- Developing and implementing policies that support aging in place: Local governments can create policies and programs that make it easier for older residents to continue living in their own homes as they age. This can include things like adult education, encouraging volunteerism, home modification programs, transportation services, and access to home-based care.
- Partnering with community organizations: Local governments can work with community organizations, such as senior centers and faith-based organizations, to provide services and support to older residents who wish to age in place.
- Providing educational resources and information repositories to older residents: Local governments can provide educational resources and access to information repositories in order to empower older adults, i.e. help them evaluate their options for aging in place; facilitate access to trusted service providers; walk them through municipal procedures for obtaining needed services .
- Supporting the development of financially sustainable housing options: Local governments can support the development of financially sustainable housing options that are accessible and suitable for older residents.
- Engaging with older adults and their caregivers: Local governments can actively engage with older residents and their caregivers to elicit feedback on their needs and preferences related to aging in place so that, whenever possible, changes in public policy respond to their needs .
Overall, supporting aging in place requires a combination of policy changes, community partnerships, and education and resource provision. It is important for local governments to work collaboratively with older residents, their caregivers, and community organizations to ensure that aging in place initiatives are successful.
