Town of Penetanguishene Recognized as a WHO Age-Friendly Community
The Town of Penetanguishene is pleased to announce that it has been officially designated as a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities, recognizing the Town’s ongoing commitment to supporting healthy aging, accessibility, and inclusion for residents of all ages.
This international designation acknowledges Penetanguishene’s structured and sustained efforts to become an age-friendly community, including the adoption of its Age-Friendly Community Plan in 2021. Developed through extensive community input and guided by the Town’s Wellbeing and Accessibility Committee, the plan lays out actions that help ensure older residents can remain active, connected, and supported as the community grows.
By being designated as an age-friendly community, we commit to creating environments that are safe, inclusive, and supportive. The WHO Age-Friendly Framework focuses on eight key areas of community life, including outdoor spaces, transportation, housing, social participation, communication, and access to health and community services. Together, these elements support independence, well-being, and quality of life for older adults, while benefiting residents of all ages.
Penetanguishene’s designation reflects the Town’s demonstrated leadership in planning for an aging population and embedding age-friendly principles across municipal services, programs, and infrastructure. Progress on the Age-Friendly Community Plan is reviewed regularly, and implementation responsibilities are shared across municipal departments and committees, ensuring age-friendly considerations are integrated into day-to-day decision-making.
“Becoming a designated Age-Friendly Community aligns directly with our 20-year Strategic Plan, particularly being a Healthy Community,” said Mayor Doug Rawson. “By reviewing and implementing the key recommendations of the Age-Friendly Community Plan, we are strengthening our commitment to promoting healthy living, well-being, and access to recreational amenities and programs for residents of all ages, now and for generations to come.”
Looking ahead, the Town will continue to review the Age-Friendly Community Plan and identify priority recommendations to support healthy lifestyles, social connection, and accessible community spaces as part of its long-term strategic goals.
More information about Penetanguishene’s age-friendly designation is available at World Health Organization, or www.penetanguishene.ca