THUNDER BAY, ON – Thunder Bay’s population is aging. It’s projected that by 2036, people aged 60+ will make up 33% of the District of Thunder Bay population. Age-Friendly Thunder Bay is developing a community-wide action plan to help address the needs and interests of people 60+.
Age-Friendly Thunder Bay was established in 2009 and in 2011, the City of Thunder Bay was accepted as a member of the WHO (World Health Organization) Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. The City of Thunder Bay created a five-year City Services Action Plan in 2015 to address municipal services, programs and facilities in order to meet the needs of and provide varied opportunities for older adults.
There are many other services that do not fall under City of Thunder Bay services. To address older adults’ community needs and interests, Lakehead Social Planning Council has retained a local firm, bain smith consulting, to assess and understand older adults’ needs, and to develop an Age-Friendly Thunder Bay Community-Wide Action Plan.
“To start the conversation, residents of all ages are invited to complete a survey,” says Donna Smith, owner of bain smith business consulting. “The goal is to gather a wide range of thoughts, opinions and ideas about aging in Thunder Bay. All of our experiences matter – whether you have a parent you assist or a neighbour whose voice should be heard. The surveys will help us showcase our community assets and aspirations for aging well.”
The survey is available on Facebook, Twitter, or on the website at www.agefriendlythunderbay.ca A print copy of the survey they can be picked up and dropped off at any branch of the Thunder Bay Public Library. To complete the survey over the phone or in person, contact Marvin Mercado of bain smith consulting at 807-939-1580, marvin@bainsmithconsulting.ca. The deadline to submit the surveys will be March 31, 2016.
Representatives of Age-Friendly Thunder Bay will be at the “Everything Seniors” display at Intercity Mall on Thursday, March 3 from 10 am to 6 pm. Residents are invited to complete a survey at that event and learn more about Age-Friendly Thunder Bay.
A series of focus groups and interviews will also be conducted over the next months with the results shared at a Seniors Summit event on June 1st in Thunder Bay. Details about this exciting community event will be announced soon.
Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/agefriendlycommunity
