Aging in a community is really an umbrella concept that means different things for different people. The underlying idea is that you have alternatives to traditional senior living communities that allow you to age in your own home or in another home you choose. Some people decide to share their home with roommates.
Why is community important as we age?
It is important for seniors to have a sense of purpose and something that makes them feel more fulfilled in life. There are various ways you can get them to be active, stay engaged, and be connected to a community. Socializing can improve cognitive health for aging adults, as it keeps them intellectually engaged, mentally stimulated, and emotionally invested. An active social life can reduce cognitive decline, including common issues such as memory loss.
How does age affect a community?
Societal aging can affect economic growth, patterns of work and retirement, the way that families function, the ability of governments and communities to provide adequate resources for older adults and the prevalence of chronic disease and disability.
See also[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
- Communities and Old Age: Opportunities and Challenges for People over 50, by Maria Brenton (2000)