The Oxford Age Friendly Strategy is promoting and working toward providing a community where we can live with dignity and in comfort with the help of connections, resources and relationships.
Jun 08, 2026 •
Linda De Jonghe File
Of course, not you and I, but a lot of others out there are aging.
This has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
If we keep going we will soon outnumber those beautiful, active, all-knowing young’uns. Maybe we can take over the world and put them in their place once and for all. Actually, we just hope they don’t put us some place we don’t want to be. We need to take care of ourselves so we can remind them where they would be if not for us.
Meagan Lichti, chair of the Oxford Age Friendly Committee, and Diane Handsaeme, director of Home Support Services at Tillsonburg and District Multi-Service Centre, (519-842-9000) gave a very insightful presentation to Norwich Township Council on May 12. Between 2011 and 2021 the number of people aged 65+ rose from 16 percent to 20 percent. From 2016 to 2021 the percentage of low-income seniors increased from 18 percent to 25 percent. There are more and more of us-I’m one of them-and many are finding it harder financially to maintain the lifestyles we’re used to. That’s a serious concern for an aging population.
This has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
The Oxford Age Friendly Strategy is promoting and working toward providing a community where we can live with dignity and in comfort with the help of connections, resources and relationships.
One major issue many face is transportation; it’s essential for accessing healthcare, socializing effectively, and participating fully in life. Affordable housing is hard to find too; support is needed so that we can choose where to live or stay safely in our own homes. To remain active, improvements are necessary regarding maintenance of walking paths, sidewalks, accessible bathrooms.
Meagan and Diane provided a very informative talk. They were also looking for support for the Aging Well Road Show happening at the Norwich Community Centre on June 17 from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.
There are lots of little ways that can help us continue thriving. I focus on keeping my balance by avoiding stooping when I walk-no one wants that old folks’ dance called “the stoop and shuffle.” We can also contribute by reaching out to family members or neighbors. I make it a point to call a friend each morning while she calls me every evening; these chats give us both security along with some much-needed social interaction.
This has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
We should look at our community organizations too for assistance they might provide. Some offer vital services like transportation options or meal deliveries as well as social events tailored for seniors’ needs. For instance, I know some hairstylists like Lynne at Hair Fashion by Lynne in Norwich generously provide home haircuts for those who can’t get out easily; you could check if your regular stylist offers this service as well because feeling good about how you look matters!
Please mark June 17 from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m., at Norwich Community Centre on your calendar so you can check out the Aging Well Road Show! It’s an opportunity to gather information about how you or someone you care about can thrive as they age while knowing that seniors aren’t just expecting everything handed over for free-we just want fair pricing along with chances available that let us enjoy our lives fully!
If those seeking your vote come around on Election Day ask them what plans they have regarding ensuring seniors-and those who love them-are supported so everyone may enjoy happy lives within their homes or preferred facilities.
twocentsworth40@gmail. com
Share this article in your social network
Source link
Source link
