The Town of Cochrane has officially released its Age-Friendly Action Plan, a roadmap to guide the transformation of the community into a more accessible, connected and inclusive place for older adults.
“As Cochrane grows, we have a responsibility to create a community where older adults thrive,” said Matt Knox, director of social development. “An age-friendly Cochrane means investing in accessible infrastructure, fostering meaningful social connections, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to flourish.”
The plan is a 50-page document which focuses on built environment, social environment, and personal health and well-being. The following are the eight key areas of action which Cochrane will focus on from 2025 to 2029.
- Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
- Transportation
- Housing
- Social Participation
- Respect and Social Inclusion
- Civic Participation and Employment
- Communication and Information
- Community Support and Health Services
“There are a lot of benefits to being recognized as an age-friendly community,” Knox added. “There are economic and tourism impacts, and the recognition extends to both provincial and international levels.”
The plan aligns with Alberta Age-Friendly Recognition program and the key areas follow the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Age-Friendly Cities Framework.
In 2022, Cochrane committed to the age-friendly initiative in response to the town’s rapidly growing senior population. According to the 2021 Census, the number of residents aged 65 and older increased by 172.4 per cent since 2011—the highest growth rate of any age demographic in the community.
“We're seeing a lot of older adults are moving here to be closer with family,” Knox noted. “Some people are choosing to retire here in Cochrane for the lifestyle that we offer-being close to mountains, the services and activities, while still having a small-town feel.”
Following the commitment, the next two years were spent developing of the action plan. Funded by Calgary Foundation, the Age Friendly Steering Committee conducted a series of interviews, surveys, focus groups and workshops to identify barriers to age friendliness that should be addressed in the town of Cochrane.
“We got over 350 responses, five community workshops, and three focus groups,” said Knox. “We wanted to understand those barriers that existed and determine the opportunities to become a friend.”
The release marks the beginning of implementation phase. Some of the proposed actions such as Advocating for Expanded Public Transportation aligns with municipal priorities.
“It's really exciting to see this work connect with other projects already underway to improve the town,” Knox said. “Ultimately, this plan is for all of us. If you want to live and age here, then this is an investment in your future community.”
The age friendly action plan for Cochrane will be implemented from now until 2029 with a review of outcomes to be done in 2030.
