City of Waterloo recognized by the Province as an Age-Friendly Community

The City of Waterloo is thrilled to be recognized by the Government of Ontario as an Age-Friendly Community, celebrating our efforts to making Waterloo and Ontario more accessible and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. Age-friendly communities create more inclusive physical and social environments that support older adults to live safely, enjoy good health and stay active and involved. The City of Waterloo, along with others across Ontario, was recognized by Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility for our achievements in building spaces that are more inclusive of older adults.

“I’m thrilled that Waterloo has been recognized as an Age-Friendly Community, acknowledging the work of staff, volunteers and Council in our efforts to be a more accessible, inclusive City for everyone,” said Dorothy McCabe, Mayor of Waterloo. “Older adults play an important role in overall community vibrancy. Recognizing Waterloo as an Age-Friendly Community reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting older adults and helping residents of all ages thrive.”

The City of Waterloo has provided programs and services to older adults for many years and has been a member of the Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities since 2011. Recent age-friendly initiatives include a new program offering free snow removal for eligible older adults, and a pilot project to support older adults in Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs). The Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex (WMRC) was expanded in 2022, and the new Community Pavilion was completed in the same year. These buildings were intentionally designed to create inclusive, accessible spaces where people of all ages can connect. The design is universal, barrier-free and supports access for everyone.

The City of Waterloo is developing its next Age-friendly Action Plan (2027–2030) and wants to hear from residents. Together, we can better understand the needs of older adults in our community by identifying gaps in service, challenges in accessing support, opportunities for improvement and what is already working well. By sharing experiences and ideas, residents will help us continue to be a more welcoming, supportive and age-friendly Waterloo.

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Media contact:

Jennifer Reed
Communications Consultant
jennifer.reed@waterloo.ca