B.C.’s Ministry of Health and the BC Chamber of Commerce have combined forces to create a comprehensive guide providing businesses with information on how to create an environment that is safe and comfortable for seniors.
Creating an age-friendly business in B.C. is designed to help new and prospective business owners ensure their businesses are age-friendly. It includes information on how businesses can provide an environment of safety, comfort, visibility and respect for older customers.
The guide also includes examples of best practices from existing businesses and an assessment tool to help business operators determine if their business is age-friendly and learn how to make improvements.
According to the release, some of the signs of an age-friendly business include:
- wider aisles and uncluttered pathways to better accommodate walkers and wheelchairs;
- a place for customers to sit while waiting, and a place to put packages down;
- clear signage;
- adequate and glare-free lighting;
- a service desk that is clearly visible so customers can ask for help; and
- staff made aware of the needs and challenges faced by older customers.
Margaret MacDiarmid, parliamentary secretary for seniors to the minister of health, said “The older segment of our population is growing at a rapid rate and seniors play an active and valuable role in communities across B.C. This guide recognizes that many seniors have significant purchasing power and tend to be loyal customers, and the guide helps to support both businesses and the customers they serve.”
Jennifer Harrison
Twitter: JHarrisonBIV