New book for Native seniors

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Native seniors and Elders aged 55 and over, who want to know what programs they can access can find this by obtaining the booklet "Programs for Native Seniors."

The guide book, developed last year, lists all provincial and federal and Aboriginal programs and services that Native seniors are entitled to.

The provincial Senior Citizens Bureau prepared booklet, states there are many provincial programs and services for Alberta seniors, that are also available to seniors of Native ancestry (status Indians on and off the reserve, non-status Indians and Metis).

Examples of provincial programs include the Assured Income Plan; Social Allowance, based on need; and the Alberta Widows Pension program that includes financial, housing, hospital and health care benefits for widows 55 to 65 years of age.

Federal programs include, the Old Age Security Pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Spouses Allowance and the Veteran Affairs Pension Allowance.

There are various requirements, however, a person may receive both federal and provincial pension programs. Some of the home care programs offer nursing home visits, meals-on-wheels and a range of other health and support services.

Provincial housing grant programs for seniors include, home renters grant, senior home heating protection program, home improvement and home adaptation programs.

The booklet also lists senior citizen lodges, housing registries, seniors centres and seniors drop-in centres located throughout Alberta.

There are programs and support services for established seniors groups as well as a listing of provincial organizations for seniors.

Senior citizen discounts in banking, park admissions, fishing licenses, city bus passes, bus, train and airplane travel discounts and special transportation help for those who have trouble using the regular transportation systems are also listed.

Copies of the booklet may be available at band offices, friendship centres, urban health care offices and Metis Settlement offices.

Booklets and information can also be obtained at the Senior Citizens Bureau, of Alberta Social Services and Community Health at 10030 ? 107 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3E4; phone number 427-7876.