The SafeStep for Seniors project aims to identify poor sidewalks and road infrastructure in the West End while working with community members and planners to remove unsafe infrastructure. SafeStep for Seniors will adopt the Stakeholder’s Walkability/Wheelability Audit in Neighbourhood (SWAN) tool developed by Simon Fraser University to assess the neighbourhood’s built environment systematically. The project will address the urgent need for safer mobility for seniors and those with diverse disabilities and provide a model for community engagement and participatory solutions.
"SafeStep for Seniors" project strategically addresses safety challenges faced by Canadians with disabilities, especially those aged 65 and older. In 2017, approximately 2.6 million Canadians, constituting 9.6% of the population, encountered mobility restrictions, highlighting the persistent need for comprehensive interventions in advancing access and inclusion (Government of Canada, 2022). This challenge is compounded by significant increases in BC's senior population, estimated at 985,812 in 2020, comprising 19% of all residents and projected to reach almost 25% by 2041 (Government of Canada, 2022). At the same time, 10% of seniors aged 65-69 and 56% of seniors above the age of 85 do not hold a valid driver’s license, making walking one of the primary transportation options available to BC’s growing senior population (Office of the Seniors Advocate British Columbia, 2018).
“SafeStep for Seniors” addresses needs of individuals with disabilities, older adults, as highlighted in the West End Social Indicator Profile. Data reveals that 37% of West End residents experience limitations in daily activities, higher than the city average. This limitation is particularly pronounced among older adults and seniors, emphasizing urgency of creating environments catering to their specific needs.
Focusing on the growing senior population, particularly in the WestEnd neighborhood, this project addresses safety and mobility limitations and encourages social participation. Incorporating the Stakeholders' Walkability/Wheelability Audit in Neighborhood (SWAN) tool, the project aligns with Vision Zero principles by systematically assessing the built environment to enhance accessibility, walkability, and address the specific needs of an aging demographic. The project stems from the pressing need to enhance the safety and accessibility of streets and sidewalks in the West End. At the WESN, we anecdotally hear about the inadequacies of the local sidewalk infrastructure from our senior members, but do not have specific data to prove where the challenges are and what specifically needs to be addressed.
The City of Vancouver also recognizes the importance of improving sidewalks and walkability. The City’s “Active Mobility Plan” emphasizes walking and accessibility and underscores the importance of creating inclusive environments where all residents can fully participate, regardless of ability. Ongoing efforts to address missing sidewalks and prioritize walkability and accessibility reflect the city's commitment.
Curb ramps play a crucial role in creating connections for individuals using wheelchairs, strollers, or other mobility aids, contributing to a safer walking environment. The West End neighborhood's specific needs, outlined in the Active Mobility Plan and Curb Ramp Priorities 2023-2027, emphasize addressing accessibility challenges. Targeted improvements, aligned with the Major Walking and Public Realm Improvements plan for 2023-2027, further highlight the necessity of better walking routes, creating a more accessible and walkable community.
In conclusion, the "SafeStep for Seniors" project is dedicated to creating a safer, more accessible, and inclusive environment for all West End residents. Aligned with the City of Vancouver's plans and addressing specific needs outlined in the West End Social Indicator Profile, the project becomes a crucial step toward realizing the vision of safer streets, comprehensive sidewalks, and enhanced mobility and social participation for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
Photo source: Pixbay. Photo is shown for illustration purposes only and may not be an accurate representation of the project.
