According to the latest 2011 Canadian Census data released May 29, the country’s population is aging rapidly with the Boomer generation entering retirement age in large numbers.
The census revealed that between 2006 and 2011:
• The 60-64 age group grew 29 per cent – the fastest growing age group in Canada
• The number of seniors – those aged 65 and over – rose 14 per cent and is now sitting at around five million (the highest number of seniors ever)
• Those of working age (aged 15-64) grew by only 5.7 per cent
In the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) the census shows a total population of 128,475, comprised of 63,510 males, and 64,965 females. There are 31,195 residents of 60 or older, with a median age population for the TNRD of 44.
In Barriere, there is population of 1,775, comprised of 885 males, and 890 females. There are 640 residents 60 years of age or over, with a median age population for Barriere of 52.1. Fourteen per cent of the Barriere population shows as being made up of those under 15-years-old.
Population growth in Barriere has grown by 23.8 per cent since the 2006 census which showed 1,432 residents. Total private dwellings shown in the community as of 2011 were 876, with private dwellings occupied by usual residents at 806.
Barriere has a land area of 10.77 square km, and shows a population density of 164.7 per square kilometre.