So many seniors are frustrated that we do not keep a count of them anymore. Currently, hundreds, if not thousands of them are protesting on social media, calling us and sending us emails. They do not understand in the least what Mr. Trudeau's government is doing.
Most seniors live in their own homes and close to their circle of friends. They are creatures of habit in their lives. Their shops and their families are close. That is the way they like it.
However, those receiving the old age security pension and the guaranteed income supplement, the GIS, receive $1,500 per month. That means that they have to do without. Dental care, for example. A visit to the dentist becomes a luxury for them. For many of us, it's a regular part of our lives. For them, it is not on their list of priorities.
The same goes for visits to the podiatrist. A number of seniors have problems that require foot care. Some have told us that they have hammer toes and bunions, for example. They have told me that a visit to the podiatrist costs at least $100. People on the old age security pension and the GIS can't afford that kind of expense.
I can add buying glasses. Although the eye exam is free, seniors have told me that there are always additional costs, which can vary from $30 to $60 depending on the reason for their visit. Sometimes, it's an MRI scan, sometimes an X-ray, or eye drops. As for getting prescription glasses—