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THE HEALTH OF COUNTY RESIDENTS
PLANNING ISSUE
With baby boomers hitting
65, the county has a growing
senior population. Aging
residents will require new
housing and social services
resources to allow for seniors
to age gracefully—and
independently.
What’s New
•
Grandparents as caregivers for their grandchildren
may be a trend worth noting. As of 2011, more than
15,000 grandparents were living with their
grandchildren and more than 3,000 were responsible
for their grandchildren. This may become more
significant if those caring for grandchildren are feeling
an economic strain, since many elderly caregivers
make choices related to self care versus their primary
consideration of care for the children in the home.
•
The county’s growing minority communities create
different needs when it comes to an aging population.
It is anticipated that the county’s Hispanic and Asian
senior populations will continue to grow; these are
communities that may receive support and services
through cultural or faith-based organizations, as well
as from extended family—all outside of the traditional
context of places like senior centers.
•
The county’s Department for Aging and Adult
Services recently released “Creating An Aging
Friendly Montgomery County” - a four year plan for
2012-2016. It outlines some of the top concerns of
older residents or those who care for older residents.
By far, the biggest concern was financial health, but
other needs included health care, transportation, home
health care, senior centers, and nutrition/meals.
Health Data and Health Concerns
Health Care Facilities
Aging
Food Distribution and Access
Aging
Today’s seniors are living longer, healthier, and more
independent lives than the generations that preceded them.
In 2010, county residents ages 55+ already comprised more
than 25% of the county’s population. By 2040, those 55 and
over will make up nearly one-third of the county’s
population. Their shifting needs will significantly impact
the county’s housing, transportation, health care, and social
service needs.
Various housing options for seniors are covered in Chapter 8
of this publication. But the reality is that more than 75% of
the county’s seniors ages 65 and over continue to live in a
private home—either by choice or necessity—and many of
these homes were not built with aging in mind. Some homes
may need modifications to accommodate a population that
may be challenged by stairs, bathtubs, light switches,
counters, and cabinets. Homes lacking major modifications
may need minor changes to enable someone with a physical
disability to easily enter and exit—ultimately enabling
“visitability” by someone with a disability.
As of 2011, approximately 25% of seniors ages 65 and over
lived alone—equal to more than 33,000 households. This
may create the need for increased numbers of in-home
caregivers and in-home health services if younger
generations are unable to provide care for aging relatives.
According to the county’s Department of Aging and Adult
Services, financial health is among the top concerns of the
county’s senior residents. Households with senior citizens
do tend to have lower household incomes. According to
the U.S. Census’ American Community Survey,
households where the householder was 65 and over
reported mean earnings in 2011 $64,941 (compared to a
countywide household level of $102,745). With lower
annual incomes and savings that may have suffered during
the nation’s recent economic downturn, many seniors are
putting off retirement until their finances can recover.
More than 20% of county residents over the age of 65
continue to be employed.
Affordable and accessible transportation will also be a
concern. Older residents will continue to want and need to
drive a vehicle, and many neighborhoods—age restricted
