Current Issues

Ageism is not always obvious. It can show up in the assumptions we make about older people, the choices they’re offered, and the opportunities available to them. Ageism can mean taking away a senior’s autonomy, overlooking them because of their age, excluding them from decisions or activities, or making jokes about getting older. It can … Read More

Canada’s four provincial Seniors’ Advocates urge action on barriers to healthy ageing:National Seniors Day statement echoes the United Nations theme “Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives” On National Seniors Day, the Seniors’ Advocates for British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, and New Brunswick are issuing a joint statement to celebrate the contributions of older adults and … Read More

If you live in an independent living or retirement residence, your tenancy is covered by the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA). This means there are limits on how much your rent and mandatory service fees can increase each year. For 2027, the maximum allowable rent increase is 2.2%. Check your rent increase notice If you receive … Read More

As we move into September, I want to extend my deepest sympathy to everyone who was forced to leave their home during this summer’s wildfires. Evacuations are especially difficult for older adults who often rely on familiar surroundings, routines and support networks. Thank you to the first responders, health care workers, community organizations, volunteers and … Read More

This month, I am pleased to share our 2025/26 Annual Report which highlights our continued focus on listening to seniors, examining systemic issues, and advocating for improvements to programs and services affecting B.C. seniors. I urge you to read the report to learn more about the work of our office and the issues we will … Read More

Wildfires can affect communities across British Columbia with little warning. For older adults, wildfire smoke, extreme heat, power outages and disruptions to essential services can create additional health and safety risks. If you live in or are travelling through an affected area, stay informed by monitoring official sources for the latest wildfire conditions, evacuation information … Read More

As we move into the summer, I want to reflect on June and share a few updates from our office. The first week of June was BC Seniors’ Week and it was a privilege to visit communities across the province to celebrate and recognize the contributions of older adults. From Langley to Vernon, I met … Read More

Josie Osborne, Minister of Health; Niki Sharma, Attorney General; and Dan Levitt, B.C. seniors advocate, have released the following statements in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Monday, June 15, 2026: Levitt said: “Unfortunately, abuse and neglect can happen to anyone in B.C. However, older people can be more vulnerable due to frailty, … Read More

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and an opportunity to raise awareness of increasing reports of abuse and neglect of older adults in B.C. Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial, physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or other and can include mistreatment, neglect and self-neglect. It may be perpetrated by family members, friends, … Read More