Iqaluit, Nunavut (February 16, 2023) – The Government of Nunavut is moving forward with efforts to fulfill a key Katujjiluta mandate priority to develop a Strategic Action Plan for Elders in Nunavut. The plan will guide decision-making related to Elders programming and service delivery so Elders can live their last years with dignity and care, closer to family in Nunavut.
This week, the government is hosting the first of five regional gatherings, starting with Kivalliq Elders groups in Rankin Inlet. Two Elders from each community will be chosen to take part in the regional gatherings.
“Nunavummiut who are aging deserve to see improvements in their daily experience,” said Premier P.J. Akeeagok. “This starts long before the need for specialized care. Guided by our Katujjiluta mandate, our government will work to ensure our parents and grandparents are able to age in comfort and safety at home.
“While we work to open long-term care centres to bring our elders home, we know there are also gaps in service and supports for our elders who are here now,” Premier Akeeagok said. “This strategy will look to coordinate existing supports in communities and help Elders navigate programs and services delivered by the GN, Inuit organizations, municipalities, and non-profits.”
Over the coming months, consultations will take place in the North Qikiqtaaluk, South Qikiqtaaluk, and Kitikmeot regions, and in Ottawa to gather input from Elders, families, communities, and partners. The engagement will be delivered in Inuktut and peer-facilitated by Elder advisors in each region.
Beyond the five gatherings, other consultation methods, such as interviews, group sessions, and radio shows, may be used to gather information from Elders unable to attend the regional gatherings.
The Government of Nunavut will report back to participants to verify and validate its findings.