INTRODUCTION

In 1995, 78% of all care recipients in British Columbia were over the age of fifty, the majority of which were women (see Chart One).

CHART ONE

B.C.'s seniors deserve to live in age friendly communities that offer all of these things. Studies have shown that seniors who have regular support for their needs and desires and access to community participation have higher levels of self esteem. Children's Women's and Seniors' Health et al. explain that the self esteem, health and happiness of seniors are all interdependant (2004).

The Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) is home to the largest number of seniors in the entire province. The city of Vancouver offers plenty of community support for seniors and encourages their participation in local activities. They offer diverse recreational programs designed for staying active, healthy and involved. They aspire "for all seniors to have equitable access to recreational opportunities for socializing, for maintaining and improving health and mobility and to inform about services and resources" (Vancouver Park Board, 2008).

Our goal is to develop a new retirement home in the GVRD (aka: Metro Vancouver) (See Map One) to accomodate the huge number of seniors reaching the age of retirement. The home will be more of a small community in one the most desirable locations in the GVRD, close in proximity to golf courses, parks, greenspace, libraries, hospitals, and areas currently populated by other seniors. We want to support clients by offering every opportunity to maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. The market for developing a new retirement home is ideal, all that's needed is the perfect location.

MAP ONE
Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada