Helping seniors stay active and engaged has earned Harrison Hot Springs Age-friendly BC Recognition.

Harrison Hot Springs will receive a letter of congratulations, Age-friendly BC Recognition poster and $1,000 to create a legacy project or celebration.

“When a community’s focus is on making age-friendly improvements, it makes a big difference in helping seniors stay healthy and independent,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “Harrison Hot Springs is a perfect example of the work that is ongoing across the province to make communities safer, more accessible and inclusive for older residents.”

The Age-friendly BC recognition program acknowledges local governments that have taken four steps to become age-friendly, including establishing an age-friendly advisory or steering committee; passing a local council or district board resolution to support age-friendly activities; conducting an age-friendly assessment; and, developing and publishing an age-friendly action plan.

Harrison Hot Springs will make improvements to sidewalks so seniors can walk two-by-two, with a walker or cane. It will also make its municipal buildings more accessible by adding ramps and handrails.

“The work that will be done in Harrison Hot Springs to help make sure seniors have a chance to share their experiences and feel even more a part of the community is welcome news,” said Laurie Throness, Chilliwack-Hope MLA. “Planned upgrades to sidewalks and municipal buildings will make the community even more accessible.”

“A pedestrian-friendly environment creates the kind of vibrant residential community that benefits seniors and families alike,” said Leo Facio, Harrison Hot Springs mayor. “Our Age-friendly committee continues to work on initiatives to the make the village of Harrison Hot Springs the most inclusive community possible.”

“It’s important to recognize planning efforts made by communities that take seniors into consideration,” said Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors Darryl Plecas. “Whether it’s making a building easier to access, or something as simple as growing a garden, taking steps to support seniors helps them stay connected to their communities and remain active.”

Pitt Meadows is also being honoured, bringing to the total number of B.C. municipalities that have received Age-friendly BC Recognition since 2012 to 38.

The Age-friendly BC Recognition program is a partnership between the BC Healthy Communities Society and the Ministry of Health.

Learn More:

For more information on Age-Friendly BC Recognition, visit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/seniors/about-seniorsbc/seniors-related-initiatives/age-friendly-bc/age-friendly-communities/getting-recognized

For a photo, please visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgovphotos/26954616204/