The Ladysmith Resources Centre is looking for some active seniors in the community to be a part of the new Seniors Council.
Sharen Newton, council co-ordinator, said seniors in this region need a better voice.
As more people pick the Island, and Ladysmith, as their chosen place to retire, it becomes vital to have open lines of communication with the 55+ population.
In the interest of getting the council up and running, the first crop of councillors will be appointed instead of elected.
“All the people who apply for the council will be interviewed,” said Newton, adding they are hoping about 15 apply — 10 have already shown interest.
Newton said seniors today are facing the same issues that were around 20 years ago.
Access to health care, transportation, housing and pensions are some of the big concerns seniors continue to struggle with, said Newton.
“Seniors need to be included more in things that are happening,” said Newton.
As an example, Newton pointed to the ferries.
Schedules are available online only around Ladysmith and for many seniors who do not have a computer or Internet access, it becomes a barrier and annoyance.
“So the rest of us are left out. Life is not senior friendly,” said Newton. Life can get even harder for seniors who are no longer able to drive or living off tight incomes.
For Newton, who is a nurse by trade, constant cuts to health care leave her with cause for concern.
“We need a voice for these people. The idea of the council was to give a voice to the seniors of Ladysmith and area.”
That may include involvement at the municipal government level and health care.
Seniors have until August 5 to submit their application for the council. Application forms will be ready at the Resources Centre on July 15.
Newton said they are hoping to have their council in place by September.