Wollongong Council has begun to plan how the city will cope with its ageing population, asking for community input to develop a positive ageing strategy.
Population forecasters state that within 20 years, nearly a fifth of Wollongong’s residents will be over the age of 65 years.
Leading regional aged care providers IRT and Warrigal Care have welcomed the council initiative as essential for shaping the city’s future.
Ms Murray said the council needed to consider how to keep the ageing residents in the community connected, healthy and active.
“Accessibility for seniors in terms of where they live, what services are close by and their connection to technology and education is very important,” she said.
“Seniors need affordable and accessible housing that is close to medical centres and supermarkets, which is not only important for health but also keeps them connect to their communities. It’s vital that we plan for this significant shift in our population.”
Mr Sewell added that council needed to look at what could be done to improve rundown infrastructure in areas used by older residents, including the planned makeover of the Crown St Mall.
To access further information about council’s consultation process to develop a strategy click here.
