Embracing an Aging Population

 

Role of Municipal Governments

Municipal governments in Alberta are responsible for providing leadership and direction on civic and community issues, and providing infrastructure, programs and services they deem necessary and appropriate for their municipalities. Municipal governments are in a unique position to facilitate collaboration among various organizations and sectors in their communities to respond to issues or challenges that impact citizens. They are also increasingly engaged in planning and responding to the challenges of growth and sustainable development.

Municipal governments have specific roles to play in preparing for and meeting the needs of Alberta’s aging population, including:

  • Ensuring the safety and security of Albertans in their communities as they age.
  • Enabling Albertans to easily connect with and access municipal programs and services as they age.
  • Developing and sustaining age-friendly environments in their communities, including municipal transportation systems, facilities, infrastructure, public spaces and land-use.
  • Working with other community partners to encourage the creation of age friendly developments and facilities, including a variety of housing options.
  • Encouraging and promoting a culture of inclusiveness that engages and involves Albertans in their communities as they age.
  • Educating local businesses, organizations and service providers about the changing needs of Albertans as they age, and encouraging them to adapt to these changing needs.
  • Identifying and responding to local needs and priorities of senior Albertans in their communities.

Municipal governments also work collaboratively with the Government of Alberta in supporting Albertans. The nature of support will vary from community to community, and over time, reflecting the unique local circumstances of Albertans as they age.

Together with community partners, municipal governments are well placed to meeting the needs of future seniors.

Municipal Government Initiatives Include:

City of Calgary

City of Edmonton

City of Lethbridge

City of Medicine Hat

City of St. Albert

Strathcona County