General News

Presentation to council highlights the need for an age-friendly community

April 2, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

In May 2025, New Tecumseth council asked staff to move forward with initial steps to determine how the town could become an age-friendly community, with a focus on seniors’ activities, accessibility, and mobility.

Town staff and consultants presented their report during the most recent council meeting on March 23.

Around 20 per cent of New Tecumseth residents are seniors, and that number continues to grow. That demographic indicates a need for age-friendly activities and services.

The report focused on social inclusion for seniors. This includes opportunities for older adults to be active, engaged, and connected to community life through social, civic, and employment opportunities.

The New Tecumseth Age-Friendly Initiative was developed from September to December 2025. Community outreach included a comprehensive virtual survey and multiple in-person and virtual focus groups to better understand the experiences of older adults in the community.

Staff also met with other community service providers, including CHATS, New Tecumseth Public Library, and Simcoe County.

As a result of the outreach strategy, over 370 survey responses were received, and over 50 residents participated in targeted focus groups.

The survey provided information on what seniors need to age in place and stay in the community.

The report provides an analysis of population trends and key areas of growth in addition to the survey results.

This includes the need to diversify program offerings and recreation services to meet the needs of the community and support existing community and volunteer networks. There is also a need to increase communication with older adults to further develop awareness of events and programs.

Areas for future consideration include access to transportation and increased advocacy for older adult health services.

The town has taken steps to reinstate paper schedules, improve walking track access, and strengthen communication efforts.

Council passed a motion to advance a town-wide, age-friendly approach using the World Health Organization’s age-friendly framework as a municipal guide. 

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