What is Livable? Community Preferences of Older Adults

With the percentage of Americans over the age of 65 growing, a study looks at what older citizens need to make their communities livable for them. The results?

Older Americans want their government to provide increased police presence, better schools, and a more walkable built environment. They want to live near things like bus stops, grocery stores, and parks.

It turns out that the needs of older residents look a lot like the list of descriptors that tend to be associated with more attractive communities for everyone.

As Tacoma undertakes subarea planning processes, citywide visioning, and a diversity initiative, could it turn out that planning for the needs of our older residents ultimately results in a city that is more attractive and livable for everyone?