AGE FRIENDLY INITIATIVE

An Age-Friendly Survey (1.0MB PDF) was developed and distributed as part of the Seniors’ Engagement Strategy (765KB PDF), as part of the Participation Plan (link to document), that would assist in the development and evaluation of strategic growth management policies.

Through the assessment of the surveys, a clearer view of the population of adults who make up our older population and identified both age-friendly barriers and features.

North Okanagan Age-Friendly Features

Healthy and reasonably mobile seniors are generally pleased to be living in the North Okanagan because it is a relatively small communities which offers both a relaxed pace of life, and yet provides a variety of means for social participation and activities.

Age-friendly aspects of the North Okanagan include its many parks and trails which offer opportunities for exercise and socialization, its seniors’ clubs, organizations and centres and its public library system. In general, healthy and active seniors, feel very included and respected in their communities, and feel that their contributions to their communities are adequately recognized.

North Okanagan Age-Friendly Barriers

Seniors throughout the North Okanagan and respondents under 55 years of age agree on a number of age-friendly barriers that have a significant impact on seniors. Transportation issues dominate the discussion, with the lack of transportation options, the need for transit service throughout the North Okanagan, sidewalk maintenance and crosswalks were all problematic. The lack of transportation options for seniors, especially outside of the City of Vernon, particularly problematic for seniors trying to access health care facilities.

Older persons in the North Okanagan have identified affordable and accessible housing as the greatest obstacle within the North Okanagan. Smaller communities may not have adequate seniors housing at all levels of care, with many seniors moving out of the community to access seniors housing to meet their requirements. Although senior’s housing projects have been undertaken in many communities, including the City of Armstrong, District of Coldstream, Village of Lumby and City of Vernon, demand has continued to outstrip supply for seniors on fixed incomes. The lack of affordable housing options extends beyond seniors, impacting younger people within the Region.