Backgrounder: National Seniors Council

The National Seniors Council was established to advise the Government of Canada on matters related to the health, the well-being and quality of life of seniors.

The Council provides advice to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Health. Under the leadership of the Chairperson of the National Seniors Council, the Council:

• advises on current and emerging issues and opportunities related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors, both now and in the future;
• undertakes activities such as commissioning research, convening expert panels and round tables, and holding consultative meetings;
• delivers well-balanced advice, taking into account the views of experts, seniors, organizations and groups that provide seniors' programs and services, provincial/territorial advisory bodies on seniors, and other relevant stakeholders and interested parties; and
• ensures a comprehensive and collaborative approach in its examination of the policies, programs and services that have an impact on the lives of seniors by consulting with other federal departments, other levels of government and advisory bodies involved in seniors-related efforts.