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 BCs population, with projections indicating a further increase in their proportion by 2032; 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 Advocates report and recognize the urgent need to address the inequities faced by rural seniors in British Columbia; And be it further resolved that 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 including the recommendation of an increase to direct patient care hours. 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.
