British Columbia’s population is becoming significantly older, and the demographic and social changes that are beginning to affect our province will forever alter how our communities look and feel. With an aging population, our communities will face both new opportunities and challenges in responding to older people’s needs and wishes.

In 2007, just over 14% of B.C.’s population were 65 and older (an estimated 618,270 people), and this percentage is rising. By 2032 this proportion will be nearly 25% (an estimated 1.3 million people).

As older people move toward retirement, local governments, community and health organizations and families are becoming more aware of the challenges of our aging population:

• Local governments are realizing the demand for accessible, age-friendly infrastructure and transportation options.
• Business and industry are facing the challenges of an aging workforce.
• Communities are struggling to access funds and resources to provide age-friendly programs and services.
• Families are navigating the social and economic challenges of parents and grandparents that require extra care and who may have to move from their homes and communities to access services and specialized accommodation.

Older adults are a vibrant cohort of all communities and contribute to the economy, support extended families, participate in volunteerism, and generally enhance the social health of our neighbourhoods. By encouraging creative housing solutions, transportation alternatives, and social and recreational programs local governments and communities have the opportunity to play an important and exciting role in facilitating the ability of older adults to age in place in BC.

This website is a tool to help encourage and support age-friendly communities. The Union of BC Municipalities is working closely with the Ministry of Community Services and Ministry of Health to develop and deliver content, materials and documents that support local governments and communities to face the challenges of BC’s aging population and to also realize the many opportunities and benefits that older adults offer to our province.