QUESTION PERIOD — Finance
Affordability for Seniors
March 12, 2026
Government leader, the latest Ageing in Canada Survey from the National Institute on Ageing paints a troubling picture for Canadian seniors. One third say the rising cost of living is their top concern. Twenty per cent of seniors now live below the poverty line, and 43% say they cannot afford to retire when they plan to do so. Canadians who have worked hard their entire lives should be able to retire with dignity and security, yet many are increasingly worried about how they will afford basic necessities.
Senator Moreau, after years of growing financial insecurity among seniors, why has the government still failed to deliver meaningful relief to ensure that Canadian seniors can live and retire with dignity?
The government takes the economic situation very seriously. We recognize that affordability, not only for seniors, but for all Canadians, is of the utmost importance. That is why the government is acting accordingly by lowering taxes for 22 million Canadians, cutting the consumer carbon tax, and protecting pharmacare, dental care and child care. Dental care and pharmacare go directly to seniors. The government is also lowering the requirements for accessing the disability tax credit and providing immediate relief on the cost of groceries.
This takes into account the situation of seniors as well. Affordability is a multi-faceted problem, and the government is taking it very seriously.
Senator Moreau, I’m sorry, but the numbers do not lie. Roughly 1 in 10 food bank users is now a senior. Many are now forced to choose between paying for groceries or purchasing essential medicine.
Beyond the financial strain, this affordability crisis is also contributing to isolation among seniors who can no longer afford social and recreational activities.
When will the government acknowledge that its policies are making life less affordable for seniors, and what immediate relief will you give them?
Senator Martin, I don’t intend to play politics with the situation of seniors in Canada. It is irresponsible to ask questions on how to relieve the painful situation seniors and Canadians are now in when your party at the House of Commons is voting against budget measures that would help those people. That is not responsible, and it is not the way we should discuss the matter in this chamber either.
Senator Moreau, thank you.
