Red Deer’s population is aging along with the rest of the nation, but at a slower rate.
The 2016 federal census shows people age 65 and over account for 12 per cent of the city’s population while nationally seniors make up 16.9 per cent.
Across Alberta 12.3 per cent are seniors.
Red Deer’s senior population has climbed 27.4 per cent since 2011, and the city’s overall population grew 10.9 per cent.
According to Statistics Canada, between 2011 and 2016, the country saw the largest increase in seniors since Confederation because the first baby boomers are reaching the age of 65.
Canada’s aging population is prompting municipalities to focus on seniors and accessibility needs when it comes to infrastructure, housing, transit, social and recreational planning.
“The federal census information always provides us with valuable insights into the demographics of our citizenry,” said Mayor Tara Veer.
“This latest data allows us to best respond to the needs of our senior population and proactively plan for the requirements of our community in a sustainable way.”
Red Deer’s working population, age 15 to 64, make up 69.4 per cent of the city, and children 14 and younger account for 18.6 per cent.
The census also shows single family homes are still the most popular type of housing in Red Deer, but like the national trend the proportion of multi-family housing has grown.
The proportion of single family homes in Red Deer dropped to 52.7 per cent from 54.4 per cent in 2011.
Duplexes increased from 3.8 per cent from 2.9 per cent. Townhouses and row houses increased to 10.1 per cent from 9.7 per cent. Apartments under five storeys increased to 21 per cent from 20.2.
For more information visit www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/170503/dq170503a-eng.htm?HPA=1