Chère Janette Campaign
You’ve sent in thousands of letters.
Today, Janette is answering your questions.
The Chère Janette campaign, launched in February 2026 and presented by Québecor, has given seniors and their loved ones the opportunity to voice their concerns, shedding light on their experiences and the daily challenges they face.
Today, touched by the thousands of messages she has received, Janette Bertrand continues the conversation by talking to expert researchers at the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal and the Institute’s Research Centre. Together they address your most common questions and concerns, while offering practical advice and tangible solutions.
Aging tells a story. Aing well is something you learn.
Watch the videos created by Janette Bertrand with experts at the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal and the Institute’s Research Centre.
With her trademark honesty and authenticity, Quebec’s most prominent centenarian tackles some of the taboos surrounding aging head-on and asks the questions that thousands of seniors and caregivers are thinking but rarely say out loud. And she does this through real conversations that shed light on the various issues while offering hope.
Aging well with chronic pain: Advice from a geriatrician
In conversation with Dr. David Lussier, a geriatrician specializing in chronic pain management, Janette explores practical strategies for coping with pain, staying active, and maintaining quality of life after 65.
Urinary incontinence and pelvic health: Let’s talk about it!
In conversation with Professor Chantal Dumoulin, a physiotherapist and researcher specializing in women’s health, Janette explores the causes and impacts of urinary incontinence, while looking at available management strategies. In doing so, brings attention to a condition that remains shrouded in silence, even though it affects half of women aged 60 and over.
Alzheimer’s and dementia: What can you do to lower your risk?
How can we distinguish between the normal effects of aging and the first signs of dementia? In conversation with Dr. Thomas Tannou, a geriatrician and clinical researcher specializing in Alzheimer’s disease, Janette talks about warning signs and the lifestyle habits that help support cognitive health.
Caregiving: Taking care of others without losing yourself
In conversation with Dr. Doris Clerc, a psychiatrist specializing in senior care, Janette explores the highs and lows of caregiving along with ways to better support those who quietly play a crucial role in the lives of their loved ones.
« I am deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to write to me. In your letters, I see your fears and concerns, but I also see your resilience, your courage, and your strength.I want Quebec seniors and their caregivers to know that they are not alone. By talking openly about our concerns, we break through isolation and find solutions together.»– Janette Bertrand, ambassadrice de la Fondation Institut de gériatrie de Montréal |
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Quebec’s population is aging and needs are increasing
The experiences highlighted in the videos are shared by a growing number of families and individuals. That should come as no surprise, considering that by 2031, one in four Quebecers will be 65 or older. Overall, aging comes with challenges that affect society as a whole, ranging from loneliness to cognitive decline, reduced mobility, loss of independence, and diminished quality of life. The need for innovation, specialized care, and psychological support continues to grow.
To address these challenges, the Fondation Institut de gériatrie de Montréal works every day alongside the teams at the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal and the Institute’s Research Centre. The Foundation funds scientific research and innovative projects that improve quality of care, advance knowledge on aging, and enhance the well-being of seniors. Join us in making a difference!
Make a difference for seniors now
OURS PARTNERS
Thank you to our presenting partner, Québecor
Thank you to Québecor for their generous support, which makes this collective project possible and enables us to reach seniors across Quebec. Québecor’s contribution was instrumental in launching the Foundation’s large-scale campaign to benefit seniors.
“I firmly believe that, as a society, we have a responsibility to care for those who built this province. That’s why Québecor is proud to partner with Janette Bertrand and the Fondation Institut de gériatrie de Montréal on their new project. This initiative is a great way to start an important conversation and give seniors a voice.”
-Pierre Karl Péladeau, president and CEO of Québecor
The Foundation would like to warmly thank Québecor, presenting partner of this campaign, as well as Desjardins, partner of the video capsules, and Fondation Drummond. A special thank you to the Fondation Mirella et Lino Saputo for their generous contribution to the project. The campaign is presented as part of Le Centenaire de Janette Bertrand.
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Have any questions?
Email us at fondation.fiugm@ssss.gouv.qc.ca or call us at 514-340-3546.
1Observatoire québécois des inégalités (2025). La population aînée du Québec face à d’importantes inégalités en matière de revenu, de logement, de santé et de mobilité.