Colorado is a great place to live. Coloradans are living longer, healthier, and enriched lives. As of 2021, the median age in Jefferson County is 40.2. Of the total population, 49.21% were aged 30 to 64, 14.63% were 65 to 84, and 1.90% were 85 years of age and older.
Many of us choose to age in place – which has come to mean living safely in our current home for as long as possible. I suggest we move our thinking from aging in place only to “aging in community” – putting the emphasis not only on keeping people at home but also connected through community-based supports and services, so they can stay even safer at home.
It starts with creating age-friendly environments that are safe, accessible, and supportive of the needs of older adults, such as accessible housing, transportation, and social services. Creating these spaces benefits both older adults and entire communities.
Ensuring that older adults have access to resources and information to help them plan for their future is another important aspect of community support. This includes resources for financial planning, long-term care options, and legal assistance.
Most seniors will eventually need some form of help with their activities of daily living (ADLs) – whether they choose to live in a single family home, apartment, or residential community. ADLs can range from getting dressed to making meals to being able to get from one place to another. That’s why it’s key for seniors and their family members to have open conversations about things like medical decisions, finances and socialization.
Unfortunately, many older individuals are struggling to remain living independently in their homes. It is important for communities to dedicate resources to support older adults who may be disadvantaged and in need of assistance. Community based services can help provide support such as affordable housing, healthcare, nutrition assistance, and social support to help older adults in need.
Communities have a responsibility to ensure that older adults are taken care of and supported as they age. Creating age-friendly environments, ensuring access to resources and information, and funding community based services can help older adults age with dignity and receive the support they need to live fulfilling and healthy lives.
I urge you to take action now to advocate for funding and resources for senior services in your community. Contact your local government officials, join local advocacy groups, and raise awareness about the importance of supporting older adults as they age. Together, we can ensure that all individuals have the resources and support they need to age with dignity and independence. Let’s make sure that our communities are truly inclusive and supportive of all ages.
About Seniors Resource Center
SRC’s mission is to be a community partner providing person-focused, coordinated services to enhance independence, dignity, and quality of life. SRC has assisted older adults for 45 years, a testament to its evidence-based, client-focused programming. Through this work, SRC is disrupting older adult stereotypes, ensuring neighborhoods stay intergenerational, and assisting clients to remain independent.
