When measured by attitude and lifestyle, Sarasota County is a youthful community. Demographics tell us that almost one third of our population is over the age of 65. Nationally, we are experiencing a demographic shift as the large “baby boomer” population ages. By 2030, there will be 70 million people in the United States over the age of 65.
Since early 2005, SCOPE’s initiative, Aging - The Possibilities has focused on the role of older adults as untapped assets in our community. How do we maximize both the substantial talent of this population and the opportunities for individuals to age in place while retaining an active and independent lifestyle? Over 750 residents have demonstrated interest and enthusiasm for their community by participating in this initiative.
This study began with a series of community conversations designed to create dialogue about the possibilities for aging in Sarasota County. In April 2005, a Community Assembly helped the attendees think more deeply about the issue and led to the creation of Action Teams that met and learned about a variety of topics related to aging.
Since then, four Community Assemblies and a Winter Forum on Aging have been presented to the community. Each provided new information and has helped challenge and expand thinking and action, both individually and collectively.
Materials and summaries from these discussions are available below. Topics included:
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February, 2008 – Ron Manheimer, Ph.D, Execitive Director of the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement (NCCCR) shared his experience and wisdom around engaging a new generation of retirees.
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September, 2007 – Judy Goggin, Vice President of national think tank, Civic Ventures spoke on the changing faces of retirement, work and service.
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February, 2007 – Gene Cohen MD, PhD, director of Geaorge Washington University's Center on Aging, Health & Humanities, discussed a wide range of research on aging, creativity, learning and quality of life.
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October 2006 – Fran Carlin-Rogers, senior transportation expert, spoke on community mobility options and opportunities for those who have given up driving.
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May 2006 – Kevin W. O’Neil, MD, co-editor and contributing author of The Optimal Aging Manual, focused on personal and community wellness through the lens of the Six Dimensions of Wellness.
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November 2005 – Nancy K. Schlossberg, a nationally recognized scholar and author, spoke on "mattering," the need to feel important and valued by others and the community.
SCOPE published an Interim Report in 2006 and a local documentary called , Aging The Possibilities, was created in partnership with The Education Channel. Both resources provide insight into the interest, concerns and passion of residents in Sarasota County.
> Click to view Documentary Film on the topic
> Click here for the 2006 Interim Report
While the community will determine the outcome of this study, overall broad objectives include:
- Identify aging-related best practices for further exploration
- Develop strategies to help people from all walks of life "age in place"
- Pilot projects that could serve as a model for the country on issues of aging
We encourage you to participate, share your thoughts and connect to your passion as we explore the possibilities for aging productively, gracefully, and actively in Sarasota County.
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