Demographic studies show that in the next 9 to 12 years seniors in BC will grow from 14 % of the
population to 23% of the total population. Yet the majority of Seniors Centres were built at
least 30 years ago to accomodate a senior population that numbered about 10% of the BC
population. Centres for seniors are being squeezed and as a result activities for seniors are
unable to expand for lack of physical space.
Our local governments, who are the major players in creating Seniors Centres, have neglected
spending enough, in response to the growth in the senior population. Their excuse is lack of funds.They must realize that they cannot sit back, and hope that some miracle will occur to
help them cope with a burgeoning senior population who will be quite different from the older
generation. Younger seniors will be healthier, better educated, and their financial situation
will be superior to older seniors. They will need more activities corresponding to their better
health. The days when seniors will be happy sitting down playing card games are over.Local
governments had better wake up to the more active needs of younger seniors.
