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J A N U A R Y , 2 0 1 8
Is your community “Aging in Place” friendly?
Communities must be proactive in asking themselves “Is
our community ‘aging in place’ friendly?” This is a conver-
sation that starts jointly with the Board and its membership.
Communities that are designated as age-restricted have
many advantages – their design, amenities, and social
activities geared toward an aging population may already
be in place. If your community is not age-restricted, utilize
community volunteer resources and establish a committee
to explore the issue at a holistic level.
Be sure to also include the management
team as they can provide you with a
wealth of knowledge and their experi-
ences regarding how other communities
handled these changes.
Housing, transportation, social engage-
ment, and the availability of health services
rank as the top four most pressing needs for
residents “aging in place.” Review each
AGE IN PLACE...
from page 16.
of these categories and determine where improvements can
be made. Realistically, there are many aspects you cannot
change about your community, such as the location, original
construction, and environmental aspects, but you can influence
engagement, opportunity, transportation, etc. Strategizing
should include a range of low or no cost items - items that
may be funded by the association, as well as those services or
activities that may be completed/underpinned by volunteers.
Most towns have a vast amount of local, free, and almost
free resources for those wishing to “age in place.” A simple
reference list of services and events would be a great resource
for both residents and managers. Your County Office on
Aging can provide you with information and assistance on:
• Nutrition Services
• Home Care and Care Management Services
• Personal Assistance Services Program (PASP)
• State Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
• Prescription Assistance
• Local Special Events/Calendar of Meetings
• Transportation
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