— from Tom Eversole —

During the 1900s, life expectancy of Americans increased from 45 to 75 years, attributed mostly to improvements in public health (nutrition, housing, sanitation, and occupational safety). Yet, extending the “golden years” has created new challenges that community health, social, and economic systems have yet to address.

Today’s seniors are more active and independent than in the 1970s, when senior services and centers were established. Many live alone well into their 80s, become frail, and no longer able to live independently or maintain their homes. By 2020, more than half of Orcas islanders will be 55 or older. Many are retired. Some moved here without their children. For others, families and support systems have moved away – a precarious situation with little access to reliable, affordable in-home and long-term care.

Private and public agencies will need to update their services in order to address the tsunami of baby boomers heading their way.

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