccine is free of charge, and I encourage getting the dose before flu season is in full swing.
We also know that COVID-19 remains a threat, especially to Manitoba seniors. Which is why all Manitobans over 65, when receiving their flu shot, are also eligible to receive their updated COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.
I also want to remind folks to check with their health another dose of Pneu-C-20 – the updated pneumococcal vaccine that protects against 20 different strains of the pneumococcal bacteria. You are eligible for this vaccine if you have not received any other form of pneumococcal vaccine since turning 65. Your health care provider can help you determine whether the new dose should be administered.
Please contact your primary care provider, walk-in clinic, Access Centre, Connected Care Clinic, pharmacy, or local public health office to inquire about current availability of free flu, COVID-19, and pneumococcal vaccines. For more information about Manitoba’s immunization program and eligibility requirements for vaccines visit Vaccine Eligibility | Health | Province of Manitoba (gov.mb.ca).
Again, it is my great honour to serve as your Minister of Health, Seniors, and Long-Term Care. I wish you all a safe and healthy Fall.
The Hon. Uzoma Asagwara is the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-term Care.
