The Minister reached out on July 7th in a communique to remind everyone about the public health practices we should all be following during the pandemic. She said she wanted to let everyone know that the one-time, tax-free payment for seniors was being issued the second week of July.
The weather is warming up, businesses are re-opening and restrictions are being lifted—it might seem like things are getting back to normal—but it’s not time to let your guard down! As we move into the next phases of this pandemic, we need to continue to follow public health practices to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
We can all follow some simple measures to help protect ourselves and others, especially seniors and medically vulnerable people who are at greater risk of severe health complications linked to COVID-19.
The Minister had this to say about protecting yourself and others from COVID-19.
Following these public health measures is our best defence against COVID-19: washing your hands frequently with soap and water; practicing physical distancing; if used correctly, a non-medical mask can play an important role when physical distancing is not possible or is unpredictable; cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects; covering your cough with tissues or your sleeve; and staying home and away from others if you are sick.
The Mental Health Commission of Canada has developed a resource for seniors that offers practical tips and advice on how they can protect their mental wellness during COVID-19. Find it at this link www.mentalhealthcommission.ca .
The Government of Canada recently launched a new portal dedicated to mental wellness : Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use Support. This portal provides free online resources, and connects Canadians to peer support workers, social workers, psychologists and other trained professionals for confidential chat sessions or phone calls, in both official languages. Resources include modules for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation and relationship issues. Find it at this link https://ca.portal.gs/ .
The Public Health Agency of Canada has resources available to assist seniors and caregivers, including information on how to prevent COVID-19 and tips on taking care of physical and mental health. Find more at this link www.canada.ca/en/public-health .
The Minister said that to help make ends meet during COVID-19, the Government of Canada is providing a one-time, tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for Old Age Security and an additional $200 for those eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement. Allowance recipients will also receive $500.
-Debbie MacDonald Moynes