55 Plus Blog;
We will post news that is relevant to our membership here.
Artificial intelligence is making scams harder to spot, and fraudsters are using new tools to make their messages, calls, and impersonations feel alarmingly real. Staying alert to a few key warning signs can make a big difference in protecting yourself and your family.
Technology may be evolving, but simple habits still offer strong protection.
When in doubt: Hang up. Verify with family. Make a report.
- From the WPS E-Watch
Health Canada is taking this opportunity to share some important information regarding the upcoming renewal period for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), set to start April 15, 2026. Canadian residents who would like to apply for coverage for the 2025-2026 benefit year ending on June 30, 2026, can continue to do so until April 14, 2026.
Every year, Canadian residents covered under the plan must renew their coverage to confirm that they continue to meet all eligibility requirements and to maintain their coverage for the next benefit year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). All current CDCP members, who have enrolled prior to April 14, 2026, will receive a notification from the Government of Canada informing them that they must renew between April 15 and June 1, 2026 with instructions on how to do so,to avoid a potential gap in coverage. During the renewal period, Canadian resident who have yet to enroll in the CDCP will not be able to submit an application. Applications will open on June 2, 2026, for the 2026-2027 benefit year.
To be able to renew, CDCP members must have filed their 2025 tax return and received their Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency. CDCP members can renew their coverage through their My Service Canada Account (MSCA), online at Canada.ca/dental, or by phone at 1-833-537-4342 (TTY: 1-833-677-6262).
CDCP members will be informed of their continued eligibility and any potential updates to their co-payment level (if applicable) for the new benefit year once their eligibility has been assessed.
CDCP members who miss the renewal deadline or no longer meet the eligibility requirements, will have their coverage end on June 30, 2026. They will receive a notification that their coverage is ending.
Canadian residents can still renew after the deadline, as long as they continue to meet all of the plan’s eligibility requirements, by submitting a new application, however, they risk experiencing a gap in their coverage. Any oral health care services received during a gap in coverage will not be covered nor reimbursed retroactively.
From the Government of Canada
March is Fraud Prevention Month, and this year’s theme is “Fraud: The Hidden Crime.” This theme reminds us how fraud often remains out of sight, because it is under-reported and because it is hidden behind convincing technology, across borders, and within everyday online interactions.
Fraud continues to be one of the leading crimes affecting older adults, and scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods and tactics. Staying alert and supporting one another is therefore essential!
Talking about fraud can be uncomfortable or upsetting, and that’s completely normal. It’s important to remember that fraud can impact anyone regardless of their age, education or background. You are not alone in this fight!
Common scams targeting older adults and how to avoid them
Grandparent scam Scammers impersonate a grandchild or relative in urgent trouble, claiming an accident, arrest or medical emergency. They pressure victims to send money immediately, while insisting they keep it a secret. Protect yourself by reaching out directly to the family member using a known phone number, and never send money under pressure.
Investment scam Scammers promise high returns with little or no risk. They often use fake credentials and high-pressure tactics, presenting themselves with professional‑looking materials to appear legitimate. Once money is sent, scammers disappear! Cryptocurrency scams have become prevalent, where fraudsters boast of successful investments to persuade victims, and use fake online trading platforms to convince individuals to send money or cryptocurrency.
Always do thorough research, verify registrations with provincial securities regulators, and never rush into an investment decision.
Romance scams Scammers create fake online profiles on dating sites or social media to forge emotional connections with victims, ultimately requesting money for reasons such as travel expenses or medical emergencies. They may even offer to “coach” you on fake crypto investments. They typically avoid in‑person meetings and provide inconsistent personal details. Protect yourself by being cautious with relationships that move quickly and never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Bank investigator scams Impersonating bank staff, law enforcement or security investigators, scammers claim that your account has been compromised and instruct you to withdraw or transfer funds to a “safe” account that belongs to the scammer. Remember, legitimate banks will never ask you to move your money. Always verify directly with your bank!
Recovery scams Following a fraud incident, scammers may contact victims, pretending to be from police, government, banks or recovery services. They claim they can help recover lost funds for a fee, preying on the victim’s hope and urgency. Some victims may search online for help, but this can lead them to fake recovery company websites that exploit their vulnerability.
