Seniors strength of Alberta

Seniors’ Week 2020 will, in some ways, be different than any other in the 34 years of this wonderful Alberta tradition.

Although COVID-19 will change the way we celebrate this year, it won’t change the spirit of Seniors’ Week. That spirit is as strong as ever and, as ever, it is about recognizing and celebrating all that seniors have contributed to making our families, communities and province so much stronger.

In past years, we have celebrated seniors at barbecues, teas, parties and all types of social events. These can be gatherings in seniors centres and lodges and community halls throughout the province. This year, pandemic-related restrictions will prevent those types of large gatherings.

It won’t prevent us, however, from celebrating Seniors’ Week in fun, creative and innovative ways. A lot of us are leveraging technology to stay connected with family and friends during this challenging time. Don’t be surprised if the senior in your family suggests hosting an event on Facetime, Zoom or other online platforms.

You could consider sending fun videos with grandchildren dancing or singing a song. Some communities will hold parades, ensuring physical distancing, that will move their way to seniors residences where people will leave cards outside for seniors.

Offer to pick up groceries, run errands, drop by a senior’s home and cut the grass. It all matters.

Most importantly, check in with the seniors you know.

Even if we can’t all be together, let’s make sure that all seniors feel valued by family, friends and Albertans.

Alberta has a strong, active and growing seniors population of more than 640,000. These seniors are vital members of our communities and they make a difference in our daily lives. Seniors have lived through difficult times. They have much to share with us.

I say it all the time — seniors are the strength of Alberta. Enjoy Seniors’ Week from June 1-7.

Be safe, have fun and thank you to all Alberta Seniors

Josephine Pon

Minister of Seniors and Housing