State Representative Theresa Conroy (D- Seymour, Beacon Falls, Derby) joined municipal officials, public policy experts and legislators last week at a forum designed to make communities more “senior-friendly” as the number of older adults continues to grow.
“Communities need to make sure they remain livable for an aging population who plan to stay independent in their own homes,” Rep. Conroy said in a prepared statement. “This was a comprehensive and enlightening forum. We discussed issues ranging from health and wellness to housing, transportation to public safety, employment opportunities to lifelong education.”
Participants at the event explored how communities can become senior-friendly and discussed issues such as “walkability,” especially for people using adaptive mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers and canes — wellness, safety and personal economic security.
The Connecticut Commission on Aging and Connecticut Conference of Municipalities co-hosted the forum, “Livable Communities for All Ages,” at the State Capitol complex in Hartford.
According to the CoA, Connecticut is facing a “silver tsunami” generated by the soaring population of older adults driven by several key factors:
· Connecticut is the seventh oldest state in the nation, with 507,000 residents over the age of 65.
· The over — 65 segment will grow by more than 64 percent between 2006 and 2030 — while the population of people 21 – 64 decreases.
· Connecticut is home to almost one-million baby boomers. Nearly one-third the total population — and the oldest members of this group have already turned 66.
· A major policy and cultural shift in Connecticut and nationally is allowing people to “age in place” (their communities) rather than in institutions.
In 2009, Rep. Conroy supported legislation (SB 735) that was signed into law to make streets more navigable for pedestrians and those using adaptive mobility devices. The legislation set up a funding mechanism for walkability improvements to street projects including building sidewalks with curb cuts or ramps and created the Connecticut Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board to review the biking and walking environment in Connecticut.
Rep. Conroy, an advanced practice registered nurse, is a member of the legislature’s Public Health, Government, Administration & Elections and Education committees.