The Province has released a series of online videos to help local governments and communities create an Age-friendly BC.

These new videos, available online at www.seniorsbc.ca/agefriendly/afbc_video - highlight elements of an age-friendly community through examples of actions taken in several B.C. communities.

Older people are respected participants in an age-friendly community. In an age-friendly community, B.C. seniors are supported to live active, socially-engaged and independent lives. An age-friendly community provides welcoming public spaces, accessible transportation, affordable housing options and employment and volunteer opportunities. These communities also provide information and services which fit the needs of seniors.

Local government and community representatives - along with seniors from Lumby, Revelstoke, Saanich, Sechelt, Abbotsford, Richmond, Vancouver and the North Shore - are showcased in the videos to help inspire other communities through their examples. The videos are hosted by Colin Milner, chief executive officer of the Vancouver-based International Council on Active Aging, and member of the Seniors Healthy Living Advisory Network.

In addition to supporting age-friendly communities, the Province has invited seniors, families and stakeholders to help shape the implementation of a comprehensive action plan to ensure a more accessible, transparent and accountable approach to seniors' care. 'Improving Care for B.C. Seniors: An Action Plan' contains specific deliverables to help seniors and their families navigate the health system, easily access information about care options and have a clear and simple way to register complaints and have their concerns addressed.

Quotes:

Michael de Jong, Minister of Health -

"B.C. is recognized as a leader in Canada in supporting the creation of age-friendly communities. Age-friendly BC is one of the many ways the Province continues to support older British Columbians remain healthy, active and connected in their communities."

Ron Cantelon, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health -

"Communities all over British Columbia are working to create an Age-Friendly BC. But many communities may not know where to start. These new videos will enable communities to learn just how easy it is to become age-friendly. It doesn't have to cost a lot to make changes that have a big impact."

Colin Milner, CEO, International Council on Active Aging -

"I am delighted to be involved in this project. With population aging, B.C. communities will be home to increasing numbers of older adults in the years ahead. Now is the time for communities to educate themselves about how to create age-friendly environments, so they can ensure individuals continue to participate fully in their communities. These new videos from Age-friendly BC offer a great starting point."

Quick Facts:

• Almost one-sixth of B.C.'s population is over 65 years old.
• The number of seniors living in British Columbia is expected to almost double over the next 20 years. During that same time, B.C.'s population is expected to grow around 30 per cent.
• Local governments that plan to accommodate the needs of older residents can ensure a liveable, attractive and thriving community for people of all ages.
• For older people, living in an age-friendly community can help them continue to lead active, independent and healthy lives.
• Engaging in healthy lifestyles can prevent, minimize or even reverse poor physical and mental health in old age.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help the health care system by reducing the need for health and social services.

Learn More:

For more information on Age-friendly BC, please visit: www.seniorsbc.ca/agefriendly

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)