CMA's call to action opens the door for federal government to support much-needed United Nations Convention on the Rights of Older Persons
The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has been pursuing improved health care and quality of life for our aging population for the past five years. As part of a Canadian delegation strongly advocating for a United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, we were thrilled to see the Government of Canada take a step forward and lend their support in front of the global community. In fact, when the Canadian delegate stood up yesterday and said that Canada would consider the international convention, she was met with an enthusiastic round of applause.
We are pleased to see the Government of Canada demonstrate leadership on the important issue of the rights of older persons. This convention will help bridge gaps in areas such as elder abuse, dementia, nursing home regulation, employment and pensions, social security and the right to an adequate standard of living and health for seniors around the world.
Canada has traditionally played a leadership role at the UN and our federal government now has an opportunity to build on that proud tradition. We congratulate the Canadian government for taking this important step and we look forward to the mandate letter of the new Minister of Seniors with great anticipation.
Dr. Laurent Marcoux
CMA President