Seniors living independently are generally healthier, happier, and more active than those in assisted living situations. Naturally, they want to want to maintain this independence. The cost of living in Alberta, however, is a serious threat to their independence.

“Three elements in particular are of concern for seniors living on a fixed income,” said Liz Allchin, Vice President of Alberta Seniors United Now (SUN). The first is Alberta’s lack of legislation on rent controls. “Rent control legislation should be introduced in Alberta to protect seniors and vulnerable members of society from unrealistic and untimely rent increases,” said Allchin. "With no rent controls in place, Alberta seniors on fixed incomes are being forced out of their homes, which in a province known for the 'Alberta Advantage', is illogical and unnecessary."

The second element is recent increases in electricity and natural gas costs that have caused considerable increases in the cost of living for seniors. SUN proposes that the Alberta government develop a realistic subsidy program to help those most affected by these escalated costs.

The third element is the rising cost of home maintenance, repair and modification. SUN has recently proposed a loan program designed for home-owning seniors that would enable them to borrow from the government against the equity in their homes at a low fixed interest rate to be repaid on the sale of their home. "The SUN proposal is a fair and sensible solution. We encourage the government to adopt it," proposed Allchin.

SUN urges the Alberta government to adher to one of its stated mandates: “fostering the inclusion and independence of seniors and Albertans with disabilities through policy development" by moving forward with these legislation and program changes.

For more information please contact:

Liz Allchin, SUN Vice-President

449-1816 SUN - Office

unitenow@telus.net

Alberta Seniors United Now or SUN as we are more commonly referred to is a non-profit, non-partisan, province wide organization. Our vision is to be a leading resource and advocate on seniors’ issues.