Center for Civic Partnerships

Healthy Aging

Current trends point to remarkable growth in the number of aging Americans. California, as the most populace state, is at the top of the list. Professionals interested in aging issues used to talk about “baby boomers” as the coming “pig in the python,” – the time has arrived! National statistics reflect that women in the “oldest old” group, those who are 85 years old and older, are expected to increase by 56% (from 1995 – 2010). The California Department of Finance reports that the Golden State will experience a 77% increase in this ‘oldest old’ age group by 2010. Additionally, the significant increase in the number of 65 year old Californians has not been seen since the 1930s. And not only are there growing numbers of older adults - people are living longer when compared to past generations.

What do these demographic changes mean for California and the nation? One clear directive emerges for policymakers, community leaders, advocates and service providers - start planning now! It is time to consider how these growing numbers of older adults will influence and modify our social fabric. Steps must be taken without delay in planning at local, state and national levels.

Get Into the Groove of Planning

Unlike previous generations, many “boomers” are bringing their lifelong adult interests in remaining healthy and youthful into old age. The idea of “Healthy Aging” prompts individuals to explore how to remain active, independent, informed and productive. Increasingly, Americans are paying more attention to issues of aging – from staying healthy longer to advocating for more alternative housing and transportation options to seeking greater engagement in community services and local neighborhood decision-making. How to plan for and ensure a healthy quality of life for older adults and those soon-to-be “older” is a primary question and a rapidly approaching challenge for interested professionals and civic leadership in communities throughout California and the nation.

‘Boomers’ In Your Backyard
Several areas rise to top when considering planning for vibrant, healthy communities for aging adults and their families. For local cities, it will be important to look closely at areas such as housing, mobility (transportation), employment, community involvement, lifelong learning opportunities and supportive services. Cities and neighborhoods are unique and present valuable opportunities for creating aging-friendly environments that benefit everyone, regardless of age. An inclusive planning process, which engages the community-at-large, allows for thoughtful consideration of what is best for residents when looking ahead. Take a look at various planning toolkits that have been developed to support the planning process.

This section of the web site was developed to help with these considerations. Please click directly on one of the six topic areas below in order to view helpful web links and resources. The links offer ideas, reports, sustainable model programs and facts about issues and considerations when planning for healthy aging and the community.

General Resources on Aging
Provides a list of national organizations and agencies offering a broad array of information and resources related to topics in aging.

Demographic Data and Local Government Resources
Offers valuable links to city specific resources, as well as web sites featuring current statistics.

Housing
Lists helpful resources addressing the planning, development and design of housing for older adults.

Mobility
Links to resources focusing on promoting greater mobility and accessible transportation options for older adults.

Employment
Highlights articles and reports discussing issues related to workforce development and older adults.

Community Involvement
Provides a list of resources addressing civic engagement and volunteerism.

Lifelong Learning
Offers an array of resources on educational programs designed specifically for older adults.

Supportive Services
Provides resources to consider when planning for home and community-based care services for older adults.