Our union encourages all members and Albertans to check out the celebrations in their cities and communities over the next seven days with the seniors in their lives.
“Seniors are family, friends, coworkers, volunteers, activists and loved ones - they’re enduring spirits, and they’re the centre of so many valued relationships,” said Guy Smith.
According to Statistics Canada, by 2031 all baby boomers will have reached 65, making a quarter of the population seniors.
This generation saw sweeping changes in how work was done and society was structured in Canada, from the spread of the suburbs and industrial agriculture, to a shift from an industrial economy to a post-industrial, global economy.
“Alberta’s seniors were at the helm of movements that define our recent past,” adds Smith.
“Their stories aren’t a monolith – neither are they over. Our elders are sharers of existing knowledge as much as they are leaders in change.
“This week and every week, we honour their vitality and their support systems, including the health care professionals who help make their lives more comfortable and aid them in their independence.”
AUPE represents over 95,000 members. About half work in health care, including seniors care.