New Elder Bus Enhances Accessibility for Gjoa Haven Seniors

Gjoa Haven, a remote community in Canada’s Nunavut territory, has welcomed a new elder bus that promises to enhance mobility for its senior residents. The bus, equipped with a hydraulic lift, was first used on September 30, 2023, during the community’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event. This initiative aims to ensure that elders can participate fully in community activities, regardless of mobility challenges.

According to Christine Porter, the deputy mayor of Gjoa Haven, the bus will significantly improve the quality of life for seniors. “Even if they’re in a wheelchair, they dance with the rest of us,” she stated. The bus features space for four wheelchairs and accommodates 12 seated passengers, making it an essential addition for many elders who previously faced transportation difficulties.

The vehicle, which cost $197,600, was funded through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program in partnership with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association. It arrived in Gjoa Haven during the August sealift, with the community prioritizing its availability for the recent event. The need for accessible transportation had been a recurring topic among seniors on local radio, highlighting their desire to engage in special occasions without the barriers posed by traditional vehicles.

Improving Community Engagement

Porter explained that elders often expressed frustration over their inability to attend events due to transportation challenges. “They want to join in, so they’re often asking for rides to special events, but they have a hard time going on a Honda or a Ski-doo,” she said. The introduction of the elder bus is expected to alleviate these issues, allowing seniors to enjoy community life more fully.

The chief administrative officer of Gjoa Haven, Jennifer Wakegijig, noted the logistical efforts involved in preparing the bus for use. “We had to make sure the bus had licence plates, find a parking spot, get it insured, and so we just really pushed to have it available in time for September 30,” she said. Currently, the municipality is training recreation and wellness staff to operate the bus, which does not require a special driver’s licence. Staff are learning to safely use the lift and secure wheelchairs, ensuring that rides are coordinated around community events.

The lift has already proven to be effective and user-friendly. Wakegijig remarked, “The bus has a wonderful lift. It doesn’t even shake when it hits the bottom or the top of its trajectory, so we can easily have either an elder stand on it, even if they’re in a walker, or we can roll their wheelchair onto it.”

Future Prospects for Elder Transportation

Both Porter and Wakegijig have expressed hopes to expand the bus service beyond just event transportation. If funding can be secured for a full-time driver, the bus could also serve elders for errands, medical appointments, and rides to the airport. To explore long-term operating funds, the hamlet plans to reach out to the territorial Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, along with other potential funding sources.

“This is finally an opportunity to really treat our elders the way we would like to, with respect and inclusivity,” Wakegijig added. She emphasized the importance of removing barriers to participation in community life, stating that there are many beautiful opportunities available that elders should not miss.

The introduction of the elder bus in Gjoa Haven not only represents a critical step toward improved accessibility but also reinforces the community’s commitment to supporting its senior population. With ongoing efforts to secure funding and expand services, the elder bus stands as a symbol of hope and inclusivity for the residents of Gjoa Haven.