May 20 – Private Practice Division – Forging Neighborhoods for all Generations

A powerful new reality and a profound demographic transformation is an aging America. That baby boomers are swelling the ranks of older Americans is well-documented. This profound demographic transition is challenging communities struggling to maintain the status quo, and, is overwhelming to government and community policymakers at all levels. Preparing for this wave is viewed as a political and economic liability – impacting social security, healthcare costs and services..and placing an added burden on the young. As the vast majority of older adults want to age in place, they are creating a demand for communities that are age friendly. Age-friendly communities are friendly to all ages, not just older adults. Ultimately, young and old want the same things: an environment that allows them to participate and thrive. Financing age-friendly initiatives do not have to be costly. Planners and local governments should give attention to multigenerational planning and the work underway in cities developing more age-friendly communities – from New York to Honolulu – who are taking creative steps to build their adaptive capacity, optimize opportunities and cultivate synergies for community change.