Aging Iowa will require communitywide efforts

Most Iowans don't move after they reach retirement, meaning many will 'age in place” in neighborhoods where daily activities require a level of independence that can become more difficult with age.

So while it's good that city leaders and developers are paying attention to the housing needs of our aging population, it's also important they consider the demographic shift in larger city and neighborhood planning decisions.

In 2011 the first wave of baby boomers celebrated their 65th birthday - a milestone the last members of this populous generation won't reach until 2030. Figures released this month by the State Data Center and the Iowa Department on Aging show the Iowa trend: two years ago 491,349 people over the age of 65 lived in Iowa; by 2050 the number is expected to swell to nearly 700,000, or 20 percent of the state's population.

Whether they live independently or as a part of retirement communities, Iowa's growing senior population will require affordable, accessible housing. More than that, they will need commnunities that help them stay connected and optimize their quality of life. They'll need ready access to the necessities - such as grocery stores, pharmacies and medical clinics - and to the amenities that support health and well-being.

Pedestrian-friendly streets and recreational trails built with seniors in mind will help older Iowans get around safely and remain active, regardless of where they live. Adequate public transportation services are likewise important if older Iowans are to remain self-sufficient.

Without affordable travel and recreation options older Iowans face the danger of isolation, reduced quality of life and economic hardship.

Accommodating our aging population will likely may be especially difficult in smaller communities, where resources can be scarce. But larger cities, too, will feel the impact. Now is the time to prepare.

Providers and advocates from across the state will gather in Des Moines this month for the Governor's Conference on Aging and Disabilities. They'll study what other places are doing to support aging populations and meet older residents' unique needs.

We hope they take detailed notes and share their work. Accommodating this demographic shift will require a long-term, communitywide effort.

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