Media Advisory: Experts to Present New Findings on Vulnerable Seniors in Our Region

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Nov. 14, 2011) -

WHAT: United Way report reveals growing and acute need

WHEN: 9am to 4pm, Wednesday, November 16

WHERE: Hilton Vancouver Metrotown, 6083 McKay Avenue, Burnaby

WHY: A report by United Way of the Lower Mainland identifies concentrated populations of vulnerable seniors in acute need throughout the region.

For example, in 2006, Richmond had the highest incidence of senior-led family renters in the region (18.9%) spending 50% or more of household income on housing costs; in 2006, Langley City had the highest incidence of low-income among female seniors of communities in the region (35.4%).

The report calls for action on research, services and policy changes to improve seniors' quality of life throughout the Lower Mainland. Go to www.uwlm.ca to view the full report.

A major demographic shift is under way. About 44 per cent of people in British Columbia are now either boomers or their parents. The oldest baby boomers turn 65 this year. By 2036, Metro Vancouver's 65-plus population is expected to more than double - with one in four people qualifying as a senior. To that end, over the next three years United Way of the Lower Mainland will more than double its annual investment on behalf of vulnerable seniors in the region to $7 million.

More about the forum here: http://www.uwlm.ca/seniorsforum

Watch the forum live online on Wednesday, Nov. 16 here: http://www.livestream.com/uwlm

OPPORTUNITY: United Way of the Lower Mainland President and CEO Michael McKnight and report consultant, Scott Graham, Manager of Research and Consulting SPARC BC (Social Planning and Research Council of BC), are available for interview.