By 2020, there will be 1 million people 100 years of age and older. By 2030 the 65 and older population in the United States is expected to reach 70 million persons, twice their number in the year By 2030, older adults will grow from 12.4% of the population to 20% The number of Americans aged 85 and over is expected to increase from 1.5% of the total population in 2000 to 3.8% in This population will be the most frail, and require the most medical intervention and services. - (US Health and Human Services, 2001) Fast Facts………..

Northern states have significant percentages of population over age 65. Only 4% of older adults move out of state at retirement time. There is a growing number of individuals age 85 and over who return “home” from warmer climates when their health declines. “Rural rebound” impacts communities’ abilities to respond effectively to the needs of older adults. More fast facts…………

US/Michigan Seniors aged 65+ (2000 census)

Change is in the air  80% of retirees are vital, independent older residents who can be a source of civic, social and financial capital. They can serve as volunteers and activists, board members and elected officials, funders and community leaders.

“ The ability to move about the community, maintain a home, have access to goods and services, and retain strong social ties, is directly impacted by planning and community design decisions. Sound community planning can enhance the quality of life for older persons.” (Marcus Molea, Planning, Development & Evaluation Chief, Ohio Department of Aging, 2003)

Essentials of an Elder Friendly Community Address basic needs Optimize physical and mental health and well-being Maximize independence Promote social and civic engagement

Prevention Early detection Behavior change/self- management Chronic disease Mental health Substance abuse Access toCare Environmental Health Elder Friendly Communities Transportation Issues Housing Choices Safe places to walk and bike Biology Other conditionsconditions Short and long term care choices Opportunity for social capital Inter - generational activi ties Safe and accessible food choices Resources are easily accessible and used Volunteer and work opportunities Lifestyle choices Elder Friendly Communities

Access to Healthy Food  Farmers markets  Community gardens  Large grocery stores  Smaller speciality stores  Opportunities for nutrition education  Home delivered meals  Congregate meal sites  Easy access point for applying for assistance

Safe  Is the environment safe? --sidewalks, snow removal, curb cuts, pedestrian friendly intersections, outdoor lighting?  Is it convenient to walk or bike to where you want to go?  Are there parks and other facilities to get physical activity that are well-lighted and have “friendly” surfaces?  Is community policing in effect? High level of personal safety The community values personal safety

Opportunity for Physical Activity  Are there a variety of PA opportunities? Green spaces, trails, gyms, pools, golf courses, etc?  Are there opportunities within senior housing complexes?  Are there opportunities for all levels and all abilities?  Are the facilities/opportunities easy to get to? Further info: (Active Community Environments) INTERSECTION Audit Tool & Protocolhttp://

Access to Medical Care/Choices  Does the community have enough medical care providers/facilities? Every community may not need a hospital but seniors want to be confident they can meet medical needs now and into the near future --specialists, specialty care centers --is there a referral service to help persons locate medical care? --is the emergency response system state of the art? --does the community have enough pharmacies? Are there choices in short/long term care, home care, and are the “facts” easy to find?  Are there SPE’s, information and referral services, or “211” services that have a specialty area of seniors and the disabled?

Social Capital/Civic Engagement  Are there opportunities for seniors/disabled to get involved in community organization/government? --planning boards, charitable organizations, boards of directors, etc.  Are there opportunities for lifelong learning?  Are there religious/spiritual choices?  Are there congregate meal sites?  Are there opportunities for intergenerational activities?  And, does the community recognize the value of seniors and treats them respectfully and appreciatively?

Michigan “Certified Elder Friendly Communities” Certified by: Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging In cooperation with Michigan Vital Aging Think Tank Supported by MSU Extension MI Office of Services to the Aging What Are We Doing In Michigan to Promote Elder Friendly/Livable Communities?

Certified Elder Friendly Community  Process for establishing and maintaining the leadership support needed to be an “Elder Friendly Community”  Process for applying for and becoming certified as an “Elder Friendly Community”  Promotion/marketing for “Elder Friendly Communities”  “Elder Friendly Community” Toolkit  Training for community leaders on the impacts and opportunities of aging populations  Training in survival skills for community seniors  Working on funding for local “Elder Friendly Community Coordinator” positions

Thank you! For more information, please contact: Sherri King Health and Wellness Specialist Michigan Office of Services to the Aging