Healthy Aging Strategy

Manitoba’s Healthy Aging Strategy is a component of the Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative as age-friendly communities support older adults in leading active, socially engaged, independent lives that contribute to healthy aging.

Since 2007, Manitoba’s Healthy Aging strategy has engaged seniors in health promotion strategies across the province. 

Manitoba’s Healthy Aging Strategy supports efforts to address the many determinants of healthy aging such as active living, social connectedness, healthy eating, and falls prevention.

Manitoba’s Healthy Aging Strategy has been shaped by the Healthy Aging in Canada:  A New Vision, A Vital Investment paper. Released in 2006, the paper is the first Canadian public statement on healthy aging to be endorsed by all Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers responsible for Seniors. Manitoba co-chairs the Healthy Aging and Wellness F-P/T Working Group of Officials, providing leadership to promote the importance of social connectedness, physical activity, healthy eating, injury prevention, and smoking cessation on a national level. 

Short term effects of the Healthy Aging Strategy include engaging older adults in meaningful volunteer opportunities and increasing public awareness of the benefits of active lifestyles.  Long term effects include healthier, more active and productive seniors resulting in a reduced demand for health care and other support services; initiatives that encourage and support all aspects of healthy aging will lead to greater health, security and independence; healthy aging includes improved mental and physical functioning, a lower risk of disease and disease-related disability, and enhances ones ability to actively contribute to family and community life. The Active Living Coalition for Older Adults in Manitoba is a key partner in the Healthy Aging Strategy.

Through the Healthy Aging Strategy, Manitoba is providing national and international leadership in promoting supportive environments for older adults.