(Cochrane, AB) – The Town of Cochrane has been officially recognized as a Provincially Designated Age-Friendly Community, joining a growing network of Alberta municipalities committed to creating inclusive and accessible communities for residents of all ages.
The designation was presented by Angela Pitt, MLA for Airdrie-East, on behalf of Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services of the Government of Alberta, at a special ceremony on Friday, November 21, at the Cochrane RancheHouse. The invitation-only event included representatives from the Province, Town Council, community organizations and members of the Age-Friendly Cochrane Steering Committee.
This recognition marks the culmination of six years of collaboration, research and planning led by Family and Community Support Services (FCSS). Guided by the World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Communities Framework, the initiative focuses on improving accessibility, inclusion, housing, outdoor spaces and social connection for all generations.
Building on the recently completed Age-Friendly Action Plan (2025–2029), the initiative has now entered the implementation phase. Several key actions are already underway in partnership with the University of Calgary, Big Hill Haven, the Cochrane and Area Primary Care Network, Assisted Living Alberta, Recovery Alberta and Cochrane Urgent Care. These collaborations are focused on enhancing community design, strengthening communication and engagement and expanding supports for older adults and their caregivers.
"This recognition shows Cochrane’s dedication to creating a community that supports healthy, active aging," said Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. "Congratulations to everyone who helped make this happen – you’re setting an example for communities across the province."
“This recognition reflects years of dedication from community members, organizations and Town staff who have worked together to make Cochrane a place where people of all ages feel connected, supported and valued,” said Mayor Morgan Nagel. “Becoming an officially designated Age-Friendly Community reinforces our commitment to ensuring Cochrane continues to be a welcoming community for everyone.”
The Town also recognizes Sharon Moore, Cochrane’s Age-Friendly Facilitator since 2019, whose leadership has been central to the program’s success. Moore was recently honoured at the Healthy Aging Alberta Summit with the Heart of the Community Award for exceptional leadership in building partnerships that improve the lives of older adults.
For more information about Cochrane’s Age-Friendly Action Plan, visit cochrane.ca/AgeFriendly.
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