Ten ways to tell if your community is ready for an aging population
As you get older, your needs for housing, healthcare, transportation, and recreation often change. MetLife, in a study released this week, found that only 46 percent of American communities have begun to address the unique needs of an aging population, expected to reach 71.5 million people over age 65 by 2030. Thus, MetLife and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, by sending questionnaires to local governments asking about their aging readiness, have identified 10 areas of concern that communities must address to meet the needs of an aging population, and singled out communities that are taking steps to care for their older population.
Housing. "The vast majority of older Americans want to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible," says Sibyl Jacobson, president and CEO of the MetLife Foundation. However, some homes must be adapted to the physical limitations of older adults. Norman Cohen, chair of the National Association of Home Builders' 50-plus housing council, says that older adults want a lot of upgrades and options for their homes, like no step entrances, wider hallways and doorways, and door handles that are easy for people with arthritis to hold.
Some communities offer home modification programs that make the necessary adjustments for seniors. For example, Stratham, N.H., changed its zoning ordinance to create an affordable senior housing zone without minimum lot sizes to encourage the development of smaller structures suitable for retired couples or singles. Scottsdale, Ariz., on the other hand, created a program that trains teens to assist low-income seniors or disabled residents with home-improvement projects.
Taxation and finance. Almost two thirds of communities provide tax assistance and property tax relief to those in financial need, MetLife found. So, if necessary, find out which programs are offered in your area and take advantage. The Fidelity Research Institute says that a mix of withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts like IRA or 401(k) plans and tax-exempt accounts like Roth IRAs can significantly reduce the total amount of federal taxes paid in retirement. You may also want to look out for tax-reduction programs. The Massachusetts towns of Rockport, Southborough, Newbury, Medway, and Swampscott all have such programs for seniors who are community volunteers.
Workforce development. Many retirees plan on working beyond the traditional retirement age in a second career. So, be on the lookout for job training, retraining, and lifelong learning opportunities. Discounts for older adults to take classes at local colleges and universities were reported by 45 percent of communities, MetLife found. The AARP maintains an annual list of the companies that welcome employees over age 50.
Civic engagement and volunteer opportunities. Organizations like the Senior Corps, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Senior Companions, and Foster Grandparents offer ample opportunities for seniors to remain active and involved by volunteering. You may also want to check out community boards and commissions, local government, and nonprofit organizations, which are often understaffed and on the lookout for an extra pair of competent hands.
Emergency and public safety services. Mansfield, Mass., maintains emergency medical information files for every senior and has an Alzheimer's tracking system to locate older adults if they become ill or wander off, but many communities don't. It may be helpful to develop a plan of action with your family in case a situation like this should arise.
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