June 23, 2010
(Red Deer, Alberta) – In 2009, The City of Red Deer partnered with the Alberta Motor Association and local senior serving agencies to study seniors’ mobility and transportation in the community. The research study is now complete, and the public is invited to review the executive summary and final report at www.reddeer.ca/socialplanning.
“The report includes findings of the research, and it also details recommendations in six key areas,” said Linda Healing, Community Development Supervisor with The City of Red Deer. “This is an important document for the community to be aware of, because it offers information for seniors, service providers or professionals that work with seniors.”
The transportation study provides a comprehensive picture of the mobility and transportation needs of Red Deer’s senior population, and the information gathered will be used to enhance seniors’ transportation in the future.
“We’re already seeing positive changes as a result of the study,” Healing said. “For example, there’s now better disabled access at the bus stop at 65th Street and Gaetz Avenue. In partnership with the Golden Circle, we recently launched “Driving Angels”, a volunteer driver recognition program, and are working on a transportation information day for seniors.”
Since Red Deer’s senior population is expected to grow from the current 9,000 individuals or 10 percent of the population to 14.5% by 2026, the seniors’ transportation report will provide assistance for this growing demographic. “The study revealed many components that define mobility and transportation options for seniors,” said Franklin Kutuadu, Community Researcher for The City. “These components will form a base for community advocacy and decision-making for seniors transportation in the future.”
To review the seniors’ mobility and transportation report, please visit www.reddeer.ca/socialplanning and click on Reports and Publications.
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For more information, please contact:
Linda Healing
Community Development Supervisor
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8342
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