10 Ways Communities Can Prepare for the Aging Population Boom

These “best practices” will improve community living for older adults

In a survey of thousands of cities and communities across the United States, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) discovered that many communities across America are not prepared to serve the aging population boom that is expected when millions of baby boomers reach retirement age.

Looking at what communities across the U.S. are doing well (and not so well) to serve an aging population, n4a developed 10 “best practices” to help communities prepare for the aging population boom that is expected to peak in 2030. At that time, n4a estimates that one in every five Americans will be over the age of 65.

Ten “Best Practices” to Help Communities Serve an Aging Population

1. Preventive health care—including health and “lifestyle” education, immunizations and health screenings—to reduce injuries and the onset of chronic diseases. Include a range of in-home services that will help older adults staying their homes longer.
2. Nutrition education to promote healthy eating through a person’s entire lifespan, and community-sponsored nutrition programs like home-delivered meals for older adults who have difficulty preparing their own meals.
3. Age-appropriate fitness programs and recreational facilities that offer walking trails, benches, and fitness equipment.
4. Safe driving assistance, including larger, easier-to-read road signage, grooved lane dividers, reflective road markings and dedicated left-turn lanes. Include driver assessments and training to promote safe driving for all ages, especially after strokes or other health incidents. Make transportation options available for people who cannot or do not want to drive.
5. Special planning and training for public safety personnel and other first responders to help them locate and assist older adults during emergencies and disasters.
6. Home modification programs to help people adjust for special needs. Include zoning and subdivision plans that promote a variety of affordable, accessible housing located near medical, commercial and other desired services, as well as shared housing options for older adults and their caregivers.
7. Tax assistance and property-tax relief for people in financial need, and programs to protect older adults against scams and elder abuse.
8. Job training, re-training and lifelong learning opportunities, plus flexible employment options that will attract and retain older workers.
9. Community engagement opportunities, including serving on community boards and commissions, as well as volunteer opportunities in local government and non-profit organizations.
10. Single point of access to ALL aging information and services in the community, and the strategic expansion of services that will help older adults age with dignity and independence in their homes and communities.

“The aging of the population will have a dramatic impact on America’s cities and counties," said Sibyl Jacobson, president of MetLife Foundation, which funded the survey. “By taking action now, communities can avoid problems and improve the quality of life for all citizens as well as for older adults.”