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E8a. Addressing Challenges faced by Rural Seniors in British Columbia
Status
Endorsed by the NCLGA Membership - Amended & Endorsed by the UBCM Membership
WHEREAS a recent report by the Office of the Seniors Advocate highlights the significant challenges faced by seniors aged 65 or older living in rural regions of British Columbia (BC), including limited access to healthcare, lower incomes, and inadequate options for long-term care and affordable housing; and
WHEREAS rural seniors constitute a significant portion of BC's population, with projections indicating a further increase in their proportion by 2032; and
WHEREAS the resilience of rural seniors is admirable, but it is evident that they face substantial barriers due to the lack of resources and supports available in their communities;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM acknowledge the findings of the Seniors Advocate's report and recognize the urgent need to address the inequities faced by rural seniors in British Columbia;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM call upon the Provincial Government to take immediate action by implementing the following recommendations put forth by the Seniors Advocate:
1. Develop and implement strategies on rural seniors housing, rural health, rural seniors home and community care, and rural transportation.
2. Create and implement a long-term care and assisted living plan and community care based on equity.
3. Improve upon and better promote the Travel Assistance Program and Hope Air to facilitate access to healthcare services for rural seniors.
Actions
Advocacy and Follow-Up on NCLGA and UBCM Endorsed Resolutions
Once a resolution passed by the North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) is subsequently endorsed at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Annual Convention, responsibility for advancing that resolution transitions to UBCM. UBCM leads the advocacy efforts with the Provincial Government and is the primary point of contact for updates on the status of endorsed resolutions.
To track the progress and government responses to endorsed resolutions, members are encouraged to consult the Provincial Government Response to Resolutions Report, which is published by UBCM annually in February. This report outlines the actions taken or commitments made by the Province in response to each resolution endorsed by UBCM.