The second annual Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award has been presented to the City of Saskatoon for its commitment to providing age-friendly physical and social environments that help seniors age actively. 

“The Age-Friendly Communities initiative aligns with our government’s priorities to ensure that all seniors can live safely and comfortably in their communities,” Rural and Remote Health Minister and Minister Responsible for Seniors Warren Kaeding said in a release.

The City of Saskatoon received an award from the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism to acknowledge its work on activities and programming to enhance the quality of life for older adults, leading to communities that benefit all ages.

This includes:

•             Establishing an Age-Friendly Committee;

•             Securing the support of municipal government;

•             Assessing the community, determining where Age-Friendly initiatives are needed; and

•             Developing, publicizing and implementing an action plan.

Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism Executive Director Holly Schick said “the city has worked closely with the Saskatoon Council on Aging to achieve the milestones for this recognition.”

An age-friendly community is designed to enable all residents to live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved, and could include:

•             Sidewalks that are well lit and kept in good shape;

•             Accessible services;

•             Buildings with automatic door openers and elevators; and

•             Seniors taking part in all sorts of community activities, such as arts and cultural activities, taking courses, or volunteering for charities or civic duties.