The Seniors Guide to Federal Programs and Services is a handy reference tool for older Canadians seeking information on a variety of subjects, including pensions, discounts, travel, education, volunteering, health and fitness, taxes and veterans benefits. Here are a few of the programs and services featured in the Guide:

· The Seniors Directorate of Health Canada brings together and supports research on aging and seniors’ issues, and provides advice to the government concerning the needs of older Canadians. It develops and distributes the Seniors Guide, and supports the Seniors Independence Research Program, Seniors Community Programs and the National Advisory Council on Aging.

· The Seniors Injury Prevention Program promotes the safe design of products by manufacturers, and informs seniors on how to use products safely.

· Adults over age 60 may take advantage of VIA Rail’s “Ambassador” rate discount for travel within Canada. Seniors who require assistance may reserve a seat for their travelling companion free of charge; to demonstrate eligibility, a medical certificate or card from a recognized association is needed.

· Seniors aged 65 and older are admitted free to national parks and historic sites. Seniors may obtain a park motor licence to bring their vehicles into a national park free of charge. Seniors must still pay other user fees, such as those for camping and fishing.

· The National Archives of Canada is a rich source of information for those researching genealogy and local history. A written inquiries service and a loan service (through your local library) are available.

· The Canadian Executive Service Organization is a non-profit organization, whose experienced and knowledgeable volunteers provide advice, training and skills development to clients working toward economic self-sufficiency. Clients are located in Canadian Aboriginal communities, developing nations or the new market economies in Eastern Europe. Most of the 3,600 advisors, from fields such as banking, export marketing and tourism, are retired or semi-retired.
Information: 1-800-268-9052.

· Through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, about 12,000 Canadians volunteer to help other Canadians fill out their income tax forms and understand the deductions and credits to which they are entitled. For information, contact the Revenue Canada Taxation office.

· Reference Canada provides telephone referral and basic information on all federal government programs and services.
Information: 1-800-667-3355.
Persons with a hearing impairment should call: 1-800-465-7735.

· For Internet users, the Seniors Guide to Federal Programs and Services is now on the World Wide Web
Just click here
· The guide is also available by contacting the Seniors Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9. Tel: (613) 952-7606.