Let’s continue the Aging in Place conversation

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is developing a Seniors Housing Needs and Support Services Strategy to help people age comfortably and safely in the region. It builds on community feedback gathered in 2025 and looks at housing and support services for seniors aged 65 and over, and older adults aged 55 to 64. It identifies gaps, considers needs now and over the next 10 years, and outlines priorities to address them.

This conversation is for seniors and Elders, older adults, caregivers and families. Whether you live in Wood Buffalo, support a parent who lives here, or have an aging loved one living elsewhere, we want to hear from you. You are also welcome to take part if you are thinking about your own future in the region.

Review the priorities:

• Support to remain independent at home by expanding access to services such as transportation, home maintenance, personal care, and navigation supports that help seniors remain safe, independent, and connected in their communities. 
  
  
• More subsidized seniors housing to address growing demand for affordable, accessible housing options that support seniors with lower incomes.
  
  
• More housing options for seniors by increasing independent living options with optional supports for seniors who no longer want or are able to maintain a private home but do not require long-term care.
  
  
• Increase long-term care capacity to ensure sufficient long-term care, dementia care, and appropriate housing and support options as residents' needs change. 
  
  
• Tailor rural solutions to each community by supporting housing and services tailored to the unique needs, resources, and circumstances of each rural community. 
  
  
• Improve access to home adaptions by exploring accessibility improvements and home modifications that help seniors remain in their homes longer.
  
  
• Address gaps in medical travel, specialist care, and caregiver support through advocacy, partnerships, and community-based initiatives that improve access to healthcare services and supports for caregivers.

Share your thoughts:

• Review the priorities and complete the five-minute survey online, by calling Pulse or a printed copy available at the front desk of Jubilee Centre (9909 Franklin Ave.) or at a rural municipal office.
  
  
• If you’re short on time, take a minute to answer the online Quick Poll.
  
  
• Connect with the team at an in-person event.
  • Friday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. at the Golden Years Society Coffee Chat
  • Monday, Nov. 16, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Council’s Senior Holiday Luncheon at MacDonald Island Park
  • Tuesday, Nov. 17, 5-7 p.m. at the Conklin Multiplex
  • Thursday, Nov. 19,5-7 p.m. at the Mamawai Community Hall
  • Tuesday, Nov. 24, 12-3 p.m. Senior’s Social at the Conklin Multiplex

Engagement opportunities will close Nov. 30. For more information, visit rmwb.ca/aginginplace. 

For more information or to complete the survey by phone, contact Pulse at 743-7000 or toll free at 1-800-973-9663.