This policy brief shows the evolution of the Age-Friendly Niagara movement in the context of ongoing sociodemographic changes and challenges. It provides recommendations and conclusions to inform a diverse range of decision-makers in public, non-profit, and business sectors, as well as the Niagara community at large to work together to turn these challenges into opportunities.

Over the past 15 years, the population in the Niagara region has become significantly older and more diverse, while the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to an increase in social isolation and a decrease in community volunteerism. However, opportunities exist to engage older and younger generations alike, encouraging their civic engagement as community resources.

The brief recommends:

  1. Support the Age-Friendly Niagara movement at the municipal and regional levels.
  2. Centre the needs of equity-denied groups in community development.
  3. Revitalize community volunteerism by listening to older adults and incorporating new models.
  4. Foster cohesiveness and community well-being through intergenerational relationships in neighbourhoods across Niagara.

Click here to access Change in an Evolving Niagara: Navigating the Age-Friendly Communities Movement and Volunteerism

Published by Niagara Community Observatory at Brock University, 2024