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In 2024, FADOQ continued to actively pursue its mission of advocating for the rights of people aged 50 and over. Your voice was heard, and significant progress was made on several issues.

Housing, a major concern

Access to affordable and suitable housing is a major concern for many older adults. This year, tangible benefits were secured for tenants aged 65 and over through the broadening of the Françoise David Act.

Tenants aged 65 and over who have lived in their homes for 10 years are now protected against evictions and repossessions. Previously, the age requirement was 70. Additionally, the income threshold to qualify for this protection has been raised.

After years of advocacy, specific support was finally granted to small private residences for seniors (RPA). In January, support measures were introduced for individuals experiencing a loss of autonomy in these establishments, addressing a long-standing request from FADOQ.

In May, the Minister responsible for Seniors, Sonia Bélanger, modified the personalized allowance program for RPAs to better meet their needs. These adjustments, which we had recommended, addressed a significant gap in the program, improving access to better-adapted services for older adults.

Victory for disabled individuals

The inequalities faced by individuals receiving a disability pension between the ages of 60 and 65 are now a thing of the past.

We engaged in numerous representations, notably by supporting the advocacy group Invalides au front and drafting a brief. These efforts led to the elimination of penalties imposed on disability pension recipients aged 60 to 65 when withdrawing their pension from the Quebec Pension Plan (RRQ).

Sports safety legislation

FADOQ also contributed to the Sports Safety Act to ensure that sports activities remain safe and accessible to everyone. We submitted a detailed opinion highlighting the unique aspects of our organization, which offers leisure and sports activities, particularly through our FADOQ clubs.

Concerns voiced to elected officials

Over the past year, FADOQ also worked to defend the rights of individuals aged 65 and over as part of the implementation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan. We brought our members’ concerns to policymakers to ensure the program operates effectively.

FADOQ also advocated for greater integration of professions in the healthcare sector to improve access to care, the establishment of a support program for converting or building residential homes into intergenerational homes, and the inclusion of retirees in the federal government’s one-time $250 payment.