Central Alberta seniors learned about agencies, organizations and government departments that care for their well-being at the Seniors Information Fair.
The third annual event was held at the Collicutt Centre on Tuesday, which was the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons.
“This fair is organized by the Senior Service Providers Interagency, which is a group of agencies located within Red Deer and central Alberta that meet throughout the year that discuss how we can better serve the seniors in our community,” said Jodi Smith, City of Red Deer recreation program co-ordinator.
The city partners with the interagency for the event, providing them a space in the Collicutt Centre, where the event was also held in 2018. The first year was held at the Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre.
“It’s a one-stop shop for people to come for information in regards to seniors,” said Smith.
“On behalf of the city, we really appreciate the work the Senior Service Interagency providers have done organizing this. We hope it continues for many years.”
The event has grown more than 100 per cent when compared to 2018, Smith said.
“This year we got to add in some fun components. We have a try-fitness area and we had even more people than I anticipated try out rock climbing. Then we had a place for people to try pickleball.
“We also have speakers here today talk about various topics that would be pertinent information for seniors,” she said.
Trish Whyte, a member of the Senior Service Providers Interagency, said the goal of the event is to “ensure seniors know about all the programs and services that are offered for them within our community.
“We want to make sure they aren’t missing out on anything,” said Whyte.
“For example, the Lending Cupboard is here for medical supplies they may need, or they can come to find out about Meals on Wheels.”
Many who attend the Seniors Information Fair are “surprised to hear” about all the services available in central Alberta, said Whyte.
“This is a great opportunity to catch people who many haven’t applied to certain programs. This gives them an opportunity to find out about the program and apply in some cases,” she said.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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