News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Moncton has been named the first age-friendly community in New Brunswick, after successfully establishing policies and providing services to promote healthy aging and wellness.

The provincial government’s Age-Friendly Communities Recognition Program was developed to encourage communities to take sustainable action in order to become more age-friendly. The award acknowledges the success of New Brunswick communities in establishing policies and services to promote healthy aging and wellness.

Another 21 communities in New Brunswick are well on their way to becoming age-friendly.

“Seniors contribute a great deal to the communities they reside in. It is inspiring to see these communities, among others, working hard to provide seniors with supportive physical and social environments,” said Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Lisa Harris. “Your government is proud of the dedication these communities have shown towards becoming age-friendly and I encourage others to continue following their lead.”

To receive recognition, communities must have completed four milestones developed by the World Health Organization. These milestones are based upon community engagement and taking sustainable action.

The four milestones are: have a resolution passed by your local government; establish an age-friendly committee in your community; conduct an age-friendly assessment of your community; and develop and implement an action plan.

“Moncton has always prided itself in being the best city to live, work, learn and play for all our residents,” said Moncton Mayor Dawn Arnold. “As we all get older, we want to ensure that many amenities and programs are available for older adults. We are honoured to receive this recognition as we continue our efforts to be a model for creating a great environment for our senior population.”

More information about the Age-Friendly Recognition Program is available on the Wellness Movement website. Wellness Week is celebrated in New Brunswick on Oct. 1-7.

The Age-Friendly Community Recognition Program is an initiative developed as part of the Home First Strategy and works in harmony with the We’re all in this together: An Aging Strategy for New Brunswick and the New Brunswick Family Plan.