More ways to protect yourself and others
No matter what new technologies or methods scammers use, your best defence against fraud is to recognize, reject and report!
Stay safe, and share this message with your networks, friends and family.
Ode’imin-Women’s Health Clinic, formerly known as The Birth Centre, is currently running very low on newborn-sized hats or beanies.
For those people who love to knit or crochet, we’d gladly accept newborn-sized hats or beanies. They will be given to little ones born at Ode’imin.
Dalhousie University’s Sleepwell Research & Knowledge Mobilization team is hosting a free national webinar on sleep solutions for midlife and menopause, in celebration of Sleep Awareness Week (March 8–14).
DATE: March 10, 2026 TIME: 6:30 PM EST
Language: English
Join via Zoom
REGISTER HERE
This session will:
· Explore some of the midlife changes that may lead to insomnia · Introduce evidence-based strategies from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) · Provide practical tools you can start using right away to improve your sleep
Fighting Blindness Canada presents...
Webinar: Glaucoma & Optic Nerve | Research Updates + Expert Q&A + Community Connect Friday, March 13, 2026 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM ET Online via Zoom
Glaucoma & Optic Nerve: In Conversation brings together leading experts and the glaucoma community for an interactive discussion about the condition, current areas of research, and what these developments may mean for people living with glaucoma.
The session will begin with expert insights from:
Together, they will share perspectives from both research and clinical care before opening the floor to participant questions.
The final portion of the webinar will transition into a facilitated Community Connect session, offering space for participants to share experiences, reflect, and connect with others affected by glaucoma and optic nerve conditions.
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z8_4ITk8RLKw1eFJC-I7BA#/registration
If anyone has questions or experiences issues with registration, contact education@fightingblindness.ca or 1-800-461-3331 ext. 270.
Every year in March, Fraud Prevention Month raises awareness about the growing threat of fraud and scams. Millions of dollars are lost annually to scams in Canada, and many incidents go unreported due to confusion or embarrassment. This year, the WPS, in partnership with A&O: Support Services for Older Adults has launched a public awareness campaign which aims to educate older adults about scams they may receive over the phone. It has a clear message and memorable actions: When in doubt: Hang up. Verify with family. Make a report.
Criminals are becoming more sophisticated every year – it's essential to stay informed and vigilant. If you receive an unsolicited phone call, keep these three red flags in mind:
If you receive a suspicious or odd phone call, take a pause. No real emergency requires secrecy or instant payment. Hang up. Verify. Make a report.
“The Evolution of Technology in Health Care: Innovation, Leadership, and the Human Touch” with Dr. Denise Koh
Next Presentation in the Lieutenant-Governor’s Evenings at Government House
Lt.-Gov. Anita R. Neville invites Manitobans to attend the next presentation of a series of free public events designed to welcome Manitobans into Government House and showcase outstanding and inspiring Manitobans who, through words and deeds, continually work to make the province better for all.
As we mark International Women’s Day and Canadian Women Physicians Day this March, Dr. Denise Koh will explore the evolution of technology in health care - from traditional medical tools to artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Drawing from her experience leading worker medical surveillance and advancing data systems during the pandemic, as well as co-authoring the book Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, she reflects on how thoughtful use of technology can improve access and reduce health inequities. Dr. Koh will also consider the importance of representation in leadership and innovation spaces, including the role of women and racialized physicians in shaping the future of care.
The event will be held on Tuesday, March 10, at Government House. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Program begins at 7 p.m. Parking is available on both sides of the Government House driveway - light refreshments to follow.
Those wishing to attend must register in advance with the Office of the Lieutenant-Governor by calling 204-945-2753. Guests may reserve a maximum of two seats per registration. Please note: hats, large bags and backpacks will not be permitted. Registration is now open. Seating is limited. There is no cost to attend.
Please consider bringing a non-perishable food item or personal/female care items. All donations will be shared with a local Manitoban women’s shelter through the Lieutenant Governor’s Sharing Hope Initiative.
The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) encourages all bus riders to take extra precautions to safeguard their personal belongings while traveling. Thefts that occur on transit buses are typically opportunistic, meaning that taking simple preventive measures can often deter thieves. Here are five tips to help you protect yourself and your property:
Archwood 55 Plus Inc is a non-profit organization serving seniors 55 plus located at 565 Guilbault Street Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 0R2
