Long known as the Railway Capital of Canada and acknowledged as a manufacturing hub in Southwestern Ontario, St. Thomas-Elgin recently was recognized as an age-friendly community.
The recognition was announced over the weekend at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference in Toronto, where Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility acknowledged nearly 70 age-friendly communities across the province.
Cho noted, “Through community-led initiatives that promote social engagement and physical activity, you are helping to protect the health and well-being of seniors and demonstrating your commitment to continuing to build a province that is inclusive for Ontarians of all ages and abilities.”
Meagan Lichti, chair of the Age-Friendly committees in Elgin-St. Thomas and Oxford County added, “This work reflects our belief that every resident deserves the opportunity to age safely and with dignity while engaged in community life.”
According to health unit data, adults aged 65 and older in 2021 represented 20.2 per cent of the population, up from 16,1 per cent in 2011.
Elgin-St. Thomas established its Age-Friendly Community Plan in 2017, which is currently being updated to reflect a recent needs assessment completed in partnership with Southwestern Public Health.
In a media release, Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Rob Flack stressed, “As our senior population continues to grow, this kind of practical planning is more important than ever.”
Elgin County Warden Dominique Giguere added, “This recognition reflects what is possible when municipalities, public health, community organizations, and residents work together with care and intention.”
And St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston noted that the recognition “reflects the care we take to ensure people of all ages can live well, stay connected, and enjoy a sense of belonging.”
Written by Ian McCallum
