British Columbians are being called to celebrate, recognize, and honour the older members of their communities during BC Seniors’ Week, taking place from June 1 to June 7.
“There is good news for British Columbians,” said Dan Levitt, BC Seniors Advocate. “The number of seniors is increasing. Today, one in five people are over 65, and in the next decade, this will grow to one in four people.”
Levitt also noted that people are living longer, with 12 per cent of seniors now aged 85 and older — a figure expected to rise to 18 per cent within the next 10 years.
Levitt emphasized the diversity among seniors today, remarking, “The saying ‘when you’ve met one 80-year-old, you’ve met one 80-year-old’ rings truer today than ever before.”
He shared that seniors today are running marathons, contributing in the workplace, and volunteering more than they did before turning 65.
Reflecting on community engagement, Levitt said he has enjoyed seeing the stories and words of wisdom shared by seniors with his office, which will be posted on social media channels during BC Seniors’ Week.
“I’m glad so many older people have taken the opportunity to show their achievements and allow others to learn from their life experiences,” he said.
However, Levitt also pointed out that not all seniors in the province are thriving.
Many are struggling to make ends meet, find appropriate housing or long-term care beds, access reliable and affordable public transportation, or secure the supports necessary to live independently.
He highlighted that the median income for seniors in B.C. is $33,300.
Levitt expressed hope that the provincial government will act on his recommendation to develop a cross-ministry seniors’ strategy and action plan to ensure services are better coordinated and able to meet the needs of the rapidly growing older population.
“Seniors have helped shape our province and are a vital part of our society,” Levitt stated.
He urged everyone to take time to reach out, listen to seniors’ stories, learn from their experiences, and recognize their profound value.
“Ageing is something to embrace, because if we are lucky enough to live a long life, we too will become a senior one day,” he added.
