ABSTRACT
For the first time in history, communities across the United States must consciously prepare for the forecasted doubling of the number of people older than 65, from 49 million to a projected 89 million people by the year 2050 (Jacobsen, Kent, Lee, & Mather, 2011). As these numbers increase, government services such as meal provisions, senior center programming, and on-demand transportation for medical visits, which have traditionally helped the country’s oldest and most frail population segment, will not be enough to support the demand of this growing older adult population. Instead, a focus on community planning and development designed to keep people independent and healthy in their communities longer will be required. These preparations include ensuring adequate housing, expanding opportunities for new mobility choices for non-drivers, improving access to basic services, and creating opportunities for healthy living.
