Celebrating thousands of seniors who call Strathcona County home

Strathcona County is honoured to recognize the positive impact of nearly 12,000 residents over the age of 65 through a Seniors' Celebration, while also focusing on health and connections, including information on elder abuse awareness and education. 

The events occurring during the week are affordable and accessible and provide an inclusive environment for our older adult population, which reflects the newly approved Social Framework.

Residents are invited to hear Mayor Carr read the proclamation of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day at 2 p.m. on June 6, 2017 at Council Chambers (2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park). As another way to support seniors’ safety in our community, following the proclamation, residents are invited to a Frauds and Scams information session, hosted by the RCMP in the Family and Community Services office (second floor, north wing of Community Centre, 2001 Sherwood Drive).

This year’s Seniors’ Celebration takes place on Thursday, June 8, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Ardrossan Recreation Complex (80-1 Avenue, Ardrossan). The celebration breakfast is an affordable event that builds relationships, as well as provides opportunity to make new connections. The event also includes a lifestyle fair featuring information about programs and services.

As honoured guests, seniors will be treated to light refreshments, entertainment and fellowship. Limited tickets are available for $5 each, and are available for purchase at either the Family and Community Services office (501 Festival Avenue, Sherwood Park) or the Information and Volunteer Centre (100 Ordze Avenue, Sherwood Park). Transportation is available for those in need; please call 780-464-4044 for more information.

In addition, on June 15, Strathcona County joins the world-wide efforts to promote awareness of elder abuse.  Residents are invited to learn the signs of abuse and break the silence. If you, or someone you know, is impacted by elder abuse, help is available. Contact the Strathcona County 24-hour Elder Abuse Line for more information and support: 780-464-7233.

Seniors are a valuable voice in Strathcona County, and by 2031, the number of seniors in Strathcona County is expected to double - resulting in seniors outnumbering the children and youth in our community, for the first time.

Further information about senior supports and resources is available online or by calling 780-464-4044. For more information about the Social Framework, visit www.strathcona.ca/communitytalk or call 780-464-4044.

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of refining in Western Canada. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.

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Contact:  Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595