Free morning refreshments, light lunch and door prizes are promised at Surrey's daylong 55+ Housing Forum this Saturday, March 15, at Guildford Recreation Centre.
Starting at 9:30 a.m., the forum theme is about providing tools for older adults to remain independent as they navigate different stages of life, according to an event advisory from the City of Surrey.
Admission is free at the forum, to feature "expert presentations and cover a wide range of topics," including programs that help older adults age in place, housing choices designed to meet the evolving needs of seniors, and support services that promote independence and well-being.
Topics and resource booths include the city's role in housing, gaps in affordable rental housing for low-income seniors, co-operative housing programs, rental rights and responsibilities, safety in the house, Brella Community Services programs, Surrey Libraries services, energy-saving tips from Fortis BC and more.
Forum-goers will receive a free Route65 Caregiver Association bag, too.
It's all part of Surrey's Age-Friendly Strategy & Action Plan (surrey.ca/agefriendly), profiled in a video posted to Youtube. Developed in collaboration with the Surrey Age-Friendly Network and informed by community input, the plan focuses on four key areas to promote healthy aging (Safety, health and wellness, Transportation, Home and Buildings & Outdoor Spaces).
Saturday's forum aims to give older adults access to information on the wide range of housing supports and services available throughout various life stages, says Sahra-Lea Tosdevine-Tataryn, Age Friendly Project Manager for Surrey. “Through education and awareness individuals can access resources so that they can make informed decisions about their housing needs."
Guildford Recreation Centre is at 15105 105 Ave., Surrey. To register, or learn more about the forum, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/55-housing-forum.
