To be recognized for the Age-Friendly efforts, communities must complete the following four basic steps based on the World Health Organization (WHO) framework. These steps demonstrate a community’s commitment to Age-Friendly principles through community engagement and action. Each step is designated to help communities increase awareness and gathering support from key partners (e.g. citizens, local agencies, non-government organizations, and local businesses.)
1. Secure community commitment by having the Municipality commit to the AFC approach. This involves having a resolution passed to actively support, promote and carry out the initiative on behalf of the community.
“Motion 93-10/17: It was moved by Councillor Gumushel, seconded by Councillor Boyd, and carried that it be resolved that the Council continue to actively support and promote the work of the local Age-Friendly Committee and to consider as part of the 2018 Budget process, possible contributions towards each milestone in becoming an Age-Friendly municipality.
2. Establish an Age-Friendly Steering Committee and find support in order to actively engage the community, and in particular seniors.
The first meeting of Saint Andrews and Area AFC Steering Committee was held on April 10, 2017.
3. Conduct an Age-Friendly assessment consultation with the community and seniors.
Community Assessment & Recommendations: Town of Saint Andrews Age-Friendly Community Committee
4. Establish a comprehensive action plan, including measures that respond to the needs identified by seniors and other members of the community. The Town has agreed to share the Community Assessment, Recommendations & Action Plan on their website. The Age-Friendly Steering Committee approved this document on June 20, 2018.