Ashburton looks to support ageing population

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

From local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:

Facing a rapidly ageing population, the Ashburton District has received a funding boost to prepare an age friendly action plan.

Safer Mid Canterbury, a local community service provider, has a steering group leading the project that has been awarded $15,000 from Office for Seniors Age friendly Fund.

The Government agency provides grants to projects that promote the inclusion of older people and help cities and communities prepare for their ageing populations.

Safer Mid Canterbury steering group chairperson, deputy mayor Liz McMillan (pictured) said the grant will be used for a needs assessment as the first step in developing an age friendly strategy.

“A steering group will be set up next year and there will be some research into what the need is in the district.”

The research will include speaking with older people in the Ashburton District and to the agencies which work with them, as well as analysing Census and other relevant data.

Findings and data collected in the needs assessment research will be developed into an Age Friendly Strategy and Action Plan for Ashburton District.

The number of over 65s rose by 14% since 2018, according to the Census data.

Residents aged over 65 make up a fifth of the district’s population and the number is predicted to grow, McMillan said.

“Older Ashburton residents contribute hugely to the wellbeing of our community through continuing to work, volunteering, caring for grandchildren, being involved in community activities as well as being good neighbours and active members of society.

“We look forward to highlighting and celebrating the contributions of older people to our district and further developing and improving areas which will make the lives of our district’s older residents better.”

Office for Seniors age friendly programme lead Karen Piercy said she was proud of Ashburton for taking their first steps in developing an age friendly strategy.

“By identifying what’s important for older people in their community, we can help make Ashburton an amazing place to age well.”