York Region continues to support the health and well-being of the Region’s aging population while providing an affordable, accessible place to live for all residents through the completion of the first year of the York Region Seniors Strategy.

The strategy was approved in 2016. Many actions within the four result areas of York Region’s Seniors Strategy were completed or initiated in 2017; highlights include:

1. Balance the needs of seniors with all residents through new housing eligibility models that help low income residents access affordable housing options, as well as introducing a low income transit pass with eligibility based on income. Applying an ability to pay principle to these programs allows the Region to respond to the increase in demand for services, programs and infrastructure in a fiscally sustainable way.
2. Keeping seniors healthier, longer by investing in programs and services to help them stay in place as they age, such as participating in the Central Local Health Integration Network (CLHIN) collaborative tables that help align Regional priorities for seniors with the CLHIN service priorities. As well, the Region’s Community Paramedicine Team partnered with Markham Stouffville Hospital’s Hospital to Home program that works to keep seniors out of hospitals by bringing services into their homes.
3. Support age-friendly, complete communities through appropriate and accessible options for housing, transportation and support services. Regional and municipal staff held a workshop to explore collaborative efforts to support a senior-friendly community and planning is underway with the Region and the City of Markham to support the development of the Unionville Seniors Hub.
4. Connect seniors and caregivers to the right programs and services at the right times by ensuring they know what supports and services are available to them and who to ask for help when needed.

Successful continued implementation of the Strategy requires alignment, collaboration and partnership with local municipal initiatives to effectively serve and support seniors. Moving forward, the Region’s actions, advocacy and work with partners will help to ensure that seniors are able to age in place for longer in the future.

Did you know that between 2011 and 2016, the number of seniors in York Region grew by 33.9 per cent, making this the fastest growing population group in the Region? According to projections, there will be more seniors than children in York Region by 2026.