It’s interesting to note that almost a quarter of our city’s population is now aged 55 or over.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
That figure would probably surprise many, especially since Maitland is regarded as one of the fastest-growing inland cities in Australia.
Major housing construction on all sides of the city have seen an influx of families – many with young children – in recent years.
And there are plans on the drawing board for more development and growth into the future.
While younger folk are being catered for with facilities for families, council has now turned its focus to those aged 55 and over.
Next week it will host the first in a series of discussions to ask older Maitland residents how it can best promote positive attitudes to ageing in the community.
Council’s community planning co-ordinator Mary Dallow believes an ageing population has a lot to offer any city, especially one like Maitland.
“The idea is to develop a strategy to manage the situation and to promote a positive attitude so council can support the older residents.”
Our city is already plays host to a number of groups that support activities for the older age group.
Maitland Bridge Club meets regularly at its new headquarters, while a number of Probus clubs provide a new lease on life for those who are no longer working full time.
The University of the Third Age has also established itself in Maitland to provide learning opportunities for older residents.
Ms Dallow is correct when she says older residents have a lot to offer.
This is your chance to have a say on how our city plans for the growing number of baby boomers as they move closer to retirement.
