Age-Friendly Communities (CM Pending | 1.5)

America is confronting a silver tsunami. For the next 20 years, 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 daily, joining an already growing number over 80+. This profound demographic transition is challenging communities struggling with a tough economy, and, is overwhelming to government and community policymakers at all levels. Preparing for this wave is viewed as a political and economic liability – impacting social security, healthcare costs and services..and placing an added burden on the young. As the vast majority of older adults want to age in place, they are creating a demand for communities that are age friendly. Age-friendly communities are friendly to all ages, not just older adults. Ultimately, young and old want the same things: an environment that allows them to participate and thrive. Financing age-friendly initiatives do not have to be costly. Planners and local governments should give attention to: holistic approach of multigenerational planning, work underway in cities, such as New York and Atlanta, taking creative steps to make their neighborhoods age-friendly and tools such as the Villages movement for self-empowerment on aging-in-place. This session will examine some tools and resources to foster communities friendly to all ages and highlight on-the-ground strategies to ‘fund’ changes.

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